Integrity Auto Care Blog
Because your brakes are so crucial to your safety on the road, it’s important to alert the mechanic as soon as you suspect an issue with them. At Integrity Auto Care, we provide top-quality brake repair in the greater Belvidere, IL area. Here’s a look at five common warning signs of brake trouble. Squeaking or Grinding Noises One of the most common signs of brake trouble is unusual noises when applying the brakes. If you hear a high-pitched squeak or a grinding sound, it could indicate worn-out brake pads. Brake pads have a built-in wear indicator that produces a noise when they are getting thin. Ignoring these sounds could lead to damage to the brake rotor, resulting in more expensive repairs. Vibrating If you feel vibrations or pulsations when applying the brakes, it might be a sign of warped brake rotors. Warped rotors can occur due to excessive heat buildup during braking, and they can compromise the efficiency of the braking system. It’s important to address this issue promptly to help ensure smooth braking performance. Soft or Spongy Brake Pedal A soft or spongy brake pedal can indicate air in the brake lines or a potential brake fluid leak. If you suspect that your car is leaking brake fluid, you’ve got a major safety hazard and shouldn’t drive it. Rather, you should have your car towed to the shop. Warning Lights on the Dashboard If you see the brake warning light illuminated on your dashboard, it's crucial not to ignore it. This light could indicate issues with the anti-lock braking system (ABS), low brake fluid levels, or other potential problems. A diagnostic check by an experienced mechanic is needed to identify and address the specific issue. Pulling to One Side If your car veers to one side when the brakes are engaged, then you’ve obviously got a major safety concern. This may happen if corrosion causes a caliper to seize up. With this symptom, you shouldn’t operate your vehicle due to the accident risk. Brake Repair in Belvidere, IL When you need auto repair in Belvidere and the surrounding area, contact Integrity Auto Care at (815) 566-8357 . At our nearby auto shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!
Transmission issues can quickly worsen and become expensive to address, so it’s worth taking some basic precautions to help keep your transmission in great shape. At Integrity Auto Care, we provide expert transmission service in Belvidere, IL. Our local mechanics can ensure that your vehicle is capable of shifting smoothly and safely. Here are four tips for keeping your transmission healthy. Gentle Driving Habits Your driving habits can have a significant impact on the health of your transmission. Aggressive driving behaviors—such as sudden acceleration, hard braking, and rapid gear shifts—can put excessive strain on the transmission components, leading to premature wear and potential damage. To prolong the life of your transmission, practice gentle driving habits such as smooth acceleration, gradual braking, and avoiding unnecessary gear changes. Regular Fluid Checks/Changes One of the most critical aspects of transmission maintenance is ensuring that the transmission fluid is clean and at the appropriate level. Transmission fluid acts as a lubricant, cooling agent, and hydraulic fluid within the transmission system. As the miles add up, this fluid can become contaminated, leading to increased friction and wear on transmission components. To prevent damage and maintain optimal performance, it's essential to regularly check the transmission fluid level and condition according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Also, be sure to follow the manufacturer's guidelines for the frequency of fluid changes, commonly ranging from every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. Tow Responsibly If you tow heavy loads with your vehicle, it's important to do so responsibly to prevent damage to your transmission. Exceeding your vehicle's towing capacity or towing improperly can put excessive strain on the transmission, leading to overheating and premature wear. Before towing, familiarize yourself with your vehicle's towing capacity and ensure that your trailer and cargo are properly balanced and secured. By towing within your vehicle's limits and taking precautions to protect your transmission, you can help to prevent costly repairs. Get to the Shop at the First Sign of Transmission Trouble Transmission issues are notorious for escalating quickly, so you should get to the shop at the first sign of trouble. Common signs of transmission trouble include rough/delayed shifting, fluid leaks, and gear slippage. Transmission Service in Belvidere, IL When you need transmission service in Belvidere and the surrounding area, contact Integrity Auto Care at (815) 566-8357 . At our local auto shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call today to schedule an appointment!
It’s always best to get to the shop when you first notice that your car is struggling to start. This way, you’ll have the best chance to address the underlying issue before it escalates and leaves you stranded. At Integrity Auto Care, our local mechanics are experts at diagnosing and fixing problems that cause no-start. Here’s a look at four common issues that prevent engines from firing up. Fuel System Issues Problems within the fuel system are a common source of no-start. A clogged fuel filter or a malfunctioning fuel pump can prevent the engine from receiving the necessary fuel to start. Regular maintenance, such as changing the fuel filter, can help prevent these problems. If you suspect fuel system issues, it's important to have your vehicle inspected by an experienced mechanic. Dead Battery A dead or weak battery is one of the most common reasons that cars fail to start up. As they get older, batteries lose their charge, and extreme weather conditions can accelerate this process. If you hear a clicking sound when you turn the key or notice dim lights on the dashboard, your battery may need attention. Ignition Switch Problems The ignition switch plays a crucial role in the starting process by sending power to various components, including the starter. If the ignition switch fails, your car won't start. Symptoms of a faulty ignition switch may include difficulty turning the key and intermittent starting problems. Ignition switch replacement is often necessary to resolve this issue. Faulty Spark Plugs or Ignition System Spark plugs play a vital role in igniting the air-fuel mixture in the engine. If spark plugs are worn out or the ignition system is faulty, your car may not start. Signs of trouble include engine misfires, rough idling, and reduced fuel-efficiency. Regularly checking and replacing spark plugs can help to ensure a reliable ignition system. Auto Repair in Belvidere, IL When you need auto repair in Belvidere and the surrounding area, contact Integrity Auto Care at (815) 566-8357 . At our nearby auto shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!
Service Request
Please fill in the form below and we'll have a representative contact you.
Request Appointment or Estimate
Areas We Serve
Belvidere, Rockford, Machesney Park, Marengo, Cherry Valley, Garden Prairie, Loves Park, & the Surrounding Communities
About Us
Our locally owned and operated shop is staffed by highly skilled technicians that have access to the latest diagnostic and repair equipment, ensuring fast and accurate service.
