Auto Maintenance Basics: Forced Induction

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Advanced Auto Clinic Auto Maintenance Basics: Forced Induction

 

Most Delavan motorists associate turbochargers and superchargers with hot rods and racing. However, the number of everyday cars and trucks coming to Darien from the factory with chargers is growing every year. Here’s why:

 

You need three elements for combustion: fuel, oxygen, and ignition (spark plug in gasoline engines and compression in diesels). Superchargers and turbochargers deal with the oxygen part of the formula. In the normally aspirated engines Delavan drivers are familiar with, air is just drawn in from the outside by vacuum pressure created as the engine runs. Turbochargers and superchargers compress the air that goes into the engine’s combustion chamber, forcing in more oxygen. This forced charge of air allows an engine to make more power than a similarly sized normally aspirated engine.

So today we have small 4-cylinder turbocharged engines on Delavan expressways making more power than a full-sized V8 did twenty years ago and getting far better MPG. And the power on charged six and eight cylinder engines is through the roof.

In addition to power and fuel economy, charged engines deliver essential benefits for Delavan motorists at higher altitudes. As the air thins with an increase in elevation, there is less oxygen available to burn in the engine resulting in a significant power loss. Charging forces more air and oxygen into the engine, preserving much of the power at altitude. Turbochargers use exhaust from the engine to spin an impeller that compresses the air sent to the engine. Because there is a short time between when you step on the accelerator and the time the exhaust pressure builds up enough to spin the turbo up to speed, there is a short lag in power. To combat this “turbo lagâ €, some automobile manufacturers use two turbos: a small one that quickly spins up when engine speed is low and a larger one for when the engine is running fast. Others use a variable vane technology in the impeller to accomplish the same thing.

Superchargers are driven by a belt connected to the engine’s crankshaft.

There is no lag because charging starts immediately (it doesn’t have to wait for exhaust pressure). Superchargers are less efficient for Delavan drivers because they require engine power to run the compressor whereas turbochargers are powered by an exhaust. In both types, the air heats up as it is compressed. In some engines it is necessary to cool the air before it goes into the engine. In those engines, the air passes through what is called an intercooler to bring its temperature down to the proper range. An intercooler is like a small radiator and may be cooled by air flow or by liquid coolant.

Delavan owners of superchargers and turbochargers should always use the fuel grade recommended by their vehicle manufacturer. This is important in charged engines because of the extra pressure as the fuel and air is compressed. Using fuel with too low of an octane rating could lead to premature detonation which can cause pricey damage.

Generally speaking, turbochargers and superchargers do not require regular maintenance. But they do wear like any other part in your vehicle and will eventually need repair or replacement. All of your vital regular vehicle maintenance should be done on schedule – things like oil changes and transmission service and so on. Talk with your knowledgeable Advanced Auto Clinic tech about any concerns you have and about the next services your vehicle needs.

 

Advanced Auto Clinic

1101 Ann Street, Delavan, WI 53115

At Advanced Auto Clinic in Delavan WI (53115) we install quality NAPA
replacement parts. Give us a call at 262.728.2944. To learn more about NAPA AutoCare, visit www.NAPAAutoCare.com.

Car Care News and Information: Wiper Blade Design

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WiperBlades

Advanced Auto Clinic Car Care News and Information: Wiper Blade Design

Wiper blades may not be the most exciting topic for most Delavan car owners, but they are pretty important. Most of us Delavan drivers have had an experience when a sudden snow or rain storm hits while we’re driving; then when we turn on the wipers, nothing but streaks. This can be especially disconcerting at night when the glare of on-coming headlights distorts your vision.

Simple answer: change your wiper blades BEFORE they fail. Check them out every couple of months just to see how they are working. Of course, the more you use your wipers, the sooner they’ll wear out. Delavan auto owners with lots of storms or those who drive a lot in WI where there are bugs and road grime will use their blades more.

But even when you’€™re not using your blades, they are exposed to sunlight, ozone, soap, and extreme hot and cold WI temperatures which lead to deterioration. Your blades can just rot away and fall apart before you need them. Of course, using your wipers when the blades are torn can lead to scratches in your windshield. Car owners don’€™t want to risk a steep windshield replacement over the cost of a couple of wiper blades.

WIPER BLADE UPGRADES

Now let’€™s talk about wiper blade upgrades. Delavan car owners can upgrade both the design and the wiper material. Let’s start with the material.

Traditional black rubber blades do a great job of clearing your windshield when they are new. Over time all of the conditions mentioned above damage them and degrade their performance.

Silicone blades are far less affected by environmental conditions and will simply perform better for a longer time for Delavan motorists.

WIPER BLADE DESIGN ELEMENTS

There are two elements to the design. First, the wiper blade itself: Some have a single wiping edge. Others have multiple edges, kind of like a multi-blade razor. The idea is to maximize wiping power during both swipes of the blade.

The other design element is with the wiper frame. This is the structure that applies pressure on the blade as it passes over the windshield. A conventional frame has four to six contact points on the blade. These apply pressure used to clear water and snow. A beam frame provides uniform pressure along the entire surface of the wiper. Their shape catches the wind passing over the vehicle to provide additional downforce to help get a clean swipe. A hybrid frame has four to six contact points as with a conventional blade, but also incorporates an airfoil to provide additional downforce as with beam blades.

So which blade should you select?

Well always use at least the grade and design that came with the vehicle from the vehicle manufacturer. Upgrade for better performance and longer lasting blades. The extra cost of premium blades is a good value for this important safety system.

While you‒re at it, make sure you have plenty of windshield washer solvent (use a winter formulation when Delavan temps drop below freezing) and that your washer nozzles are working well.

Talk with your knowledgeable Advanced Auto Clinic tech about upgrading your wiper blades.

 

WiperBladesNAPASpecialAdBUY 1 Get 1 FREE! (NAPA Special)

When you drive, almost all of the decisions you make are influenced by one thing: your ability to see clearly. So with inclement weather ahead, now’s the time to get to Advanced Auto Clinic for a great deal on windshield wipers and premium headligh capsules!

Have one NAPA Wiper Blade or qualifying headlight installed and we’ll give you the second blade or capsule FREE!!

Offer good through Decemember 31

 

 

 

Advanced Auto Clinic

1101 Ann Street, Delavan, WI 53115

262.728.2944

At Advanced Auto Clinic in Delavan WI (53115) we install quality NAPA

replacement parts. Give us a call at 262.728.2944. To learn more about NAPA

AutoCare, visit www.NAPAAutoCare.com.

Car Car Information – Axle

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Automotive Solutions from Advanced Auto Clinic Axle

If you hear a clunking sound from the front wheel when you make a turn, one possible cause of the trouble for drivers is a worn axle.

Front-wheel drive vehicles have axles that transfer power from the transmission to your front wheels. There is one for each front wheel. These axles are called constant velocity axles or CV axles for short. Auto owners with rear-wheel drive vehicles have axles that are in back and run between the differential and the rear wheels. Of course, all-wheel drive vehicles will have an axle at each wheel.

“…finding the trouble early will make the repair easier and less expensive”

When a front CV axle goes bad, it will commonly make a clunking noise as you make a slow turn. When a rear axle goes bad, the clunking or moaning sound will be in the back. Now there really isn’t any preventive maintenance you can have performed to make your axles last longer, but you can have them inspected from time to time to see if a problem such as a leaking seal or torn protective boot has arisen. Sometimes finding the trouble early will make the repair easier and less expensive.

Of course, axles do wear out and need to be replaced. This is essential and should not be put off by car owners because a severely worn axle can seize up causing costly damage to your transmission or other components. This could even lead to an accident for drivers who ignore a worn axle.

If you suspect an axle problem, have it looked at right away. Ask your knowledgeable Advanced Auto Clinic service specialist if it’s time for an automotive analysis of your axle.

Advanced Auto Clinic

1101 Ann Street, Delavan, WI 53115

262.728.2944

At Advanced Auto Clinic in Delavan WI (53115) we install quality NAPA

replacement parts. Give us a call at 262.728.2944. To learn more about NAPA

AutoCare, visit www.NAPAAutoCare.com.

Automotive Solutions: Service Intervals

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Automotive Solutions from Advanced Auto Clinic: Service Intervals

 

Confused about auto service intervals for various items on your car? Advanced Auto Clinic can help!

 

The simple answer for Delavan drivers is to follow the auto manufacturer’s recommended service intervals listed in your owner’s manual or in your service center’s database. But the team at Advanced Auto Clinic in Delavan sympathizes with motorists because of the confusing intervals for modern vehicles.

The days of simple rules of thumb that applied to most vehicles are long gone. For example, let’s look at an oil change: automakers’ recommendations run anywhere from every 3,000 miles to 15,000 miles. This big range comes from engine design and recommended types of oil – so Delavan car owners really do need to ascertain and follow the recommendations for their specific vehicle.

Your owner’s service manual will have a schedule for critical maintenance services and inspections.

Service items include:

Tire rotation, wheel balancing, oil change, coolant service, transmission

service, brake system, power steering system, fuel system, differential

service, and transfer case service.

Inspections will include:

Alignment check, air conditioning, brakes, suspension, axles, exhaust,

tires, lights emissions, belts and hoses, and steering.

It’s essential for Delavan car owners to remember there is no exception that would make it OK to extend an interval. These intervals already assume “best case” conditions for a safe margin of error. However, you may live or drive in Delavan conditions that are harsher than average. Your owner’s manual may have a modified schedule for “severe service” – things like extreme WI temperatures, towing, hauling heavy loads around Darien, short trips, stop-and-go interstate conditions, etc.

Consult your owner’s manual or with your Advanced Auto Clinic service specialist about your driving situation and adjust your service intervals accordingly.

Advanced Auto Clinic

1101 Ann Street, Delavan, WI 53115

262.728.2944

At Advanced Auto Clinic in Delavan WI (53115) we install quality NAPA

replacement parts. Give us a call at 262.728.2944. To learn more about NAPA

AutoCare, visit www.NAPAAutoCare.com.

Car Care News & Information: Serpentine Belt

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Advanced Auto Clinic Car Care News and Information: Serpentine Belt

 

My Advanced Auto Clinic service professional said I need a new serpentine belt but I don’t see any cracks in it. Does it really need to be replaced?

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Old style neoprene belts crack with age, making it pretty obvious to Delavan motorists when they needed to be replaced. Nowadays, serpentine belts are made from a different material that doesn’t crack or glaze the way neoprene did.

Stepping back, the serpentine belt transfers power from the engine to various essential accessories like the alternator, power steering pump, and air conditioning compressor – even the power brakes and water pump on some vehicles. Modern serpentine belts have several grooves running their length. These grooves mate with the pulleys on the accessories. When the belt is within its useful life, it spins the accessories at the designed speed.

Over time, belt material is worn away. When as little as 5% of the material is lost, the belt can slip and not properly spin the accessories leading to detrimental stress and expensive damage.

Using a special tool,  an Advanced Auto Clinic service specialist can measure the material lost in your serpentine belt. We will ascertain if it needs to be replaced.

It’s critical for Delavan auto owners to understand that the serpentine belt is part of the accessory belt drive system which also includes the serpentine belt tensioner and any idler pulleys. The belt tensioner has the same service life as the belt itself, so if it is time to replace the belt, you should also replace the tensioner and idler pulleys as well.

A worn belt tensioner can cause belt slip and enough belt-slap to really hammer the accessory upstream from the tensioner. Running too long with a worn belt, tensioner, or idler pulleys typically causes excessive heat at the accessory pulleys, resulting in inefficiency, expensive damage and premature replacement.

Advanced Auto Clinic in Delavan, WI can perform a diagnostic examination to see if your belt or tensioner is worn and should be replaced. Ask your service advisor if it’s time for a serpentine belt system replacement.

Give us a call!

Advanced Auto Clinic

1101 Ann Street, Delavan, WI 53115

262.728.2944

At Advanced Auto Clinic in Delavan WI (53115) we install quality NAPA replacement parts. Give us a call at 262.728.2944. To learn more about NAPA AutoCare, visit www.NAPAAutoCare.com.

Road Trip Maintenance

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Car Maintenance: Preparing Your Vehicle Before A Trip

4th of July Weekend is coming up which means there will be some traveling. For those taking a good old fashioned road trip, here are some pre-trip maintenance tips.

 

Check Your Vehicle

(Tires, Fluids, Air Filter, Engine)

Tires  – Air Pressure and Tire Wear (Don’t forget to check the air pressure of the spare tire)
Fluids – Coolant, Oil, Brake Fluid Levels, Power Steering Fluid, Windshield Washer Reservoir
Air Filter – Improves engine performance

There are also some things under the hood that you should take care of before you start out on your trip:

Check the engine oil and your automatic transmission fluid. If your next oil change or transmission change is due soon, you should definitely take care of it before you leave.

Check the engine antifreeze (coolant) level in the overflow tank, which is fairly easy to do. Remember, never open the radiator cap if your car engine is hot. Any leaks you discover should be fixed immediately because a lack of coolant while you are traveling may cause engine to overheat, which can lead to serious damage.

If you feel that your battery’s cranking speed is slower than before, it is probably time for you to replace it. (Typically, a battery lasts from two to five years.)

Look for anything irregular, including leaks and loose clamps.

Make sure that the jack is still operable in case you need to change a tire on the road.

Also Check..

Electrical equipment and lights. The horn, the windshield wipers, and all the lights in your car. You should replace the wipers or get rubber refills if they don’t clean the windshield perfectly, and have some extra light bulbs on hand, as well. Depending on the season and your location, you should also make sure that the heater and air conditioner are in good working order.

REVIEW YOUR OWNER’S MANUAL

This is the best source of useful information about your car, from using overdrive when you tow a trailer to how to change a tire. Look for the proper tire pressure, how to change a headlight bulb, and other things you might need to do unexpectedly while you are away from home. They may be minor, but they can cause a delay if you don’t know how to handle them.

Before you take a road trip, you should check your car to make sure that it is in good condition and running smooth. This will help you to drive safe and avoid any breakdowns or mechanical issues. Then you’ll be free to just roll down the windows, turn on the radio and enjoy the open road!

 

Source: http://www.dmv.org/how-to-guides/pre-trip-maintenance.php
                 http://www.wikihow.com/Check-Your-Car-Before-a-Road-Trip

 

 

Summer Vehicle Maintenance Tips

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Summer Vehicle Maintenance Tips

We have finally reached the times of beautiful weather and road trips! However, just because Winter is finally over doesn’t mean you stop taking care of your car. In fact, you want to pay even more attention. Winter has taken a toll on the roadways, and the coming summer heat will be sure to be tough on your vehicle. Everything from the paint down to the tires is subjected to harsher than normal conditions. Gone unchecked, some issues could leave you stranded in the heat. Here are a few tips to help make sure you and your vehicle is ready to take on the summer.

Getting Your Vehicle Summer Ready!

Windshield Wipers

Winter weather can be brutal to your windshield wipers, making them almost useless if you get caught in a summer rain shower. Replace them at the beginning of the summer and you won’t have to worry.

Tires

Have your tires rotated about every 5,000 miles. Check tire pressures once a month; check them while they’re cold before driving for any distance. Don’t forget to check your spare as well and be sure the jack is in good condition. Examine tires for tread life, uneven wearing, and cupping; check the sidewalls for cuts and nicks. An alignment is warranted if there’s uneven tread wear or if your vehicle pulls to one side.

Tire pressure is also important, especially in summer months. As the outside temperature climbs, the air in your car’s tires expands, so check your tire pressure when the tires are at a normal temperature – before you set out on a road trip. Also, be sure to use the proper tire pressure for your car, not the maximum pressure listed on the tire sidewall. Check the recommended tire pressure label in the door jamb or glove compartment, or consult your owner’s manual.

Filters

Air Filter: You should replace your air filter twice a year, so now’s a good time to get that 5-minute job out of the way.

Oil Filter: Change your oil and oil filter as specified in your manual

Replace other filters (fuel, PCV, etc.) as recommended more often in dusty conditions.

Fluids

Cars need fluids during extreme heat. Engine fluids are essential to keep a vehicle running smoothly. Most fluids not only lubricate, they also serve as coolants by helping carry heat away from critical components. When fluid levels are low, this cooling effect is reduced, and the possibility of overheating increases. Drivers should check all vehicle fluids including motor oil, transmission fluid, power steering fluid, and brake fluid to ensure they are filled to the appropriate levels. If any fluids need to be topped off, be sure to use the type of fluid specified in the owner’s manual. If you have to top off any of your vehicles fluids repeatedly, this may indicate a problem. Promptly have your vehicle inspected and repaired as necessary. Failure to do so could lead to additional repairs or an unplanned breakdown.

 

Advanced Auto Clinic Brakes

Brakes: BRAKE Out Savings

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BRAKES

Summer — and lot of extra driving — are just around the corner. It just makes sense to have your vehicle’s brakes checked today.

Signs You Need New Brakes:

Grinding or growling: This loud metallic sound means that you have worn down the pads completely, most likely beyond replacement. The grinding or growling noise is caused by the two pieces of metal (the disc and the caliper) rubbing together. This can “score,” or scratch your rotors, creating an uneven surface. If this happens, do not be surprised if your mechanic tells you that the rotors need to be “turned” (a process that evens out the rotor surface), or even replaced.

Squealing: The most obvious indicator that your vehicle’s brakes need attention is an incredibly high pitched squeal when you come to a stop.

Car is pulling: It often indicates that a driver needs new brake pads. If the car pulls to one side or another, without turning the steering wheel when a driver applies the brakes, this often indicates that the current brake pads are wearing unevenly and need replaced with new brake pads. If a car is simply pulling while a driver is accelerating, or driving at a steady speed, without applying the brakes, this pulling usually indicates a different repair issue.

Pulsating: A vibration or pulsating brake pedal is often a symptom of warped rotors (but can also indicate that your vehicle is out of alignment). The vibration can feel similar to the feedback in the brake pedal during a panic stop in a vehicle equipped with anti-lock brakes.

Advanced Auto Clinic BrakesYou should make sure you are keeping up with the maintenance of your vehicle. Even if there are no warning signs, you want to get your brakes checked to ensure that everything is in order. Not to mention the increased cost of repairs if you wait until problems occur. Better to prevent issues altogether.

If you do need new brakes, you can save big with the great “Brake Out Savings” Rebates on NAPA Brakes now at Advanced Auto Clinic. For your qualifying NAPA Brakes  purchase now through June 30, you’ll get up to a $50 Rebate Visa® Card, by mail.

Reliable stopping power. Plus, BIG Savings.

 

Tips to Get Car Spring Ready

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Wash Your Vehicle – Especially The Undercarriage

Wash your vehicle thoroughly. The Winter months have taken a toll on your vehicle, so it is important to wash away all of the salt, sand and debris that has accumulated. Road salt can cause damage to a car’s exterior, and it’s undercarriage ( That is where corrosive elements can do the most damage). Bottoms of doors can get coated with grime, so be sure to wash there as well.

Use a garden hose with as much water pressure as your system can muster to loosen winter grime and salt. Or, if you have a movable lawn sprinkler that’s low enough, set that under the vehicle to wash away what you can’t reach.

Spring is also a good time to check your entire vehicle for rust, which can worsen during the winter months.

Replace Wiper Blades

Wiper Blades go through a lot in the Winter. Check the blades to make sure the have full contact with the windshield and have not dried out. Also, refill the wiper fluid reservoir.

Check Tires

It’s important to check tire pressure after weather changes. Check your owner’s manual for the recommended pressure for your tire, and never exceed that. Higher pressure generally results in improved steering response and fuel economy, but a stiffer ride, and it wears out the tread in the center. Underinflation generally provides a smoother ride, but it causes tires to wear out at the sides. It also wastes gas because tires need more power to push the vehicle.

Also, rotate the tires. Rotating your tires extends the life of them and ensures safe driving

Check Steering, Suspension, Shocks & Struts

Your suspension system keeps your car up off the road. From there, it’s responsible for a smooth and comfortable ride. Suspensions keeps the car wheels firmly planted over bumps and through curves on roads and interstates. Your suspension system has many essential parts that do a big job. They should be inspected for damage and excessive wear at least once a year.

Worn shocks can increase the time and distance it takes you to stop your car in an emergency situation.

Advanced Auto Clinic Shocks & Struts

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Advanced Auto Clinic is a full service, automobile repair and auto repair maintenance shop serving the Delavan and Lake Geneva area with many years of consistent and friendly service. Our Mechanic Shop is a NAPA AutoCare Center that has been AAA approved and uses quality Valvoline oil. We look forward to serving you. We make your service experience hassle-free.

At Advanced Auto Clinic, we know how busy you are and want to help keep your vehicle in top condition. We offer free service reminders. Get your car a quick oil change! When it is time for maintenance, we remember for you! We are your Auto Repair Service Station.

View Our Services Here: https://www.aacdelavan.com/automotive-services/

 

Advanced Auto Clinic Shocks & Struts

Suspension, Shocks & Struts

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The Roads Are Horrible! We Fix All Steering & Suspension including Shocks & Struts!

This winter has taken a toll on our roads and also your vehicle!  Advanced Auto Clinic knows that your vehicle’s Steering & Suspension components are what take the most abuse. If you are hearing new noises that are not normal then you may need to make an appointment to have Advanced Auto Clinic check your Steering, Suspension, Shocks and Struts.

Auto Repair Shop Steering & Suspension, Shocks & Struts

Your suspension system keeps your car up off the road. From there, it’s responsible for a smooth and comfortable ride. Suspensions keeps your family car wheels firmly planted over bumps and through curves on Delavan roads and interstates. Your suspension system has many essential parts that do a big job. They should be inspected for damage and excessive wear at least once a year.

Worn shocks can increase the time and distance it takes you to stop your car in an emergency situation.

Dangers of Worn-Out Suspension Springs and Shock Absorbers

A worn-out suspension does not absorb the bumps and low places in every road. This makes your vehicle hard to handle, which makes steering quickly, and avoiding road hazards more difficult. Having a good suspension means a  smoother ride,  more stability,  and better control.

Front End Suspension Repair

Your car’s suspension system is an intricate network of many components designed to give you a smooth ride. The front end suspension is ground zero when it comes to road abuse causing the parts to wear out, and even break. If your car doesn’t seem to ride like it used to, you may have a front end suspension problem.

From inspection to repair and installation of new tie rod ends, ball joints, struts or shocks, Advanced Auto Clinic technicians handle all types of front end suspension issues on any make and model of cars and trucks. Call us today to schedule your appointment.

If you suspect suspension problems, ask for an inspection and let the knowledgeable technicians at Advanced Auto Clinic in Delavan set things right. Give us a call Advanced Auto Clinic 262.728.2944 1101 Ann Street Delavan, WI 53115 At Advanced Auto Clinic in Delavan WI (53115) we install quality NAPA replacement parts. Give us a call at 262.728.2944.

or

Schedule Appointment Online

 

Take advantage of our ‘Buy 2 Get 2 Free on NAPA Shocks & Struts’ Special! This special is good through April 30th!