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West Michigan is already seeing regular snowfall, and early on in the season you're bound to see more traffic accidents than usual. Slippery conditions can appear out of nowhere too - one minute it's sunny and the roads are merely wet, then the temperature drops and the interstate turns into an ice rink. Worse yet, sudden lake-effect snow storms can impact your visibility and handling. Driving here in the winter means you need to be adaptable and patient. The good news is that by just internalizing some simple techniques you can become a winter driving pro. more Read More Below, we've gathered up some simple things you can do to keep you, your passengers, and other motorists safe. Some of these things are driving tips, others are things you can do outside of driving to improve your vehicle's performance and preparedness. Take a look below, and Schedule An Appointment with the Borgman Service Center in Grand Rapids for upgrades such as winter tires, or if you are noticing certain features like Anti-Lock Brakes not working properly. How To Prepare Your Vehicle For Winter Weather As Sun Tzu wrote, "Victory lies in preparation." Making sure your vehicle is ready before braving the winter elements is key to doing so safely. Thankfully, this is a relatively short list. First, know that when air gets cold, it contracts. This means that the air in your tires stays the same, but takes up less space, resulting in a lower air pressure. Check your tires' air pressure and make sure they're inflated to your vehicle's specification (it's usually listed on a sticker in your driver's side door well.) Now is an excellent time to check the condition and pressure of your spare tire too. Next, make sure you have plenty of windshield washer fluid. This has solvents in it that work to remove dirt and debris, and also lowers the freezing point of water. That means if you're having trouble seeing in a snowstorm, a quick spritz from your washers will clear away the snow and ice. While the hood is open, check your oil and other fluids. Does anything look low? Is the oil black instead of a dark honey color? Have you noticed squishy brakes or strange behavior from the transmission? Have you forgotten when your air filters have been changed? Is anything at all out of the ordinary? If you said yes to any of the above, Schedule an Appointment with us and we'll make sure your regular maintenance is current and all of your fluids are where they should be. Finally, make sure you at least put a blanket, hat, warm socks, gloves, and your roadside assistance information or tow truck phone number somewhere in your vehicle for emergencies. You can get as elaborate as you'd like with this, adding kitty litter (for extra traction), a rope (for helping someone pull you out of a ditch) fire starters, hand warmers, an emergency radio, a portable shelter, protein bars, etcetera. Winter Driving Basics Perhaps the most important lesson from high school physics to apply to winter driving (and also briefly mentioned in the intro of a certain children's science show) is the following phrase: "inertia is a property of matter. " That means, the bigger and heavier your vehicle is, the harder it will be to get it moving or slow it down. It's a practical example of Newton's First Law of Motion. When you brake, brake pads apply friction to your wheels by squeezing the rotor to stop them from spinning. This works in tandem with the friction between your tires and the road. Take away that extra friction, and the result is pretty simple: you slow down slower. Your wheels could stop, but your vehicle keeps moving as if it was on skis. If you have ABS (which nearly all vehicles now do) all you can do is keep your foot firmly on the brake and prepare to slide around obstacles if safe and possible. Another force that becomes more pronounced on slippery roads is centripetal force. This pushes objects away from the center of spinning motion. Put more simply, if you go to turn at higher speed and your tires don't have enough grip to fight centripetal force, you'll "under-steer" and only be able to turn half as much as you intended. If you really crank the steering wheel, your back wheels will do this instead and you'll spin, also called "over-steer." So how do you counteract all of these forces of motion on your vehicle? Thankfully, all you need to do is slow down. The less forward motion you build up, the less of it you'll need to compensate for, meaning less time to come to a stop and more predictable turns. Now that you know the cardinal rule, here are some simple winter driving tips that could get you out sticky situations. Please remember to always be aware of your surroundings and don't do anything that you're uncomfortable with, unfamiliar with, or could endanger you, your passengers, or other motorists. Count Vehicle Lengths: Have you ever seen those posts along the side of the highway? When the car in front of you passes one, start counting. If you're going 60mph, make sure you're giving yourself at least 15 seconds before you pass the same landmark. You can reduce this and use things like stoplights or mailboxes at lower speeds, but the key is to ensure you have time to react and fully stop if you need to. Climbing Hills: West Michigan has a lot of hills. When approaching one, you don't need speed; you need inertia. Build it up slowly as you approach so that when you start climbing up, the weight of your vehicle is what carries you up and you only need to cover the gas pedal to maintain that speed. Adding more gas could cause you to spin out on the way up, and once you stop, it's really difficult to get going again. Descending Hills: To descend a hill, the best course of action is to do nothing but steer straight. Keep your foot over the brake at the ready, but let your vehicle smoothly descend. If you must brake, do so gently. Braking hard can lock up your wheels and send you into a spin, or worse, cause someone behind you to panic or crash into you. After you're back on level ground, then gently brake more to slow yourself down. Make sure if someone is behind you to give them space to slow down too. Recovering From Skids: Unless you've been professionally trained to drive rally or track cars, there's not much a civilian driver can do if you end up in a wild skid. However, with these two concepts, you might be able to recover. First: look where you want to go. Your hands will automatically take care of the rest. Second: the gas pedal is only used for going forward. Third: tapping the brake will shift the weight of your vehicle towards the front. In front-wheel drive vehicles, these wheels are the ones you need to have traction, and since they're under the engine, throwing that extra weight forward will help you. Next, gently apply brakes and look (rule 1) to get the wheels pointed where you want to go. Once all clear, gently apply the gas to move forward. If you've completely lost control of your vehicle, keep your foot on the brake and turn your hazards on (if able) while doing your best to avoid obstacles. Aim for the side of the road away from other vehicles. Ending up in a snow-filled embankment is preferable to being an obstacle for other motorists to avoid. Navigating Steep Driveways Some people have long, steep driveways. If you drive a front-wheel drive vehicle and can't make it to the top, you might have better luck going up in reverse. Gravity is putting more weight on the drive wheels this way, which in some circumstances gives you more traction. This works pretty well on snow but less so on ice. Get Ready for Holiday Travels at the Borgman Service Center in Grand Rapids If you're planning a holiday trip across West Michigan, make your first step an appointment at the Borgman Service Center. Our highly-trained and friendly staff will make sure your vehicle is ready to brave the cold weather. We service all makes and models and are dedicated to keeping you moving. To get started, simply use our easy Online Scheduler to make your appointment, then check out our latest Service Coupons for big savings. If you have any questions, feel free to Contact Us or give us a call. Come see why we're still the Best in the West after over 60 years!

West Michigan saw its first snowfall this month. Even though they were just morning flurries, more snow is certainly on the way. If you need new tires before the West Michigan winter weather arrives, don't delay: nationwide supply chain interruptions are going to make them more and more difficult to get. more Read More When shopping for tires this season, you have two viable options: All-Season Tires or Winter Tires. Both have their advantages and drawbacks, and what works for one person might not be worth it to another. To learn about their differences take a look below, or contact the Borgman Service Center to schedule an appointment! What Are The Advantages and Disadvantages of Winter Tires? Winter tires are specially-formulated to perform optimally at temperatures below freezing. Their special blend of rubber compounds keep them pliable and therefore "grippy" where normal tires would become stiff and even crack. The name of the game is creating friction, and to do that tires need to conform to as much of the road as possible, and to do that they need to be able to flex. Some winter tires have added silica and special tread patterns too. Silica crystal added to the rubber give these tires even more grip, like tiny cleats digging into the ice. Also, clever tread patterns trap snow on the middle of the tire and whisk away moisture from the sides. Snow sticks to snow, so by harnessing this you can get even more traction. However, driving on snow tires above a certain temperature will damage them, as they deform too much and can get bent out of shape. Therefore you will need to change them out for a "summer set" when the weather starts to warm up. You'll also need to store your winter and summer tires when they're not in use. What Are The Advantages and Disadvantages of All-Season Tires? All-season tires are the most common type you'll see out on the roads. These tires seek a compromise between warm and cold weather performance, utilizing specialized tread patterns and specific rubber compounds. A big advantage of all-season tires is the "fix it and forget it" property of them: you have them installed and only need to think about them when it's time to have them rotated. There's no storing another set in a shop or in your basement, and no worrying about damaging them if we get a random few days of warm weather. However, you know the old saying, "Jack of all trades; master of none." If you live on an icy hill or have a difficult driveway, you'll likely see the limit of their capability. You may also see them act a little "stickier" on really hot summer days. Which Of These Tires Are Right For Me? The Borgman Service Center has a wide selection of tires that will suit the vast majority of drivers in West Michigan. As to which tire is best for you, we can only recommend you look at the literature and weigh the strengths and weaknesses of each, also bearing in mind your budget. Of course, if you need help choosing your new tires, the friendly and courteous staff at the Borgman Service Center will be happy to oblige. We'll put together a brief list of tires that we feel will suit you, and answer any questions you may have. Get in touch with us or use our easy Online Scheduler to plan your visit. Be sure to check out our latest Service Coupons as well. Come see why even after 60 years, we're still the Best in the West!

What Is A Catalytic Converter And Why Are People Stealing Them? During the pandemic, catalytic converter theft has unfortunately been on the rise. What makes them a prime target for these ne'er-do-wells are the precious metals inside, as well as their easy-to-access location on a vehicle. Catalytic converters are a part of the exhaust system, and their job is to convert harmful gasses into more inert gasses. We'll explain this more below. more Read More While Michigan does not enforce emissions testing like California and Texas do, the catalytic converter plays an important role in keeping West Michigan beautiful. If that doesn't convince you, driving without one is a noisy experience! Catalytic converter replacement is usually an expensive repair because they contain precious metals like platinum, rhodium, or palladium. The good news is if you have comprehensive auto insurance, catalytic converter theft is usually covered, minus your deductible. If you turned on your vehicle and it sounds like a motorcycle, the Borgman Service Team is here to help. How Do Catalytic Converters Work? Catalytic converters are essentially a tube filled with a ceramic "honeycomb." Exhaust from the engine enters at one end, passes through these chambers, and exits at the other end to the muffler. This honeycomb lattice is designed to expose the exhaust gasses to as much surface area as possible. This is because the ceramic is coated with two different catalysts (these are the metals that make this part so valuable.) The first catalyst strips oxygen off of harmful nitrogen oxides, creating harmless nitrogen and oxygen gasses. The second catalyst adds oxygen to carbon monoxide creating carbon dioxide. While catalytic converters are pretty good at their job, they don't remove everything and only work efficiently when they're hot. That's why it's important not to touch them after using your vehicle. If They're Easy To Remove, Why Are Catalytic Converters Such An Expensive Repair? It's mostly the part itself that drives the cost up. The metals we mentioned above are expensive even as raw materials, not to even mention the machinery and processes that go into making them into catalytic converters. With theft on the rise and supply chain interruptions, basic supply and demand drives this cost up further as more and more people need replacements. The inflated cost then makes them an even juicer target for thieves. The other reason this could be expensive is that thieves favor speed. Instead of carefully breaking welds or unbolting the part they're after, they often use electric saws to cut the part out. This leaves behind extensive damage to your exhaust system. Depending on how much was removed, you may need all new piping from the exhaust manifold down to the muffler, one or both oxygen sensors plus their wiring, and more. If Michigan Doesn't Have Emissions Testing, Why Do I Need A Catalytic Converter? Some states like California and Texas have mandatory emissions testing in an effort to reduce smog and pollution. Michigan does not have these requirements, however, every new vehicle sold here is compliant and that helps the whole country stay cleaner. As climate change worsens, catalytic converters have both been deemed essential and controversial. Transforming dangerous gasses like nitrogen oxides into their harmless ingredients is a function they perform well, but in older models, small amounts of nitrogen dioxide gas (NO 2) slip through. This is an even more potent greenhouse gas than carbon dioxide. Catalytic converters also make a vehicle produce their carbon dioxide all at once, rather than letting carbon monoxide pick up its extra atom slowly in nature. This being said, the gasses that catalytic converters remove are far worse for the environment and our air quality than the gasses they produce. They're an important part of every internal combustion engine and you should not use your vehicle without one. If that doesn't convince you, a missing catalytic converter makes your exhaust loud and all of those gasses seep into the cabin. This makes driving a noisy and smelly experience with serious health risks. If you're concerned about emissions, Borgman has a growing lineup of all-electric vehicles including the exciting Ford Mustang Mach-E! You can reserve yours here. Do You Have Any Tips For Preventing Catalytic Converter Theft? The unfortunate reality is that this is a crime of opportunity, and there are limited things you can do to prevent theft. SUV, Pickups, and Hybrids are especially vulnerable: trucks and SUVs because they're easy to crawl under and hybrids because of the higher concentrations of the valuable metals inside. Skilled thieves can remove a catalytic converter in mere minutes. Parking in well-lit areas can be helpful, as suspicious activity around your vehicle will be more visible. Another tip we've seen is to spray your catalytic converter with day-glow high-temperature paint (like the kind for barbecues and engines) and then scratching your VIN into the paint. The theory is that it makes your catalytic converter traceable and therefore less desirable. Most scrap yards document their incoming high-value parts and who brought them, but an unscrupulous scrap dealer likely won't. If you have concerns about catalytic converter theft, please feel free to Contact Our Service Department and we'll give you the best help and support we can. Noisy Exhaust? Trust The Experts at the Borgman Service Center Whether it happened gradually or suddenly, driving a noisy car can be an embarrassing and even smelly experience. If you suspect something is wrong with your muffler, catalytic converter, oxygen sensors, or anything else with your vehicle, Schedule An Appointment with us and we'd be happy to help. Be sure to check out the latest Service Coupons before your visit. Come see why we're the Best in the West!

With Labor Day bringing about the unofficial end of summer, it's worth thinking about your vehicle's performance in wetter weather and even ice. A key component for keeping you safe in slippery conditions is your Anti-Lock Braking System, or ABS for short. If yours hasn't been checked in a while or worse, your ABS light has been on for months, beat the pre-winter crowd and visit Borgman Service today! more Read More As anyone who drove during the 70s will tell you, ABS was a miraculous invention. Instead of "pumping the brakes" during a skid, you simply hold the pedal down and a complex system of pressurized fluid does the rest. When it was first introduced, the goal was to mimic what a skilled driver would do when the wheels lock up under heavy braking. Now, the system performs all sorts of functions, including altering the front/rear brake bias, improving handling, improving vehicle stability, traction control, electronic brake-force distribution, and even emergency brake assist. In this article, we'll briefly describe how this system works, how often it needs service, and what to look out for if the system starts to fail. How Anti-Lock Braking Systems Work As Anti-Lock Braking Systems became more widespread and sophisticated, automakers found that they outperform even professional drivers. In brief, here's the problem that ABS solves: If the road is slippery and/or the wheel overcomes the friction of the road and starts spinning freely, you not only lose the ability to easily stop but your steering is impacted as well. In its most basic form, ABS course-corrects for both of these issues. Here's how it works. Within the ABS system, there are four main components: speed sensors, a pump, a controller, and a series of valves. As a wheel starts to "lock up," the speed sensors send a signal to the controller. This is the computer that orchestrates the ABS process. Then, the valves spring into action, allowing or restricting the flow of brake fluid to the four calipers. If pressure is let off but is again needed, the pump will pressurize the fluid. The computer will take in the variables from the speed sensors and use the valves and pump to return the four signals to the same value, meaning that the wheels are all spinning at the same speed. When the ABS is on, you'll feel a pulsing through the brake pedal. This comes from the valve's opening and closing action and just means that the ABS is doing its job. This is why it's important NOT to pump the brakes in slippery conditions, as the controller has to start over every time you release the pedal. What Happens If The ABS System Starts To Fail? If you notice screeching or grinding when you bring the vehicle to a stop, or you notice reduced brake performance or "shaking" when you slow down, your brake pads and rotors are likely the culprits. You'll still need to make an appointment at the Borgman Service Center, but your ABS system likely will not need service. If your ABS light comes on, this usually means that the controller has detected a faulty speed sensor, a fault within one of the valves, the pump, or a software issue within the controller itself. If it is blinking, that means that the system isn't functioning and needs service immediately. Hopefully, this is what alerts you to an issue, because the main symptom would be the wheels locking under heavy braking. This comes with limited steering and can be a dangerous situation if you're not expecting the fault. If you don't have leaks in your brake fluid lines, an ABS light usually comes on if you have a faulty speed sensor, which is not a difficult repair. Even if you have no problems, we recommend having the system looked over periodically to make sure there are no slow leaks or fraying wiring. Our certified technicians will also be able to detect any anomalies by looking at your vehicle's onboard diagnostics. Resolve ABS Issues at the Borgman Service Center in Grand Rapids, MI If you're seeing an ABS light come on, even periodically, or have other concerns about your vehicle's braking system, trust the experts at the Borgman Service Center to keep you moving. Our team has been helping West Michigan for decades, and we pride ourselves on outstanding customer service. During your appointment, our friendly and knowledgeable team will ensure that all of your questions are answered and that the work being done to your vehicle is explained in plain speech. To get started, use our Easy Online Scheduler to make your appointment, and don't forget to check out the latest Service Coupons. Come see why we're the Best in the West!

When was the last time you replaced your cabin air filter? With the recent haze that drifted over West Michigan from forest fires and hay fever season on the way, you may be inhaling pollutants and your vehicle may be working harder than it needs to be. Cabin Air Filters should be changed at least every 30,000 miles, but if you frequently drive in areas with a lot of pollution, you should change it sooner. The same goes for your engine air filter. If you have all of your regular maintenance done at Borgman, we keep track of these things and let you know when it's time. more Read More If you're just a tiny bit handy, both of these parts are easy enough to find and check. Cabin Air Filters are usually located behind your glove box, and the Engine Air Filter is right on top when you open the hood. Your manual will tell you exactly where they are, and what size you need. When you pull them out, most of the time it'll be pretty apparent if they need to be changed. However, if you're short on time or need help, Borgman is here to make sure you breathe easy this summer. What The Cabin Air Filter Does Your cabin air filter does exactly that - filters the air coming into your vehicle from outside. They're made of pleated material designed to trap incoming pollutants like dust, pollen, spores, and other particulates in the air and prevent them from entering the cabin when the heat or AC is on. When your filter starts to get clogged up with these pollutants, you might notice first that your vents don't blow as strong as they used to. Next, you might notice a musty smell, and then finally a whistling noise, as air is forced to find its way through gaps. Simply changing the filter will correct all of these issues at the source, but it may take some extra cleaning to get the musty smell out. If you're having trouble finding or replacing your cabin air filter, talk to the experts at Borgman - we'll have it replaced for you in no time. What The Engine Air Filter Does Just like how the Cabin Air Filter keeps airborne gunk out of your interior, the Engine Air Filter keeps the same things from getting inside your engine. These usually look like a bigger version of a Cabin Air Filter and are most commonly a cartridge style. However, some older or custom vehicles will have a drum style. Your engine needs three things to turn the wheels: fuel, spark, and fresh air. Just as your fuel filter removes any fine particulate, your air filter removes dirt, pollen, and other contaminants so they don't mix with fuel and coat your engine parts with carbon. If you don't have this filter changed, you'll notice your engine feeling sluggish and using more fuel to get moving. It makes sense when you think about it - try running a mile while holding your breath. Eventually, air will find its way in, carrying things the filter is supposed to be keeping out, and that means really expensive repairs. Borgman Service Center in Grand Rapids Helps You And Your Vehicle Breathe Easier If you're wondering when the last time your air filters were changed, give us a call at the Borgman Service Center. If you have us do all of your maintenance, we can check your file and let you know if you're overdue or not. If this is your first time with us, we'll take a look at both and make an honest recommendation. However, if you're in doubt, these are fairly inexpensive parts to replace. To get started, use our easy Online Scheduler to make your appointment, then check out our Service Specials for the latest discounts. We've been keeping West Michigan moving since 1960, and it'd be our pleasure to serve you. Come see why we're the Best in the West!

Five Exciting Road Trip Destinations Across Michigan So you've had your oil changed, tires checked and rotated, battery tested, fluids topped off, and everything looked over on your vehicle. Now all that's left is to decide where to go. If you're chomping at the bit to get out of town for a weekend we've put together a list of some exciting destinations to go visit this summer. more Read More Whether you're traveling with a camper, a roof rack, mountain bikes, or just what will fit in the trunk, there's a place you'll enjoy. The best part is all the scenery along the way too. If having your vehicle checked by experts is still on your to-do list, Borgman is here to make sure you and your traveling companions get there safely. Use our easy Online Scheduler to make an appointment, then check out these fun destinations all over Michigan. Planning a long weekend? String some of these together for the ultimate Michigan road trip! Kirk Park: 40 Minute Drive from Grand Rapids Though 40 minutes down Lake Michigan Drive might not meet everyone's criteria for a road trip, we're including it anyway as it's a great spot to enjoy the big lake without trekking across the whole state. Located in West Olive near Hiawatha Forest, you're never far from civilization in case you forget the sunblock. Stretch out on the beach, take a dip in the lake, or explore woodland trails. Best of all, this is a great place for your dog to enjoy the beach too! The shorter travel time and dedicated off-leash areas ensure your furry pal will have lots of fun on this summer trip. Pere Marquette River: 75 Minute Drive from Grand Rapids Looking to just spend a day on a river? Head up north to the Pere Marquette River, flowing from the Baldwin, MI area all the way to the big lake at Ludington. Enjoy the views of the Huron Manistee National Forest as you float down on tubes or paddling a canoe. You can bring your own watercraft too like kayaks or rafts, but you will need to get a (very affordable) permit from Baldwin Canoe first. They'll even move your car for you so it's waiting downriver when you're done for the day! If you want to make your day trip an overnight affair, there are plenty of dedicated campgrounds along the river. Silver Lake Sand Dunes: 90 Minute Drive from Grand Rapids A relatively short distance from Grand Rapids, the Silver Lake Sand Dunes has plenty to do whether you plan to stay the day or stay the night. This 2,000-acre expanse of dunes separates Lake Michigan from Sand Lake, and the views are incredible. Hike the dunes on foot, or go on a buggy tour. You can rent an ORV to tackle the dunes yourself, or bring your own - the perfect playground for the Ford Bronco! Tahquamenon Falls: 5 Hour Drive from Grand Rapids Dwarfed only by Niagara Falls, Tahquamenon Falls are the second-largest falls east of the Mississippi River, with an average flow of 7,000 gallons per second up to 40,000 during peak season. The locals call them "Root Beer Falls," referring to the mesmerizing copper color of the water and the white foam as they come crashing down. Situated in the Northern Upper Peninsula, Tahquamenon Falls is one of Michigan's most beautiful natural destinations. Just a little west of Paradise, MI, the drive here is roughly 5 hours from Grand Rapids. Once here, there's ample parking at both the upper and lower falls. We recommend starting at the Upper Falls as this is where you'll find food, drinks, ice cream, gifts, and occasionally live music. Don't skip the lower falls though, here you'll find areas to wade into the water, take a boat tour, rent your own canoe, and more! For adventurous types, you can hike the scenic 9.6 mile out-and-back trail along the river to the upper falls, but be aware: this is a moderately difficult trail and we recommend bringing plenty of water and a first aid kit just in case. Consult with the staff here if you have any questions - they'll know best. If you're up for it, the hike is well worth the experience. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore: 6 Hour Drive from Grand Rapids For true Michigan adventurers, the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is more than likely on their radar. An expansive stretch of rugged trails, cozy campgrounds, hidden beaches, and picturesque sandstone cliffs, this lakeshore is a hiker's dream. Lake Superior's raw power has shaped this stretch of coastline into a gorgeous work of art, and though it's along the northern edge of the U.P., it's not as long of a drive out here as you might think. If you have a roof rack, bring the kayaks along and take in the sights along the coastline or go on one of the boat tours, then stay the night at one of the many campgrounds throughout. The famous Au Sable Lighthouse lies at the northeastern end of the region too! However, camping here is a little spartan, so you may want to make arrangements if you need RV hookups or don't have experience treating your own drinking water. Don't let that deter you from experiencing some of Michigan's most breathtaking views, all it takes is a little planning! Get Your Vehicle Ready for Summer Fun in Michigan Staying up to date on your vehicle's maintenance is key to enjoying your summer trips without delays, so make sure your vehicle is ready for adventure at the Borgman Service Center! Our highly experienced team will go over every inch of your vehicle to make sure you spend your road trip enjoying the scenery and that everyone arrives safely. Use our Online Scheduler to make an appointment, then head over to our Specials Page for the latest service coupons. If you have questions about our services or about your vehicle, please feel free to Contact Us. Come see why Borgman is still the Best in the West after 60 years!

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. more Read More 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!

Memorial Day Weekend is coming up, and that means lots of West Michiganders will be hitting the road with trailers, boats, campers, and more in tow behind their vehicles. Hitching up a trailer may seem simple enough, but there are a number of things you need to consider first, as well as some road rules that will keep you, your passengers, and other motorists safe. more Read More Make your Memorial Day memorable and escape to Michigan’s great outdoors. Whether you love boating, camping, or glamping, Ford Service will help you tow & go with our service specials. Towing Guide for West Michigan Vacationers Before we get started: If you're reading this in preparation for towing for the first time this spring, it's worth a visit to Borgman Ford first. If you need a vehicle for towing, our team will listen to your needs - namely what size and shape trailer or camper you're going to be hauling - and make sure you're presented with vehicles that are properly equipped for the task. If you want to make sure your vehicle is properly equipped, we can help with that too. Our Service Department will listen to your needs - same as our sales staff - and make recommendations about which parts will be necessary to tow your trailer or camper safely. We will then order the parts for you and install then as soon as possible, so your vehicle spends less time in the shop and more time out on adventures. To see what parts are available for your vehicle and current pricing, visit Accessories.Ford.com. Finally, if your vehicle is properly equipped and you've even towed before, getting a checkup before hitting the road is very important for everyone's safety and prolonging the life of your vehicle. Take a look at our Service Specials and Schedule An Appointment today using our easy, online scheduler. Cargo And Weight Distribution For optimum handling and braking, the load must be properly distributed Keep center of gravity low for best handling. Approximately 60% of the allowable cargo weight should be in the front half of the trailer and 40% in the rear (within limits of tongue load or king pin weight.) Load should be balanced from side to side to optimize handling and tire wear Load must be firmly secured to prevent shifting during cornering or braking, which could result in a sudden loss of control. Before Starting Before setting out on a trip, practice turning, stopping, and backing up your trailer in an area away from heavy traffic Know clearance required for trailer roof Check equipment (make a checklist.) Backing Up Back up slowly, with someone spotting near the rear of the trailer to guide you Place one hand at bottom of the steering wheel and move it in the direction you want the trailer to go Make small steering inputs – even slight movement of the steering wheel results in much greater movement in the rear of the trailer. Braking Allow considerably more distance for stopping with a trailer attached. Remember, the braking system of the tow vehicle is rated for operation at the GVWR, not GCWR If your tow vehicle is an F-150, F-Series Super Duty®, Transit or Expedition, and your trailer has electric brakes, the optional Integrated Trailer Brake Controller (TBC) assists in smooth and effective trailer braking by powering the trailer’s electric or electric-over-hydraulic brakes with proportional output based on the towing vehicle’s brake pressure If you are experiencing trailer sway and your vehicle is equipped with electric brakes and a brake controller, activate the trailer brakes with the brake controller by hand. Do not apply the tow vehicle brakes as this can result in increased sway. Turning When turning, be sure to swing wide enough to allow the trailer to avoid curbs and other obstructions. Towing On Hills Downshift the transmission to assist braking on steep downgrades and to increase power (reduce lugging) when climbing hills With TorqShift® transmission, select tow/haul mode to automatically eliminate unwanted gear search when going uphill and help control vehicle speed when going downhill. Parking With A Trailer Whenever possible, vehicles with trailers should not be parked on a grade. However, if it is necessary, place wheel chocks under the trailer’s wheels, following the instructions below. Apply the foot service brakes and hold Have another person place the wheel chocks under the trailer wheels on the downgrade side Once the chocks are in place, release the brake pedal, making sure the chocks will hold the vehicle and trailer Apply the parking brake Shift automatic transmission into park, or manual transmission into reverse With 4-wheel drive, make sure the transfer case is not in neutral (if applicable.) Starting Out Parked On A Grade Apply the foot service brake and hold Start the engine with the transmission in park (automatic) or neutral (manual) Shift the transmission into gear and release the parking brake Release the brake pedal and move the vehicle uphill to free the chocks Apply the brake pedal while another person retrieves the chocks. Acceleration And Passing The added weight of the trailer can dramatically decrease the acceleration of the towing vehicle – exercise caution. When passing a slower vehicle, be sure to allow extra distance. Remember, the added length of the trailer must clear the other vehicle before you can pull back in Signal and make your pass on level terrain with plenty of clearance If necessary, downshift for improved acceleration. Driving With An Automatic Overdrive Transmission With certain automatic overdrive transmissions, towing – especially in hilly areas – may cause excessive shifting between overdrive and the next lower gear. To eliminate this condition and achieve steadier performance, overdrive can be locked out (see vehicle owner’s manual) If excessive shifting does not occur, use overdrive to help enhance performance Overdrive may also be locked out to obtain engine braking on downgrades When available, select tow/haul mode to automatically eliminate unwanted gear search and help control vehicle speed when going downhill Driving With Cruise Control Turn off the cruise control with heavy loads or in hilly terrain. The cruise control may turn off automatically when you are towing on long, steep grades. Use caution while driving on wet roads and avoid using cruise control in rainy or winter weather conditions. Tire Pressure Under-inflated tires get hot and may fail, leading to possible loss of vehicle control Overinflated tires may wear unevenly and compromise traction and stopping capability Tires should be checked often for conformance to recommended cold inflation pressures. Spare Tire Use A conventional, identical full-size spare tire is required for trailer towing (mini, compact, and dissimilar full-size spare tires should not be used. Always replace the spare tire with a new road tire as soon as possible.) On The Road After about 50 miles, stop in a protected location and double-check: Trailer hitch attachment Lights and electrical connections Trailer wheel lug nuts for tightness Engine oil – check regularly throughout your trip. High Altitude Operation Your vehicle may have reduced performance when operating at high altitudes and when heavily loaded or towing a trailer. While driving at elevation, in order to match driving performance as perceived at sea level, reduce GVWs and GCWs by 2% per 1,000 ft. elevation. Powertrain/Frontal Area Considerations The charts in this Guide show the minimum powertrain needed to achieve acceptable towing performance for the listed GCW of tow vehicle and trailer Under certain conditions, however, (e.g., when the trailer has a large frontal area that adds substantial air drag or when trailering in hilly or mountainous terrain) it is wise to choose a vehicle with a higher rating. Towing performance is maximized with a low-drag, rounded front design trailer. Selecting A Trim Series Your specific vehicle’s tow capability could be reduced based on the weight of the selected trim series and option content. Note: For additional trailering information pertaining to your vehicle, refer to the vehicle owner’s manual. In most cases, hitch failure can be prevented by regular inspection and maintenance. These are maintenance tips for traditional hitches; hitch maintenance for 5th wheelers will be discussed in a future article. Available Towing Accessories Hitch Ball and Trailer Coupler The hitch ball and trailer coupler need high-temperature grease to avoid grinding. You can find that grease at any Camping World store, but make sure to check with an RV technical expert if you’re not sure what kind of grease to get or how to re-lubricate it. Sway Controls Those who have towed any sort of unit behind their vehicle are familiar with the necessity of sway control. By installing sway control bars, you’ll keep your travel trailer or camping trailer riding smoothly in line with your towing vehicle. Occasionally (once or twice per year), remove and clean the sway bar and make sure it’s fully tightened when re-installed. Ball Mount and Receiver Crouch down low and look for any sign of rust or bending, and remove and lubricate the sidebar sockets. Safety Chains Your last line of defense in case the towed unit comes off the hitch, the safety chains deserve attention. Inspect for any bent or cracked links that may cause failure. The Hitch White lithium grease on the ball repels water, dirt dust, and grime. It can also take a lot of heat. Hitch pin - Collar to end of the pin Wipe off grease when you’re done towing When it comes to trailer hitch maintenance, removing and replacing your hitch is recommended every spring. This is especially important if you left your hitch attached to your towing vehicle all winter long. This step will help you check that your hitch isn’t corroded into your hitch receiver. Naturally, your trailer hitch should have a minimal amount of play even when it’s secured into your hitch receiver. A lack of play can be too much stress on both the hitch and hitch receiver when you’re towing your rig. Addressing Exposed Metal If you find any exposed metal on the outside of your ball mount or hitch receiver, it’s a good idea to add a layer of powder-coated paint to cover it. Most of the best trailer hitches come with an exterior powder coating because it minimizes the accrual of rust and corrosion over the life of the hitch. When bare metal is exposed, rust and corrosion are much more likely to affect your trailer hitch. So make sure to paint over any exposed metal with rust-resistant paint if you want to keep your hitch free from rust moving forward. Basic Road Rules Towing on the open road is easy when the tow vehicle and trailer are well matched and set up, which also makes it easy to find yourself driving at the same speeds you would without a trailer. Bad move. One aspect of towing that you must constantly be aware of is the dramatic difference in vehicle acceleration and stopping caused by the added weight of the trailer. For example, a full-size, four-door pickup going 60 mph (88 feet per second) typically stops in about 150 feet in an emergency braking situation on dry pavement. Add a 4,500-pound trailer package to the equation and that distance can easily be 220 feet - a difference of 70 feet or 47 percent. If a vehicle stops suddenly in front of you or a deer enters the roadway, 70 feet will make a big difference in whether you can stop in time. As a guide to safe speeds, apply the four-second towing rule--leave at least four seconds between your vehicle and the one ahead at whatever speed you're driving, when road conditions are good. Leave six seconds of distance when conditions are bad. Acceleration is also affected by the additional weight of a trailer. It takes almost twice as long for a vehicle towing a medium-size boat or tow hauler to accelerate from zero to 60 mph, or from 30 to 50 mph than it does without a tow. Towing requires undivided driver attention. That means turn off the cell phone, quit fiddling with the navigation system and stereo, and do not be involved in any other activity other than concentrating on the road ahead and your immediate surroundings. You have to constantly be thinking a good half-mile ahead when towing any trailer. Towing Something Over Memorial Day Weekend? Visit The Borgman Service Center First! When towing, safety is the number one priority. Before you hit the road to adventure this month, schedule an appointment with the Borgman Service Center and make sure your vehicle can bring you and your cargo there safely. Our team will make sure your engine, tires, brakes, and more are all in good shape, make sure your fluids are topped up, and ensure that your towing assemblies and systems are working properly. If your vehicle needs any upgrades before you can safely tow something large like a camper, our team can help you with that too. We'll show you what parts are available and help you make informed decisions. We'll also install these parts to exact specifications, so you can tow without worry. Schedule Your Appointment Online here and take a look at our latest Specials for savings on the services you need. Come see why we're the Best in the West!

Spring has arrived in West Michigan, and many are looking to hit the road out of Grand Rapids for fun weekends of exploration and relaxation. Whether you're traveling down interstates or cross country, your shocks and struts make sure you don't feel every single bump in the road, and even play a role in ensuring your vehicle doesn't damage itself. more Read More Like many other moving parts on your vehicle, shocks and struts have a lifespan and will eventually need to be replaced. In this article, we'll explain the difference between shocks and struts, what they do, and when it's time to have them replaced at the Borgman Service Center. What Are Shocks and Struts, and What's The Difference? Both shocks and struts essentially do the same thing: absorb sudden movements created by bumps in the road. Where they are different is that a strut is a structural part of your suspension, and a shock is not. Shock Absorbers or shocks are simple pistons with hydraulic fluid inside. When the wheel hits a bump, the fluid inside compresses through a small hole into another chamber, which takes the jarring, sudden movement and smooths it out. The excess energy converts to heat and radiates out into the atmosphere. When the wheel returns to its normal position, the oil is drawn back into the first chamber, smoothing out this movement too. McPherson struts, coil-over springs, or simply "struts" are different in that they actually hold your vehicle up off the ground. Struts are also usually where your alignment is set, so they have a hand in your steering system too. Struts are typically found on the front wheels of vehicles for this reason. They are structural parts, and apart from their inner beam and huge spring, contain a replaceable shock cartridge so that when it wears out, you don't have to replace the full assembly. When Do I Need To Replace My Shocks or Struts? Generally, you'll need new shocks and strut cartridges every 50,000 miles or so, depending on how often you're driving on dirt or poorly maintained roads. The first thing you may notice is your ride is getting a lot bumpier, but if this is gradual you may not. However, when struts are nearing the end of their life, the symptoms can be more pronounced. You may feel your vehicle nose-dive when you brake or lift-off when you start moving. You may also find that it feels like driving a bowl of jelly when you exit the highway down a looped ramp. Another sign that something is amiss are uneven wear patterns on your tires. The Borgman Team is good at spotting these during a tire rotation, and if we see it we'll let you know. Though this tip is something that's really only practical on passenger cars, you can push down on the fender above a strut and see if the car "bounces" when you release it. Healthy struts will raise the car to its normal position and stop. Worn struts will allow the car to travel more. Need New Shocks or Struts? Trust the Borgman Service Center in Grand Rapids! If you've been noticing your vehicle handling strangely, making new noises, or just bumpier than normal, then head over to the Borgman Service Center today. We'll make sure your vehicle is in tip-top shape for your spring wanderings around West Michigan. Our friendly and highly knowledgeable staff is here to make sure you understand everything in your vehicle health report, and the function of the parts we need to replace. If you ever have any questions, we're here to help. Check out our latest Service Coupons, then Schedule Your Appointment Online. Come see why we're the Best in the West!

It looks like spring is on its way to West Michigan! Since folks are likely going to be doing a spring cleaning and "tune-up" of their vehicle, we thought this would be a good opportunity to talk about motor oil. We're all familiar with the rule of thumb, "change your oil every 5,000 miles." But if you work from home, you're probably only taking short trips to the grocery store and not getting close to that many miles before you actually need to change your oil. In this post, we explain why changing your oil over time is just as important as with mileage, as well as why we don't really need winter and summer blends anymore. more Read More Why Changing Your Oil Every 6 Months Matters Too As you use your motor oil, contaminants from the combustion process (that is, gasoline exploding in your cylinders) will start to build up in your oil. This is a good thing: it means that those contaminants, moisture, and carbon aren't accumulating on your valves, pistons, and other places they shouldn't be. One benefit of getting an oil change is flushing all of that stuff out. Synthetic oil lasts much longer than conventional motor oil, but it still degrades and loses its lubricating properties as it's used. So, if using motor oil and getting it hot degrades the oil, why does it also go bad after 6 months if you don't drive it a lot? It seems like a paradox, but there's another piece of the puzzle. Something oil does when it gets up to operating temperature is evaporate water. Water gets into the engine through the air intake and other places, since there's always some degree of moisture in the air. When the engine is hot, that water evaporates and is either whisked away into the exhaust or absorbed into the oil. If you aren't driving your car much, condensation can build up in the engine. If you aren't driving very far, the oil doesn't get hot enough to evaporate that water. Exposing the oil to moisture degrades the oil as much as running the engine hard for 5,000 miles. The solution is to flush all that stuff out with fresh oil every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first. Thankfully, you don't need to remember. We print both numbers on a sticker for you. Why We Don't Need Summer and Winter Oil Anymore Way back in yesteryear, oil wasn't as high-tech as it is today. Depending on how it was made, it could be really effective in the summer but turn to mayonnaise in the winter. Oil produced for winter wouldn't do this but would be too thin in the summer to keep everything lubricated, and since it can't shed its excess heat, start foaming. Times have changed and with synthetic blends, it's now possible to have a motor oil that does its job in all but the most extreme environments. Far more extreme than we see in West Michigan. At the Borgman Service Center, we use Motorcraft Synthetic Blend for our oil changes (unless something else is specified for your vehicle.) This high-quality motor oil meets all warranty requirements, is API Certified, and is manufactured with a high viscosity index. Trust The Borgman Service Center for Your Regular Oil Changes If you're looking for a service center in West Michigan you can trust with the health of your vehicle, look no further than the Borgman Service Center in Grand Rapids. The Motorcraft Motor Oil we use starts with premium-quality, synthetic/hydroprocessed base oils and features specially-designed performance additives that help minimize engine deposits and wear. This oil also protects against high-temperature oxidation and turbocharger deposits, low-temperature gelling, rust corrosion, and foaming. The friction-reducing technology provides superior wear protection and energy-conserving characteristics, which result in significant improvement in fuel economy too. That's more money back in your pocket while protecting your engine. If you have questions about the oil we use or have any other questions about our affordable "The Works" package, please feel free to Contact Us. If you'd like to schedule your vehicle for service, be sure to check our latest Coupons & Offers, then head over to our easy Online Scheduler. Come see why we're the Best in the West!

Pothole season is on its way to West Michigan, and our guess is it's going to be a doozy. This winter's erratic pattern of freezing and thawing is fast-tracking the process that forms potholes, which as any seasoned Michigander knows, wreak havoc on your vehicle. The best way to avoid damage to your vehicle is to avoid potholes altogether, but sometimes that simply isn't possible. In this article, we'll go over how potholes form, what parts of your vehicle they could damage, and steps you can take to minimize their impact. Let's get started! more Read More Where Do Potholes Come From? Potholes form when water seeps into cracks in the pavement during a thaw. Then, two things happen. First, the water can wash away the layer of sand or substrate below the pavement, which supports the asphalt and keeps it level. When the water freezes again, the water expands as it turns into ice, prying the cracks open and letting even more water in when there's another thaw. Eventually, whether it's the blade on a plow truck tearing it open or enough of the substrate has been washed away beneath, the pothole implodes leaving a hole in the road. What's worse, these vary in depth from an inch to several, and if they're full of water it's impossible to tell. So I Have No Choice But To Drive Through A Pothole. What Do I Do? If you're driving and spot a pothole (or a suspicious puddle in most cases) the best course of action is to safely navigate around it. However, it could be that there's opposing traffic on a two-lane road, someone next to you, or simply no room to avoid it. If you're vigilant, you can take a couple of steps to minimize or even eliminate damage to your wheels and suspension.?First, slow down as much as you safely can. The speed you're going factors into how much force is suddenly exerted on your vehicle on impact. Remember, you're hitting the side of the pothole opposite you and then climbing out. That means you're going to want to drive through it as straight as possible, as this spreads out the impact into the width of the tire and not the metal rim. The rims can crack if they impact on an angle, and don't absorb nearly as much shock as the rubber tire can. The less that gets through the initial impact, the less your suspension has to absorb. Now that we've got the "why," here's a quick play-by-play of what to do: Brake and square up with the pothole to go through it straight and as slowly as is safe. Just before impact, release the brake. Hold the steering wheel firm to prevent the vehicle from being thrown to the side. Wait for the rear wheel to clear the pothole and gently apply the gas. Feel and listen for any new noises or changes in handling. What Can Be Damaged On My Vehicle By A Pothole? There isn't a simple answer to this. Any number of things can be damaged ranging from splits in your tire to blown shocks or even a cracked windshield. Though in most cases where there's severe damage, we end up replacing parts of the suspension. Some of these parts, such as the shocks and to a lesser extent the coil-over struts, need to be replaced over the life of your vehicle anyway. If the pothole damage is just to these parts, the repair is pretty simple. However, other parts like the tie rods and control arms can be bent or damaged too, and for those, the repairs will take a little longer. If your vehicle suffers cosmetic damage, our Collision Center is here and will work tirelessly to restore your vehicle to pre-incident condition. That includes sourcing top-quality or genuine OEM parts, thoroughly inspecting your vehicle for hidden damage, to working with your insurance company on your behalf. We have courtesy vehicles available as well, so you don't need to rely on renting a vehicle if your insurance doesn't cover it. In other cases, the damage may be very minor and all you need is a new tire or even just an alignment. Our technicians will look over your vehicle carefully and recommend what needs replacing now and what can wait until later. If you've noticed any strange handling or noises after driving through a pothole, Schedule An Appointment with the Borgman Service Center today and see why we're the Best in the West!

Winter has officially arrived in West Michigan, and with it, slippery road conditions. If you've been "losing your grip" in the snow and ice, quality winter tires from the Borgman Service Center can help! We carry a wide selection and can give you a "Good, Better, Best" recommendation for your specific vehicle. more Read More However, if you prefer to do further research on your new set of tires before you buy, we've put together the following article to help your search. We discuss what winter tires are made of, why they help you drive in the snow and ice, and what symbols and industry terms to look out for if you're looking for a set. Take a look below, or contact the Borgman Service Center to schedule your appointment! What Are Winter Tires Made Of, and How Do They Work? Different tire companies will make different blends of rubber compounds, then assigning them with marketing terms to protect their trade secrets. However, winter tires all effectively solve the same problem: pliability in colder temperatures. Think of chewing gum. On a hot day, it's sticky and stretchy. Put it in the fridge and it becomes hard and not sticky at all. Tires, and the rubber they're made of, work much the same way. In the warmer months, they get softer and can more easily form to the road, increasing friction. As the temperatures drop, they stiffen up, making them susceptible to splits and cracks, and they can't form to the road and as a result, producing less friction. All tires have their effective temperatures. Summer tires need to get warmer before they soften up, and winter tires stay soft at lower temperatures. All-season tires aim for a "middle-of-the-road" approach, and most months out of the year, they're perfectly adequate. That is until we get one of West Michigan's signature ice storms. Then, the added traction can be the difference between getting up that hill or stopping safely. Some winter tires have two other tricks up their sleeve: added silica and tread patterns. Silica crystal added to the rubber give tires even more grip, like tiny cleats digging into the ice. Also, clever tread patterns trap a buildup of snow on the middle of the tire and whisk away moisture on the sides. Snow sticks to snow pretty well, so by harnessing this property you can use the snow on the ground for even more traction. What Is The Meaning of Those Symbols on the Sidewall of the Tire? If you've ever looked at the mountain and snowflake icons on the sides of winter tires and wonder what they mean, Borgman is here to demystify them. Seeing a mountain and snowflake means that the tire passed a traction test, but that doesn't automatically mean it's a winter tire. You could also see an "M+S" next to it, meaning that it is intended for moderate snowy conditions. Here are the meanings of some other things you might see: Tire Type: Usually this has a "P" for "passenger vehicle." Sometimes pickups and SUVs will have an "LT" for "light truck." Tire Width: The measurement of the tire width (in millimeters) from sidewall to sidewall. Ratio: The height of the tire, measured in hundredths of the tire width. Construction: How the layers of rubber in the tire. "R" will mean radially and is the most common. Diameter: The measurement of the "donut hole" part of the tire. Which Winter Tires Are Right For Me? The Borgman Service Center has a pretty wide selection of performance winter tires that will suit the vast majority of drivers in West Michigan. As to which tire is best for you, we can only recommend you look at the literature and weigh the strengths and weaknesses of each, also bearing in mind your budget. Of course, if you need help choosing your new tires, the friendly and courteous staff at the Borgman Service Center will be happy to oblige. We'll put together a brief list of tires that we feel will suit you, and answer any questions you may have. Get in touch with us or use our easy Online Scheduler to plan your visit. Be sure to check out our latest Service Coupons as well. Come see why even after 60 years, we're still the Best in the West!