By Mr Tire | June 03, 2014 at 12:46 PM EDT | No Comments
Simple Answers from Mr Tire Service for Minneapolis: Wheel Bearings
Question: I remember my dad having the shop “pack the bearings” on the family car. Is this something I need to have done?
Mr Tire Service Answer: That’s a really good question. At one time, all wheel bearings were “serviceable” and needed to be taken care of from time to time. It’s a little trickier these days.
First off, the wheel bearings in your vehicle make sure your wheels rotate smoothly. As you can imagine, with all those revolutions per minute your wheels can generate a lot of heat. The bearings keep that heat down as much as possible. They’re packed in grease for lubrication. The term “packing the bearings” refers to putting fresh grease around the bearings.
On many modern vehicles, the wheel bearing assembly is sealed. These wheel bearings are not serviceable so there is no maintenance that can be performed on them. When the bearings wear, the entire assembly is replaced. Your cheerful Mr Tire Service service professional can perform a check of your bearings to make sure they are still functioning safely and he can also tell you if your bearings need service. If you hear strange noises from your wheels – which may come and go at different speeds – it's critical to have your cheerful service specialist survey them.
Now wheel bearings on trailers are almost always serviceable. This means anything from a monster sized fifth-wheel camper to a little utility trailer. Boat trailers are especially susceptible because the hot wheel bearings are plunged into cold water when launching a boat into the lake. This temperature difference can draw water into the bearings. Have the bearings repacked at the end of the season to prevent corrosion.
It would be a good idea for Minneapolis trailer owners to have an automotive analysis on their trailer wheels every year or so – it’s kind of hard to hear when they are groaning.
Now, when wheel bearings fail, the wheel can seize up and even break off. Of course no Minneapolis motorists want that to happen, so follow a regular inspection schedule – your cheerful Mr Tire Service service professional can help.
By Mr Tire | May 13, 2014 at 09:15 AM EDT | No Comments
Why Minneapolis Drivers Need To Change Their Transmission Fluid
It’s easy for Minneapolis drivers to forget about servicing their transmission because it doesn't need it very often, but proper transmission service keeps your family car running smoothly and helps you avoid costly repairs down the road.
The transmission undergoes a lot of stress. The grit you see in used fluid is actually bits of clutch material. This grit flowing through your transmission under pressure eats away at seals and gaskets which can lead to leaks.
The transmission operates at very high temperatures – about a hundred degrees higher than engine temperatures. Those high temperatures eventually cause the transmission fluid to start to break down and lose efficiency. At best, your family car transmission won’t operate smoothly. At worse, it could lead to costly damage.
When your transmission’s running properly, it transfers more power from your family car engine to the drive wheels, and improves gas mileage. That’s why auto manufacturers recommend you change transmission fluid at regular intervals. Your family car owner’s manual has a schedule for transmission service and, of course, your cheerful Mr Tire Service service adviser can tell you what the manufacturer recommends.
North East Minneapolis Mr. Tire Service may be able to perform a transmission service while you wait and the cost is quite reasonable. Actually, it’s downright cheap when you think about how much a major transmission repair can cost!
Give us a call
Mr Tire Service 612.623.3700 1227 Central Ave NE(Central & Broadway) Minneapolis, MN 55413
By Mr Tire | May 12, 2014 at 09:51 AM EDT | No Comments
Get Fresh Air Inside Your Car In Minneapolis
Air quality affects us wherever we are in Minneapolis. Many decades ago, Minneapolis residents began to become aware of how air pollution negatively affects health. But what about the air inside your vehicle?
Cabin air filters are now coming on most new family cars since the 2000 model year. These filters clean the air in the passenger compartment. They can filter particles down to three microns, so that’s good enough to clean out dust, pollen and most pollutants. If you suffer from allergies in Minneapolis, this is very good news.
You can look in your family car owner’s manual to see if you have a cabin air filter. If you do, there’ll be a recommendation for replacing it when it gets dirty. If you live where there’s a lot of dust, pollen or pollution, you may need to change it more often. You can also ask your cheerful service adviser at Mr Tire Service in Minneapolis.
How hard it is to change a cabin air filter depends on your vehicle. Some are quite accessible; others take some doing to get to them. They’re usually in the family car engine compartment or under the dashboard.
Because cabin air filters are so new on the scene, some Northeast Minneapolis motorists haven’t heard of them – even people who have cabin air filters. Mr Tire Service service advisers report customers complaining of an unpleasant odor in their vehicle and it turned out to be a dirty cabin air filter.
An important note for Minneapolis hybrid owners: there is a special air filter that cleans the air that cools the hybrid battery pack. This filter should be inspected every time the cabin air filter is inspected and replaced if it is dirty so that the battery pack doesn't overheat.
Give us a call
Mr Tire Service 612.623.3700 1227 Central Ave NE Minneapolis, MN 55413
By Mr Tire | April 29, 2014 at 11:19 AM EDT | No Comments
It's New To Me - What To Do When You Buy Used Twin Cities auto owners sell cars for a lot of different reasons. Maybe they just want something new or maybe they’re selling the car because it has a problem or two. So how do you know what you’re getting into when you sign the papers for a used car in MN?
When a car comes into Mr Tire Service in Minneapolis with maintenance records, we can see if the factory maintenance schedule has been followed.
If it doesn’t come with records, Minneapolis used car buyers have to assume the worst. How many Minnesota people who are turning in a leased vehicle at 36,000 miles will perform the transmission service recommended at 35,000?
So what do you do? At Mr Tire Service, we suggest getting on track with the maintenance schedule and staying on track. Lacking evidence to the contrary, assume it needs an oil change. The thorough Mr Tire Service inspection that comes with a full service oil change will reveal basic problems.
Be sure to bring up any specific concerns with your Mr Tire Service service consultant. When buying an older used vehicle in Minneapolis, there’s more to be concerned with because there’s been more time for things to go wrong. A used vehicle inspection at Mr Tire Service is a good idea: the peace of mind is well worth the money.
In addition to the scheduled maintenance items, look for uneven wear on the tires. That could be a symptom of an alignment problem, worn shocks, or some other suspension issue. Listen for unusual sounds and pay attention to strange odors. Keep track of any problems you have when driving so you can consult with your cheerful service advisor at Mr Tire Service in Minneapolis. If you just bought a used car, give us a call at 612.623.3700. Mr. Tire Service 1227 Central Ave NE Minneapolis MN 55413 612-623-3700 mrtireservice.com
By Mr Tire | April 22, 2014 at 08:32 AM EDT | No Comments
Time to visit Mr Tire Service and get your tires checked.
Save Gas - and Protect Your Tires!
Gas prices are on the rise - with no sign of letting up any time soon. The good news is there are a variety of steps you can take to start improving your gas mileage and save at the pump - right away!
One of the easiest and quickest ways to ensure you are getting the most gas mileage for your dollar is to check your tire pressure. By ensuring that your tires are properly inflated and aligned, you can increase your gas mileage by up to 3 percent!
By filling your tires with Vehicle Safety Solutions, you don't need to worry about normal pressure loss, but there are many other causes of under-inflation you need to be aware of - including a leaky valve or wheel, penetration by a small rock or nail and climate change - which can all contribute to dangerous tire pressure loss. By having your tires checked by a professional every 30 days, you can prevent damaging under-inflation, ensure the safety of your family and save gas too!
Other Tips to Help You Save at the Pump
1. Slow down! CarCare.org estimates that "aggressive driving can lower gas mileage by as much as 33% on the highway, and 5% on city streets - which results in spending an extra 7 to 49 cents per gallon." Avoid "jackrabbit" starts and alternating highway speeds as well - use cruise control whenever possible to maintain a consistent highway speed.
San Francisco Chronicle reporter Michael Cabanatuan explored the idea of slowing down to save gas. He drove from Emeryville to Kettleman City, California at 55 mph, then drove back at 70 mph and compared his gas mileage on the two trips. The results are amazing!
2. Empty your trunk of unnecessary items - an extra 100 lbs. sitting in your trunk or in the back of your pick-up or SUV can cut fuel economy by up to 2 percent.
3. Combine trips - multiple short trips can use twice as much gas as one longer, multi-purpose trip covering the same distance. Known as "trip chaining" this method can save you time and money at the pump. A few suggestions for effective trip chaining:
Plan ahead - plan your route and think about what other errands you could combine into your trip - if you need to return library books and the library is near your grocery store, make one combined trip on one day instead of separate trips.
Make a list - think about everything you need to get done all at once - that way, you'll avoid last minute short trips for forgotten items.
Find the most efficient route - visit any of the Internet mapping sites to help you plan the shortest, most efficient route for all of your errands.
Follow these tips and you'll soon be on your way to saving time, increasing your safety - and saving dollars at the pump!
Most American families spend more on transportation than they do on healthcare.
Shopping and leisure activities account for over half of all car trips.
A daily commute of 20 miles round trip in your car can add up to more than $2,000 per year, not including parking!
If each household eliminated just 2 car trips per week, there could be a four to five percent reduction in the number of cars on the road, reducing congestion, time and gas costs!
Please forward this message to your local friends and encourage them to visit Mr Tire Service to have their tires checked. You may help them save a lot more than just money.
Mr Tire Service 1227 Central Ave NE Minneapolis MN 55413 612-623-3700
By Mr Tire | April 22, 2014 at 08:32 AM EDT | No Comments
Time to visit Mr Tire Service and get your tires checked.
Save Gas - and Protect Your Tires!
Gas prices are on the rise - with no sign of letting up any time soon. The good news is there are a variety of steps you can take to start improving your gas mileage and save at the pump - right away!
One of the easiest and quickest ways to ensure you are getting the most gas mileage for your dollar is to check your tire pressure. By ensuring that your tires are properly inflated and aligned, you can increase your gas mileage by up to 3 percent!
By filling your tires with Vehicle Safety Solutions, you don't need to worry about normal pressure loss, but there are many other causes of under-inflation you need to be aware of - including a leaky valve or wheel, penetration by a small rock or nail and climate change - which can all contribute to dangerous tire pressure loss. By having your tires checked by a professional every 30 days, you can prevent damaging under-inflation, ensure the safety of your family and save gas too!
Other Tips to Help You Save at the Pump
1. Slow down! CarCare.org estimates that "aggressive driving can lower gas mileage by as much as 33% on the highway, and 5% on city streets - which results in spending an extra 7 to 49 cents per gallon." Avoid "jackrabbit" starts and alternating highway speeds as well - use cruise control whenever possible to maintain a consistent highway speed.
San Francisco Chronicle reporter Michael Cabanatuan explored the idea of slowing down to save gas. He drove from Emeryville to Kettleman City, California at 55 mph, then drove back at 70 mph and compared his gas mileage on the two trips. The results are amazing!
2. Empty your trunk of unnecessary items - an extra 100 lbs. sitting in your trunk or in the back of your pick-up or SUV can cut fuel economy by up to 2 percent.
3. Combine trips - multiple short trips can use twice as much gas as one longer, multi-purpose trip covering the same distance. Known as "trip chaining" this method can save you time and money at the pump. A few suggestions for effective trip chaining:
Plan ahead - plan your route and think about what other errands you could combine into your trip - if you need to return library books and the library is near your grocery store, make one combined trip on one day instead of separate trips.
Make a list - think about everything you need to get done all at once - that way, you'll avoid last minute short trips for forgotten items.
Find the most efficient route - visit any of the Internet mapping sites to help you plan the shortest, most efficient route for all of your errands.
Follow these tips and you'll soon be on your way to saving time, increasing your safety - and saving dollars at the pump!
Most American families spend more on transportation than they do on healthcare.
Shopping and leisure activities account for over half of all car trips.
A daily commute of 20 miles round trip in your car can add up to more than $2,000 per year, not including parking!
If each household eliminated just 2 car trips per week, there could be a four to five percent reduction in the number of cars on the road, reducing congestion, time and gas costs!
Please forward this message to your local friends and encourage them to visit Mr Tire Service to have their tires checked. You may help them save a lot more than just money.
Mr Tire Service 1227 Central Ave NE Minneapolis MN 55413 612-623-3700
By Mr Tire | April 15, 2014 at 08:35 AM EDT | No Comments
Flats, blow outs, skids and longer stopping distances can all be the result of Minneapolis folks driving around on under-inflated tires. Now, it’s hard to tell when a radial tire is under-inflated but your service technician at Mr Tire Service can help you. The tire may not look low until it gets below 20 pounds – which is significantly under-inflated.
Your newer family car or light truck might be equipped with a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS). This technology has been used by MN race car drivers for years. They are able to head off problems from under inflation by closely monitoring tire pressure on the track.
Obviously, TMPS systems don’t come free for Minneapolis car buyers. U.S. government studies have estimated the net costs of the TPMS system itself, maintaining the system, replacement of worn or broken parts and tire repair cost increases. The costs are partially offset for Minneapolis drivers by savings in fuel and tire wear. There’s also a saving in property damage and travel delay. The net cost is estimated to be between $27 and $100.
The government predicts fewer fatal accidents. They estimate that is will cost between three and nine million dollars for every life saved. This new safety equipment will help Minneapolis motorists avoid the most common vehicle failure, and possibly a catastrophic accident Mr Tire Service 1227 Central Ave NE Minneapolis MN 55413 612-623-3700
By Mr Tire | April 09, 2014 at 10:54 AM EDT | No Comments
Looking Down The Road : Wiper Blades
It’s said that 90 percent of our driving decisions are based on visual information. Our wiper blades play an important role in this. Most Minneapolis drivers know that a dirty or streaked windshield can catch the glare of the sun or on-coming headlights and make it nearly impossible to see.
Most busy New Brighton car owners deal with their wiper blades from a failure perspective. They address them when they no longer function. Instead, Minneapolis drivers should think about wipers blades as an important safety system that they should maintain, rather than repair.
And don’t think that your wiper blades will last longer because you don’t use them very often. Hey, they live outside in the harsh sun and freezing cold – ice and wind. They just dry out and crack over time.
At Mr Tire Service, we recommend that Minnesota motorists change their wiper blades twice a year, in the spring and fall. That way you have functional blades for those spring showers and MN winter storms. And consider a windshield treatment to help repeal water and make it easier to clean off bugs and road grime.
Like everything else in the MN automotive world, there have been some big advancements in wiper blades, both in terms of the design and the materials from which the blade is made. We can help you get the same type of blades that came with your Saint Paul vehicle, or if you have a need for better than average windshield wipers, you can pay some more for an upgraded wiper.
And if you live where there’s a lot of snow and ice in MN, they make special winter blades that don’t clog up and freeze like standard blades.
Give us a call for more information about wiper blades or any other automotive part or service. Our phone number at Mr Tire Service is 612.623.3700.
By Mr Tire | April 08, 2014 at 09:17 AM EDT | No Comments
Simple Answers from Mr Tire Service for Minneapolis: Fuel System Service
Question: What benefit will I get out of a fuel system cleaning?
Mr Tire Service Answer: Well, the dirtier your fuel system is, the bigger the improvement you’ll see in performance and gas mileage. But it's critical not to wait until your engine is running poorly, you've wasted hundreds of dollars in gas or maybe even damaged your fuel injectors and catalytic converter.
Look, gasoline is a petroleum-based product and will leave some residue, gum and varnish along the way. Some of that can find its way into your fuel injectors and interfere with their vital job. The fuel injectors do just that – inject fuel into your family car engine. They spray a precise amount of fuel, at a precise time, in a precise pattern, at a precise pressure. When they are dirty this vital precision just isn't possible. So your family car engine can run rough. Also carbon deposits build up on valves and in the combustion chamber. Fuel economy suffers and performance is degraded.
These dangerous conditions allow excess unburned fuel to pass out through the exhaust to accumulate in the catalytic converter – which can lead to it overheating and failing for Minneapolis auto owners. So bad gas mileage, poor engine performance and the chance of having to replace pricey fuel injectors and catalytic converters – all potential problems for Minneapolis car owners with dirty family car fuel systems.
A professional fuel system cleaning cleans out deposits, fuel injectors and the air induction system. Minneapolis drivers get optimal power, performance and gas mileage and it helps avoid pricey future repairs.
Now I said professional fuel system cleaning: this isn't just pouring a bottle in the gas tank. Cleaner is added into the fuel system with a special tool attached to a vacuum source and there is some manual scrubbing of the throttle body and air induction system. If you are experiencing a rough idle or unusually poor fuel economy, ask your cheerful Mr Tire Service service professional if a professional fuel system cleaning at Mr Tire Service in Minneapolis is in order.
Give us a call
Mr Tire Service 1227 Central Ave NE Minneapolis, MN 55413 612.623.3700
By Mr Tire | April 02, 2014 at 09:59 AM EDT | No Comments
Fuel Injector Cleaning At Mr Tire Service In Minneapolis
Something we hear quite frequently from Minneapolis drivers is that their fuel efficiency is down and their family car just doesn't have the pep it used to. When that happens, one of the things we look for is clogged fuel injectors.
The engine management computer tells your fuel injectors exactly when to squirt fuel into your family car engine. It is essential that clean fuel injectors spray the right amount of gasoline or diesel fuel in a nice, specific spray pattern. A dirty injector can’t spray enough fuel and it comes out in an uneven, weak pattern.
When Saint Paul drivers' fuel injectors are dirty or clogged, the fuel just can’t burn as efficiently, which causes fuel economy to drop. And your family car engine can’t make as much power.
Fuel injectors just get dirty over time. Gas and diesel fuel cause varnish and gum to build up in your fuel injectors, especially if you buy bargain gas in Saint Paul. If your fuel injectors get too dirty, they can be damaged and need to be replaced – which can be pretty pricey.
The good news is that a professional fuel injector cleaning at Mr Tire Service in Minneapolis can get all that gunk out of your injectors. They’ll be able to spray the right amount of fuel, at exactly the right time, and in the right spray pattern. Your fuel efficiency will be restored in Saint Paul along with your family car engine performance. Fuel injectors are cleaned as part of a comprehensive fuel system cleaning that includes the induction system (throttle plates, intake manifold, idle air by-pass passages and, if applicable, the mass airflow sensor).
By Mr Tire | March 24, 2014 at 01:13 PM EDT | No Comments
Mr Tire Service Tech Question On Your Transmission
Mr Tire Service Tech Question: My name is Suzanne. We were taking a camping trip at our favorite MN state park over a three day weekend. About half way to our campsite, the transmission went out on our family car. It took all weekend to get towed out and get back home.
What can I do to prevent transmission problems in the future?
Mr Tire Service Answer: Transmission repairs can be expensive at Minneapolis auto service centers. On top of that poor Suzanne was in the MN back country. Her vacation weekend turned into three days of car repairs.
Look, family car transmissions are tough and durable. All you have to do to maintain them is replace the fluid on schedule. The fluid gets contaminated with bits of clutch plates and metal. Dirty transmission fluid under pressure acts like liquid sandpaper, eating away at important gaskets and seals. Then your transmission doesn't shift as well. It can start to leak and overheat. And then you could end up like Suzanne.
Another thing: if you carry heavy loads or tow a trailer on Minneapolis highways, your transmission is working much harder and running hotter than under normal conditions. Your transmission fluid may need to be changed sooner. Check your family car owner’s manual for your severe service schedule or talk with your cheerful Mr Tire Service tech about when you should have your transmission serviced.
Minneapolis motorists who do a lot of towing may want to consider adding an external transmission cooler to reduce transmission operating temperatures and extend its life.
Give us a call
Mr Tire Service 1227 Central Ave NE Minneapolis, MN 55413 612.623.3700
By Mr Tire | March 20, 2014 at 08:49 AM EDT | No Comments
Suspension Integrity In Minneapolis
Hello Northeast Minneapolis car owners - with this winters weather today we're talking about suspension integrity. Your skeleton provides the structure to hold up your weight. Your joints cushion you as you walk and allow you to change direction. Your family car’s suspension system is similar: It bears the weight of your vehicle, absorbs bumps in the road and controls the body as you steer.
Like the bones in your body, family car suspension parts are connected by joints that allow all the components to move as they should. Over time and miles, the joints start to wear and your suspension gets loose and doesn't operate as precisely as before,reducing proper tire contact with the road. An accident, pothole or hitting a curb or rock can also damage or break family car suspension components.
If you've ever hurt your foot, you know you've had to walk differently to keep it from hurting as bad. Do that long enough and your ankle, knee, hip and even your back will start to hurt from the strain of not moving normally. The same thing happens in your family car when one joint or part is worn or damaged: it stresses everything else and causes premature wear to the whole system.
Signs of suspension problems include uneven tire wear, vibration, rattles or clunks when you hit a bump or turn on a windy Saint Paul road, or the vehicle pulls to one side.
If you suspect a suspension problem, ask your cheerful Mr Tire Service service specialist for an automotive analysis of your suspension system. They can also check your alignment while they’re at it. Taking care of a worn or damaged suspension component early, will head off future damage and costly repairs down the road.
Give us a call
Mr Tire Service 612.623.3700 1227 Central Ave NE Minneapolis, MN 55413
By Mr Tire | March 17, 2014 at 09:05 AM EDT | No Comments
A Long Lasting Cooling System For Minneapolis MN Driving
A Long Lasting Cooling System For Minneapolis MN Driving Our vehicles operate in a wide range of outside temperatures in MN. That's why vehicle manufacturers use testing grounds from the frozen tundra to the blistering desert. Your engine coolant must be able to perform in these extreme temperatures, even if we don't always get the extremes in Minneapolis, MN.
Coolant has to move heat away from the engine to prevent costly damage. Water does a very good job of holding heat, but it freezes at thirty two degrees (Fahrenheit).
That's why we mix anti-freeze with water - it lowers the freezing point of the coolant, and raises the boiling point as well. A fifty/fifty blend of water and antifreeze is the usual recommendation from Mr Tire Service.
And on top of that, coolant has to protect the components of the cooling system from corrosion. Your owners' manual will tell you what kind of coolant you should use. Of course, your Mr Tire Service service representative in Minneapolis MN will know what to put in your car.
Coolant system failure is the most common mechanical problem people have. Much of that can be avoided by following factory scheduled service intervals. Check your owner's manual or with your service adviser at Mr Tire Service for recommendations. We can also conduct a cooling system inspection to look for leaks, weak hoses or bad connections.
Give us a call at 612.623.3700, or stop by Mr Tire Service at 1227 Central Ave NE Minneapolis, MN 55413
By Mr Tire | March 14, 2014 at 10:03 AM EDT | No Comments
Wheel alignment is often overlooked by busy Twin Cities car owners until serious tire damage has been done. One wheel can be knocked out of alignment from the rest by hitting a curb or pothole on Minneapolis roads. The tires will wear out very quickly and will need to be replaced prematurely. It could also lead to suspension damage. Conversely, worn suspension or steering components can lead to alignment problems for Minnesota motorists.
But the big issue for cities motorists is safety. When your family car wheels are out of alignment, the vehicle will pull to one side, which could lead to an accident. When you’re out of alignment, you should have it taken care of right away at Mr Tire Service.
Signs of alignment problems are: Your car pulls to one side. Also, your steering wheel may not be centered when you’re going straight. If you see the edges of one or more tires rapidly wearing down, you should have your technician at Mr Tire Service look it over. If you've been in an accident that involved a wheel, you should get your alignment checked. A big jolt can seriously knock things out of alignment, but Hopkins drivers also need to understand that a series of smaller ones can add up. Worn steering or suspension components can also lead to alignment problems for drivers. That’s why your family car manufacturer recommends periodic alignment checks. If your family car owner’s manual doesn't specify, once a year might be appropriate. Or check with your service adviser at Mr Tire Service in Minneapolis. He’ll also be able to tell you if your vehicle requires a four wheel alignment or if just the front wheels can be aligned. One thing’s for sure: the cost of the alignment at Mr Tire Service is cheaper than having to buy a couple of new tires because of neglect.
By Mr Tire | March 11, 2014 at 10:37 AM EDT | No Comments
Customer Detective Work In Minneapolis MN 55413
One might say the most challenging part of being an automotive service technician in Minneapolis is diagnosing a problem before it can be fixed.
Cars in Minneapolis are made up of a bunch of complex systems. There usually could be a number of reasons for any given symptom. So it's challenging to track down the actual cause of the problem. And it can be frustrating for the Minneapolis vehicle owner because it can take time and money to get to the bottom of a problem.
If it's not something obvious, it's easy for the customer to focus on the fixing and not the diagnosing.
Let us at Mr Tire Service introduce you to something we'll call 'Customer Detective Work' – that is helping the technician find clues to what's wrong.
We start with the detective basics: What, Where and When. Play along with me; You come in to Mr Tire Service and your car is making a funny sound…
Where's the sound? – 'Around the right front wheel'.
What kind of sound? – 'Kind of a clunk, clunk sound'.
When do you hear the sound? – 'When I turn and accelerate.
Right and left? Forwards and back?'
You see where we're going. You're gathering additional information to help your Minneapolis technician at Mr Tire Service know where to start. Based on your car and the tech's experience, we'll know where to look on you family car and can start with the obvious suspects.
You can see how that would be more helpful than dropping the car off with a note that says "making a funny noise".
When you think you need to bring your family car in, make some notes about the problem it's having. Rather than just saying "it's leaking", tell the tech the color of the fluid, and approximately where under the car you see the puddle.
Things like 'the car is stalling or sputtering' are often very hard to diagnose because they're intermittent. They may not happen every time you drive and may not be happening when you actually bring the car in. So, it is a big help for you to describe what's happening in as much detail as possible.
Your Minneapolis technician at Mr Tire Service will need to be able to duplicate the problem if possible so he needs to know details, like "It stalls after it's been driven for about 20 minutes and I go over 50 miles an hour".
If your Minneapolis technician at Mr Tire Service can experience the problem personally, he's better able to make a diagnosis and repair. And, then test to see if the repair solved the problem.
Have a GREAT DAY AND DRIVE CAREFULLY Mr. Tire Service 1227 Central Ave NE Minneapolis MN 55413 612-623-3700
By Mr Tire | March 10, 2014 at 11:58 AM EDT | No Comments
Have Mr Tire Service Check Your Tire Tread Depth
Minneapolis racing enthusiasts have probably heard of racing slicks. Now, slicks have no tread, but they give race cars maximum traction on dry MN racetracks. Insert a little water into the equation, however, and slicks can’t maintain control. Because there is nowhere for the water to go, the tire rides on top of a thin film of water and slides all over the place.
Minneapolis / St. Paul street tires have treads that are designed to move water out from under the tire so that it can grip the road. The deeper the tread, the more water it can move. As tires wear they have progressively less traction on wet Minneapolis roads. That means longer stopping distances and less traction in corners.
So having enough tire tread is important for the safety of Minneapolis auto owners. There have been tests comparing stopping distances of vehicles with new tires and those with worn tires. The vehicle with worn tires is still traveling at a high rate of speed at the point at which the vehicle with new tires has already stopped. That could be the difference between getting home safely and a serious accident on a surface street or freeway.
Many MN safety experts recommend you replace your tires when your tread is worn down to a depth of 4/32ths of an inch. That’s the distance to George Washington’s head when a quarter is inserted upside down into the tread of a properly inflated tire.
You may have heard of the same test using a penny. That gives you about 2/32ths of an inch of tread. The studies have shown a significant safety benefit in replacing tires with the quarter standard. Ask your cheerful Mr Tire Service technician to have your tires checked to see how much life you have left in them.
Give us a call
Mr Tire Service 1227 Central Ave NE Minneapolis, MN 55413 612-623-3700
By Mr Tire | March 06, 2014 at 10:29 AM EST | No Comments
Technician Training At Mr Tire Service; You're In Good Hands
Your family car’s so important to your life in Minneapolis: when it breaks down, you need it back on the road as soon as possible – with the problem fixed right the first time. If you've ever check into some of the training technicians at Mr Tire Service receive, you may be surprised at how much knowledge and skill goes into diagnosing and repairing a modern car in Minneapolis.
Our engines are more and more powerful, fuel efficient and reliable. This is all due to engineering. But the advances come at the price of simplicity. Modern cars in Minneapolis are so much more complex from a mechanical and electronics standpoint that it makes your head spin. Vehicles have several networked computers controlling most of the engine functions and many other vehicle functions as well. Minneapolis motorists take all of this sophistication for granted – but somebody has to fix it when it breaks.
It requires a high level of commitment on the part of the technician and Mr Tire Service as well. In addition to the training, there’s the financial commitment by Mr Tire Service to purchase the diagnostic and repair tools as well.
The ability to repair your family car requires a strong combination of training and resources. So try to relax next time you bring your vehicle in to Mr Tire Service. You’re in good hands. Mr. Tire Service 1227 Central Ave NE Minneapolis MN 55413 612-623-3700
By Mr Tire | March 05, 2014 at 08:49 AM EST | No Comments
The Check Engine Light strikes fear into the hearts of some in Minneapolis / Saint Paul and is totally ignored by just as many. Just what it means is a mystery to most Twin Cities drivers.
Let’s get the urgency issues out of the way first. If your family car's check engine light is flashing, that means that something is wrong that could cause severe engine damage. Naturally, Saint Paul drivers should get that taken care of right away at Mr Tire Service.
If your check engine light is flashing, you shouldn't drive at highway speeds, tow or haul heavy loads. Take it easy all the way to your Northeast Minneapolis service center.
If the light is glowing steadily, Minneapolis auto owners should keep an eye on it for a day or two. If the light doesn't go off, schedule an appointment with Mr Tire Service to get it checked out.
An explanation on how the Check Engine Light works may be informative. Most of your family car engine functions are controlled by a computer, not surprisingly, called an engine control computer. The computer is able to adjust many engine parameters for environmental conditions, engine condition and even the way you drive in Minneapolis.
In order to make these adjustments, the computer relies on a network of sensors to provide data. The computer knows the proper operating range for each sensor. When a sensor reading is out of range the computer runs some tests and may turn on the Check Engine Light.
A simple example is a loose or missing gas cap. This may cause one of the sensors to read out of range. The family car's computer doesn't know if it’s a serious condition that caused the reading or just a loose gas cap, so it stores a trouble code and turns on the Check Engine Light.
Now when you tighten up the gas cap the sensor readings will be in the correct range. The computer will keep checking on the report for a day or two. Since a bad reading didn't come up again, it turns off the Check Engine Light. The computer will also try to make adjustments to compensate for some readings. If it can do so, it’ll then turn off the Check Engine Light. If the problem can’t be resolved then the light will remain on and you should get your family car looked at at Mr Tire Service.
Your Mr Tire Service technician will plug a scanner into the on-board diagnostic port and read the trouble code stored in the computer. The trouble code will give the Mr Tire Service technician a starting place as he diagnoses the cause of the problem Mr Tire Service 1227 Central Ave NE Minneapolis MN 55413 612-623-3700
By Mr Tire | March 04, 2014 at 10:41 AM EST | No Comments
ICE – In Case of Emergency
Sometimes the unthinkable happens here in Minneapolis… A terrible accident and those involved aren't able to provide our local Minneapolis rescuers with emergency contact information. There are people who must be contacted to arrange help, give consent to treatment, inform paramedics of medical conditions, allergies or medications.
Too often, Minneapolis police and rescue workers must sift through pockets, glove compartments, wallets, purses and cell phone directories for clues – often wasting precious time.
A brilliantly simple solution is now spreading around the globe: ICE. ICE – standing for 'In Case of Emergency', is a way of identifying emergency contacts in your cell phone directory.
Simply put 'ICE' before a contact name, like 'ICE – Dad', 'ICE – Nancy', or 'ICE – Doctor Roberts'. Rescuers will be able to quickly identify your emergency contacts, saving valuable time.
It's easy and just takes a few minutes to designate some ICE contacts in your cell phone. Remember to keep the listings current.
From your friends at Mr Tire Service in NE Minneapolis MN, we'd like you to be as safe as possible while out on the road. Give us a call any time for great automotive advice. Mr. Tire Service 1227 Central Ave NE Minneapolis MN 55413 612-623-3700
Your family car brake pads start to wear the first time you step on the brakes. Eventually the pads are worn out and need to be replaced. If you don’treplace brake pads when they’re worn out, the metal parts of the brake will grind against the rotor and carve grooves into the surface.
If a scored rotor isn’t too bad, your cheerful Minneapolis technician can put the rotor on a lathe and smooth it out. If the grooves are too deep, or if the rotor is warped or cracked, you need to replace it. At Mr Tire Service, we have been servicing disc brakes for Minneapolis drivers for 8 years.
Servicing disc brakes at Mr Tire Service require special attention to the mechanical sliding and mounting portions of the system. Your Mr Tire Service service supplier knows the special needs. Sometimes brake pistons can stick and must be replaced. Typically it’s cheaper to replace the entire caliper at Minneapolis auto service centers than to rebuild the piston.
So there you have it – a brief Mr Tire Service guide to how your disc brakes work. Minneapolis drivers who replace their brake pads on time will not only keep their family car stopping safely, but could save money on unnecessary brake repair down the road.
Give us a call
Mr Tire Service 612.623.3700 1227 Central Ave NE Minneapolis, MN 55413
By Mr Tire | February 28, 2014 at 11:19 AM EST | No Comments
Replace Your Engine Air Filter At Mr Tire Service
When driving around Saint Paul, your family car engine needs clean air to burn the fuel – and it needs a lot. In fact, a typical vehicle needs about 216,000 gallons of air for every tank of gas.
All that air passes through a filter that catches the dust and dirt. Eventually the filter gets completely full. Because the filter can only hold so much, dirt starts getting through. This dirty air passes through the mass airflow sensor, and starts to accumulate on the delicate sensor element. The mass air flow sensor measures how much air is getting into your engine. When the airflow reading is incorrect, your family car engine doesn't get the proper amount of fuel. It runs rough and doesn't perform as well as it should.
Eventually, the sensor is so damaged it needs to be replaced – which is pricy. In fact you could buy a case or two of air filters for the cost of a sensor replacement.
Of course, that dirty air keeps on going through to your family car engine where it’s burned along with the fuel, which dirties up your combustion chamber and increases harmful exhaust emissions - not a good thing for Minneapolis air quality, not to mention our lungs.
When your cheerful Mr Tire Service service advisor brings out your dirty air filter and recommends a replacement, remember the cost and poor performance that can be waiting for you down the road if you neglect this simple Mr Tire Service service. Ask your Mr Tire Service adviser if it’s time to replace your engine air filter.
Mr Tire Service in Minneapolis has been providing quality auto repair services for Saint Paul motorists for 8 years. Our specialties include engine air filter, power brake service, and used car inspection.
Give us a call
Mr Tire Service 612.623.3700 1227 Central Ave NE Minneapolis, MN 55413
By Mr Tire | January 18, 2014 at 01:32 PM EST | No Comments
Tire mounting Minneapolis
Mr Tire Service Tech Question: My name is Dan. My family car tires wore out early and I had to replace them. What can I do to make my tires last longer?
Mr Tire Service Answer: Dan’s problem – premature tire wear – is very common for Minneapolis drivers. Here are several ways to lengthen the life of your tires:
First, tires lose air pressure over time, so check them at least once a month and fill them up as necessary. A sticker on the driver’s side door jamb has the recommended pressure.
Tire rotation is also essential for MN auto owners. Your front tires take the brunt of stopping and steering forces so they wear faster than the rear tires. They should be rotated regularly so that all four tires wear more evenly. Talk to us at Mr Tire Service in Minneapolis.
Out of balance wheels can also cause a tire to wear too fast. Minneapolis auto owners who feel a vibration in their seat or steering wheel may have a wheel out of balance.
Finally, bad wheel alignment and worn or damaged suspension can chew through a tire very quickly. Ask your cheerful Mr Tire Service technician to have your tires inspected for signs of premature wear. Your service adviser will be able to pinpoint the cause and get it taken care of.
Give us a call
Mr Tire Service 1227 Central Ave NE Minneapolis, MN 55413 612.623.3700
By Mr Tire | October 24, 2011 at 10:57 AM EDT | No Comments
Welcome to our blog...
Disc Brake Maintenance At Mr Tire Service In Minneapolis
Hello Minneapolis drivers. Today, we're talking about disc brakes. Your vehicle weighs several thousand pounds and it takes a lot of force to bring it and your passengers to a safe stop – so everything needs to be in good working order.
The wheel hub keeps your wheel attached to the family car. The brake disc – or rotor – is attached to the hub and spins with the wheel as you drive. Your brake pads clamp onto the rotor to slow the wheel. The brake caliper straddles the rotor and squeezes the rotor to slow it down. The calipers contain brake pads which rub on the rotor when you step on the brakes. The brake piston causes the calipers to squeeze and release as you use your brakes.
Your family car brake pads start to wear the first time you step on the brakes. Eventually the pads are worn out and need to be replaced. If you don’t replace brake pads when they’re worn out, the metal parts of the brake will grind against the rotor and carve grooves into the surface.
If a scored rotor isn’t too bad, your cheerful Minneapolis technician can put the rotor on a lathe and smooth it out. If the grooves are too deep, or if the rotor is warped or cracked, you need to replace it. At Mr Tire Service, we have been servicing disc brakes for Minneapolis drivers for 8 years.
Servicing disc brakes at Mr Tire Service require special attention to the mechanical sliding and mounting portions of the system. Your Mr Tire Service service supplier knows the special needs. Sometimes brake pistons can stick and must be replaced. Typically it’s cheaper to replace the entire caliper at Minneapolis auto service centers than to rebuild the piston.
So there you have it – a brief Mr Tire Service guide to how your disc brakes work. Minneapolis drivers who replace their brake pads on time will not only keep their family car stopping safely, but could save money on unnecessary brake repair down the road.
Give us a call
Mr Tire Service 612.623.3700 1227 Central Ave NE Minneapolis, MN 55413
How often should I rotate my tires? Your tires should be rotated every other oil change, or every 5000 miles. Neglecting to rotate tires is a major cause of premature tire wear
Is it really necessary to replace my timing belt at the manufacturer recommended interval? YES. The failure of a timing belt in many cars can result in major engine damage. The cost of repairing an engine with a broken timing belt is much greater than the cost of a timing belt replacement.
What does it mean if my “check engine” or “service engine soon” light comes on? There are many sensors and computerized components that manage your vehicle’s engine performance and emissions. When one of these fails, the “check engine” light is illuminated. Although your car may seem to run fine, it is important to have the issue addressed to prevent long-term problems or failure of emission tests.
What should I do if my car starts to overheat? This is a very serious problem – if your car overheats for too long, you can damage your engine. As soon as possible, find a safe place to pull off the road and shut the engine off! Do not attempt to check the fluid level in the radiator as it can burn you. The best thing to do is have your car towed to a repair shop.
When should I get my oil changed? You should get your oil changed every 3000 miles or as recommended in your vehicle’s owner’s manual. If intervals are extended, ensure you use oil that is capable of extended mileage changes.
What is that milky brown engine oil? Milky brown engine oil is an indication of coolant in the oil. This can be caused by a blown head gasket (other gasket), a failed transmission cooler, or cracked casings. This condition is very serious and needs to be checked by a professional technician quickly.
How to make sure my car battery has a good electrical connection? Battery cables and terminals should also be cleaned and inspected to make sure they provide a good electrical connection.
What is synthetic motor oil? Synthetic motor oils can be a good choice for high output, turbocharged or supercharged engines, vehicles that are used for towing (especially during hot weather), or vehicles that are operated in extremely cold or hot climates. Synthetic motor oils, though several times more expensive than mineral-based motor oils, can improve fuel economy and provide longer intervals between changes. They also provide instant lubrication on start-up.
When should I replace my car’s fuel filter? To help ensure dependable, trouble-free performance, replace your car’s fuel filter approximately every 30,000 miles or as recommended in your vehicle’s owner’s manual.
When should I change my spark plugs? For maximum fuel economy and peak engine performance, your spark plugs should be replaced every 30 months or 30,000 miles, unless your vehicle is equipped with 100,000-mile platinum tipped spark plugs.
I need to replace a burned out fuse, what should I do? Always replace burned-out fuses with ones of the same amperage (printed on the fuse) and note that if a fuse continues to “blow,” you should have the circuit checked professionally by one of our technicians for defects.
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