Winter Preventative Maintenance Tips for Cars and Trucks

Posted on November 18, 2022 by autorepair

With a few snowfalls under our belts this year already, it is safe to say that now is the right time to prepare your cars and trucks for the upcoming climate. Snow, ice, salt, rain, and slush can all be damaging to your ride if you do not implement the proper preventative maintenance. Furthermore, colder temperatures innately impact the efficiency and performance of automobiles.

Continue reading to learn the best way to winterize your car or truck before the peak of the winter season is upon us, plus where to go for the best automotive service in Indianapolis.

Call 317-475-1846 For Winter Auto Service in Indianapolis!

Car Care For Winter

Winter is almost here, and while your car may feel the chill more than you do, it’s important to take extra care of your vehicle to ensure winter doesn’t take a toll on its health. From checking your antifreeze levels to inspecting your battery, there are several things that drivers need to consider when preparing their cars and trucks for the colder months.

The most important part of winterizing your vehicle is ensuring it’s ready to tackle any weather conditions that may come its way. Make sure your antifreeze levels are full and check to ensure there are no leaks. It’s also a good idea to check the battery, as cold temperatures can reduce its effectiveness. Make sure to have the battery tested and, if necessary, replaced to avoid any issues with starting in freezing temperatures.

Your car’s tires are also essential for a safe drive during winter conditions. Check your tire pressure regularly and make sure you have enough tread on each tire for maximum grip on snow and ice-covered surfaces. Also, if your tires are low on tread, consider investing in winter tires to improve your vehicle’s ability to grip the road during inclement weather.

Finally, inspect your lights and wipers. Lights are essential for night driving visibility, so make sure all of yours—headlights, taillights, indicators, and fog lights—are functioning and bright. Wipers are also a must-have for winter since rain, sleet and snow can obscure your vision. Check your wipers to make sure they don’t streak or leave streaks on the glass and replace them if necessary.

Winter Automotive Maintenance Advice

Winter is a harsh season for your car or truck. With snow, ice, and cold temperatures all working against it, you need to make sure your vehicle is prepared for the next few months with preventative maintenance. Here’s what the ASE-licensed mechanics at Northeast Auto recommend you do to get ready:

▷ Check Your Tire Treads and Pressure – Make sure your tires are properly inflated and have enough tread to provide sufficient traction. You may also want to consider using winter tires for the snowy months.

▷ Check Your Battery – Cold temperatures can cause your car’s battery to drain more quickly, so make sure you check it before the temperatures start dropping.

▷ Change Your Oil – Changing your oil is essential to ensuring the longevity of your engine. Depending on how many miles you’ve driven since your last oil change, it’s a good idea to get this done before winter rolls in.

▷ Top Off Fluids – Check all of the other fluids in your car, including antifreeze and windshield washer fluid. Make sure they’re all full and winterized for the season.

▷ Check Your Brakes – If you hear any grinding or squeaking, then it’s likely that you need to have your brakes serviced before winter sets in.

▷ Get a Tune Up – Have your car tuned up by a professional mechanic to make sure everything is running correctly. This will help your car run better, more efficiently, and last longer in the cold weather months.

▷ Stock Up on Roadside Emergency Supplies – With the dangerous road conditions and freezing temperatures at play, be sure your car is stocked with the proper roadside emergency supplies and car tools, such as jumper cables, spare tire, windshield wiper brush, thermal blanket, road triangles, reflective vests, water bottles, reserve fuel, and more.

By following these winter preventative maintenance tips, you can help ensure that your car or truck is ready to handle whatever Mother Nature throws at it this winter. Keep your vehicle safe and sound by preparing ahead of time.

Could your car or truck use some professional winter automotive service? Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for ASE-licensed car maintenance in Indianapolis, Indiana at a price you can afford. We service all make and model vehicles. Also, be sure to check out our automotive service coupons!

Is Differential Fluid Different From Transmission Fluid?

Posted on November 4, 2022 by autorepair

Differential fluid and transmission fluid may seem similar, but they actually serve different purposes. Differential fluid helps to lubricate the gears in your car, while transmission fluid helps to cool and protect the transmission components. Transmission fluid should be checked regularly to ensure that it is at the correct level and condition. Differential fluid does not need to be checked as often, but it is important to check it periodically to make sure that it is clean and at the correct level.

Continue reading to learn details about these differences and more.

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A Comparison of Transmission Fluid and Differential Fluid

Differential fluid is a type of oil that helps to lubricate the gears in your car’s differential. This helps to prevent wear and tear on the gears, as well as reducing noise and improving fuel efficiency. Transmission fluid, on the other hand, is a type of oil that helps to lubricate the gears in your car’s transmission. This helps to prevent wear and tear on the gears, as well as reducing noise and improving shift quality. So, what’s the difference between these two types of fluids?

Differential fluid is thicker than transmission fluid, which means that it can provide better lubrication for the gears in your differential. This can help to prolong the life of your differential and improve its performance. Transmission fluid, on the other hand, is thinner than differential fluid, which means that it can provide better lubrication for the gears in your transmission. This can help to prolong the life of your transmission and improve its performance.

Differential fluid is also designed to withstand higher temperatures than transmission fluid. This means that it can better protect the gears in your differential from heat damage. Transmission fluid, on the other hand, is designed to withstand lower temperatures than differential fluid. This means that it can better protect the gears in your transmission from cold damage.

You Can Benefit From Both Fluids

So, which type of fluid is right for you? If you’re looking for the best possible performance and protection for your car, then you should use differential fluid in your differential and transmission fluid in your transmission. However, if you’re looking for the best possible value, then you should use transmission fluid in both your differential and transmission. Whichever type of fluid you choose, make sure to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for the best results.

Choose Professional Auto Service

Regularly scheduled car maintenance is important to keep your vehicle running smoothly and prolonging the life of your car. While you may be tempted to save a little money and do the work yourself, it’s important to take the advice of your Indianapolis mechanic when it comes to routine car maintenance. They have the experience and knowledge to keep your car in good condition, and they can also help identify any potential problems before they become bigger issues. Neglecting factory scheduled car maintenance can lead to costly repairs down the road, so it’s always best to err on the side of caution and let the professionals take care of things.

Are you looking for a qualified and affordable Indianapolis auto repair shop that won’t charge unfair rates for car repair or maintenance? Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for professional automotive service and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Request a free estimate, or schedule service, today.

How to Identify a Transmission Fluid Leak in Your Car

Posted on October 25, 2022 by autorepair

If your car is leaking transmission fluid, it will typically leave a trail of reddish-brown fluid under the vehicle. In some cases, you may also notice a burning smell or see smoke coming from the area where the leak is located. If you think your car might be leaking transmission fluid, it’s important to have it checked out by a mechanic as soon as possible. Transmission fluid leaks can cause serious damage to your car’s transmission and should be repaired as soon as possible.

Continue below to learn how to identify a transmission fluid leak in your car.

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How Does a Car Transmission Work?

A car transmission is a metal box that contains the gears that transfer power from the engine to the wheels. The torque converter is what transfers the power from the engine to the transmission. The transmission then sends it to the differential, which is connected to the wheels. The transmission has two main parts: the gearbox and the clutch. The gearbox is what contains the gears that transfer power from the engine to the wheels. The clutch is what disengages the engine from the transmission so that the car can change gears.

There are two types of transmissions: manual and automatic. Manual transmissions have three pedals: the clutch, the brake, and the gas pedal. Automatic transmissions have two pedals: the brake and the gas pedal. The clutch is what allows the car to change gears. It is located between the engine and the transmission. The clutch disengages the engine from the transmission so that the car can change gears.

Causes of a Transmission Fluid Leak

Transmission fluid leaks are one of the most common problems car owners tend to face. Transmission fluid leaks can be very dangerous and can cause your car to break down. If you think you have a transmission fluid leak, it is important to take your car to an Indianapolis mechanic right away.

There are a few different ways that transmission fluid can leak. The most common way is through a hole in the transmission. Another way is when the seals around the transmission start to leak. Transmission fluid leaks can also happen when the gaskets or O-rings start to leak.

Signs of Transmission Fluid Leaks

If you notice a pool of fluid underneath your car, it is likely that you have a transmission fluid leak. Transmission fluid is typically red in color, so if you see a reddish fluid, it is most likely transmission fluid. Another way to tell if you have a transmission fluid leak is by checking the level of transmission fluid using the dip stick. If the fluid level is low, it is likely that there is a leak. Transmission fluid leaks can lead to serious problems if they are not fixed, so it is best to get them fixed as soon as possible.

If you think you have a transmission fluid leak, it is important to take your car to an auto repair shop in Indianapolis so they can fix the problem. Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for transmission repair in Indianapolis, Indiana you can afford. We also offer auto service coupons and discounts!

Top 4 Signs of Failing Car Brakes

Posted on October 10, 2022 by autorepair

It’s no secret that driving can be dangerous. But did you know that being a safe driver doesn’t just mean being a good driver? It also means keeping your car in good condition. That’s right – making sure your car is regularly serviced and that you keep up with basic maintenance can go a long way towards keeping you safe on the road.

Of course, there are other factors that contribute to safe driving, but maintaining your car is a good place to start. So, if you’re looking to be a safer driver, don’t forget about your car! One of the most important areas of focus are the car brakes. After all, you need them to stop and control the speed of your vehicle!

How are your car brakes doing? Could they use some service or repair? Do you need car brake replacement? Continue below to learn the top 4 signs of failing car brakes, plus where to get trusted and affordable car brake repair near you.

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4 Common Car Brake Problems

One of the most important components of your car is the brakes. Without them, you wouldn’t be able to safely stop your vehicle. That’s why it’s so important to be aware of the signs of failing car brakes. By catching brake problems early, you can avoid a potentially dangerous situation and keep your car running smoothly.

Here are four signs that your car brakes may be failing:

❶ Your brake pedal feels spongy or soft when you press it. This is often a sign of air in the brake lines, which can reduce the effectiveness of your brakes.

❷ You hear squealing or grinding noises when you brake. This can indicate that your brake pads are worn out and need to be replaced.

❸ Your car takes longer than usual to stop. If your brakes are losing their effectiveness, it will take longer for your car to come to a stop.

❹ Your brake warning light is on. This is usually an indication that there is something wrong with your brakes and you should have them checked by a professional as soon as possible.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to have your brakes checked out by a qualified car mechanic in Indianapolis. Ignoring brake problems can lead to serious accidents and injuries, so it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

The Link Between Car Care and Brake Maintenance

It is well known that driving safely is the number one priority on the road. But what many people don’t realize is that car maintenance is just as important in keeping you safe on the road. A properly maintained car will have tires with good tread, good fuel functionality, functioning lights, and most importantly, brakes that work effectively. This minimizes the chances of you getting into an accident. It is also important to have your car regularly serviced at a licensed Indianapolis auto repair shop so that any potential problems can be caught early on. This way, you can avoid breakdowns or other issues that could put you in danger while driving. So, remember that safe driving starts with a well-maintained car. Make sure to take care of your vehicle and it will help keep you safe on the road.

Are you looking for professional and affordable brake service near you? Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for ASE-licensed car brake service and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Check out our auto shop coupons, too!

How to Check For a Radiator Clog

Posted on September 30, 2022 by autorepair

A clogged up radiator is not something you want to drive around with. Not only can it be damaging to several internal components of your vehicle, including your engine, but it can also pose several safety hazards to you and your passengers, not-to-mention, waste fuel. And with the price of gas these days, you don’t want to waste even a drop of fuel!

Do you suspect that your vehicle might have a clogged radiator? Fortunately, the signs are easy to spot. Continue reading to learn how to check for radiator clog, plus where to get cheap radiator repair services near you.

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Car Radiator Problems

The radiator in your car is designed to regulate the internal temperatures of your engine. The engine creates high levels of heat and friction, which can melt and corrode the internal parts of your engine block, pistons, gaskets, spark plugs, and more without proper levels of radiator fluid, also known as coolant or anti-freeze. For this reason, it is important to regularly refill your radiator fluid to ensure that your engine temperature is properly regulated as you drive.

Cracks in the radiator and other radiator damages, such as clogs, can cause serious disruptions in radiator performance because it does not allow the coolant to run through the engine and absorb the excess heat. Once the coolant reaches the radiator, the radiator cools it down so that it can be used again to regulate the temperature of the engine. The radiator fluid follows this cycle as you drive to control the temperatures of the engine.

DIY Guide to Checking for a Clogged Radiator

Below are the steps to follow if you wish to identify and diagnose a clogged radiator on your own. Ultimately, it is important that you take your car into an Indianapolis automotive repair shop for radiator repair and service. This will ensure that your vehicle is optimized in terms of safety and performance.

Begin with a cool engine. Before attempting to diagnose a clogged radiator.

Once you know you are working with the cool engine, pop the hood, latch it in place, then locate and remove the cap to the radiator reservoir.

Next, start your vehicle. You will need to wait a couple of minutes for the thermostat to open up. While standing there, be ready to make your observations.

After two minutes or so, the coolant should be circulating. Using a flashlight, look into the radiator. If the coolant flow looks even and balanced, you probably do not have a clogged radiator. However, if you notice that the coolant flow looks unsteady or imbalanced, it is indicative of a clogged radiator.

Whether the coolant looked even or not, use this next method to check if you have radiator clock. You will need a partner to lightly rev the car engine while you gently squeeze the radiator hose. If the hose stiffens as your friend revs the engine, it is suggestive of a radiator clog.

Are you looking for an affordable Indianapolis automotive mechanic who can help you solve your vehicles fuel inefficiencies and maintenance problems? Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for professional, ASE-licensed radiator repair services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Check out our auto shop coupons, too!

How to Save Gas Money By Taking Better Care of Your Car

Posted on September 19, 2022 by autorepair

With most good things, there is a catch. If you want to lose weight, you have to give up sugar. If you want to save money, you have to rent the smaller apartment. But when it comes to fuel savings, you may have found the exception to the rule! Because believe it or not, there is a way to save your gasoline and reduce fuel consumption without sacrificing an ounce of drive-time! You don’t have to limit your driving by driving less altogether just to save on gas.

Continue reading to learn what you can do to save fuel without restricting the amount of time or distances you drive.

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Factory Scheduled Maintenance is Vital

The simple trick to using less gas is not to drive less, but to drive smarter. And a smart driver (YOU) makes sure they are staying current with all their factory scheduled vehicle maintenance. This includes fluid changes like motor oil, coolant, windshield wiper, and power steering. But also includes services like tire balancing and rotation, brake pad inspections and replacements, cabin filter replacements, air filter replacements, comprehensive inspections, and more.

Aside from what your trusted mechanic can provide for your vehicle in terms of routine maintenance, there are many things you can do yourself to keep your ride in tip-top condition, allowing it to utilize fuel efficiently and perform for years to come.

Best Practices for Driving and Car Care

Take initiative into your own hands with do-it-yourself (DIY) car care. There are many things you can do on your own to continue vehicle maintenance in between regular scheduled mechanic visits. You can start by making sure your tires are always properly inflated. When they are not, your vehicle must work harder to assume the same level of performance, which uses more fuel. Also, be sure to periodically inspect the gas cap for damages. This can cause fuel to vaporize into the air.

Another way to use your fuel efficiently is to obey the speed limit and accelerate slowly. This also protects several components of your vehicle, allowing optimal performance and safety. Last, try emptying the trunk and backseat of unneeded materials. This can reduce the overall weight of your car, thus reducing the amount of gas it needs to operate.

Although there is no magical way to truly “drive more and use less”, with routine car care you can optimize your vehicle’s fuel economy, which essentially delivers the same financial gratification. Talk to your trusted automotive service technician about your vehicle’s recommended maintenance schedule. You may refer to your vehicle’s owners’ manual for additional information as well.

Does your car or truck need some routine auto service or a repair? Contact us at 317-475-1846 for the most affordable and reliable auto repair services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Request a free estimate, or schedule service, today.

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How Long Can I Drive With the Check Engine Light On?

Posted on August 30, 2022 by autorepair

Whether your check engine light is illuminated in yellow or red, it is trying to send you a message. Above all else, that message is to warn you. Many people want to know how long they can drive their cars with a check engine light on before it starts to do any major damage to the vehicle. The answer might surprise you.

Continue below to learn what you need to know about your check engine light, including why it came on, what happens if you ignore it, and how to get it diagnosed without breaking the bank.

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Check Engine Lights are Warning Indicators

Also known a Malfunctioning Indicator Lamp (MIL), you can trust that the name alone is telling you that something attention-necessary is happening within your vehicle. When the Check Engine Light comes on, it wants you to do just that: have the engine checked out. Some vehicles are designed for the dashboard icon to light up in a yellow color to indicate a less serious malfunction and a red color for more serious engine issues. Some vehicles only illuminate in one color, but flash or remain solid to distinguish between serious and not-so-serious problems.

Why the Check Engine Light Comes On

There are many reasons why your Check Engine Light popped on. You may have just filled up the gas tank and failed to twist your cap all the way back on. This is one of the most common, non-serious reasons why Check Engine Lights come on. However, it could be due to a longer, more complicated list of reasons, from defective spark plugs and overheating engines to engine misfires, catalytic converter malfunctions, failed sensors (O2, ECU, Mass Airflow (MAF), intake track, etc.), and more. It is necessary to have your Check Engine Light warning diagnosed by a licensed mechanic or using a code reader.

Consequences of Ignoring a Check Engine Light

The Check Engine Light warning indicator on your dashboard is the most important warning to address. You never want to ignore and illuminated Check Engine Light. The longer you ignore your Check Engine Light, the more damage you’ll do to your engine and inner automotive components.

Depending on the reason why your check engine light is on, the damages could result in a variety of consequences, such as fuel economy inefficiencies, engine misfires, backfiring, catalytic converter damage, engine overheating, increased harmful emissions, spark plug damage, and much more.

Overall, you do not want to drive around with an illuminated or flashing Check Engine Light, even if the problem is minor, like a loose air filter. You do not want to take the chance and risk adding more costly damages to your vehicle. Check Engine Light diagnostics are very affordable, so it is worth your while to get the issue examined sooner rather than later.

If your check engine light is currently illuminated in your vehicle, you are in the right place for affordable and dependable automotive service and repair. Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 to speak with a friendly mechanic about check engine light diagnostics in Indianapolis, or simply schedule service online.

How to Make Your Car Last Longer For Cheaper

Posted on August 11, 2022 by autorepair

Everyone needs their car. Your car plays a vital role in maintaining your livelihood. Whether you use your car to get to and from work, go back and forth from school, or shuttle around your family to all of their schooling obligations and activities, your vehicle is very important. In the best interest of your financial future, it would be wisest to do all that you can to make your vehicle last as long as possible. Fortunately, there is a very budget-friendly way to do this.

Continue reading to learn how to make your car less longer for cheaper, plus where you can get dependable and affordable automotive service and repair in Indianapolis.

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The Cheapest Way to Increase the Life of Your Car or Truck

Stay Current on Factory Scheduled Maintenance

When you want to make your vehicle last as long as it possibly can, your first step is to read the owner’s manual. Your particular make and model vehicle will have a specific factory maintenance plan recommended within its manual. Follow the instructions for factory scheduled maintenance for your vehicle, ensuring that you stay on top of it throughout the year, every year. When you keep up with car maintenance, you will experience fewer breakdowns and mechanical issues, which also saves you money on expensive automotive repairs and parts replacements.

Regularly Check Fluid Levels

Your vehicle requires certain automotive fluids at all times for optimal performance, safety, and you guessed it, longevity. This includes motor oil, radiator fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid, transmission fluid, battery fluid, and windshield wiper fluid. To make a vehicle last as long as it is designed to last, it is important to ensure that your fluid levels are adequate at all times by regularly checking them. Refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual for instructions on how to inspect and refill each fluid. In most cars, dashboard lights will appear if a fluid is low or empty.

Be Consistent With Oil Changes

As mentioned, it is important to regularly check your automotive fluid levels. Your motor oil is one of the most important automotive fluids because it lubricates the grinding, heat-generating internal mechanical components within your engine. Above all other vital automotive fluids, it is important to be consistent with the oil changes the most. Ask your mechanic how often you should get an oil change for your car.

Stay Alert to Strange Sounds or Movements

It is always important to be on the lookout for strange sounds, vibrations, shaking, or movements when starting or driving your vehicle. Such changes in your vehicle’s performance are indicators of an underlying problem. Your Indianapolis mechanic will be able to diagnose your vehicles issues through your description of its irregular performance. It is also good idea to stay alert to strange car smells, like burning rubber, gasoline, or a sweet syrupy scent.

Are you looking for a dependable automotive mechanic for help with your car or truck issues? Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for professional automotive service and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Request a free estimate, or schedule service, today.

Recommended Maintenance for a Car That Has Not Been Driven in a While

Posted on July 27, 2022 by autorepair

Whether you have been away for business or finally decided to take that old classic out of storage, a vehicle that has been parked for a long period of time will require some specialized auto care. Continue below to learn the recommended maintenance for a car that has not been driven in a while, plus which auto repair shop in Indianapolis to trust for superior service at neighborhood prices.

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Automotive Maintenance Tips for a Sitting Car

Hopefully you implemented some preventative maintenance to your vehicle before it took its long hiatus. But even if you didn’t, do not worry. There is still a chance that the right maintenance approach will get your ride operating safely and efficiently. Here are the top areas to focus on when planning to get your long-sitting car back in operation and out there on the open road once again:

Fluids

Did the tank have gas in it? If so, be sure to drain it and fill it up with some new stuff. Gasoline does expire. You want to also flush and refill all other vital automotive fluids, like brake fluid, transmission fluid, power steering fluid, battery fluid, windshield wiper cleaner, and of course, motor oil. Unless you have keen mechanic skills, it is not recommended to do this yourself. Trust a licensed Indianapolis auto shop to service your car professionally.

Battery

Your battery needs more than just fluid to operate. It also need charge. Overtime, batteries drain of charge, and in lengthier stints of non-operation, will drain beyond the point of a jumpstart. In most cases of a long-sitting car, the battery will need to be replaced with a new one. Fortunately, car batteries are not expensive, plus you can change it yourself!

Tires

Not only do tires lose air pressure during long periods of non-use, but they also develop flat spots. These flat areas develop at the bottom of the tire and cause permanent shape change, so the tire can no longer be round. We need well-rounded and balanced tires for smooth and efficient operation, so in this case, it would be necessary to replace any damaged tires.

Extended Periods of Non-Use

Vehicles that have been sitting for a really long time are likely to incur some additional automotive damages, like rust formation, belt and hose deterioration, and even pest infestations. If your car has sat without being driven for a very long time, perhaps over a year or more, you should have it inspected by a licensed mechanic for dried out rubber belts and hoses, plus any potential wildlife damages like chewed electrical wiring or insulation. You can treat rust yourself to a certain extent using store-bought rust removal cleaners and kits.

Are you ready to schedule professional automotive maintenance appointment with a trusted Indy mechanic? Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for ASE licensed and trained factory scheduled maintenance and car inspections in Indianapolis, Indiana. We work on all make and model vehicles!

5 Reasons Why Your Car is Shaking

Posted on July 15, 2022 by autorepair

Cars are meant to move in all sorts of ways, but shaking, vibrating, and bobbing are not considered normal in terms of conventional automotive performance. If your vehicle is showing any signs of odd movement like shaking, it is important to diagnose the problem and resolve the issue before any more damage results.

Continue reading to learn the top 5 reasons why your car might be shaking, plus where to get dealership level automotive service and repair at neighborhood prices.

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Why Does Your Car Have the Shakes?

Car shaking and vibrating are not symptoms you should ever ignore. In most cases, such movements are indicative of a serious underlying mechanical problem. Other times, it can be something simple like uneven tire tread wear. Regardless of why your car is shaking, it is important that you take it into your local Indianapolis mechanic as soon as possible to diagnose and resolve the issue. The longer you wait to repair whatever it is causing your car to shake or vibrate, then the worse your vehicle’s condition will get. This means costlier and more invasive repairs.

Whether the vibrating and shaking are happening intermittently, or every single time you drive, you can help your mechanic diagnose the issue by recounting when the shaking takes place. Does your car shake when you’re in idle? Does it shake intermittently as you drive? Does your car shake when you start the vehicle but then stops shaking as you begin to drive? Do you hear any odd sounds when your car begins to shake? Have you been in an accident recently, even a minor one like running over a squirrel? This is all important information that your mechanic will need to know in order to efficiently diagnose the issue and facilitate the needed repair.

5 Common Causes for a Shaking Car

Although there are many reasons why a car might be shaking and vibrating, the top 5 reasons typically involve issues with the wheels, tires, engine, or steering and suspension system. These are the areas your mechanic will focus on first as they begin the process of deciphering the issues causing your car shakes.

Tires

As mentioned earlier, sometimes cars will begin shaking if they have low or uneven tire tread. Imbalanced tires can also cause cars to shake. You might just need routine tire service to correct the issue, such as rotation and alignment, tire inflation, or tire replacement.

Wheels

If you can feel the shaking beneath your feet coming up through the floorboards, particularly at higher speeds near 50 miles an hour, the wheels could be to blame. A routine wheel balance should set you straight. However, it could be due to loosen lug nuts or broken wheel bearings, which are both easy and inexpensive to repair.

Steering and Suspension

Your steering and suspension system are responsible for keeping your car steady as you drive over rough terrain. If something is mechanically off within your steering and suspension, such as a bent axle, damaged CV joint, or faulty driveshaft, your car may begin to bounce or bobble as you drive when you reach higher speeds. Although much different from shaking and vibrating, this is still a problem that needs immediate attention.

Engine

If your car begins to shake when you are stopped in idle, it is likely due to mechanical issues within the engine. In most cases, spark plug replacement is the solution. Other than spark plugs, car shaking could be caused from dirty or clogged air filters, loose motor mounts, or disconnected spark plug wires.

Brakes

Car shaking can also present itself when the car brakes are engaged. If your car begins to shake or vibrate when you press down on the brake pedal, the issue could likely be due to worn-out brake pads or warped brake rotors. If you smell a burning order when you hit the brakes, you could have a brake caliper that’s stuck. All of these issues can be resolved with the help of a licensed mechanic.

Are you looking for a qualified automotive repair shop in Indy to resolve your car shaking issue at an affordable price? Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for superior, ASE licensed auto repair and service in Indianapolis, Indiana. We service all make and model vehicles.