St. Louis Park & Minnetonka Auto Repair

One of the most common mistakes car owners make is driving their vehicle in the cold immediately after starting it. This can damage vital systems and components, leading to frustrating problems - shortening the car's lifespan. If you want to know more about why it's bad and how to start it properly, read along to find out. What Can It Cause? When the engine is cold due to the temperatures outside, the fluid becomes viscous, metal is more brittle, and the gaskets and seals are stiff, just to name a few. While the vehicle is stationary, it starts to warm up and get all these things going and working. If you cold start the car and immediately after that drive it, parts are more prone to damage or even stopping to operate. This can also cause problems with sensors which are vital for your car's ability to run. To put it in short, continuous driving with a cold engine can damage parts and systems all over the vehicle - resulting in a shorter lifespan. How To Properly Do It ... read more

During winter, it is important to prepare in case of any emergency while on the road. A winter emergency car kit provides peace of mind by preparing you for any possible winter road situations. If you're ever in a situation where your car has broken down, and it's freezing out, you'll need a winter emergency kit. Hence, it's important always to stay prepared by having a kit at your disposal. A winter emergency car kit should include the following:- Nutritional Provisions It is essential to stay energized and in good health during any unforeseen period when you're stuck in your vehicle. Therefore, when packing a winter emergency car kit, food items that contain protein, fats, and carbohydrates are best as they provide nourishment over a longer time. Protein bars, trail mix, nuts, and dried fruit help sustain energy and vitality; canned soups or chili provide much-needed warmth and nutrition. Be sure to store these items in an insulated lunch box to remain fresh fo ... read more

Shock absorbers are an essential part of your vehicle's suspension system that reduces the amount of shock felt by the vehicle's occupants and reduces the bounce of the vehicle's body. Shock absorbers play an important role in maintaining control of the vehicle when driving over rough roads or uneven terrain. But how long do shock absorbers last, and when should they be replaced? On average, shock absorbers last about 50,000 to 100,000 miles. However, this is only a general guideline and the actual lifespan of your vehicle's shock absorbers can vary depending on the type of vehicle and how it is driven. Driving in rough terrain, driving over potholes, or using off-road tires can all decrease the life of your vehicle's shock absorbers. If your vehicle's shock absorbers need to be replaced, there are a few signs you can look out for. If you notice that your vehicle's ride is too bumpy, or that your vehicle seems to bounce more than usual, these are indicati ... read more

A vehicle's brake system comprises complex systems, including mechanics, hydraulics, and friction. Brake pads are vital for vehicle operation, and when one set wears down, it compromises your vehicle's stopping power performance leading to premature replacement. Here are some reasons that may cause your brake pad to wear out on one side and what you should do if it happens. 1. Brake caliper failure Caliper failure is a common cause of pad wear. It has a piston that presses the brake pads for the vehicle to stop. Brake calipers can sometimes be struck, making the brake pads stay pressed against the rotor, causing quick wear down. 2. Issues with the rotor surface Brake rotors, at times, wear out unevenly, causing DTV {Disc Thickness Variation}. This can be because of rust, sticking calipers, dirt and debris between the rotor and pad, or slamming on the brakes. 3. Brake pads misalignment While manufacturers produce brake pads in masses and test them before releasing them, i ... read more

If you know a thing or two about automobiles, you’ve probably heard of the timing belt before and understand how important it is for the overall performance of your vehicle. The timing belt is one of those parts that you never want to break on you while driving. Instead, you should replace it as soon as you can before it can cause irreversible engine damage.    There are no strict rules to follow when determining when to replace your timing belt. Instead, you and your trusted mechanic should decide for yourself based on the condition and wear and tear on the rubber belt. Read on to learn more about the fascinating timing belt and when to expect to replace it.   The timing belt is a rubber belt that is responsible for synchronizing the movement of the crankshaft and crankshaft of your engine. In simpler terms, it is integral for a smooth combustion process. When your vehicle approaches old age, you will need to replace its belt. Older model vehicles may need a n ... read more