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Author Archives: Robert Swedeen

Honest Auto Repair Shop In Blaine MN

Honest Auto Repair Shop In Blaine MNClark Automotive is dedicated to fast, friendly, and honest auto maintenance and repair services. Every so often, it is good to remind our current customers and, perhaps more specifically, our potential customers of that commitment. The reason is fairly simple – there is a stereotype that auto mechanics take advantage of customers by creating problems and charging exorbitant prices to “fix” them. That has never been something that the team at Clark Automotive does, and in the age of the internet, where prospective customers can find answers to virtually any automotive question, it is a wonder to us why any auto repair shop would value a quick buck over long term customer loyalty based on honesty and good service.

Local Auto Repair You Can Trust

The automobile, for all its advances over the first century of its existence, is still a very complex machine, which means that it will require regular maintenance and periodic repairs to remain in good working order. Our approach to both maintenance and repair is to provide an accurate and honest assessment of the issues that need to be addressed, to explain them thoroughly to the vehicle owner, and to explain what we consider to be the most efficient means of fixing the problem.

Doing business in this way is not difficult and we have found that it actually increases our customer base. It is easy when we need to do something like the need to rotate tires periodically to maximize tread life. Customers can see how much tread is left on a tire as easily as a trained mechanic, so when there is an obvious need to replace one or all four of your tires, the process of communicating that need is relatively simple. Not all aspects of automobiles are as easily addressed. The technical specifications of engine efficiency will likely require a more thorough explanation for most vehicle owners, and all vehicle owners should expect their repair shop representative to provide a thorough and understandable explanation. That is the only way to gain the trust of customers who have heard the same stereotypes about auto mechanics that we have.

Auto Maintenance And Repair In Blaine Minnesota

Working hard to establish the trust of our customers is what accounts for the number of people who will only bring their cars and trucks to Clark Automotive. We love the idea that many of our customers refer to Clark Automotive as “my mechanic” or “my shop.” When this happens, it is based on trust, and trust allows us to fix your vehicle’s issue, regardless of its complexity.
Give us a call at (763) 784-7944 if you would like to schedule an appointment for your vehicle.

Repair Shop In Blaine MN

Repair Shop In Blaine MNAt Clark Automotive, we work hard to ensure that our business is fast, friendly, and convenient. We prioritize competitive pricing because we know that it is more expensive than ever to buy and maintain a vehicle. This is the foundation of our business model. We have been the repair shop in Blaine, MN community for many years. Our team focuses on completing car repairs quickly, correctly and providing excellent customer service in the process. We know our customers, and our customers know us, and we take this relationship very seriously. We have a high regard for our customers, and really enjoy offering them the convenience of being a neighborhood auto service. We want our customers to return when they have a scheduled maintenance or a repair need. We want our customers to share their positive experience with a friend or family member. Bottom line – we want to earn your trust and believe that we do this by offering fast, friendly and convenient service everyday.

Local Auto Shop With Fast, Friendly And Convenient Service

There are many reasons why individuals are reluctant to trust businesses. We may feel like we are being overcharged, we may not understand the line items on our bill, we may wonder whether repairs were really necessary. The fact is most of us do not understand car repair. If we did, we would do it ourselves. So, we rely on auto shops to be honest with us, explain the problems with our vehicle and what it costs to fix it. This trust is built on honest interactions, open and clear communication and straightforward billing. Clark Automotive wants our customers to trust us. We want our customers to know that, when they bring their vehicle to us for one or more of the many automotive services we offer, they can trust that we have their best interests in mind.

Owning an automobile can be a great thing, but it can also be frustrating, confusing, aggravating, and expensive when things go wrong. Our skill and experience in car repair put us in an ideal position to earn the trust of our customers and to minimize your experience of frustration, confusion, aggravation, and financial expense.

Routine Car Maintenance And Diagnostics

From the essentials like brake safety, suspension stability, and engine efficiency to more comfort-based non-essentials like heating and air-conditioning issues, Clark Automotive has you covered. Many of our customers bring their cars and trucks to us for essential but non-emergent services, like scheduled oil changes. Other customers seek us out when they discover that their vehicle has a mysterious problem. We want you to bring your car in for both the routine maintenance and the more difficult diagnostics. In all cases, our goal is to impress you with our commitment to providing fast, friendly, convenient, and trustworthy service. Call us at (763) 784-7944 to schedule an appointment for your vehicle.

Importance Of A Complete Tune-Up

Importance Of A Complete Tune-UpClark Automotive is often asked about the standard tune-up. While this service varies from garage to garage, it primarily consists of preventive maintenance that fixes small issues before they worsen. Most tune-ups include an engine inspection to guarantee there are no leaks and that your vehicle runs smoothly. Check out our list for more information on how a tune-up can benefit your car!

Higher Mileage: Tuning up your car can address all issues that could be costing you extra money on gas. For instance, if your brakes become stuck, your vehicle could be using more gas than usual. As part of a tune-up, these components will be checked, and replacement brake pads may be necessary if necessary. In addition, incorrect alignment of tires may lead to poor fuel mileage since they rotate at an unnatural angle against the road surface and axles; this issue is easily fixed by changing tires and aligning wheels; plus, it reduces how much fuel you use getting from home to work!

Recover from a rough ride: As your vehicle ages, you may notice it running less smoothly. Perhaps your car is shaking or having difficulty starting up in the morning. Your mechanic can perform a power and energy check to diagnose the problem. There could be many internal components at play here–from your starter to your exhaust. Certified mechanics can identify what’s causing these symptoms and fix them, so you don’t feel uncomfortable while riding from one place to another.

Shining Lights on the Dash: Every warning light in your car is there to alert you of something, but not all drivers are proficient in car diagnostics. Our professional mechanic team can help identify what those lights mean and why they’re illuminated, plus we know how to quickly resolve any issues that arise.

A Comprehensive Check-Up: A tune-up for your car is like getting a medical checkup for yourself. The mechanic inspects all working parts and detects any problems. They might suggest having something serviced, just as doctors prescribe medication to treat illnesses. This improves handling, reduces breakdown chances, provides you with a smoother ride, and makes your vehicle more dependable.

Your mechanic will run a code scan during a tune-up to detect any ignition problems or exhaust leaks. They also check for engine issues like battery voltage and valves. While they might not find all issues during this checkup, this is great news for car enthusiasts; typically, there will be some that need fixing before driving again. Remember that mechanics give you the chance to address small issues before they become major ones; we would rather you address one now rather than have an extensive overhaul later.

Clark Automotive is a family-owned business, and we consider each client part of our extended family. Our commitment to top quality service each time we work on your car ensures you remain safe and save you money in the process. Contact us today for more information about our tune-up services, preventative maintenance programs or other auto services. Our knowledgeable staff will be more than happy to assist in setting an appointment with one of our mechanics today.

Top Reasons To Get Your Vehicle’s Suspension System Inspected

Top Reasons To Get Your Vehicle’s Suspension System InspectedEach part of your car should work properly to provide a safe and smooth ride. You will have a difficult time controlling the car and preventing accidents from happening if any of the parts are damaged or not working properly. The suspension system of a car is important but often overlooked. The suspension system allows shocks and springs absorb bump energy to provide a smooth ride. Your car’s movements due to braking or cornering are also handled by the suspension system. The suspension system of your car is very important. You should get it fixed as soon as you see any of these signs:

If you hit a bump, your car’s nose dives: The easiest way to check the condition of your suspension system is to watch your car when you bump into something. If your suspension system fails, you should watch for signs such as a frontal dive when you apply the brakes. Then bounce back after the bump. As your vehicle’s suspension system ages, you can expect a decrease in its ability to stop and the vehicle’s shock absorbers. This type of car can cause you and your passengers to feel uncomfortable and unsafe.

When your car is in motion, it makes a clunking sound: There are many parts to your car, and they all make sounds when you move them. If you hear unusual squeaking or clunking when you drive over bumps, it’s a sign that your suspension system needs repair. A clunking sound is usually an indication that your suspension system needs to be repaired immediately.

The steering wheel is vibrating or shaking: The vehicle’s direction is controlled by the steering wheel and its system. This component converts your rotational commands to the vehicle’s front wheels. You’ll struggle to drive if your steering wheel isn’t fully functional. If you have problems with steering or excessive shaking or vibrating, it is likely that your suspension system’s tie rods, springs or control arms are damaged. These issues can cause serious steering problems and make it difficult to control your car.

Your car pulls to one side: Your car’s structure is designed to balance the weight of both your vehicle and the road surface. Your car’s many wheels will allow you to drive straight or through curves with ease. If your car pulls to one-side while driving, it could be a sign of two things. Poor wheel alignment or your shock absorbers need repairs.

You notice uneven or excessive tire wear: You may notice that your tires are becoming more worn, pulling to one side, or feeling misaligned. It is time to have your suspension checked. Your suspension may be worn or weakening, which can cause uneven wear. Tire wear should be monitored on a regular schedule.

ASE-Certified Mechanics Available At Clark Automotive In Blaine, MN

Clark Automotive can help you if your suspension is having problems. Clark Automotive can diagnose and fix any issue with your vehicle’s suspension, whether it is a conventional system with shock absorbers and a strut-based system. This is a common configuration in front-wheel-drive vehicles today. Call us at (763) 784-7944 or come by the shop to discuss your problem. You are always welcome to come in!

Muffler And Exhaust Repair In Blaine

Muffler And Exhaust Repair In BlaineThe exhaust system is one of the hardest worked, and arguably, the most important system of your vehicle. It routes harmful fumes away from the engine, increases vehicle performance, and reduces engine noise. Exhaust leaks can cause your engine to work harder than necessary, reducing fuel efficiency and putting you at risk for inhalation of hazardous fumes. If you experience any sign of exhaust problems, contact your local mechanic.

Ultimately, a good exhaust system will keep your car running smoothly. It performs a vital function to divert harmful exhaust fumes from your engine. If the exhaust isn’t working right, bad things can happen. The engine can deteriorate. Even more scary is the potential for carbon monoxide building up in the passenger cabin, which can be deadly. In addition, an effective exhaust system will reduce emissions and can even improve your fuel economy.

Signs Of Exhaust System Problems

There are some warning signs that could mean you have issues with your exhaust system:

Noise: Most likely the first thing that you will notice. The exhaust system keeps the engine noise down so a leak will cause loud rumblings. Leaks are most common around the exhaust manifold or anywhere along the exhaust system where there are joints in the pipes.
Vibrations: Odd vibrations coming from the steering wheel or gas pedal are a sure sign of an exhaust leak. You may also feel the whole car shake if the exhaust leak is large enough. These vibrations are a safety issue as well as a car health issue because they can alter your ability to control the vehicle with precision.
Check engine light: If the catalytic converter is failing, it may trigger the check engine light on your dashboard display. This is best checked out by auto repair professionals.
Decrease in fuel efficiency: Lower MPGs can mean a lot of things but an exhaust leak is one of the more common reasons you may be spending more time at the gas pump. If there is an exhaust leak it may result in the fumes not being carried away, leaving your engine operating at a hotter temperature and reducing your fuel efficiency. If you notice a drop in MPGs, have the problem diagnosed and repaired before it turns into a bigger problem.

ASE-Certified Exhaust System Repair Technicians In Blaine, MN

If you are having issues with your vehicle’s exhaust system, have a certified technician check it out today. At Clark Automotive in Blaine, we offer a full range of exhaust service options including high performance mufflers. Schedule an appointment today and let us earn your trusted business!

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