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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Your vehicle’s transmission is an incredibly complex and sophisticated component that performs the vital task of powering your wheels vis-à-vis sophisticated gear-shifting mechanisms, making forward progress possible. Given its vital role in your engine’s functionality, transmission maintenance is extremely important to your vehicle’s overall health.

The majority of transmission issues arise from overheating, which can stem from a variety of factors including weather/temperature, workload …… ( more )

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 )

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 surprising …… ( 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 SALT. …… ( more )

There’s no shortage of elements to deal with during the winter months here in Michigan. Snow, freezing rain, black ice, you name it – we get it all.

As a result of unfavorable weather and other factors, road conditions can be quite hazardous for Holland drivers this time of year. Here are a few hazards to look out for as you navigate the wintry …… ( 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 something …… ( 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 )

When you think of preventative maintenance, there are probably a few things that jump to the top of your mind – oil changes, filter replacements, windshield wipers, fluids… But how often do you consider the cooling system in your vehicle?

The cooling system is extremely important – it keeps your vehicle running smoothly, allowing your engine to function and burn fuel without getting too hot. …… ( more )