Winter weather is hard on vehicles. Between ice, road salt, changing weather and unpredictable drivers, there are plenty of risks on winter roads. But now that it’s springtime, how do you know if your vehicle is in the clear?

The answer: you don’t. But you CAN check for common winter damage and get it fixed now before it causes even bigger problems this spring/summer.

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Roads in Western Michigan can be extremely volatile during the winter months, with snow and ice taking turns making life difficult for drivers. The most dreaded element of all, black ice, is also a constant danger here as temperatures fluctuate and moisture hardens quickly. As such, the chances of your vehicle experiencing a collision at this time of year are higher than normal.

When icy …… ( more )

Old Man Winter has definitely arrived in The Tulip City. The days are short, the temperatures are low and the snow banks are high.

With treacherous road conditions now a daily threat, here are a few things you should have in your vehicle at all times during the winter months here in Western Michigan:

Windshield Scraper. Removing a layer of ice from your windshield can …… ( more )

Your vehicle’s transmission is responsible for adapting speed and torque, deftly shifting gears to ensure that the right amount of power is going to the right place and your wheels can rotate properly to make forward propulsion possible. Since it’s such a vital component and is used with great regularity, your vehicle’s transmission can sometimes encounter issues arising from problems in other areas. One …… ( more )

Does it sometimes feel like it’s next to impossible to keep your car clean during a Michigan winter? The constant precipitation and fluctuating temperatures means that puddles, mud, etc. are tough to avoid.

Even though it’s a challenge, there’s a major reason that you should make a concerted effort to keep your vehicle as clean as possible during the winter months: ROAD …… ( more )

Most drivers in Michigan can probably relate to the following scenario: hop into the car, start it, and instantly notice a warning light flashing angrily at you. That wasn’t on the last time you drove the car… or was it?

Don’t panic. Think. What does this flashing light represent? Consult your manual if you’re unsure, then follow these tips for things you can do to …… ( more )

On good road surfaces, cars are meant to drive smooth and steady. However, most people have experienced steering wheel vibrations at one time or another. Car parts can break or fail after continued use, and it’s not uncommon for car components to need to be replaced.

Because your steering wheel is your connection to both your car and the road, your first indication that …… ( more )

The car battery is one of the most important components under the hood. It must provide the electricity to start your car and power your accessories. Without a working battery, you’re stuck.

But how do you know when it’s time for a new battery?

You should have one of our ASE-certified technicians inspect the car battery as part of your next inspection. Heat, cold, and …… ( more )

The average driver has no idea what kind of obstacles they may encounter on a given day or trip, which is why it’s imperative that their vehicle’s wheels are properly in-line. Wheel alignment is extremely important when it comes to how your car handles the road.

Suspension is what connects your vehicle to its wheels and provides a smooth, safe ride over uneven streets. As …… ( more )

You may not think that summer weather can have as much of an impact on your car’s overall health and performance as the winter months do, but heat can be just as taxing as the cold. Fortunately, there’s a simple way to give your car an advantage and optimize your summer driving experience: routine inspections. Here’s everything you need to check before entering the hottest …… ( more )