Replace or Service These Oft-Overlooked Components to Ensure Summer Fun
Summer officially arrives later this month, but that hasn't stopped West Michiganders from hitting the road and enjoying the warm weather. Before you set out though, there are some things you should make sure are in good working order first.Today, we've decided to dive past obvious things you should check like your tires, air filters, and motor oil, favoring oft-overlooked systems that you may not necessarily think to inspect unless there's a problem. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, after all.
Battery
Auto batteries can "wilt" in the summer heat if they're getting on in years, but not usually all of a sudden. If you're having trouble getting your car started and it's been 4-5 years since you last replaced it, it's time for a new battery. If your battery is newer, it might just be corrosion on the terminals - an easy fix for the Borgman Service Team or even you if you're careful and handy with a wrench.Alternator
Your battery provides the electricity to start your engine, and your alternator keeps it running. It does this by using power the engine's serpentine belt to turn a small generator, which produces electricity for the spark plugs. If there's no spark, your engine won't run. If your engine stalled and then you found that the battery was dead when you tried to restart it, this is the likely culprit. A worn-out alternator can leave you stranded, so it's worth having it checked every now and then.Spark Plugs & Wires
Spark plugs and their wires are essential to engine operation. These are durable components, but they can wear out. Depending on your vehicle, they need to be replaced around every 60,000 miles or so - some varieties can live longer, others will need to be replaced more often. If you have an issue with your vehicle "running rich," which means that too much fuel is being injected into the cylinders, your plugs will be the first part to go when the issues start to compound.Air Conditioning System
If your vehicle's air conditioner isn't blowing freezing cold air when it's all the way up, it may be time to have it serviced. This could be as simple as replacing the cabin air filter, it could also mean your compressor is on its way out or you have a refrigerant leak. Refrigerant leaks are an environmental hazard, so don't wait if you notice a drop in efficiency.Transmission Fluid
Though manufacturers vary wildly on this number, Borgman has found that transmission fluid needs to be changed around every 30,000 miles for optimal vehicle health. Your automatic transmission is a very complex and sensitive piece of machinery, so any contaminants or improper level of fluid inside can lead to overheating issues or permanent damage. This is something you especially want to keep an eye on if you're going to be towing things like boats or campers all summer.Fuel Filter
Sometimes dirt or contaminants get into the gasoline you buy. Luckily, all vehicles are equipped with a fuel filter to keep these things out of your lines. As is the case with all filters, they eventually will need replacing. We recommend having it changed every 60,000 miles or so, but a clogged filter could be the culprit (and easy fix) if you have problems getting your vehicle started, rough idle, struggling at low speeds, or stalling out.
Complete Vehicle Maintenance & Repair at the Borgman Service Center in Grand Rapids, MI
If you're planning all sorts of adventures this summer, it's worth having your vehicle looked over at Borgman before you set out. Catching worn components or aging fluids before heading out ensures that your weekend is full of fun. Our experts will go over your ride top to bottom and bring any relevant issues to your attention. We'll make sure you understand what the issue is so you can make an educated decision about your vehicle.Need to schedule an appointment? It's easy! Simply use our Online Scheduler Here, then head over to our Service Specials for coupons - saving you money on services you need. Come see why we're the Best in the West!