Auto Repairs

auto mechanic in fort wayne smiling

5 Questions to Ask Before Choosing an Auto Mechanic in Fort Wayne, Indiana

, , , 0

All you have to do nowadays to find anything you want is to hop online and search for it. From the best Italian restaurant to the most popular nail salon to a reliable auto mechanic, the information is there for the taking. However, when your search involves the latter, you will want to make sure you pick the best auto mechanic in Fort Wayne for any auto repairs you need. While you can learn a lot through testimonials and user reviews, many issues are still best answered by the following questions.

Here are five questions you need to ask when choosing a mechanic to fix your car. 

 1. Are you familiar with the make and model of my vehicle?

 You wouldn’t hire a contractor who has never built a house before, so why would you hire an auto mechanic in Fort Wayne who has never worked on your type of vehicle? Experience working on the actual make and model of the car you own is essential when it comes to a successful experience. It’s also normal for some auto shops to offer services that cater to a certain type of vehicle, such as foreign car repair. If this is the type of repair shop you have found, but your car is American, it is probably better to look elsewhere for a mechanic. Ask the owner or mechanic in charge how much experience they have with your specific make and model before agreeing to any services. 

 2. Do you offer free written estimates?

 Before allowing an auto mechanic in Fort Wayne to work on your vehicle, make sure you know what you have to pay for upfront. For example, many shops will provide a free diagnostic exam to determine the problem with your vehicle, while others will charge just for an estimate. If you must go with a shop that charges for an estimate, it’s okay to ask how that charge is determined. It’s often by flat rate or by the hour. It’s also essential to get your estimate in writing, especially when you have to pay for it in the first place. This allows you to see precisely what you will be paying for while holding the auto repair shop responsible for the final cost. Always ask for a copy of the estimate if you decide to go with that particular repair shop. 

“I had my car break down today suddenly. Jim was extremely kind and helpful and got it all taken care of the same day at a very reasonable price. Great service!!”

“I’ve been going there for 20 years. The only place I trust for my car repair!”

“My husband and I have been looking for an honest, knowledgeable car repair shop since 2014. We were referred to Kruse Automotive by a friend and couldn’t be happier! They are friendly, honest, fast and don’t overcharge.. They have even provided a courtesy tire repair after I got a flat a few weeks after having new tires put on! So thankful for Kruse Automotive!”

Facebook Reviews

 3. Will you let me know if there are unexpected expenses discovered while you repair my vehicle?

 No one wants to pick up their vehicle expecting one price but charged much more than the estimate. Your mechanic should always agree to contact you to consent for any additional expenses that may occur during the repair process. Remember, unexpected expenses can and do happen, but you should always be told about them upfront. You will then be able to give consent to the repair shop for the new work they must do to get your vehicle back up to speed. Ask for a revised estimate for any new costs the repairs will incur, and make sure they are also put down in writing. 

 4. What types of warranties or guarantees do you offer?

 Don’t be afraid to ask what kind of written guarantees or warranties the repair shop offers on their labor and parts. Some offer warranties up to a specific mileage limit or for a certain amount of time. Ask the mechanic to provide you with their warranty policies right off the bat. You want to make sure you can come back to the shop if the part they fixed breaks down just weeks later. Most shops offer some guarantee on their parts and labor, but you have to ask each one to determine their specific time frame. 

 5. How much experience do your employees have?

 If your vehicle is taken care of by multiple employees, then you want to make sure they are appropriately certified and insured to work on your car. The ASE, or National Institute of Automotive Service Excellence, has provided certification for automotive professionals for over 45 years. Your mechanic should be ASE-certified before they work on your vehicle. You don’t want new, untrained employees taking care of such an essential piece of equipment.

At Kruse Automotive, we are ready to answer every one of your questions today! Remember, there is never any reason to be shy when it comes to asking questions. Auto repairs can be costly in many cases, so it is important to ask as many questions as possible concerning the labor and services you would like to receive from an auto mechanic. When you need work done on your vehicle, and you want it done right, trust the licensed and insured professionals at Kruse Automotive. With free estimates and prompt service, you’ll find Kruse to be the best in the area. For more useful articles to help you with your vehicle needs and questions, click here.

Make an Appointment Today
Car tire close up, parked car low angle shot

Why is my car shaking?

, , , , , , , 0

Being broken down on the side of the highway or dealing with a shaking vehicle is a problem that no one wants to deal with. Regular maintenance from a reliable auto mechanic in Fort Wayne will help you avoid this problem. Car parts will wear down over time when you drive day after day. However, catching their demise before it happens will help you avoid unnecessary grief and high repair costs. At Kruse Automotive, we employ certified auto mechanics to diagnose your problem quickly and provide you with auto repairs that get you back on the road in no time. 

 One common problem many drivers experience is vehicle shaking. This can occur at different times, whether you are braking for a red light or accelerating on the freeway. Read on for some common reasons why your car may be shaking as you drive. 

 1. Brake Issues

 Your front brakes take on the most stress every time you press down on the brake pedal. If your car starts to shake when you touch the brake, then your issues may be due to the front brake mechanism. The pads and rotors are two main parts that will need to be replaced now and again. The round metal discs that attach to the wheels are known as the car’s rotors. Brake pads typically need to be replaced more often than rotors, but it is still important for a mechanic to regularly look at them. Over time, the pads can become warped from wear and tear.

 Your brake pads also need to be a certain thickness if you want them to work properly. When the brake pads become too thin and worn, your car may start to vibrate. Your mechanic can inspect your vehicle if it is shaking to see if the brakes are the culprit. Check your owner’s manual to learn an accurate timeline for brake pad and rotor replacement. Additionally, a mechanic can take a look at the condition of both when you take your car in for an oil change. 

 2. Engine Issues

 Your car may be shaking due to a malfunction of the engine air filter or spark plugs, both found within the engine of your vehicle. Spark plugs should last for around 80,000 to 100,000 miles. How long yours will last will depend on the make and model of the car. If your car is shaking, check the spark plugs in the engine to make sure the connections are sound. You will also need to check your air filter to make sure it isn’t too dirty or clogged. If it is, your engine may not be receiving the amount of fuel and oxygen it needs to function properly.

 3. Wheel Issues

 If your car is shaking, it may be due to the wheels. If your wheels are not spinning the way that they should, you will feel it in the steering wheel as you drive. A shaking car may also be due to tie rod ends, wheel bearings, or ball joints. Kruse Automotive can take a look at your wheels to figure out if there is an issue. 

 4. Tire Issues

Shaking issues could also be because of your tires. Several issues could cause shaking to occur. If the car starts to shake when you reach a certain speed, then your tires likely need to be balanced for it to stop. If your tires are beginning to wear unevenly, your car may also vibrate and shake as you are driving. A tire rotation can help stop the shaking if this is the case. For some drivers, a brand new set of tires may be needed to stop the vibration from occurring. 

 5. Axle Issues

 Most cars have two axles. The first one connects the two front wheels while the second connects the two rear wheels. If these axles get damaged somehow, your car may start to vibrate and shake when you hit a certain speed. Damage can happen from an accident or from hitting a huge pothole in the road. A mechanic should always check the driveshaft and CV joints and the axle to ensure they aren’t the culprit. 

 It’s important to remember that your car will begin to rust and collect some damage over time, no matter how careful you are. Some damages may cause your car to shake as you drive it. Since this can happen anywhere on your vehicle, you’ll want an experienced auto mechanic in Fort Wayne to take a look at your car. Since 1971, Kruse Automotive has offered quality service to all of Fort Wayne, Indiana. Whatever the cause may be, you can fix or prevent the issue by talking to a certified professional at Kruse Automotive. They will go over your vehicle and provide any auto repairs that you need.

Car tire close up, parked car low angle shot

When was the last time your tires were rotated and balanced?

, , 0

If you have to ask, then it has probably been too long! Many car owners don’t bother to get their tires rotated and balanced regularly. However, this simple act can be just as important as all of the other maintenance you have done for your vehicle. Failing to rotate your tires can even cost hundreds of dollars every year if you have to replace them due to worn tread. But why does this happen? When should you rotate your tires and have them balanced? What happens if you don’t?

An auto mechanic at Kruse Automotive can also answer any questions you may have about your tires or other auto repairs. Read on to learn more.

Tire Rotation-What is it Exactly?

Rotating your tires means moving the front tires to the back of the vehicle while moving the rear tires to the front of the vehicle. For some vehicles, a cross-pattern rotation is also recommended. This requires the mechanic to move your tires from left to right as they are moved from back to front. However, rotating your tires simply from front to back and vice versa will do the job. You can only rotate your tires if your vehicle uses all four of the same-sized tires. If you aren’t sure, your local auto mechanic can check for you.

Why Tire Rotation is Important

Rotating your tires regularly allows them to wear at a more even pace, ensuring they will last longer. Since the front of your vehicle is the heaviest, due to the placement of the engine block, the front tires will always wear down faster than the back ones. If you regularly haul heavy items, the front tires will wear down even faster. The front tires of your vehicle also deal with a greater amount of friction every time you make a turn, reducing the life of the tread. And when you leave the back tires on too long without rotating them, this can create a choppy-like wear on them since the back of the vehicle is lighter at times. Regularly rotating your tires also ensures that your vehicle is not pulling to the left or right instead of driving perfectly straight.

Rotating Your Tires

You can check the manufacturer’s warranty to get an idea of when you should rotate your tires. However, experts typically recommend rotating them every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. How fast you will get to this mileage will depend on how much you drive. One easy way to remember to rotate your tires is to have them done when you get an oil change, provided you stick to the same mileage schedule of every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. Your local auto repair shop may even rotate your tires for free if you purchase another service from them, such as an oil change.

Balancing Your Tires

If your vehicle starts to shudder when you get to speeds of 55 mph or more, there is a good chance that your tires are out of balance. Your mechanic will fix this problem by adding small weights to the rims of your tires to correct any imbalances the tires are causing. You won’t usually have to have your tires balanced every time you go in for a tire rotation, but it doesn’t hurt to check. If you have an imbalance, your vehicle will not drive as smoothly as it should. It’s always a good idea to have them checked often.

Why Take Care of Your Tires?

If you have ever had to buy a set of tires or even replace one, then you already know that they aren’t a cheap investment. A full set of tires can cost anywhere from $500 and up, depending on the type of tire and the vehicle itself. Some larger truck tires can cost $400 apiece! Since you are already spending a great deal of money on tires, you want to make sure that they are getting rotated regularly to make sure you get what you paid for. Ask your mechanic to make sure they are balanced every so often, as well. If you stick to a regular rotation schedule, your tires should meet the guarantees given by the manufacturer.

Kruse Automotive in Fort Wayne is here when you need to have your tires rotated and balanced. We also offer many other auto repairs that your vehicle may require. In business for more than 40 years, our reputation for outstanding and affordable auto services precedes us. Whether you need your tires rotated or balanced or require major engine repairs, let our experts handle your every automotive need.

Engine Noises That Require Immediate Attention

Engine Noises That Require Immediate Attention

, , , 0

Taking your car into a repair shop for service can seem like a major inconvenience, so you understandably may delay getting your vehicle the attention that it needs if the issue appears non-urgent. While this may be a suitable approach for some issues, others require the immediate attention of an auto mechanic. How do you know when you need to stop by Kruse Automotive for auto repairs? Depending on the problem with your vehicle, you may notice unusual and concerning sounds that could indicate a wide range of problems. What are the auto sounds that you should not ignore?

 Clicking

 Whether you notice a clicking or ticking sound when you first start the ignition or while you are driving around town, this is a concerning sound that warrants a professional inspection. The two primary causes of this type of sound are a low level of engine oil and issues with the engine’s rocker arms or timing chains. 

 Squealing

 There are two instances when drivers may notice a squealing sound. The first is when pressure is applied to the brake pedal. Squealing, in this case, indicates that the brakes or related parts in the braking system are dirty. It could also mean that the brakes are worn out or that the calipers are not correctly installed. The other instance of squealing may be noticed while the engine is running. If the squealing sound seems to originate in the engine, your car may have a weak pulley or belt. Replacing these components before they completely give out is always a smart idea. 

 Knocking

 When various components in your engine are loose, worn out, or otherwise damaged, they may bang against other parts of the engine or the engine compartment. Because this sound could be a sign of several serious issues, it requires immediate attention. Keep in mind that this sound may also be observed as a clunking, such as if a metal part is dropping on another component.

 Grinding

 If your car has a manual transmission, you may notice a grinding sound when you use the clutch or when you shift gears. This is a sign that the transmission requires immediate attention. Remember that an auto transmission will show signs of damage through a jerking sensation when shifting gears. If your car is grinding when you apply pressure to the brake pedal, the brake system should be inspected as soon as possible. 

 Hissing

 A hissing noise indicates a potentially serious issue with the engine, and this issue may pose a risk to your safety on the road. The two primary causes of a hissing noise are a leaking vacuum or an overheated engine. Both issues require immediate attention.

 Popping

 If you hear a loud pop coming from your car, your muffler may have one or more holes in it. Another cause is a leak in the fuel injector. Because these problems both have serious implications for your ability to safely drive the vehicle, they should receive attention from a skilled mechanic soon. 

 The Need for Preventive Service

 Taking your car into the repair shop for an issue that seemingly crops up out of the blue can be stressful and inconvenient. One of the best ways to reduce the chance of this happening is to get your car regularly serviced by a mechanic. With routine service, worn parts can be replaced before they become problematic. Fluid levels can be replenished, and various other maintenance steps can be taken to keep the vehicle running well. 

 Is your car displaying concerning signs that require a professional diagnosis? The best time to get your vehicle checked out by an auto mechanic and repaired is at the first sign of trouble. This approach can help you avoid a stressful breakdown and prevent the need for more extensive and expensive auto repairs. Contact Kruse Automotive in Fort Wayne to schedule diagnostic and repair services.

Stethoscope checking up the car with car service icon, Concept of car check-up, repair and maintenance..

What Routine Maintenance Is Required for My Car? 

, , , 0

 Your vehicle is a machine, and just like any other machine, it needs maintenance. Most vehicles need to be maintained after 5,000 miles, and from there, the cycle continues every 5,000 to 10,000 miles. However, it is better to check your car more often than this.

 Maintenance lets your car run smoothly and safely for much longer than a vehicle that lacks regular upkeep. You will find all the information in your owner’s manual and what you need to do and when you need to do it so that you can stay prepared. The Kruse Automotive Service team in Fort Wayne, IN, would like you to know that you can do most of the basic maintenance tasks yourself by following the advice below.

 Get Acquainted With Your Owner’s Manual 

 The owner’s manual is a thick book often placed inside the glove box, and your car has one. If you don’t find yours, an electronic copy could be available online. If not, contact your dealer to get one.

 In your owner’s manual, check the maintenance schedule section. Check for the intervals to carry out maintenance tasks such as tire rotation, engine oil, hoses, belts, oil filter, and much more. To keep your engine running smoothly, stick to these manufacturer recommendations.

 Change the Engine Oil

 Newer vehicles no longer require an oil and filter replacement after every 3,000 miles. High-quality oil products and high-efficiency engines have transformed our approach to this service. Some cars don’t need an oil change more than once between 7,000 and 10,000 miles. Because of the efficiency of motor oils and engines, the traditional advice may no longer be correct.

 Changing the engine oil is a straightforward way to keep your car in good running condition. If clean oil does not efficiently lubricate the moving parts of the engine, critical damage can occur. Remember, failure to maintain the oil can void your warranty and cause engine failure. In such a case, you will incur expensive auto repairs.

 The regularity of changing your car’s oil depends on the type of oil you use. If you use conventional motor oil, most likely, you should change it every 3,000 miles or after three months. However, if you use synthetic oil, you will probably change it every 5,000 to 10,000 miles, or between 6 and 12 months. So, check your owner’s manual to know the oil recommended for your vehicle.

 Check the Tire Pressure and Tread Depth

 Apart from visual observation, check whether your tires are up to the task using a pressure gauge. Doing so ensures your car’s fuel efficiency and keeps you safe on the road.

 Ensure the tire pressure is within the range recommended by the manufacturer. Remember to keep a spare tire and check its tread as well. 

 It is usual for the entire tire to wear consistently. But an uneven tread could be a sign of misaligned wheels or improper tire inflation. If you notice uneven tread on your tires, consult your auto mechanic in Fort Wayne for inspection. 

 Check Out the Seals

 Your car’s driveshaft, axle, and other seals will eventually wear out. But since they’re out of sight, we always neglect them until we notice a gear lube or transmission fluid stain on the floor, which eventually develops into a big problem.

 Replace your seals before they leak to avoid fluid loss, which can culminate into overheating and extreme wear. Bad seals allow contaminants and dirt to access the system. Soon the fluid deteriorates, leading to a breakdown or expensive repairs.

 Check Your Brakes

 Don’t wait for screeching sounds to know that the brake pads are worn out. Having your brakes examined regularly by an auto mechanic will keep you safe and your car on the road. Never neglect your brakes.

 Replace the Timing and Serpentine Belts When Necessary

 Most experts recommend replacing your timing belt every 60,000 miles and the serpentine belt approximately every 40,000 miles. Again, check these in your owner’s manual as advised by your manufacturer. If you don’t have the manual, do an online search for your particular car’s actual recommendation and use it as a guideline. Let your mechanic examine the belts when it’s time to replace them, depending on the mileage. If they’re still in excellent condition, don’t change them. But if they are worn out, replace them as soon as possible because if they fail, you will incur expensive damage to other accessories as well. 

 Check the Air Filter

 Most problems in a vehicle occur when the air filters are clogged or if they’re loose-fitting. Air filters prevent dust and other contaminants from accessing your engine, which preserves the engine’s integrity. A dirty filter reduces the engine’s airflow, reducing its fuel economy and performance and reducing the engine’s power. Experts recommend you replace the air filter every 12,000 miles.

 Examine Your Battery

 One of the most critical components needed for your car to run is the battery. It provides a vast amount of electrical current for the engine, starter, and other electronics in the car. When the battery is exposed to extreme temperatures, its performance reduces. So, test your battery regularly to ensure that it will perform when it is needed. 

 Check the Spark Plugs and Ignition System

 Hard starting, “check engine” light on the dashboard, and rough running indicate that the ignition system components are failing. Your mechanic will plug a computer into your car and search for an error code that will determine what needs to be replaced.

 The replacement timing primarily depends on the type of spark plugs installed in the car. Most new vehicles have titanium or iridium spark plugs, which can last up to 100,000 miles. Be careful because cheap spark plugs made of copper are still available, and you need to replace them at 30,000 miles. 

 Remember, these tips are simply guidelines, and you need to consult your owner’s manual for the manufacturer-specific maintenance schedule. Also, avoid aggressive driving because it wears out mechanical parts faster. If you need help with your car maintenance or repair, consult the Kruse Automotive Service experts to receive support.

Image of Car air conditioning

What To Do When Your Car Air Conditioner Quits Working

, , , 0

On warm summer days in the Fort Wayne area, it can be downright miserable and even dangerous at times to drive without a functional air conditioner. While you may overlook seemingly minor issues, these could be warning signs that the AC system is about to stop working altogether. The best time to deal with a developing problem is as soon as you suspect something may be wrong. 

 Your car’s climate control system is complex and includes heat exchangers, a compressor, refrigerant, and other essential components. With so many important components that all must function well, many issues could develop over time and regular use of the AC system. Because of this, there, unfortunately, is not a quick fix that will resolve all issues. At Kruse Automotive, our insured and licensed auto specialists have helped local drivers stay cool and comfortable on the road for 50 years. You can count on us to quickly diagnose and properly repair the issue.

 Observe Signs That Auto Repairs Are Needed

 Some car AC systems will completely stop responding to the controls. Others will blow lukewarm or hot air. In some cases, the air may have an unpleasant smell or the system may make an unusual sound when it operates. Many of the signs of damage could have multiple causes, so it is not always possible to accurately diagnose the issue on your own. When you bring your car to us, our auto specialists will thoroughly diagnose the problem and will tell you about the recommended repairs upfront. 

 Understand What the Problem Could Be

 Many drivers will quickly search the internet for a fast solution when their car’s AC system stops working. While there could be a few easy solutions to some problems, many AC issues should be repaired by an auto mechanic because of how complex this system is. Your car’s air conditioner compressor draws power from the engine. At the same time, the evaporator and condenser are linked to two heat exchangers. The refrigerant flows throughout the system and converts between a liquid and gas form. This material is regulated by an expansion valve. Everything from a refrigerant leak to a blown fuse, damaged hoses, blocked air intake ports, a damaged condenser, and more could be causing your AC system’s problems today. 

 Get a Professional Diagnosis

 Because so many issues could impact your car’s complex air conditioning system, a professional diagnosis from a licensed auto mechanic is a crucial first step. A thorough inspection of your car’s air conditioner includes a review of the fluid levels, belts, hoses, and sensors. While some aspects of the inspection are completed through direct observation, others require advanced diagnostic technologies. A comprehensive inspection will reveal the condition of all components in the system. In addition, it enables your mechanic to create an accurate up-front estimate and to fully resolve the issue on the first visit to the auto shop.

 Enjoy Fast Results from Your Auto Mechanic

 We are your complete source for all types of automotive heating and cooling system needs. Our diagnostic process may reveal the need to replace major systems, the replenishment of fluids, or the need to clean and repair some of the components. We always have a great inventory of replacement parts in stock for our experienced auto mechanics to use, and our mechanics have access to all of the tools and modern technologies they need to work efficiently. Our AC services include refrigerant charging, temperature sensor calibration, and all other essential services. When you bring your car to our auto shop in Fort Wayne, you are assured that we can resolve the issue and send you back out on the road in comfort with a well-maintained AC system. 

 Keep Your Car Running Well with Routine Maintenance Services

 Through routine auto maintenance services completed by our mechanics, you can prevent many types of auto repairs from developing. At the same time, you could avoid a breakdown and optimize your vehicle’s life and value. Your car’s AC system should receive maintenance service annually. This is only one of many maintenance services that your car requires, and our shop is equipped to handle all auto maintenance needs. From oil changes to tire rotations, factory-scheduled inspections, and more, we are proud to be your full-service source for all of your auto maintenance needs today and in the future. 

 Schedule an Appointment with Our Auto Specialists Today

 Is your car’s AC system acting up, or do you want to prevent issues from developing during the hot summer months? Whether you bring your car to Kruse Automotive for AC repairs or maintenance services, your next visit is also the perfect time to get caught up on all of its other maintenance needs. Schedule your appointment for auto repair work and maintenance services today.

‹ ›
NEI Articles_thumbnail

Follow & Share

Archives