Monticello Auto Repair

Learning to handle your vehicle in all weather conditions is critical. Every season has its challenges in driving, but winter has many challenges that give drivers numerous struggles. Snowy and icy roads have resulted in significant accidents globally. The winter fog makes it difficult for drivers to see, slow down and even stop making it difficult to navigate on the road. Learning to hack winter driving is critical to avoid accidents during the snowy season. These winter driving tips are critical for all drivers, and they will help them navigate through the season. Maintain distance In winter, a distance of 8 to 10 seconds is essential. It is different from a distance of 3 seconds in normal driving conditions. The distance empowers you to break in time in case the drive ahead makes a sudden stop. Keep a Winter Survival Kit and a Winter Driving Kit It is easy for you to get stuck in the snow during winter when driving. As part of the winter driving kit, ensure you keep essential i ... read more

Most drivers are familiar with the best time to get an oil change but may completely forget about their transmission. The transmission is vital because it ensures the correct amount of power is sent from the engine to the wheels while driving at various speeds. Within the transmission is the transmission fluid. The transmission fluid is similar to the engine oil, in which its primary function is to lubricate. However, outside of lubricating the transmissions moving parts, it also keeps it cool and works as a hydraulic fluid to facilitate smooth gear shifts. As time passes, the transmission fluid will eventually deteriorate due to stop and go traffic and hauling excessive weight. If the transmission fluid deteriorates, your vehicle will experience a decrease in performance and may develop costly mechanical issues. If your transmission fluid has deteriorated, it may be time to schedule a transmission flush. Below are three major signs your vehicle has a faulty transmission.  ... read more

When you press on your brake pedal, your vehicle should immediately slow or come to a complete stop. If you’re pulling up to a red light and your car is struggling to stop, it may be time for a brake service. Your vehicle’s owner manual may not have a clear indication of when the brake pads should be replaced. Their service interval depends on your driving habits and road conditions. If you drive fast, repeatedly slam on the brake pedal, or coast the car while holding the brakes, you may need to have your brakes serviced more frequently. Below are five common signs that it may be time for a brake service. The Brake Light Comes On Most vehicles are equipped with electric sensors that will alert you if there’s a brake problem. Never wait for the brake light to illuminate the dashboard to motivate you to get a brake service. Once the brake light comes on, the brake pads have already worn down to a specific point, and damage may have already occurred. Br ... read more

Shock absorbers ensure your vehicle stays sturdily on the ground during drives. The road is filled with bumps, potholes, hills, and tight corners. The shock absorbers manage the inconsistencies of the road by controlling how the suspension and springs move. The shock absorbers, true to their name, absorb the bumps and vibrations of the road. As your vehicle takes on more miles, shocks can eventually fail. Without them, the drive becomes bumpy and chaotic. It’s essential to be aware of common signs the shock absorbers have gone bad. If you notice any of the above symptoms, it’s time to bring your vehicle in for an inspection.  Fluid Leak With time the seals within the shock absorber will wear and begin to leak. If you notice fluid on the ground near the wheels, the shock absorber may be leaking. Too much fluid leak can be hazardous and, in extreme cases, prevent the shock absorber from working altogether.  Uneven Tire Tread Wear A bad shock ... read more

Windshield wipers are very important when it comes to your visibility on the road. An unexpected rainstorm can hit at any time, and you never want to find yourself having to see through a storm with bad windshield wipers. We can probably bet that it's been a while since you last replaced yours - so how often do windshield wipers need to be replaced?  Windshield wipers are subject to the heat and aren't protected under the hood like your other vehicle components. The rubber blades tend to wear down quickly and can dry out or start to crack over time. This is why windshield wipers typically need to be replaced every 6 months to a year. If it's time to replace your windshield wipers, you'll notice one or more of the following symptoms:  Blades appear dry, cracked, or frayed  Wipers skip over areas on the windshield You notice water smearing across the windshield when wipers are on You hear chattering or squealing noise when the wipers are on Any of thes ... read more

The engine is like the heart of the vehicle - it is vital to the operation of your car and needs to be protected while driving to prevent damage and overheating. The engine emits a large amount of heat while it runs, and the cooling system is what helps to control the temperature of the engine to ensure it runs at the optimal level. When there is a problem with the cooling system, engine overheating can quickly occur and damage can be done.  Typically, an issue with the cooling system is caused by a coolant leak or a faulty component within the system. Parts such as the hoses, gaskets, and water pumps can wear down over time and leak. Additionally, a failing radiator or thermostat can also be the culprit when it comes to cooling system issues.  How do you know if your vehicle's engine is overheating? Look out for the following symptoms:  You see steam coming from under the hood The engine temperature gauge is high  Leaking coolant Smells coming from u ... read more

July 4th is a special day here in the states because it is a day when we come together to celebrate our freedom as a nation. Typically, most of us would be gathering at local parks or with friends and family to watch fireworks and enjoy each other's company. There may have even been events such as festivals and parties in the past. However, this year does look a little different due to the current pandemic.  The current pandemic may cause this year's celebration to be a little different, but you should still be able to safely enjoy yourself with close loved ones. You'll still be able to fire up the grill and enjoy some sparklers at home. If you are planning on celebrating, keep the following safety tips in mind:  Did you know that July 4th is actually one of the most dangerous days of the year to drive? This is due to the increase in vehicle accidents, typically caused by drunk driving. If you're planning on driving, be sure to stay alert and aware of your s ... read more

The steering and suspension system in your vehicle helps you maintain proper control and allows your drive to be smooth and comfortable. An issue with a component of the steering and suspension system can cause difficulty steering and you may notice that your car rides are bumpier than usual. If you’re experiencing an issue such as bouncing heavily over speed bumps or uneven tire wear, don’t hesitate to bring your vehicle into the experts here at Monticello Auto Service. Our ASE certified technicians are experienced working on all makes and models of vehicles and can help repair your vehicle’s steering and suspension system back to top working condition.  If you notice any of the following symptoms, there may be a problem with your vehicle’s steering and suspension system: Bouncing heavily after driving over bumps or potholes Difficulty steering Leaking underneath car Uneven tire wear Vibrating vehicle Vehicle nose dives while braking Vehicle pulls ... read more

Brake fluid is an important part of your vehicle's braking system. It is a hydraulic fluid that helps to create the pressure necessary to make the brakes work as they should. Under high pressure and a high temperature, this fluid creates the force your brakes need. The brake fluid lies within the brake lines, and hydraulic pressure is created when you press on the brake pedal. This force causes the brake pad to press against the rotor, which in turns slows your wheels and stops your tires.  Here is the process of the brake system:  You press on the brake pedal The pedal in turn compresses a piston inside the brake caliper The compression of this process increases the brake line pressure and sends the brake fluid in motion The pressure of that brake fluid will cause the brake rotors to squeeze on the brake pads, which will then make contact with the wheels. This will eventually slow and stop the wheels.  When it comes to the type of brake fluid that your vehicle ... read more

Did you know auto repair is considered an essential service? Which is why we’re remaining open to help you with your auro care needs during the COVID-19 pandemic. Our hours of operation are: Monday to Friday 8am to 6pm! As an “Essential Business,” our Auto Repair shop is OPEN! Now’s the time to schedule routine maintenance. Call us at 763-295-1854 and ask about our “touchless” pick up/drop off options! Not going anywhere for a few weeks? It’s a great time to take care of your car Maintenance! Your business and safety are important to us, and we’re taking every precaution necessary to ensure you are taken care of safely and efficiently during the COVID-19 pandemic. We are taking every precaution possible to ensure your safety as well as the safety of our staff. We are implementing strict sanitation rules to limit any possible exposure to COVID-19 by thoroughly disinfecting and sanitizing our workspaces and limiting unnec ... read more