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Tag Archives: Trustworthy Auto Repairs

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.

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!

What Does That Sound On My Car Mean?

What Does That Sound On My Car Mean?Almost everyone has had a moment when they’ve been driving their car or truck around town, and you begin noticing a strange noise. Is it coming from someone else’s car? Where’s it coming from? Sounds expensive! How much is this going to cost me? And more importantly, what does it mean? There are a variety of moving parts in and around your vehicle, and sounds can come from any one of thousands of spots. At Clark Automotive in Blaine, we want to help identify some of the more prominent sounds that can be a sign of some larger issues. Brig your vehicle in for evaluation.

High-Pitched Squealing From Under The Hood When The Engine Is Running

Generally, if you hear these sounds (especially when starting the engine or when turning on the AC in your car), the culprit is one of several belts that spin around pulleys. They have most likely become misaligned or are beginning to wear out. Belts are important as they create the spinning motion that power several components that the engine requires to function properly, such as the alternator, water pump, radiator fan, and more. In most cases, the belts can be readjusted or replaced to fix the problem completely.

High-Pitched Squealing Sounds When I Apply The Brakes

This is another common sound heard from underneath cars. In many cases, especially with Covid and people not driving as much, this simply comes from the buildup of moisture that turns orange and corrodes on the rotors and brake drums. The squeaking, in this instance, is normal and should subside with prolonged driving. If the sound persists, it is likely a sign that your brake pads are wearing down and need replacement. If this is the case, ignoring the persistent sound could cause greater damage as metal begins to rub against metal.

Knocking Sounds When Turning Corners

This is a common occurrence. In nine out of ten cases, this indicates that a CV boot (constant velocity) is cracked and has lost the grease that lubricates the joint. The CV joint allows the axle to move freely when the vehicle is in motion or moving from side to side when turning. If you hear this sound, your mechanic will need to assess the issue and make repairs sooner than later.

Don’t Ignore Your Vehicle’s Sounds And Signs

Clark Automotive is the full-service auto repair shop in Blaine, MN that you have been searching for. Our dedicated staff is eager to develop a strong relationship with you built around our exceptional work and trustworthy mechanics. To learn more about our full-service repair and maintenance options or to schedule an appointment with our team, give us a call today at (763) 784-7944 or email info@clarkautomotiveblaine.com.

Truck And Car Diagnostic And Repairs In Blaine MN

Car And Truck Diagnostic And Repairs In Blaine MNWhen we opened our auto shop in Blaine, MN 17 years ago, we knew that we wanted to provide outstanding customer service, clear communication and affordable prices. What we could not have imagined is how this would look nearly 2 decades later. Our company is now firmly based in the community with many local customers who are now regulars. We get to know our clients over time and are able to help with many different issues that come up related to cars and trucks. We feel very fortunate to have built trust with our customers. We understand that trusting us with your car or truck when it is not running well requires a leap of faith and/or trust. Our auto technicians take pride in our work and will get your car or truck back in working order in no time.

Local Auto Repair Shop Blaine

Car and truck diagnostics and repair are our specialty. We can complete all kinds of regular maintenance and repairs on your vehicle including brake work, electrical repairs, starter or alternator replacement, heat/AC system work, engine diagnostics, exhaust system repairs, warning light diagnostics and more. We love to solve a problem with a car, and, rather than looking for the most expensive and extensive problem, we will start by trying to solve the issue in the simplest way possible. This is the way we view each car issue that comes into our shop. Very often, we find the issue and can save you money by keeping things simple. So, if a warning light comes on, you hear a noise that sounds unusual, or your car or truck feels differently when you are driving it, we encourage you to bring it in sooner rather than later. Ignoring a problem with your car generally only makes the problem worse and more costly.

High Quality Auto Repair At An Affordable Price

Clark Automotive can also take a look at a car that you are considering for purchase or give you a second opinion if another repair shop has given you a diagnosis and price that you are unsure about. When we say that we value your business, we mean it. We stand behind our work, work hard to explain the issues we find in a clear and concise way, treat you with respect and will never overcharge you for a car or truck repair. For more information about our diagnostic and repair services, give us a call at 763-784-7944 to schedule a time to come into our auto shop at 9985 Davenport St. NE in Blaine.

Essential Maintenance Tips For The Fall Season

Essential Maintenance Tips For The Fall SeasonMany vehicle owners use the change of seasons to get their cars taken care of. This is a great plan, and as we leave the cooler fall season and head straight into winter, we at Clark Automotive in Blaine, MN want to share some of the more essential maintenance tips to keep your vehicle running at its best. Feel free to ask us to inspect your vehicle as well.

Having Your Battery Tested: Many auto parts stores perform this basic test for free, so it’s easy to have this service done. During the winter your battery is worked extra hard, not only to run, but to provide the “cold cranking amps” to start a cold engine. It’s not uncommon to see a car battery that seems to function fine but lacks the cold cranking amperage. This means that your battery is just barely strong enough to perform in the fall, but under pressure in the winter, the battery will likely fail. This is good to know now and have time to get a replacement before the onset of the colder months.

Check All Exterior Lights: Out of sight and out of mind. Well, in the event of heavy rain or snowfall, without lights, your car goes out of sight! It’s a good time to ensure that all the bulbs are functioning and furthermore, to ensure that the headlight and taillight lenses are not cloudy, as this reduces the amount of light that reaches the road. If your lenses are cloudy, use a headlight restoration kit, which utilizes fine-grit sandpaper and cleansing agents.

Checking Tire Conditions: Having tires that are in good condition and properly inflated are essential in ensuring that your vehicle has enough grip on the road during the heavy rainstorms, ice storms, and eventually the snowstorms during the winter months. The coin test is the simplest at-home test. Place a penny in the grooves of your tire with the head facing down. If you can see the entire head, it is time to replace the tires as they are too worn.

Check Functionality Of The Heater And Defroster: Perhaps it seems the most logical, but it is oftentimes the task that is least done. A simple check to ensure that the heater actually puts out warm air and that the defroster warms the windshield is sufficient.

ASE-Certified Mechanic Services Available In Blaine, MN

If you notice that your vehicle isn’t quite ready for the wrath that winter can bring upon Minnesotans, bring your vehicle by the certified mechanics at Clark Automotive. We have the knowhow and the experience to ensure that your vehicle is ready for whatever Mother Nature wants to dish out! Call (763) 784-7944 to schedule an appointment or just come on by!

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