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Tag Archives: Diagnostic checkup on electrical system issues

Why Is My Car Not Starting?

Why Is My Car Not Starting?One of the most common inquiries we get from our clients, especially in the winter, is a call about a car not starting. This can seem to come out of nowhere and can occur anytime you turn off your car. You can be at home, at a grocery store, at work, a gas station or a shopping center day or night. There are several issues that can cause your car not to start. The team at Clark Automotive can help diagnose the issue and get your car back up and running quickly.

Here are some of the most common issues that we find when a car will not start:

Battery is dead: If an interior light has been left on or your battery is several years old, that may be all that is wrong with your car. In that case, jumper cables usually do the trick. Our crew can install a battery that you can rely on and make sure that it is installed correctly.

Connection cables for the battery have corroded or are not connected correctly: It is also possible that there is a problem with the connection cables with your battery. They can get corroded and even come completely off. If this happens, our team can carefully remove any rust and debris and reconnect them to the battery.

Alternator problem: The primary function of your alternator is to convert chemical energy to electrical energy so that the battery in your car can keep a charge. If your car’s alternator is not working properly, you may notice that your car does not start and/or stalling. Our crew can check your alternator and determine if that is the problem.

Starter: Your starter gets power from the car’s battery and is responsible for starting the engine. If you have a problem with your starter, you might notice a clicking sound when you turn the key and the lights in the vehicle come on even though the ignition will not start.

Auto Repair Shop In Blaine

Turning the key and realizing that your car will not start is no fun for anyone. If this happens to you, give the team at Clark Automotive a call at 763-784-7944 for assistance. We can help you get your car into our shop, diagnose the problem quickly and give you a clean timeline and estimate for the repairs. We have experience with starters, alternators as well as changing batteries, so no matter what the cause of the problem, we can help.

Car Electrical Repair Shops in North Metro

Car Electrical Repair Shops in North MetroThe electrical systems of modern vehicles are now so sophisticated that they seem more like airplanes in terms of their complexity. We rely on the electrical systems in our vehicles more than ever, and because our cars have become so much more complicated in the last several decades, fixing an electrical problem requires specific technical training and knowledge. Clark Automotive is one of the car electrical repair shops in the North Metro area that can provide all of the services that you may need. Our technicians can repair all types of vehicles, all different makes, models, new and old.

North Metro Auto Shop Specializing in Electrical Repair

When most people think about their car’s electrical system, you may think of your battery and your alternator, and possibly your starter. Each is essential to the operation of your vehicle, and without them most of the other electrical components of your car will not function. Clark Automotive can repair or replace batteries, alternators, and starter. In addition, when one of the electrical components that relies on the battery, alternator, or starter develops a problem, you should have the problem diagnosed and repaired by a trusted car repair shop that has extensive experience with electrical work. Clark Automotive is one of those repair shops.

From fundamental safety and security issues (for example, your vehicle’s automatic locking mechanism, windshield wipers, headlights and interior lights) to issues with the creature comforts provided by your vehicle (your audio system and climate control systems), Clark Automotive has earned a strong reputation for our ability to accurately identify the causes of the problems you are experiencing and fix them quickly, all while minimizing the financial impact on you.

Auto Electrical Repair in North Metro Suburbs

If you have been noticing a change in one of the electrical components of your vehicle, it may be tempting to jump to the conclusion that you have a big problem on your hands. The truth is likely to be simpler and less catastrophic. Depending on the issues you have noticed, it may be that those issues are cleared up by simply changing your vehicle’s battery. If you have noticed greater difficulty starting your vehicle, the problem could be the battery, the starter, or the alternator. Whatever the problem turns out to be, Clark Automotive is equipped with the tools and technicians to get your vehicle back into top shape so that you can get back on the road safely. Call us at (763) 784-7944 if you have any questions or if you would like to schedule an appointment.

Electrical Issues in My Car

Electrical Issues in My CarAre you currently dealing with an unexplained electrical issue in your car? If so, you’re likely worried that the repair is going to be extremely expensive. While electrical issues in your car can be quite complex, it’s important to work with a reputable and certified mechanic who intimately understands how the electronics work within your vehicle. At Clark Automotive, we have an ASE Certified Mechanic on staff which should give you confidence that if you bring in your vehicle for any type of electrical issue, we’ll do our best to get it repaired as quickly and affordable as possible. We are located in Blaine, Minnesota and provide complimentary shuttle service, loaner vehicles and flexible hours.

Common Electrical Issues in Vehicles 

Below are just a few of the most common electrical issues we run into on a daily basis at Clark Automotive.

  • Dead Battery – Your battery provides all of the electricity within your vehicle. So, if you experience a complete electrical failure at any time, it’s likely related to your battery. These problems can occur just from your battery wearing out over time, or due to leaving a light or any other type of accessory on while your vehicle isn’t running.
  • Spark Plug Issues – The main job of your spark plugs is to create the necessary power to move the pistons in your engine up and down. This function requires a small amount of electricity and the wires can fail over time, which can prevent the spark plugs from properly operating. Some common signs that your spark plugs may be bad include rough idling, poor acceleration or when your engine cranks, but doesn’t actually start.
  • Alternator Problems – Your alternator drives a belt system that creates the power to help keep your battery charged. When your alternator isn’t working, your battery will quickly drain and will not be able to recharge itself. This is why it’s important when your car won’t start to determine if it’s a problem with your battery itself, or your alternator.
  • Blown Fuse – One sign that you could have a blown fuse is that you lose power to one system, such as your radio, power windows, or your brake lights. If you notice this behavior, it’s likely time to check your fuse box to see if any of your fuses have blown. 

Contact Clark Automotive for All Your Auto Electric Repair Needs

If you’re currently dealing with any electrical issues in your car, it’s critical to have the problem adequately diagnosed and fixed as quickly as possible. Feel free to give the certified mechanics at Clark Automotive a call at 763-784-7944 to schedule a time for one of our ASE certified mechanics to take a look at your vehicle.

Importance of Having Your Vehicle Ready for Winter

Importance of Having Your Vehicle Ready for WinterWhen you are preparing for another Minnesota winter you may be changing the furnace filter, cleaning gutters, hanging holiday lights and investing in a warm coat. Don’t forget to have your vehicle ready for brutal winter driving conditions. The extreme cold temperatures and abundant potholes can really do a number on any vehicle. This is one reason why it is important to have a winter readiness checkup at Clark Automotive. Chuck and his team know how much we all depend on our vehicles to keep us safe and sound on the road. Breaking down is not an option especially when your loved ones are on board. Having a dead battery, no heat, bald tires, worn brake pads or wrong oil viscosity can result in a very bad day.

Is Your Vehicle Ready for Winter Driving?

The Farmers’ Almanac is predicting is predicting lots of snow and a very cold winter season ahead. Don’t be caught unprepared. Making sure that your vehicle is ready and able to perform under these difficult conditions is a great investment for your physical and financial wellbeing. It seems that every winter storm results in numerous stalled vehicles littering the side of the road. Having AAA or another roadside assistance can help but how long will you have to wait for a tow truck to arrive when they are bombarded with distress calls? The best way to avoid being caught in this situation is to prepare ahead of time.

12 Smart Ways to Winterize Your Vehicle

Winterizing your vehicle can be fast, easy and affordable with the right team of automotive professionals working on your behalf. The car care experts at Clark Automotive are fully prepared to provide you with smart preventive maintenance and repairs that keep your vehicle starting and operating smoothly all through the fall and winter months. During your winter readiness appointment an experienced auto mechanic may take a look at the following areas.

  1. Antifreeze, radiator, coolant
  2. Winter weight oil
  3. Tire tread and air pressure
  4. Brake pads, rotors and fluid
  5. Heater and defroster
  6. Exhaust system leaks
  7. Battery capacity
  8. Tire rotation or snow tires
  9. Windshield wipers, wiper fluid fill
  10. Headlights, fog lights, turn signals, brake lights
  11. Scheduled maintenance for belts, spark plugs, hoses
  12. Diagnostic checkup on electrical system issues

Trusted and Experienced Auto Shop

Clark Automotive shop treats you like family. We have earned the trust and business from countless area residents because of our commitment to quality and affordability. Our experience in what to look for in ways to maintain your vehicle at peak performance shines through. As winter approaches it is especially important to stay current on regular vehicle maintenance, repairs and winter readiness services.

To make an appointment to have your vehicle winterized before the snow and cold arrive, contact Clark Automotive Clinic, Inc. at (763) 784-7944.

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