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Top 10 Vehicle Maintenance Mistakes to Avoid

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 21:47:33 GMT

Proper vehicle maintenance is essential to keeping your car reliable, safe, and cost-effective. Industry experts at CarMD.com

Corporation have identified the most common mistakes that lead to costly damage.

Top 10 Mistakes:

Delaying scheduled maintenance
Ignoring the check engine light
Skipping oil changes
Not maintaining proper tire pressure
Neglecting essential fluids
Driving an overheating vehicle
Failing to replace air and fuel filters
Choosing unqualified repair providers
Using incorrect or low-quality parts
Attempting complex repairs without proper training

Why It Matters:
Neglecting basic maintenance—especially oil changes—can cause severe engine damage. Modern engines rely on clean oil to function properly, and failure to maintain it can result in costly repairs or even engine replacement.

Protect Your Investment:
Routine maintenance is far less expensive than major repairs. Staying proactive helps extend the life of your vehicle and ensures dependable performance.

Contact Joe’s Slinger Service today to schedule your maintenance and keep your vehicle running at its best.

Top 10 Car Maintenance Mistakes That Can Cost You Thousands

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 21:45:15 GMT

Top 10 Car Maintenance Mistakes That Can Cost You Thousands

When it comes to maintaining today’s high-tech vehicles, staying on top of routine service is one of the best ways to avoid expensive repairs. According to CarMD.com Corporation, drivers who delay maintenance often end up paying significantly more in the long run.

Here are the top 10 most damaging maintenance mistakes:

Delaying scheduled maintenance
Ignoring the check engine light
Skipping oil changes
Not checking tire pressure
Neglecting fluid services
Driving while overheating
Not replacing filters
Using unqualified repair shops
Installing incorrect or low-quality parts
Attempting complex DIY repairs

One of the most critical issues is failing to change your oil. Dirty oil can damage engine components, cause warning lights, and even lead to complete engine failure if ignored.

Additionally, something as simple as a dirty air filter can trigger a chain reaction—leading to oxygen sensor failure, poor fuel economy, and even catalytic converter damage.

The bottom line: Preventive maintenance is always more affordable than major repairs.

At Joe’s Slinger Service, we’re here to help you stay ahead of problems and keep your vehicle running safely and efficiently. If you have a warning light on or are overdue for service, schedule an appointment today.

Ever wonder what all the buttons and controls inside your car actually do?

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 19:53:09 GMT

�� Ever wonder what all the buttons and controls inside your car actually do?

Understanding Your Car’s Interior — Made Simple

Not sure what every button, light, or control inside your car does? You’re not alone!

This helpful beginner’s guide explains the layout of a vehicle’s cabin in simple terms — perfect for new drivers or anyone who wants to feel more confident behind the wheel.

At Joe’s Slinger Service, we believe informed drivers make better maintenance decisions. If you ever have questions about your vehicle, we’re here to help.

https://carbuzz.com/beginners-guide-to-car-cabin-anatomy/

The Joe’s Slinger Service Guide to Recommended Intervals

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 21:48:21 GMT

Most Slinger drivers are aware that manufacturers have service intervals for your car . The engineers that design our vehicles have tested the various systems and components to meet durability and safety standards. Some of these standards are self-imposed and others, like those for emissions components, are government mandated.

The maintenance schedules are designed to achieve the standards. Think of the benefits of following recommended intervals as falling into three general categories: Protection, Efficiency and Safety.

Protection . Let’s start with motor oil. First of all, the engineers recommend a particular weight and type of motor oil. All of their oil change recommendations assume using the proper motor oil. Motor oil contains detergents and other additives that clean the engine and provide corrosion resistance. Over time, the additives are depleted. The oil also becomes contaminated by water, dirt and combustion gases. Extending your interval beyond the recommendation means that your engine will be operating without the full protection of fresh motor oil. It also means that sludge can form in contaminated oil and clog up passages in the engine, starving parts from needed lubrication.

Efficiency . Some Slinger services are designed to keep automotive systems operating efficiently. For example, the fuel system gets clogged up with gum and varnish from the fuel. Fuel doesn’t flow efficiently which reduces fuel economy. A fuel system cleaning restores the fuel system’s efficiency and increases your gas mileage.

Safety . Your brakes are obviously one of the most important safety systems on your vehicle. The has scheduled brake pad replacement as well as power brake fluid drain and replacement intervals. Because brakes are so important, a brake inspection is also on the schedule to head off problems before they result in an accident. Check your owner’s manual for recommended service schedules or talk with your friendly and knowledgeable Joe’s Slinger Service . You may be surprised to learn that various inspections may be on your list of factory recommendations. These inspections are usually at major intervals like 24,000 miles or 40,000 kilometers. They’re designed to uncover important parts that may be close to failing. Your owner’s manual can tell you when to change your oil, but it can’t tell you that you have a radiator hose that’s bulging and about to burst. For that you need a technician. These scheduled inspections are in addition to the multi-point inspections done with a full-service oil change at Joe’s Slinger Service.

Why Choose a Quality Battery from Us Over a Budget Store Option?

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 16:17:55 GMT

When your car won’t start, the battery suddenly becomes the most important part of your vehicle. And when it’s time to replace it, many drivers are faced with a choice: grab the cheapest battery available or invest in one built for long-term reliability.

At first glance, a budget battery from a big-box store like Walmart may seem like the obvious choice. But there’s more to the story than upfront cost.

The Truth About Budget Batteries

Budget batteries are designed to do one thing: start your car at the lowest possible price . For some drivers, that’s enough.

These batteries are generally best for:

Older vehicles with minimal electronics
Light, short-trip driving
Drivers who don’t mind replacing a battery more frequently

While they can work, they often have:

Shorter overall lifespan
Less consistent cold-weather performance
Limited reserve capacity for accessories and electronics

That’s why many budget batteries fail sooner—especially in extreme temperatures or vehicles with modern electrical demands.

Why We Choose ACDelco Batteries

Today’s vehicles rely on far more than just a starter motor. From infotainment systems and safety features to remote start and stop-start technology, modern cars demand strong, consistent power .

ACDelco batteries are built with higher-quality internal components designed to:

Deliver stronger cold-cranking performance
Handle higher electrical loads
Last longer under real-world driving conditions
Provide dependable warranty coverage

In short, they’re engineered for reliability , not just price.

Cost vs. Value: What Really Saves You Money?

A lower-priced battery may save money today—but if it needs to be replaced sooner, struggles in winter, or leaves you stranded, that “deal” quickly disappears.

A quality battery:

Reduces the risk of no-start situations
Lasts longer, meaning fewer replacements
Performs better year-round
Gives peace of mind every time you turn the key

That’s why we don’t recommend batteries based on price alone. We recommend them based on what keeps our customers driving with fewer problems .

Our Recommendation

If your vehicle has modern electronics, sees extreme temperatures, or you simply want fewer battery issues, an ACDelco battery is the smarter long-term choice .

We install batteries we trust—because your vehicle’s reliability matters to us.

If you’re unsure which battery is right for your vehicle, stop by or give us a call. We’re happy to help you choose the option that fits your driving needs and keeps you on the road.

What Is One Thing You Wish Your Mechanic Told You About?

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 16:16:48 GMT

Preventive Maintenance Can Save You Thousands

Most people think car problems come out of nowhere—but the truth is, many major repairs start as small, preventable issues.

The one thing we wish every customer knew?

Preventive maintenance matters more than fixing breakdowns.

Small Problems Rarely Stay Small

That tiny oil leak.
That squeak when you brake.
That warning light you’ve been ignoring because the car still “drives fine.”

These are your vehicle’s early warning signs. Catching issues early usually means:

Less expensive repairs
Fewer breakdowns
A safer, more reliable vehicle
Longer vehicle life

Waiting often turns a simple fix into a costly repair.

Your Car Doesn’t Break Overnight

Most major failures—engine damage, transmission problems, brake failure—happen because something small was overlooked over time. Regular inspections, oil changes, tire rotations, and fluid checks allow mechanics to spot issues before they become emergencies.

Preventive Maintenance = Peace of Mind

Staying on top of maintenance helps you:

Avoid surprise repair bills
Reduce stress
Improve fuel efficiency
Keep your family safe on the road

At Joe’s Slinger Service , we believe honest communication and routine maintenance are the best tools for keeping your vehicle running its best.

The Bottom Line

If there’s one thing we wish every driver understood, it’s this:

Preventive maintenance is always cheaper than reactive repairs.

Your car talks to you—you just need someone who knows how to listen.

Your Car Might Not Have a Spare Tire — Here’s Why That Matters

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 16:15:20 GMT

Most of us grow up assuming one thing about cars: if you get a flat tire, there’s a spare in the trunk. Simple, right?

Not anymore.

More and more new vehicles — even brand-new models — are being sold without a spare tire . Instead, drivers may find a tire inflator kit, sealant, or sometimes nothing at all. It’s something many people don’t discover until they’re already stuck on the side of the road.

Why Are Spare Tires Disappearing?

Car manufacturers are removing spare tires for a few reasons:

Weight reduction to improve fuel efficiency
Lower production costs
More trunk space

While those changes benefit manufacturers, they don’t always help drivers when a tire goes flat unexpectedly.

The Problem With Fix-A-Flat Kits

Many cars now come with tire sealant kits instead of spares. These can work for small punctures , but:

They won’t fix sidewall damage
They don’t help with blowouts
They often make tires unrepairable afterward

In cold weather or rural areas, relying on a sealant can leave you stranded.

What You Should Do Today

Take five minutes to check your vehicle:

Look under the trunk floor
Read your owner’s manual
See if you have a spare, donut, or only a repair kit

If your vehicle doesn’t have a spare, consider:

Purchasing a compact spare
Carrying a roadside assistance membership
Keeping emergency supplies in your car

Bottom Line

A flat tire is stressful enough. Finding out you don’t have a spare makes it worse.

Knowing what your vehicle does — or doesn’t — come with can save you time, money, and a lot of frustration when you need help the most.

Does Gas Really Freeze in the Winter? What Wisconsin Drivers Should Know.

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 09:07:23 GMT

If there’s one thing Wisconsin folks know well, it’s winter. Between the cold snaps, the surprise snow dumps, and those mornings when your car sounds as tired as you feel, it’s no wonder people ask us if gas can actually freeze in the tank when levels get low.

Here’s the honest answer: the gasoline itself almost never freezes.

But that doesn’t mean you’re in the clear.

Why Your Gas Isn’t Turning into a Popsicle

Gasoline has an extremely low freezing point — we’re talking around –100°F or colder. Even on the worst Wisconsin nights, we’re not seeing temperatures anywhere close to that. So the fuel isn’t the issue.

But something else in your tank can freeze, and that’s where people run into problems.

The Real Issue: Moisture in the Fuel System

When you’re running on a low tank, there’s a lot of open air space inside. That space can collect moisture as temperatures go up and down. That moisture eventually condenses, forming small amounts of water inside the tank.

When the temperature drops below freezing (which happens here… a lot), that water can turn into ice. And ice in a fuel line or filter is bad news. It can block fuel flow, make your engine stumble, or even keep it from starting at all.

This is what people usually mean when they say their “gas froze.”

Why You Should Keep Your Tank at Least Half Full

Keeping more fuel in your tank reduces the amount of room where condensation can form. It’s a simple step, but it can prevent winter headaches — especially during those stretches when the temperature drops overnight.

A Few Winter Tips from the Shop

Try to keep your tank above half when it gets cold.

If your car struggles first thing in the morning, let it settle instead of cranking it hard.

A fuel-dryer additive can help clear out small amounts of moisture.

Parking in a garage, even an unheated one, helps more than most people think.

Winter driving in Wisconsin is tough enough. If your vehicle starts acting up on cold mornings or feels like it’s starving for fuel, Joe’s Slinger Service is here to help keep you rolling — no matter what the weather is doing.

How to Get the Best Used Car for Your Money Pre-Purchase Inspection

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 09:13:27 GMT

Buying a used car is a big decision. You want to make sure you’re getting a good deal — not someone else’s problem. At Joe’s Slinger Service , we understand how stressful it can be to shop for a vehicle that’s already seen some miles. That’s why we offer an affordable way to protect your investment before you buy.

For just $99.99 , our Pre-Purchase Vehicle Inspection gives you a detailed look at the vehicle’s condition, so you can make a confident, informed decision.

Why a Pre-Purchase Inspection Is So Important

A vehicle might look great in the photos or even sound good on a test drive, but small issues can hide beneath the surface. Our inspection helps uncover those hidden problems before they become your responsibility.

Whether you’re buying from a private seller or a dealership, our goal is to give you peace of mind and save you money in the long run.

What’s Included in Our $99.99 Inspection

We don’t just take a quick look — we go over your potential new car from top to bottom. Here’s what our pre-purchase inspection includes:

Visual Checks

Suspension, brakes, belts, hoses, and exhaust

Frame and subframe/unibody for rust or damage

Paint, body panels, and overall exterior condition

System Testing

Fluid levels and quality

Charging system test (battery, alternator, starter)

Air conditioning temperature and heating performance

Functionality Review

Radio, power windows, doors, sunroof, lights, and fans

Diagnostics

Computer scan for active, pending, or stored codes

Readiness monitor check to ensure systems are running correctly

Tires & Safety

Condition, tread depth, and tire age

All lights and markers checked for proper operation

You’ll receive a digital or printable inspection report , complete with photos and repair estimates that are valid for 30 days. You can use these estimates as a bargaining tool when negotiating the sale or to plan future maintenance costs.

How It Helps You Save

Knowledge is power when it comes to buying a vehicle. With our inspection report in hand, you can:

Negotiate a better price based on real data

Avoid hidden repair costs after the sale

Plan and budget for upcoming maintenance

Buy with confidence , knowing exactly what you’re getting

A one-hour inspection can save you thousands of dollars — and a lot of headaches — down the road.

Why Choose Joe’s Slinger Service

At Joe’s Slinger Service , we’re more than just a repair shop. We’re your trusted local team that looks out for your best interests. We believe honesty and transparency build long-term relationships — not surprise repair bills.

Our certified technicians take the time to explain their findings and answer your questions. No pressure, no gimmicks — just straightforward information you can trust.

Schedule Your Pre-Purchase Inspection Today

Before you buy your next used car, bring it to Joe’s Slinger Service for a pre-purchase inspection. We’ll help you make sure it’s the right one for you — and that you’re getting what you’re paying for.

Joe’s Slinger Service

220 Info Hwy Ct, Slinger, WI

262-644-8276

servicewriter@joesslingerservice.com

Honest. Local. Professional.

Let’s take the worry out of buying your next used car.

Why It’s Important to Change Your Transmission Fluid (and How Our New BG Machine Helps)

Tue, 21 Oct 2025 09:16:33 GMT

At Joe’s Slinger Service , we take pride in keeping your vehicle running strong — and that includes your transmission. It’s one of the hardest working systems in your car, and it needs clean, healthy fluid to do its job.

Over time, transmission fluid breaks down. Heat, friction, and debris slowly wear it out, causing it to lose its ability to protect internal parts. When that happens, your vehicle can start to shift harder, slip between gears, or even suffer long-term damage.

What Transmission Fluid Does

Transmission fluid acts as both a lubricant and a coolant. It keeps all those moving parts inside your transmission working smoothly and helps carry away heat. When the fluid gets dirty or starts to break down, it can’t do either job very well. That’s when you start to notice performance issues — or worse, face an expensive repair.

How Often Should You Change It?

Most vehicles need a transmission fluid service every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, but it really depends on how and where you drive.

If you do a lot of towing, drive in stop-and-go traffic, or deal with extreme temperatures, you might need it sooner.

Not sure when yours was last changed? We can check the condition of your fluid and help you figure out the right schedule for your vehicle.

Our New BG Transmission Fluid Machine

We’re excited to now offer transmission services using our new BG Transmission Fluid Machine . This advanced system allows us to completely exchange your old, worn-out fluid with fresh fluid — not just a partial drain and fill.

That means cleaner operation, better protection, and smoother shifting — all backed by BG’s trusted technology and products.

Keep Your Transmission Running Strong

Changing your transmission fluid is one of the simplest and most effective ways to keep your vehicle reliable for years to come. It’s an affordable service that can help you avoid major transmission repairs later on.

Stop by Joe’s Slinger Service in Slinger, WI , or give us a call to schedule your BG Transmission Service today. We’ll take great care of your vehicle — and keep it shifting like new.

Joe’s Slinger Service

Serving Slinger, WI and surrounding areas

Should You Buy an Extended Warranty on Your Vehicle?

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 17:25:22 GMT

If you’re buying a car or your factory warranty is about to expire, you’ve probably been offered an extended warranty. It sounds good—extra protection, less worry—but is it really worth the cost?

At Joe’s Slinger Service , we’ve worked with all kinds of warranties and seen the good and the not-so-good. Whether you’re in Washington County , or any surrounding communities, here’s what you should know before signing the dotted line.

What Is an Extended Warranty?

An extended warranty (also called a vehicle service contract) is a plan that helps cover repair costs after your original manufacturer warranty ends. Depending on the plan, it might cover major components like your engine, transmission, AC, and electronics.

Pros of an Extended Warranty

Peace of mind knowing that a major repair might be covered.

Budget protection —you won’t get hit with a surprise bill.

Some plans offer extras like roadside assistance or rental car coverage.

Cons to Watch Out For

Not everything is covered . Worn-out brakes, suspension parts, and oil leaks may be excluded.

You may not use it . If your car is reliable and well-maintained, you might never file a claim.

Repair shop restrictions . Some third-party plans limit where you can take your vehicle for repairs.

What We Recommend at Joe’s Slinger Service

If you’re planning to keep your vehicle long-term or it has higher mileage, an extended warranty can be a smart safety net—but make sure you can choose your own shop . Many of our customers in Washington County and surrounding areas bring in their warranty paperwork so we can look it over and explain what’s actually covered.

We work with several warranty providers and are happy to help you navigate the fine print.

Need help understanding your warranty?

Stop by Joe’s Slinger Service or give us a call at 262-644-8276 . We’ll give you honest advice—no pressure, no sales pitch.

should you buy an extended warranty on your vehicle Joe’s Slinger Service Slinger Wi 53086

Where should I get new tires?

Sat, 13 Sep 2025 17:38:17 GMT

Where should I get new tires Joe’s Slinger Service Slinger WI

Nowadays you can buy tires absolutely anywhere at all different prices. How do you know where to purchase them from and what you need?

Buying tires from the repair shop you use to do your vehicle’s maintenance such as oil changes, brakes etc. is the best place to purchase tires from. Why? Tires are part of the regular maintenance of your vehicle. Tire rotations, balancing, alignment and inflation will help you get the full life out of your tires and purchasing tires from the same facility ensures you get the right tire for your driving needs. Your current repair shop is familiar with your driving habits and can help you decide on which tire to buy. For instance, if you put on 10,000 miles per year or less, in five years you will have no more than 50,000 miles on your tires. If you purchased 80,000 mile tires, in five years you would be left with tires that still had a large percentage of usable tread left, but they would be too old to be driving on them.

You also need to consider who is putting on your tires. Big box stores are typically less expensive just due to their purchasing power, but their staff is unqualified. WHO is putting on your tires? Are they inspecting your vehicle’s suspension for safety and wear before installing the new tires? Chances are big box stores hire a “grunt” to throw the tires on and get you out the door. All vehicles should be aligned with every new set of tires. Worn suspension components and misaligned vehicles not only will shorten the life of your tires, your vehicle may have a safety concern that should have been brought to your attention by a qualified auto technician.

Let the team at Joe’s handle all of your tire needs and get you safely rolling down the road!

How to Tell if Your U-Joint Is Failing?

Fri, 08 Aug 2025 09:22:44 GMT

How to Tell if Your U-Joint Is Failing – Signs Every Driver Should Know

Your vehicle’s drivetrain depends on many moving parts to keep power flowing smoothly from the engine to the wheels. One small but critical part is the U-joint (universal joint). This joint allows your driveshaft to flex as your suspension moves, keeping your ride smooth and safe.

When a U-joint begins to wear out, it’s not just a minor annoyance—it can lead to major drivetrain damage if left unchecked. At Joe’s Slinger Service , we help drivers in Washington County and surrounding areas spot the warning signs before it’s too late.

Common Signs of a Bad U-Joint

1. Clunking When Shifting Gears

If you hear a heavy clunk when putting your vehicle into drive or reverse, it could be a sign of too much play in the U-joint.

2. Vibration at Higher Speeds

Worn U-joints can throw your driveshaft out of balance, causing vibrations that get worse the faster you drive.

3. Squeaking at Low Speeds

A rhythmic squeak while rolling slowly may mean the bearings inside the U-joint are dry or worn out.

4. Play in the Driveline

If acceleration and deceleration feel jerky or loose, a failing U-joint could be the cause.

5. Visible Rust or Wear

Rust around the U-joint caps, or missing needle bearings, is a red flag that it’s time for replacement.

Why You Shouldn’t Ignore It

A bad U-joint can eventually cause your driveshaft to separate while driving—leading to costly repairs and unsafe driving conditions.

We Can Help

If you notice any of these symptoms, stop by Joe’s Slinger Service . Our ASE-certified technicians can quickly diagnose the issue and replace your U-joint, keeping your vehicle safe and reliable.

Serving Slinger, WI , as well as Hartford, Jackson, West Bend, and nearby communities.

Call us today at 262-644-8276 to schedule an appointment.

Is Your Vehicle Showing Signs of a Bad Control Arm?

Thu, 07 Aug 2025 09:39:34 GMT

At Joe’s Slinger Service , we’ve seen our fair share of suspension issues roll into the shop—especially here in Slinger, WI , where rough roads and changing seasons can take a toll on your vehicle’s steering and control. One commonly overlooked culprit? The control arm .

Your vehicle’s control arms play a vital role in connecting the wheels to the frame, allowing smooth up-and-down movement and maintaining proper alignment. When they go bad, you’ll definitely feel—and hear—it.

Here are 5 common symptoms of a failing or damaged control arm:

1. Clunking or Popping Noises

If you hear strange noises when going over bumps, turning corners, or braking, it could be the bushings or ball joints within the control arm assembly wearing out.

2. Steering That Feels Off

A worn control arm can throw off your wheel alignment, causing the vehicle to pull to one side or feel loose when steering .

3. Uneven Tire Wear

Check your tires. If one side is wearing faster than the other, it might not be the tires—it could be a control arm issue affecting your alignment.

4. Vibration in the Steering Wheel

Feeling vibrations, especially at higher speeds? A damaged or bent control arm can cause shaking through the steering wheel , which only gets worse over time.

5. Poor Handling or Instability

If your car feels unpredictable when turning or cornering, it’s time to get your suspension checked. A bad control arm can compromise the safety and control of your ride.

If you’re noticing any of these symptoms, don’t wait for it to get worse. Bring your vehicle to Joe’s Slinger Service —your local auto repair experts in Slinger, Wisconsin . Our team will inspect your suspension and get you safely back on the road.

Conveniently located in Slinger, WI

Call us at 262-644-8276

Trusted by drivers across Washington County and surrounding areas.

What Are Signs Of A Bad Starter?

Thu, 07 Aug 2025 09:34:15 GMT

Trouble Starting Your Car? It Might Be the Starter

If your vehicle struggles to start—or won’t start at all—it could be more than just a dead battery. One of the most common issues we see at Joe’s Slinger Service is a failing starter. The starter is responsible for turning over your engine when you turn the key or press the start button. When it begins to fail, it often shows a few warning signs before it gives out completely.

Common Symptoms of a Bad Starter:

1. Clicking sound when turning the key

If you hear a rapid clicking noise or just one solid “click” and nothing happens, the starter motor may be failing or unable to engage.

2. Engine won’t turn over

Your lights and radio might work fine, but the engine doesn’t crank. This is a strong sign your starter needs to be tested.

3. Starter works intermittently

Sometimes your car starts perfectly, and other times it doesn’t. This could point to a bad electrical connection in the starter system.

4. Grinding noises

A grinding or whirring sound could mean the starter gear isn’t engaging properly with the engine flywheel.

5. Smoke or burning smell

Repeated attempts to start the vehicle can overheat the starter motor. If you smell burning or see smoke, stop trying and have it looked at right away.

At Joe’s Slinger Service in Slinger, WI , we offer fast diagnostics and reliable starter replacements for all makes and models. Whether you’re in Washington County or surrounding areas, our team can help you get back on the road quickly and safely.

We also offer towing and shuttle service if your vehicle won’t start at home. If you think your starter is going bad, don’t wait—call us at 262-644-8276 or schedule a visit today.

What Causes a Transfer Case to Fail?

Thu, 07 Aug 2025 09:29:45 GMT

Worried About Your Transfer Case? We Can Help.

If you’re hearing clunking sounds, experiencing trouble shifting into 4WD, or seeing drivetrain warning lights, don’t ignore it. Catching transfer case issues early can save you thousands in future repairs.

What Causes a Transfer Case to Fail?

Your vehicle’s transfer case plays a crucial role in the drivetrain, especially in 4WD and AWD systems. It’s responsible for distributing power from the transmission to the front and rear axles, helping you maintain traction and control on slick Wisconsin roads. But like any hardworking component, the transfer case can wear down or fail—especially without proper care.

At Joe’s Slinger Service , we’ve seen our fair share of transfer case issues in vehicles around Washington County, and the surrounding areas. Here are the most common reasons transfer cases fail:

1. Low or Dirty Transfer Case Fluid

Over time, transfer case fluid breaks down or leaks out. If it gets too low—or becomes contaminated—it can’t protect internal gears from heat and friction. The result? Premature wear, grinding noises, and eventually, total failure.

2. Lack of Maintenance

Many drivers forget about the transfer case during regular service. Skipping fluid changes or ignoring recommended service intervals allows wear and debris to accumulate, damaging seals and components.

3. Heavy Towing or Off-Roading

Using your truck or SUV for heavy towing, plowing, or rough terrain without properly engaging 4WD (or doing so improperly) puts extra strain on the transfer case and can cause serious internal damage.

4. Worn Internal Gears or Chains

With time and use, internal parts like gears and chains simply wear out. High mileage, poor fluid condition, or tough driving conditions will accelerate this process.

5. Electrical Failures (In Electronic Transfer Cases)

Modern 4WD systems often rely on electronic shift motors and sensors. When those components fail, your vehicle may not shift into or out of 4WD properly—even though the transfer case itself may still be functional.

6. Mismatched or Uneven Tire Wear

Running different tire sizes (or even significantly uneven tread depth) on AWD or 4WD systems can lead to drivetrain binding. That extra stress can wear out your transfer case much faster.

7. Improper Use of 4WD

Engaging 4WD on dry pavement in a part-time system causes excessive binding between the wheels and can quickly damage the transfer case. Always follow your owner’s manual instructions.

Stop in or call Joe’s Slinger Service in Slinger, WI . Our experienced technicians will inspect your drivetrain, check fluid condition, and help you stay safe and prepared for Wisconsin roads—rain, shine, or snow.

Serving Slinger, Hartford, West Bend, Jackson, and Beyond!

Whether you drive a Ford, Chevy, Jeep, Toyota, or Subaru, Joe’s Slinger Service has the tools and knowledge to keep your 4WD or AWD system running strong. Give us a call today at 262-644-8276 or schedule an appointment online.

How Often Should You Replace Your Engine Air Filter?

Thu, 07 Aug 2025 08:20:11 GMT

Keeping your engine breathing clean air is one of the simplest ways to protect its performance and longevity. Yet, engine air filters are often overlooked when it comes to routine maintenance.

At Joe’s Slinger Service in Slinger, WI , we regularly inspect and replace air filters for drivers across all of Washington County and surrounding areas —here’s what you should know.

How Often Should You Change Your Engine Air Filter?

Most manufacturers recommend changing your engine air filter every 15,000 to 30,000 miles. However, that interval can vary based on:

Local driving conditions (dusty roads, farm areas, construction zones)

How often you drive in heavy traffic

Towing or hauling loads

City vs. highway driving

If you’re driving in rural Wisconsin roads or commuting through stop-and-go traffic , your filter may clog faster, meaning it should be checked more often—about every oil change or every 6 months.

Why It Matters

A dirty or clogged air filter can:

Reduce fuel efficiency

Decrease engine power

Trigger your check engine light

Increase harmful emissions

Swapping in a new engine air filter is quick, affordable, and improves both performance and peace of mind.

We Make It Easy

At Joe’s Slinger Service , we inspect your air filter as part of our comprehensive vehicle check-up. If it’s time for a replacement, we’ll let you know—and take care of it right away using quality parts that fit your vehicle.

Serving drivers from Slinger, and surrounding areas we’re your trusted local repair shop for honest, experienced service.

Stop in or call us at (262) 644-8276 to schedule your next maintenance check.

How Often Should You Change Your Oil Filter?

Thu, 07 Aug 2025 08:13:21 GMT

When it comes to protecting your engine, one small but essential component often gets overlooked—the oil filter. At Joe’s Slinger Service , we want to make sure drivers in Slinger and surrounding Washington County, WI communities understand why this part matters and how often it should be replaced.

What Does an Oil Filter Do?

Your oil filter’s job is to remove dirt, debris, and metal particles from the engine oil as it circulates. Over time, that filter becomes clogged and can’t do its job effectively. Dirty oil means less protection for your engine and more wear on internal components.

When Should I Replace My Oil Filter?

We recommend replacing your oil filter every time you get an oil change. That’s typically every 3,000 to 7,500 miles , depending on your vehicle, driving habits, and whether you’re using synthetic or conventional oil.

Changing the oil without swapping the filter can allow old contaminants to mix with your fresh oil—which defeats the purpose of the oil change in the first place.

Stop by Joe’s Slinger Service

Whether you’re due for an oil change or just have questions about your vehicle’s maintenance schedule, our team is here to help. Located in the heart of Slinger, WI , we proudly serve local drivers with honest service and professional care.

Give us a call at 262-644-8276 or swing by Joe’s Slinger Service for a fast, reliable oil change with a fresh filter—done right the first time.

Why Do Car Batteries Overheat More Often In Hot Weather?

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 08:39:14 GMT

If your vehicle’s battery has ever died or started acting up during a heatwave, you’re not alone. Here at Joe’s Slinger Service in Slinger, WI , we see a noticeable uptick in battery issues every summer — and there’s a good reason why.

Warm weather causes the chemical reactions inside your car battery to speed up. While that might sound like a good thing, the added heat actually generates excess internal pressure. This can lead to battery fluid evaporation, swelling, or even corrosion at the terminals. Over time, that kind of strain shortens your battery’s lifespan and increases the risk of failure — often without much warning.

On the flip side, cold temperatures can slow down those chemical reactions, making the battery sluggish but less likely to overheat. That’s why heat is actually harder on your battery than cold.

Tip: If you live in Slinger, anywhere in Washington County, it’s a good idea to have your battery tested during routine maintenance — especially before or during the hot summer months. A quick check now could save you from a dead battery later.

Need your battery tested or replaced? Come see us at Joe’s Slinger Service . We offer fast, honest, local service with your vehicle’s long-term reliability in mind.

Located in the heart of Slinger, WI.

What Headlight Bulb Does My Vehicle Need?

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 08:28:16 GMT

When your headlights start to dim or burn out completely, knowing which bulb to replace them with is key for safety—and legality—on the road. But with so many different headlight types and sizes, how do you know which one your vehicle uses?

At Joe’s Slinger Service , we help drivers all over Slinger and the surrounding Washington County area get the right bulb for their make and model.

Common Types of Headlight Bulbs

Depending on your vehicle’s year, make, and model, you may need one of the following:

Halogen bulbs (e.g., H11, 9005, 9006) – Most common in older vehicles.

HID/Xenon bulbs (e.g., D1S, D2S) – Found in many luxury or high-end models.

LED bulbs – Common in newer vehicles and increasingly used for both low and high beams.

How to Find the Right Bulb:

Check your owner’s manual – It will list the correct bulb type and wattage.
Use an online bulb finder tool – You can enter your car’s year, make, and model.
Stop into Joe’s Slinger Service – We’ll look it up for you and install it if needed.

Don’t Guess—We Can Help!

Installing the wrong headlight bulb can cause poor visibility or even damage your headlight housing. Whether you’re driving a Ford F-150, Honda CR-V, Chevy Silverado, or Toyota Camry, we’ve got you covered with the correct bulb and fast, professional installation.

If you’re unsure what bulb you need or want a headlight inspection, swing by Joe’s Slinger Service on Highway 60 in Slinger, WI and surrounding Washington County Areas. We’ll get you lit up and back on the road in no time!

How Do I Know If My Car Battery Is Dead?

Thu, 03 Jul 2025 11:33:41 GMT

How to Tell If Your Car Battery Is Dead

A dead car battery is one of the most common reasons a vehicle won’t start. If you’re stuck with a car that won’t crank, here are some signs your battery might be the issue:

The engine won’t start. If you hear clicking or nothing at all, the battery may not have enough power to engage the starter.

Lights are dim or flickering. Weak headlights or interior lights are a classic battery warning sign.

Electrical features stop working. If the radio, windows, or touchscreen aren’t responding, your battery could be drained.

Battery warning light is on. Many cars will alert you with a dashboard light if there’s a charging issue.

You needed a jump start recently. Needing more than one jump in a short time usually means the battery isn’t holding a charge.

Visible corrosion. Green or white powder around the terminals can block the battery’s ability to send power.

At Joe’s Slinger Service , we provide professional battery testing and replacement for all makes and models. If your car won’t start—or you’re not sure if the battery is the issue—stop in for a quick check. We proudly serve drivers in communities surrounding Washington County, WI.

Why Is My Car’s A/C Blowing Warm Air?

Thu, 03 Jul 2025 11:06:00 GMT

Summer heat in Wisconsin can make driving downright uncomfortable—especially when your car’s air conditioning is blowing warm air. If you’ve noticed your A/C isn’t keeping you cool, there are a few common culprits to consider.

1. Low on Refrigerant

The most frequent cause is low refrigerant (also known as Freon). Over time, small leaks can develop in the system, especially with the harsh winters we see here in Wisconsin . Without enough refrigerant, your A/C can’t cool the air properly.

2. Failing Compressor

The compressor is what moves refrigerant through your system. If it fails, your air conditioner won’t work. Signs of a bad compressor include strange noises, a lack of cold air, or the A/C clutch not engaging.

3. Electrical Issues

A blown fuse or faulty relay can prevent your A/C from functioning altogether. If your system isn’t turning on, it might not be mechanical—it could be electrical.

4. Blocked Condenser

The condenser, located near the front of your vehicle, cools down the refrigerant. Dirt, bugs, and debris can block airflow and cause the system to blow warm air instead of cold.

5. Broken Blend Door or Actuator

Inside your dashboard, a blend door controls whether air flows through the heater or A/C system. If this door gets stuck, you might only get warm air—no matter how cold you set it.

Stay Cool with A/C Repair at Joe’s Slinger Service

If your car’s A/C isn’t working like it used to, Joe’s Slinger Service is here to help. We proudly serve Washington County and surrounding communities. Our ASE-certified technicians will perform a complete air conditioning inspection, diagnose the issue, and get your vehicle cooling properly again—fast.

What Are The Symptoms Of A Bad Tie Rod End?

Thu, 03 Jul 2025 09:30:07 GMT

Signs of a Worn Tie Rod End – What Drivers Should Watch For

If your vehicle feels like it’s pulling to one side or your steering seems loose or unresponsive, a worn tie rod end might be to blame. The tie rod plays a key role in steering and front-end alignment. When it starts to fail, it can affect how your vehicle handles and how evenly your tires wear.

At Joe’s Slinger Service , we see tie rod issues fairly often, especially in Wisconsin where rough roads, salt, and potholes take a toll on suspension components. Here are some common warning signs to watch for:

1. Uneven or Rapid Tire Wear

The front tires may be wearing out quicker on one side, a loose or worn tie rod could be the cause. It throws off your alignment, making your tires wear unevenly.

2. Clunking or Popping Sounds

Hearing a clunking or popping noise when turning at low speeds or backing up? That’s often a sign the tie rod end is worn and has too much play.

3. Vague or Wandering Steering

Steering feels loose, or the vehicle seems to drift even when you’re trying to drive straight, it could mean the tie rod isn’t holding the wheels in proper alignment.

4. Steering Wheel Vibrations

A shaky steering wheel, especially at higher speeds or while cornering, can be caused by tie rod wear.

5. Visible Damage

The rubber boot on the tie rod is torn or grease is leaking out, moisture and debris can get in—leading to faster wear and eventual failure.

Local Drivers: Don’t Ignore the Signs

If you’re experiencing any of these issues in Washington County or the surrounding areas , bring your vehicle to Joe’s Slinger Service. We’ll inspect your steering and suspension, let you know what’s worn, and get it fixed right the first time.

ASE-Certified Technicians
Fast, Honest Diagnostics
Trusted by Slinger Drivers Since 1992

How Do I Know If My Struts Are Bad?

Thu, 03 Jul 2025 09:25:16 GMT

Wondering if your struts are bad? Joe’s Slinger Service in Slinger, WI explains the top signs of worn struts. Call today for expert suspension repair near you!

If your vehicle isn’t riding as smoothly as it used to, your struts might be the reason. Struts play a big role in your suspension system, keeping your ride stable and your tires in contact with the road. At Joe’s Slinger Service , we often see customers from communities in and across Washington County, WI experiencing issues that point to worn-out struts.

Here are the top five signs that your struts may need attention:

1. Your Car Bounces Excessively

If your vehicle keeps bouncing after going over a bump or feels like it’s floating, your struts may be worn and not dampening road shock properly.

2. You Hear Clunking Noises

Knocking or clunking sounds when driving over rough roads can indicate that your strut assembly is loose or broken.

3. Uneven Tire Wear

Worn struts can throw off your alignment, causing your tires to wear unevenly or develop bald spots.

4. Steering Feels Loose or Unstable

Do you feel like your car drifts when turning or in strong winds? Bad struts can affect your steering response and overall stability.

5. Fluid is Leaking

If you notice oily residue on or near your struts, it’s likely that the internal seals are leaking—meaning the struts are no longer functioning correctly.

Why It Matters

Ignoring bad struts can cause more wear on other parts of your suspension, increase braking distance, and make your vehicle unsafe—especially in wet or icy conditions here in Wisconsin.

At Joe’s Slinger Service, we provide reliable strut replacement and suspension repair for all makes and models.

When Should I Replace My Windshield Wipers?

Thu, 03 Jul 2025 09:16:17 GMT

If you’ve noticed your windshield wipers aren’t doing their job, it might be time for a replacement. In Wisconsin, our changing seasons can be tough on wiper blades—especially with snow, ice, and heavy rains in the mix.

Most vehicle manufacturers recommend replacing your wiper blades every 6 to 12 months , but you may need to change them sooner if you notice any of the following:

Streaks or smears on your windshield

A chattering or squeaking noise during operation

Wipers skipping across the glass

Torn, cracked, or worn-out rubber

Difficulty seeing during rain or snowstorms

At Joe’s Slinger Service, we suggest checking your wipers every season to make sure they’re still in good shape. Clean, functioning wiper blades are essential for safe driving, especially during Wisconsin’s unpredictable weather.

Need help? Stop by Joe’s Slinger Service—we’ll inspect your wipers and install a new set if needed. It’s a quick, affordable way to keep your visibility clear and your driving safe.

Serving Washington County and surrounding communities.

Can You Drive With A Broken Exhaust Flex Pipe?

Thu, 03 Jul 2025 09:10:52 GMT

Can I Drive with a Broken Exhaust Flex Pipe?

If you’ve noticed a loud exhaust noise or smell fumes in your vehicle’s cabin, it might be due to a broken exhaust flex pipe. While your car may still technically run, driving with a damaged flex pipe isn’t a good idea—and here’s why.

What is an Exhaust Flex Pipe?

The flex pipe is a flexible component in your vehicle’s exhaust system. It absorbs movement from the engine and vibrations from the road, protecting the rest of the exhaust system from damage.

Is It Safe to Drive with a Broken Flex Pipe?

You can drive short distances with a broken flex pipe, but it’s not recommended for long. Here’s what can go wrong:

Loud Exhaust Noise: A broken pipe creates a loud, rattling or hissing sound.

Fumes in the Cabin: Dangerous exhaust gases like carbon monoxide can enter the cabin—especially concerning during Wisconsin’s cold months when windows are rolled up.

Reduced Fuel Efficiency: Your engine may compensate for the leak, causing poor fuel economy.

Check Engine Light: You might notice warning lights related to emissions or engine performance.

Further Damage: A failing flex pipe can cause wear on the catalytic converter, oxygen sensors, and even engine mounts.

Get It Checked at Joe’s Slinger Service

If you’re near Washington County or Surrounding Areas , bring your vehicle to Joe’s Slinger Service . We’ll perform a full inspection and offer cost-effective repairs to keep your exhaust system running safely and quietly.

We specialize in exhaust system repairs, emissions diagnostics, and full-service automotive care for drivers in Washington County, WI.

What Type of Refrigerant Does My Car’s AC Use?

Thu, 03 Jul 2025 09:01:42 GMT

When your car’s air conditioning starts blowing warm air, low refrigerant could be the issue—but not all vehicles use the same type of refrigerant. At Joe’s Slinger Service we help drivers throughout Washington County and surrounding areas stay cool by identifying and servicing the right AC refrigerant for their vehicle.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

R-134a: This is the most common refrigerant used in vehicles built from 1995 through the early 2010s . Many cars and trucks still on the road today use R-134a.

R-1234yf: Starting around 2015 , manufacturers began using this more environmentally friendly refrigerant. It requires special equipment to service.

R-12 (Freon): If your vehicle is a classic made before 1995 , it may use R-12. This refrigerant is now banned due to environmental regulations, and vehicles using it need a retrofit to a newer system.

To find out what your vehicle uses, check the under-hood label or stop by our shop. Our technicians can quickly identify your refrigerant type and recharge your AC system using the correct formula.

At Joe’s Slinger Service , we proudly serve customers from Washington County , and surrounding areas. Whether your AC needs a recharge, diagnosis, or full repair, our team is ready to help you beat the Wisconsin heat.

Need your car’s AC looked at?

Call us and swing by the shop. We’ll get you cooled down fast.

Do Air Intake Valve and Fuel System Cleaners Really Work?

Thu, 03 Jul 2025 08:57:08 GMT

If your car is running rough, idling strangely, or you’ve noticed a drop in gas mileage, you might have heard about air intake valve or fuel system cleaners. But do these treatments actually work?

At Joe’s Slinger Service we’ve seen firsthand how buildup from carbon and fuel deposits can affect engine performance—especially in today’s direct-injection engines. Over time, deposits can form on the intake valves , inside fuel injectors , and throughout the fuel delivery system , causing hesitation, poor fuel economy, or even hard starting.

Here’s what these cleaners actually do:

Air intake valve cleaners help remove carbon deposits from the valves and upper intake system, which is especially helpful on GDI (gasoline direct injection) engines that are known for carbon buildup.

Fuel system cleaners are added to your gas tank and work their way through the system to clean injectors, fuel rails, and combustion chambers.

When They’re Worth It:

When used as part of routine maintenance —every 30,000 to 60,000 miles—these services can prevent major problems and keep your engine running efficiently.

They’re most effective when applied by a professional , using equipment designed to clean deeply and safely.

These treatments are often recommended if you’ve experienced rough idle, loss of power, or reduced MPG.

But it’s important to know that not all products work the same. Many over-the-counter cleaners are mild and may not fully break down stubborn deposit s. That’s why we use professional-grade cleaners that are matched to your engine’s needs.

If you’re near Washington County or surrounding areas , and you’re wondering whether your car would benefit from a fuel system cleaning or intake decarbon service , stop by Joe’s Slinger Service . We’ll inspect your vehicle and help you decide if a cleaner is the right next step—or if a more involved repair is needed.

What Is an R-1234yf AC Machine and Why Does It Matter for Your Vehicle?

Thu, 03 Jul 2025 08:50:02 GMT

If you drive a newer car, there’s a good chance it uses R-1234yf refrigerant in the air conditioning system. This newer, more environmentally friendly refrigerant is quickly replacing the older R-134a in many makes and models. But to service these systems properly and safely, a shop needs specialized tools—specifically, an R-1234yf AC machine.

At Joe’s Slinger Service , we’ve invested in the right equipment to handle both R-1234yf and R-134a AC systems . Here’s what makes an R-1234yf AC machine different:

What Does an R-1234yf Machine Do?

Recovers refrigerant from your system safely

Recycles and filters the refrigerant for reuse

Evacuates moisture and air using vacuum technology

Recharges the AC with the exact amount of R-1234yf and the proper oil

Because R-1234yf is mildly flammable, this machine is built to meet strict SAE and EPA safety standards. Using the wrong machine—or the wrong refrigerant—can damage your system and even void your warranty.

Why It Matters –

Many vehicles built after 2018 require R-1234yf service. Whether you’re dealing with warm air blowing from your vents or just want to keep your AC system working efficiently, it’s important to trust a shop with the right certifications and tools.

Joe’s Slinger Service is your local go-to for air conditioning service in Washington County WI and surrounding areas , including R-1234yf refrigerant recharge, leak checks, and full AC diagnostics.

Need your air conditioning system checked before your next road trip? Call us today!

How Often Should I Change My Brake Fluid?

Thu, 03 Jul 2025 08:43:36 GMT

How Often Should You Change Your Brake Fluid?

Your brake system is one of the most important safety features in your vehicle—and brake fluid plays a critical role in keeping it working properly. Over time, brake fluid absorbs moisture, which can lead to corrosion inside the brake lines and reduced stopping power.

So how often should you change your brake fluid? At Joe’s Slinger Service , we generally recommend a brake fluid flush every 2 to 3 years or around 30,000 miles , depending on your driving habits. If you’re often in stop-and-go traffic, tow heavy loads, or drive in the hills around Washington County or surrounding areas, you might need it sooner.

Not sure if your brake fluid needs to be changed? Signs to watch for include:

A soft or spongy brake pedal

Brake warning lights

Reduced braking performance

Fluid that looks dark or dirty

We check brake fluid during routine inspections at our shop. If we notice moisture contamination or degraded fluid, we’ll let you know and recommend the best time for a full brake fluid exchange.

Whether you’re in Washington County WI or surrounding areas, our ASE-certified technicians are here to help you stay safe on the road. Schedule your next brake inspection or brake fluid service with Joe’s Slinger Service today!

Trusted by drivers throughout our area for reliable, honest auto repair.

How Do I Know If My Starter Is Bad?

Wed, 02 Jul 2025 09:41:05 GMT

Is Your Starter Going Bad? Here’s How to Tell

If your car refuses to start, the issue might not be the battery—it could be the starter. At Joe’s Slinger Service, we help drivers quickly diagnose and fix no-start problems, including faulty starters.

Common Signs of a Bad Starter:

Clicking Noise or Silence

You turn the key or press the start button and hear a single click—or nothing at all. Your lights might work, but the engine won’t crank.

Intermittent Starting Issues

Some mornings it starts just fine. Other times, nothing. This inconsistency is often a red flag.

Grinding or Whirring Sounds

These noises may mean the starter gear isn’t engaging correctly.

Smoke or Burning Smell

If you smell something burning or see a little smoke near the engine, it could be a starter overheating or shorting out.

Keep in mind—problems with your battery, cables, ignition switch, or starter relay can mimic these symptoms. That’s why it’s important to get your system properly tested.

Whether you need a starter replacement , a battery check , or auto electrical diagnostics, Joe’s Slinger Service is here to help. Give us a call or stop by—fast, honest service from a team that cares.

What Causes A Tire Pressure Sensor To Fail?

Wed, 02 Jul 2025 09:36:58 GMT

Why Tire Pressure Sensors Fail – And When to Replace Them

Tire pressure sensors, also known as TPMS sensors, help keep you safe by alerting you when tire pressure is too low. But over time, these sensors can stop working—causing that annoying dashboard light to stay on even after you’ve aired up your tires.

At Joe’s Slinger Service , we regularly help drivers with TPMS problems. If your tire light is on and won’t turn off, here are a few reasons your sensor might be failing:

1. Dead Battery Inside the Sensor

Most TPMS sensors use a sealed battery that lasts 5–10 years. Once the battery dies, the sensor won’t send signals to your car’s computer. This is the most common reason we replace sensors in our Slinger WI auto repair shop.

2. Damage from the Road or Installation

Wisconsin roads can be tough on your tires. Hitting potholes, curbs, or even a careless tire install can damage a sensor.

3. Salt Corrosion

Our winter road salt can corrode metal valve stems, especially on older sensors. Corrosion can cause the sensor to fail—or create a slow air leak.

4. Improper Programming

If your tires were rotated or replaced and your TPMS light came on right after, it could be that one or more sensors weren’t reset correctly.

5. Sensor Age

Like many parts, sensors wear out over time. If your vehicle is 7+ years old and you’ve never replaced the sensors, it may be time.

If your TPMS light is flashing or staying on, stop in and let our team take a look. We offer TPMS testing and sensor replacement for all makes and models —with fast service and honest advice.

Why Do I Need A Brake Rotor?

Tue, 24 Jun 2025 09:45:29 GMT

When you press the brake pedal, you’re counting on your vehicle to respond quickly and stop safely. One of the most important parts of that system is something many drivers don’t think about until there’s a problem: the brake rotor .

What Is a Brake Rotor?

A brake rotor is a flat, circular metal disc attached to each wheel. When you brake, the pads squeeze against the rotor to create the friction needed to slow your car down. Over time, this wear and tear adds up—and damaged or warped rotors can affect your ability to stop safely.

Signs You May Need New Brake Rotors

Pulsing or vibration when braking

Squeaking, squealing, or grinding sounds

Grooves or rust visible on the rotor surface

Brake pads wearing out faster than normal

Why It Matters

At Joe’s Slinger Service , we regularly help drivers from Slinger, Hartford, West Bend , and the surrounding areas stay safe on the road with professional brake inspections and rotor replacements.

Rotors in poor condition can cause:

Longer stopping distances

Uneven wear on brake pads

Damage to calipers and other components

Reduced safety during emergency braking

If you’re hearing noises or feeling vibrations, don’t wait—bring your vehicle in for a brake check. We’ll inspect your rotors and recommend whether resurfacing or replacement is the right move.

Located in Slinger, WI , we’re here to help with all your brake repair and maintenance needs . Schedule your appointment today and keep your vehicle ready for wherever the road takes you.

Why Do My Tires Need To Be Balanced Or Rotated?

Tue, 06 May 2025 09:54:23 GMT

Tire Rotation vs. Tire Balancing: What’s the Difference and Why Should You Care?

If your car’s ride isn’t feeling quite right or your tires are wearing unevenly, you might hear terms like “tire rotation” and “tire balancing” thrown around. They sound similar—but they’re not the same thing. At Joe’s Slinger Service here in Slinger, WI, we explain this to customers all the time, so here’s a quick breakdown of what each service does and why both matter for your vehicle.

What Is Tire Rotation?

Tire rotation is exactly what it sounds like—moving your tires from one position on your vehicle to another. It’s done to make sure all four tires wear down more evenly. For example, your front tires usually wear out faster than the rears, especially if your car is front-wheel drive. By rotating them regularly (every 5,000 to 7,000 miles), you help each tire last longer and keep your vehicle handling the way it should.

We follow the rotation pattern that makes sense for your vehicle’s drivetrain—whether it’s front-, rear-, or all-wheel drive. And yes, it really does make a difference over time.

What Is Tire Balancing?

Now, tire balancing is a different process. It deals with tiny weight differences around your wheels that can throw things off. Even a slight imbalance can cause annoying vibrations in your steering wheel or seat—especially when you’re driving at higher speeds.

When we balance your tires, we mount them on a machine that spins each one and tells us exactly where weight needs to be added. We’ll then attach small weights to the wheel to get things running smoothly again.

If you’ve ever searched something like “do my tires need to be balanced?”, the answer might be yes if you’re noticing vibrations, uneven wear, or even a dip in fuel efficiency.

Should I Do Both?

In most cases, yes. Rotating and balancing your tires at the same time is a smart move. Rotation helps them wear evenly, while balancing keeps your ride smooth and your suspension components from taking a beating. We typically recommend doing both during a regular maintenance visit, like when you come in for an oil change.

Locally Trusted Tire Services in Slinger, WI

At Joe’s Slinger Service, we handle both rotation and balancing in-house, serving customers from Slinger, Hartford, and all across Washington County. If you’re not sure when you last had either done, just give us a call or stop by—we’ll take a look and let you know what your vehicle needs.

Why Is My Car Squealing?

Tue, 06 May 2025 09:51:14 GMT

Understanding Your Vehicle’s Belts: What They Do and When to Replace Them

Most drivers don’t give much thought to the belts under the hood—until something goes wrong. But your car’s belts play a big role in keeping essential systems running smoothly. Knowing the basics can help you spot early warning signs and avoid breakdowns or costly repairs down the road.

At Joe’s Slinger Service, we inspect these belts during regular maintenance visits and recommend replacement when they show signs of wear. Here’s a quick breakdown of the most common types of belts found in modern vehicles and what to watch for.

Serpentine Belt

The serpentine belt is one of the most important belts in your engine bay. It powers multiple components at once, including the alternator, power steering pump, air conditioning compressor, and sometimes the water pump.

Common symptoms of a worn serpentine belt:

Squealing or chirping noises, especially on startup
Loss of power steering or A/C
Visible cracks or fraying on the belt

If this belt snaps while driving, you could lose power steering and other essential functions instantly, so it’s best to catch wear early.

Timing Belt (or Timing Chain)

Not every vehicle has a timing belt—some use a timing chain—but for those that do, it’s critical. The timing belt keeps your engine’s crankshaft and camshaft in sync so the engine valves open and close at the right time.

Signs your timing belt may need attention:

Ticking noise from the engine
Engine misfires or stalls
Rough idling
Service light on, especially around 60,000–100,000 miles (depending on the vehicle)

Unlike serpentine belts, timing belts are hidden under covers and don’t usually show visible wear, so it’s important to follow your manufacturer’s replacement interval.

Drive Belts / V-Belts (Older Vehicles)

Before serpentine belts became standard, most vehicles used individual V-belts to power systems like the alternator or power steering. If you drive an older model, your car might still rely on these.

Watch for:

Squealing noises under the hood why is my car squealing Joe’s Slinger Service Slinger WI 53086
Slipping accessories (like slow charging or stiff steering)
Visible glazing or cracking

Stretch Belts (Found in Some Modern Cars)

Some newer engines use stretch belts—single-use belts designed to be installed without tensioners. These are common on specific systems like the A/C compressor.

Symptoms of a failing stretch belt:

Accessory failure (e.g., A/C not working)
Flapping or slapping noise from the belt area
Belt looks misaligned or stretched too far

Don’t Wait Until It Snaps

Belt failure can leave you stranded—or worse, cause serious engine damage. If you’ve noticed strange sounds, visible wear, or you’re not sure when your belts were last checked, it’s a good idea to schedule an inspection.

At Joe’s Slinger Service, we provide belt inspections and replacements for most makes and models. Whether it’s your serpentine belt, timing belt, or anything in between, our team in Slinger, WI will make sure your vehicle stays safe and running strong.

What Is a Drive Shaft and Why Does It Matter?

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 09:57:24 GMT

The drive shaft is a critical part of your vehicle’s drivetrain, connecting the transmission to the wheels. Without it, the engine’s power would never make it to the ground.

What Does the Drive Shaft Do?

Transfers Power: Carries engine torque from the transmission to the wheels.

Handles Movement: Absorbs bumps, turns, and flexing without losing strength.

Keeps You Moving: Without a working drive shaft, your vehicle can’t drive properly.

Signs of a Drive Shaft Problem

Vibrations under the vehicle

Clunking or banging sounds when shifting

Trouble turning or slow acceleration

Shuddering while driving

Why Maintenance Matters

Ignoring drive shaft problems can lead to bigger (and more expensive) repairs, including damage to the transmission or differential. Catching early signs can save you money and keep your ride smooth. Washington County, WI communities can rely on the team at Joe’s Slinger Service to maintain and repair or replace your driveshaft so you and your family are safe on-the-road!

Does My Car Need an Oil Change

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 08:53:38 GMT

Your engine is the heart of your vehicle, and oil is what keeps it running smoothly. Over time, oil breaks down and collects dirt, reducing its ability to lubricate and protect your engine. That’s why regular oil changes are one of the simplest—and most important—things you can do to protect your investment.

Clean oil keeps your engine cool, reduces friction, and helps prevent long-term wear. Skipping oil changes can lead to poor performance, decreased fuel economy, and even major engine damage down the road.

Most vehicles should have their oil changed every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, depending on the type of oil and driving habits. Not sure what’s right for your car? At Joe’s Slinger Service, we’re happy to check your oil condition and recommend a schedule that fits your vehicle and your routine.

Staying on top of oil changes now means avoiding costly repairs later. It’s fast, affordable, and one of the best things you can do to extend the life of your car.

Need an oil change? Give us a call at 262-644-8276 or stop by Joe’s Slinger Service in Slinger, WI. We’ll keep your vehicle running right!

Keep Your Fleet Vehicles Running

Fri, 28 Mar 2025 08:58:21 GMT

Regular maintenance is the only way to keep your cars, trucks, vans on the road and making money for you! Routine services like brake inspections, tire rotations, fluid checks and flushes, battery testing, and alignments help extend the life of your fleet and improve fuel efficiency. Catching small issues early—like unusual noises, sluggish performance, or dashboard warnings—can prevent bigger problems down the road. When repairs are needed, getting them done quickly is essential to keeping your business on track.

At Joe’s Slinger Service we understand that when your fleet vehicles are not on the road, you are not making money. We offer same day repairs, when possible, to keep your fleet on-the-road. Call us at 262-644-8276 to schedule your repairs and maintenance. We provide expert service for trucks of all sizes, including F-350s and smaller.

Debunking the Dealership Repair Myth: Your Rights as a Car Owner

Tue, 14 Jan 2025 09:02:17 GMT

One of the most persistent myths in the automotive world is the belief that purchasing a vehicle from a dealership means you must return to that dealership for repairs and maintenance to avoid voiding your warranty. This misconception often causes unnecessary stress for car owners and limits their options when it comes to maintaining their vehicles. However, the truth is far more empowering—you are not obligated to use the dealership for repairs or maintenance, and doing so will not void your warranty, as long as the work is done properly.

Under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, a federal law enacted in 1975, consumers are protected against warranty-related restrictions that unfairly limit their choices. This law ensures that you can have your car serviced or repaired at any qualified independent auto repair shop without jeopardizing your warranty coverage. The key is that the service must be performed correctly, and the parts used must meet the manufacturer’s specifications. Dealerships do not have the exclusive right to maintain or repair your vehicle, and independent shops are more than capable of providing high-quality service—often at a lower cost.

Choosing an independent repair shop like Joe’s Slinger Service LLC can also provide numerous benefits beyond just cost savings. Local shops often offer personalized service, build long-term relationships with their customers, and have skilled technicians with a deep understanding of various vehicle makes and models. By selecting a trusted independent repair facility, you retain control over your car’s care while supporting small businesses in your community. The next time you need maintenance or repairs, rest assured that you have options—and your warranty remains safe.

When is the Best Time to Buy Tires?

Mon, 09 Dec 2024 15:52:35 GMT

Tire shopping has become much more complicated than it used to be merely because of the numerous varieties of vehicles sold today. Keep in mind that the brands and weights of vehicles vary so much! Also some cars or SUV’s have a different tire size on the front than they have on the back. So how do you find the best time to buy tires?

Tire manufacturers will have promotional cycles where they offer rebates or cash back on a set of four tires specific to their brand. The best time to look for deals on tires is at a time you actually need the tires. Tires are very expensive and unlike a mattress or television, there really is not a “best time of year” to purchase them.

The team at Joe’s will look up exactly what tire you need and source it from their best providers. This will save you the headache of shopping for the best deal, and not getting the best ride or even the right tire suited to your vehicle. We are always happy to help you!

What Are Wheel Locks, and Why Do They Matter?

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 17:17:40 GMT

Wheel locks are specially designed lug nuts with unique patterns that require a matching key to remove. They are an effective way to prevent wheel theft, but they can also become a hurdle during routine maintenance if your automotive technician doesn’t know where the key is stored.

Telling your service advisor when dropping off your vehicle is the best time to relay this important information. If the technician can’t find your wheel lock key, then they will have to search your vehicle or ask for your help to find them. This delays the service process and might push back the timeline for completing your maintenance or repair.

If the key is lost, the shop may need to use specialized tools to remove the locks, which can result in extra labor fees. In some cases, you might even need to purchase a new set of wheel locks.

If you don’t know where your key locks are, here are a few places to look:

In the glove compartment
In the center console
In the trunk by the spare tire or inside compartments
In the door pocket or cup holders
Under the seat
In a dedicated pouch or bag
Attached to the lug wrench

You can always refer to your owner’s manual to find where it was originally placed.

Knowing where your wheel locks are is a small but impactful step in ensuring a stress-free appointment.

Monthly Archives: November 2024

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 16:08:10 GMT

If the key is lost, the shop may need to use specialized tools to remove the locks, which can result in extra labor fees. In some cases, you might even need to purchase a new set of wheel locks.

If you don’t know where your key locks are, here are a few places to look:

In the glove compartment
In the center console
In the trunk by the spare tire or inside compartments
In the door pocket or cup holders
Under the seat
In a dedicated pouch or bag
Attached to the lug wrench

You can always refer to your owner’s manual to find where it was originally placed.

Knowing where your wheel locks are is a small but impactful step in ensuring a stress-free appointment.

Are Do-It-Yourself Air Conditioning Charging Kits Effective?

Thu, 19 Sep 2024 17:34:55 GMT

Do-It-Yourself A/C Refrigerant Charging Kits

Some of us like to do things ourselves and we get a lot of questions regarding the do-it-yourself refrigerant charging kits. Here are a few reasons not to do this yourself.

Air conditioning systems are designed to operate with a very specific amount of refrigerant and oil in them. How do you know how much to” fill it up” is needed? You can add refrigerant out of a spray can with a hose until you “think” it’s enough, but that can lead to an incorrect charge in the system. This can damage your air conditioning system even if you use too much or too little of this refrigerant.
These kits most often contain a Stop Leak chemical in them. Vehicle manufacturers did not design vehicles to have this chemical in them and they have very small pathways in some areas and delicate moving parts in others. The Stop Leak will restrict the pathways and goop up the moving parts, inevitably causing you costly repairs in the future.

Stop Leak can also damage our equipment used to recover refrigerant from your vehicle when it comes in for maintenance. Please let us know if you have used any prior to scheduling service.

Joe’s Slinger Service has licensed professionals who use state-of-the-art equipment to keep our environment safe. EPA tells us that refrigerant is harmful to the environment and we take that seriously.

air conditioing Joe’s Slinger Service Slinger WI 53086

Do I Need An Alignment With New Tires?

Thu, 19 Sep 2024 17:31:47 GMT

New tires are an investment in your vehicle and more importantly an investment in your safety. Wheel misalignment will cause your new tires to wear prematurely and drastically shorten the life of your new tires.

Normal use of your vehicle, especially on the rough winter roads , will cause your vehicle to become misaligned. Starting fresh with a newly inspected suspension on a properly aligned vehicle will give your tires what they need to serve you for the long haul! We recommend alignments on all vehicles getting new tires.

do i need an alignment with new tires Joe’s Slinger Service Slinger WI

Why Is My Car Pulling To The Right?

Thu, 19 Sep 2024 17:29:34 GMT

If you’ve noticed your car pulling to the right while driving, it’s more than just an annoyance—it’s often a sign that something needs attention. At Joe’s Slinger Service , we frequently see this issue in vehicles from across Washington County WI and surrounding areas. Here are some of the most common causes:

1. Wheel Alignment Problems

When your wheels aren’t aligned properly, your vehicle will tend to drift to one side. Wisconsin’s rough roads and potholes make this a frequent issue for local drivers.

2. Uneven Tire Pressure

Low air pressure in one of your tires—especially on the driver’s side—can cause a pull. Even a small PSI difference can make a big impact on handling.

3. Sticking Brake Calipers

If one of your brake calipers is sticking, it can cause uneven braking, which may lead to a pull while driving or braking.

4. Worn or Mismatched Tires

Uneven tread wear, mismatched tire brands, or old tires can cause your car to track off-center.

5. Suspension Wear

Damaged or worn suspension parts, such as control arms or bushings, can affect your steering and cause drifting.

What Should You Do?

If your car is pulling to the right, it’s best to have it checked before it leads to more serious wear—or even a safety issue. Our ASE-certified techs at Joe’s Slinger Service can perform a complete inspection, including alignment checks, tire pressure, brakes, and suspension components.

We’re proud to serve drivers in Washington County , and surrounding areas with honest, high-quality auto repair and diagnostics.

why is my car pulling to the right Joe’s Slinger Service Slinger WI

What Kind Of Tires Does My Vehicle Need?

Fri, 13 Sep 2024 17:36:47 GMT

What kind of tires does my vehicle need Joe’s Slinger Service Slinger WI

Most of us have no idea figuring out what kind of tires our car or truck needs. Tires are a very large investment in your vehicle and they are what keep you safe on the road, so much thought needs to be put into their purchase. Tires not only wear out by how much driving you do, but also by age.

Size

Every vehicle has a white and yellow sticker inside of the driver’s door jamb. This sticker is called the tire placard and it states the acceptable size / sizes of tires, the required speed rating and the recommended tire pressure. We recommend following your vehicle’s guidelines for tires. Having the right size, type and air pressure in your tires will not only ensure your vehicle performs as designed, it will also help make sure your traction control system works and will help you as much as possible during emergency maneuvers. All tires we recommend will always meet or exceed your vehicle requirements.

Road Condition Needs

Your needs will reflect your driving lifestyle. Most of you are using your vehicles on paved roads and are looking for the smoothest and quietest driving experience available. However, some clients are looking for the look and performance of an all-terrain or summer performance tire. Other clients are looking to improve the load handling ability of their truck or SUV. Whether you are using your vehicle for only on-road driving, for track days, or you love hitting the trails on the weekends we have a tire that can help you get the best driving experience with your vehicle!

Mileage Needs

We find that there is a large variance in the yearly miles clients put on their vehicles. While some vehicles are used for work or long commutes other vehicles we care for spend most of their time in town being used less than 10,000 miles per year. Most sizes of tires have the option of many different mileage ratings to help fit the tire to the needs of our client. Vehicles that see more miles can benefit from a higher mileage tire. While the tire may cost more per tire it may be a good financial decision to buy a more expensive tire if you will be able to enjoy the benefit of more miles during its service life. Similarly if you will only have driven your vehicle 50,000 miles during the 5 years of recommended service life of your tire it does not make great financial sense to buy a tire that could have gone 80,000 miles. Lower tread life tires are typically less expensive, they are just as safe as high mileage tires they will just wear out in less miles.

Budget

Cost is always a factor in choosing tires. While some prefer the name recognition and company reputation of a premium brand of tire there are many great quality lower cost options. Joe’s is always researching, and trying different series and brands of tires to be able to offer our clients safe and well-built alternatives. Many of our alternative brands of tires offer models that outperform and outlast our premium offerings! Joe’s can help with most brands of premium tires!

Top 10 Biggest Mistakes Car Owners Make

Mon, 12 Aug 2024 17:43:31 GMT

Owning a car is a huge financial investment, but a necessary one. It goes without saying that vehicles need routine maintenance and repair and unfortunately delaying maintenance is one of the biggest mistakes car owners make.

Top 10 Biggest Car Mistakes Joe’s Slinger Service Slinger WI

Whether you drive a new vehicle or a late-model vehicle, avoid these 10 costly mistakes.

1.Starting your car and driving off immediately.

Your vehicle’s engine is a collection of moving parts. Those parts rely on fluids and lubricants to move freely. When your car has been resting, those fluids cool down and congeal. For them to flow through the engine again, the vehicle’s motor needs to run. This is why it is so important to allow your car to warm up after you start it. Even 30-60 seconds of uninterrupted run time is enough to distribute critical fluids through your engine and decrease wear and tear.

2.Using the Wrong Fuel

May sound found ridiculous, but many drivers are using the wrong fuel in their car. Your vehicle’s owner manual will tell you what type of fuel to put in your car. IF it recommends premium fuel, you should only be using premium fuel and the same goes for any car that a manufacturer recommends to run on regular fuel.

3.Changing Oil Too Infrequently

Think of your car’s oil system as its heartbeat. If your oil gets dirty or depleted, it’s impossible for your engine to run well. You should be changing your oil every 3,000 -5,000 miles as per your owner’s manual tells you. Changing your oil too often or too infrequently can damage your car’s engine.

4.Failing to Check Tire Pressure

For the best handling and control, your car’s tires need to be properly inflated. You don’t want to over-inflate them and you certainly don’t want to under-inflate them. Check your tire pressure when you fill up at the pumps and add air as needed.

5.Driving on Bald Tires

Driving on bald tires is dangerous and irresponsible. Cars with bald tires don’t handle well and aren’t safe during wet or inclement weather conditions. Make sure to check your tread depth each year. A way to check this is by taking a penny, turning it upside down, and inserting it between the grooves of your tires. If you can see Lincoln’s head, your tires are bald. Just think about all you have riding on those tires and make the investment for new ones before they become unsafe!

6.Ignoring Check Engine Lights

Manufacturers put those nasty check engine lights on your dashboard for a reason! They are trying to tell you something and ignoring your check engine light is a recipe for disaster! Sometimes the issue could be something as simple as a code, but it also could be something as serious as a faulty catalytic converter.

7.Not Keeping Up with Routine Maintenance

It is very easy to keep up with vehicle preventive maintenance such as oil changes and filter replacements. This stops problems before they start! However, IF you neglect these easy routine tasks, you’re putting your engine at risk for damage resulting in costly repairs and replacements!

8.Ignoring Strange Noises

Don’t turn up your radio hoping to drown out that noise you have been hearing for so long. There are only two ways to know if your vehicle has an issue that needs attention. One is the dashboard lights, and the other is listening to noises as you drive. If you hear banging, popping, whistling, grinding, or any other sound that is not normal to your car, it’s critical to get it checked.

9.Not Replacing Air and Fuel Filters

To keep your car running well, you need to check your vehicle’s filters at least every six months. Not only your cabin air filter, but other air and fuel filters decrease your engine’s workload, thereby reducing wear and tear and improving your car’s lifespan. Replacing those filters regularly is a simple way to keep your car running well.

10.Ignoring Safety Recalls

Safety recalls are a HUGE deal for car owners. If you become aware of a safety recall that affects your vehicle, contact a dealership to schedule any needed repairs immediately. The repairs will be free and could save you time, money, and injury down the road.

How to Tell if Your U-Joint Is Failing?

Thu, 08 Aug 2024 10:59:16 GMT

How to Tell if Your U-Joint Is Failing – Signs Every Driver Should Know

Common Signs of a Bad U-Joint

1. Clunking When Shifting Gears

If you hear a heavy clunk when putting your vehicle into drive or reverse, it could be a sign of too much play in the U-joint.

2. Vibration at Higher Speeds

Worn U-joints can throw your driveshaft out of balance, causing vibrations that get worse the faster you drive.

3. Squeaking at Low Speeds

A rhythmic squeak while rolling slowly may mean the bearings inside the U-joint are dry or worn out.

4. Play in the Driveline

If acceleration and deceleration feel jerky or loose, a failing U-joint could be the cause.

5. Visible Rust or Wear

Rust around the U-joint caps, or missing needle bearings, is a red flag that it’s time for replacement.

Why You Shouldn’t Ignore It

A bad U-joint can eventually cause your driveshaft to separate while driving—leading to costly repairs and unsafe driving conditions.

We Can Help

�� Serving Slinger, WI , as well as Hartford, Jackson, West Bend, and nearby communities .

�� Call us today at 262-644-8276 to schedule an appointment.

What Are The Symptoms Of A Bad Driveshaft?

Thu, 08 Aug 2024 10:54:53 GMT

5 Warning Signs Your Driveshaft Might Be Failing

If you’ve noticed unusual vibrations, strange noises, or trouble turning, your vehicle could be trying to tell you something — and one common culprit is a worn or damaged driveshaft. At Joe’s Slinger Service here in Slinger, WI , we’ve seen firsthand how catching driveshaft problems early can save drivers time, money, and a lot of stress.

Here are the top symptoms of a failing driveshaft:

1.Vibrations You Can Feel

If the steering wheel or floorboard shakes while driving — especially at higher speeds — your driveshaft may be out of balance or have worn U-joints.

2.Clunking or Knocking Noises

Loud, metallic clunks when shifting gears or accelerating from a stop can signal looseness or damage in the drivetrain.

3.Difficulty Turning

If your vehicle feels stiff or jerky while cornering, it could be caused by a seizing U-joint or binding driveshaft.

4.Squeaking That Won’t Quit

A constant squeak while driving often means the U-joints are dry and losing lubrication — a sign they may fail soon.

5.Shuddering on Takeoff

If your car hesitates or shakes when you accelerate from a stop, your driveshaft or related components may be worn.

Why This Matters

Driving with a bad driveshaft isn’t just uncomfortable — it can cause serious damage to your transmission, differential, or axles. The longer you wait, the bigger (and more expensive) the repair.

We’re Here to Help

If you’re in Slinger or areas surrounding Washington County , bring your vehicle to Joe’s Slinger Service for a full drivetrain inspection. Our ASE-certified technicians will pinpoint the issue and get you safely back on the road.

�� Call us today at 262-644-8276 or stop by our shop in Slinger, WI to schedule your appointment.

What Causes a Transfer Case to Fail?

Wed, 07 Aug 2024 10:48:01 GMT

�� Worried About Your Transfer Case? We Can Help.

What Causes a Transfer Case to Fail?

�� 1. Low or Dirty Transfer Case Fluid

�� 2. Lack of Maintenance

�� 3. Heavy Towing or Off-Roading

�� 4. Worn Internal Gears or Chains

With time and use, internal parts like gears and chains simply wear out. High mileage, poor fluid condition, or tough driving conditions will accelerate this process.

�� 5. Electrical Failures (In Electronic Transfer Cases)

�� 6. Mismatched or Uneven Tire Wear

Running different tire sizes (or even significantly uneven tread depth) on AWD or 4WD systems can lead to drivetrain binding. That extra stress can wear out your transfer case much faster.

�� 7. Improper Use of 4WD

Engaging 4WD on dry pavement in a part-time system causes excessive binding between the wheels and can quickly damage the transfer case. Always follow your owner’s manual instructions.

✅ Serving Slinger, Hartford, West Bend, Jackson, and Beyond!

What Are Signs Of A Bad Starter?

Wed, 07 Aug 2024 10:40:49 GMT

Trouble Starting Your Car? It Might Be the Starter

Common Symptoms of a Bad Starter:

1. Clicking sound when turning the key

If you hear a rapid clicking noise or just one solid “click” and nothing happens, the starter motor may be failing or unable to engage.

2. Engine won’t turn over

Your lights and radio might work fine, but the engine doesn’t crank. This is a strong sign your starter needs to be tested.

3. Starter works intermittently

Sometimes your car starts perfectly, and other times it doesn’t. This could point to a bad electrical connection in the starter system.

4. Grinding noises

A grinding or whirring sound could mean the starter gear isn’t engaging properly with the engine flywheel.

5. Smoke or burning smell

Repeated attempts to start the vehicle can overheat the starter motor. If you smell burning or see smoke, stop trying and have it looked at right away.

At Joe’s Slinger Service in Slinger, WI , we offer fast diagnostics and reliable starter replacements for all makes and models. Whether you’re in Washington County or surrounding areas, our team can help you get back on the road quickly and safely.

We also offer towing and shuttle service if your vehicle won’t start at home. If you think your starter is going bad, don’t wait—call us at 262-644-8276 or schedule a visit today.

Is Your Vehicle Showing Signs of a Bad Control Arm?

Wed, 07 Aug 2024 10:35:56 GMT

Here are 5 common symptoms of a failing or damaged control arm:

1. Clunking or Popping Noises

If you hear strange noises when going over bumps, turning corners, or braking, it could be the bushings or ball joints within the control arm assembly wearing out.

2. Steering That Feels Off

A worn control arm can throw off your wheel alignment, causing the vehicle to pull to one side or feel loose when steering .

3. Uneven Tire Wear

Check your tires. If one side is wearing faster than the other, it might not be the tires—it could be a control arm issue affecting your alignment.

4. Vibration in the Steering Wheel

Feeling vibrations, especially at higher speeds? A damaged or bent control arm can cause shaking through the steering wheel , which only gets worse over time.

5. Poor Handling or Instability

If your car feels unpredictable when turning or cornering, it’s time to get your suspension checked. A bad control arm can compromise the safety and control of your ride.

If you’re noticing any of these symptoms, don’t wait for it to get worse. Bring your vehicle to Joe’s Slinger Service —your local auto repair experts in Slinger , Wisconsin . Our team will inspect your suspension and get you safely back on the road.

�� Conveniently located in Slinger, WI

�� Call us at 262-644-8276

�� Trusted by drivers across Washington County and surrounding areas.

How Often Should You Change Your Oil Filter?

Wed, 07 Aug 2024 10:29:59 GMT

��️ What Does an Oil Filter Do?

�� When Should I Replace My Oil Filter?

We recommend replacing your oil filter every time you get an oil change . That’s typically every 3,000 to 7,500 miles , depending on your vehicle, driving habits, and whether you’re using synthetic or conventional oil.

Changing the oil without swapping the filter can allow old contaminants to mix with your fresh oil—which defeats the purpose of the oil change in the first place.

�� Stop by Joe’s Slinger Service

Give us a call at 262-644-8276 or swing by Joe’s Slinger Service for a fast, reliable oil change with a fresh filter—done right the first time.

How Often Should You Replace Your Engine Air Filter?

Wed, 07 Aug 2024 10:23:13 GMT

Keeping your engine breathing clean air is one of the simplest ways to protect its performance and longevity. Yet, engine air filters are often overlooked when it comes to routine maintenance.

�� How Often Should You Change Your Engine Air Filter?

Most manufacturers recommend changing your engine air filter every 15,000 to 30,000 miles . However, that interval can vary based on:

Local driving conditions (dusty roads, farm areas, construction zones)

How often you drive in heavy traffic

Towing or hauling loads

City vs. highway driving

If you’re driving in rural Wisconsin roads or commuting through stop-and-go traffic , your filter may clog faster, meaning it should be checked more often—about every oil change or every 6 months .

�� Why It Matters

A dirty or clogged air filter can:

Reduce fuel efficiency

Decrease engine power

Trigger your check engine light

Increase harmful emissions

Swapping in a new engine air filter is quick, affordable, and improves both performance and peace of mind.

��‍�� We Make It Easy

At Joe’s Slinger Service , we inspect your air filter as part of our comprehensive vehicle check-up . If it’s time for a replacement, we’ll let you know—and take care of it right away using quality parts that fit your vehicle.

�� Serving drivers from Slinger, and surrounding areas we’re your trusted local repair shop for honest, experienced service.

Stop in or call us at (262) 644-8276 to schedule your next maintenance check.

How do I know when to change my car’s air cabin filter?

Thu, 11 Jul 2024 11:17:31 GMT

It’s easy to know when to change your car’s air cabin filter. This filter is crucial for maintaining air quality inside your vehicle. Typically, you should change it every 15,000 to 25,000 miles or as recommended by your vehicle manufacturer. Of course this depends on other signs that appear telling you to replace sooner such as reduced airflow from the vents, increase dust or odors inside the car, or if you have been driving in dusty or polluted areas.

A visual inspection can reveal if the filter is dirty or clogged with debris. A clean cabin air filter ensures air circulation, improves HVAC system efficiency and enhances the overall comfort and health of your passengers by trapping pollutants and allergens before they enter the cabin.

The team at Joe’s Slinger Service will take a photo of your current filter and a new clean filter so you can make an informed decision when it comes time to replace your air cabin filter.

air cabin filter Joe’s Slinger Service Slinger WI

How do I know if I need new tires?

Wed, 10 Jul 2024 11:14:48 GMT

Your safety and that of your loved ones depend on the reliability of your tires to transport you safely to your destination. Tires not only keep your vehicle on the road but also ensure your safety throughout the journey. Adequate tread depth is crucial for maintaining safety on the road. While tires represent a significant investment in your vehicle, they require regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance and safety. One clear sign that it’s time to replace your tires is when the tread depth reaches 3/32 of an inch, which is equivalent to the distance from the edge of a penny to the top of Abraham Lincoln’s head. This depth marks the end of usable tread and is typically indicated by wear bars located between the tire grooves.

Visit Joe’s Slinger Service and have our ASE Certified Technicians inspect your tires to determine if they need replacement.

how do I know if I need tires Joe’s Slinger Service Slinger WI 53086

Does Heat Affect My Car’s Battery?

Tue, 09 Jul 2024 11:12:13 GMT

Absolutely! Just like all of us, we get cranky and sluggish when the outdoor temperatures skyrocket. The chemical reaction inside of your battery is stressed in extreme hot and cold conditions.

Most batteries are most often placed under your hood in the hot engine bay and they are exposed to engine operating temperatures. During the summer they are also baking under the hood of the vehicle even when not in use. All batteries are stressed in the heat, a battery that is marginal can be stressed to the point of failure.

The team at Joe’s can check the capacity and cold-cranking amps of your battery upon your request. We can determine if a battery is weak BEFORE it fails. All of our batteries come with a warranty for your peace-of-mind.

Does My Car Need a Tune-Up?

Wed, 19 Jun 2024 11:20:20 GMT

Regular tune-ups typically involve replacing spark plugs and filters, as well as performing an intake cleaning. These maintenance tasks are essential for keeping your vehicle in optimal condition, ensuring it runs smoothly and extends its lifespan.

Here are three signs that your vehicle may need a tune-up:

If you have noticed a decline in your Fuel Economy and a lack of acceleration.
If you have a Check Engine Light that is on or flashing.
If you are due by time or mileage. We recommend an intake cleaning every 3 years or 30,000 miles. Replacing filters as needed and changing spark plugs every 5 years or 60,000 miles. The team at Joe’s Slinger Service can help with all auto maintenance and repair needs. Let us look at your car and let you know if a tune up is needed! We are not your average “shop”. We really care about keeping you in safe and reliable transportation.

Why do my brakes squeal?

Thu, 16 May 2024 11:23:47 GMT

Brakes play a crucial role in keeping our vehicles safe, so it’s never pleasant to hear squealing or grinding when “hitting” the brakes.

Why am I hearing noises from my brakes?

Brake Pad Wear: The most common cause of brake noise is wear on the brake pads. Many vehicles’ brakes have metal tabs attached to the pads, and when they get too think, they contact the rotor face, producing a high-pitched squeal.

Metal-on-Metal Contact: If you hear a grinding noise when coming to a stop, it might mean one or more of your brake pads are worn down to metal. When friction material is gone, the metal backing hits the metal rotor face. When this grinding noise is heard, it is NOT advisable to continue using your vehicle.

Moisture and Overheating: Brake squeaks can result from moisture causing surface rust or parts overheating. You will most likely experience this in the first couple brake applications of the day. Overheated rotors or pads can become harder than designed, creating a squeak. In very moist or humid conditions, rust may develop on the rotor face, causing a swishing or squealing noise.

Let the ASE Certified Technicians at Joe’s Slinger Service inspect your brakes on a regular basis to keep you safe on-the-road!

why do my brakes squeak Joe’s Slinger Service Slinger, WI 53086

What is a Timing Chain?

Thu, 21 Mar 2024 11:27:52 GMT

As your engine runs, the intake valves need to open to allow air into the engine. They remain closed while the air and fuel are compressed and ignited, powering the piston. Then the exhaust valves open to release the exhaust. This all must be timed very precisely. It is the job of the timing belt or timing chain to make sure all of this is synced up properly.

Timing belts are made of a very tough compound that can last for tens of thousands of miles. Timing chains are made of metal and last for a very long time as well. If your vehicle has a timing belt, your owner’s manual has a schedule for replacing the belt. If your vehicle has a timing chain, there may not be a specified schedule for replacing it, but that doesn’t mean that the timing chain system is indestructible and never needs attention.

For example, the chain runs on sprockets on the crankshaft and the camshafts. A broken tooth on a sprocket can cause the chain to slip a little. When timing is off a little your engine will not run as smoothly. When timing is off enough your engine won’t run at all and could even be severely damaged. There is also a tensioner that keeps appropriate pressure on the timing chain. This keeps the chain tight while allowing it to absorb pulsations from the engine. The tensioner can wear out. There are also guide rails that keep the chain on the proper path that can become worn.

What is a Timing Chain? How to Manage Timing Chain Problems By Lee Jones | YMF Car PartsThe bottom line is that at some time, one or more of the timing chain system components will become worn to the point that they are no longer performing within specification. Your service advisor can help you with recommendations for when timing chain components should be replaced on your vehicle and have it inspected for signs of timing chain system wear. Since timing chains are lubricated by engine oil, staying on top of your regular oil changes is very important to prolong its life. You should always use a high-quality oil filter and oil of the recommended type and grade.

Give us a call and schedule an appointment today.

Joe’s Slinger Service

220 Info Hwy Court

Slinger, WI 53086

262-644-8276

www.joesslingerservice.com

Why Does My Jeep Steering Wheel Shake?

Thu, 22 Feb 2024 15:20:34 GMT

The “death wobble” is a term used to describe a severe vibration or shaking of the steering wheel that occurs in some Jeep vehicles, particularly Wranglers and Cherokees. This phenomenon typically occurs at higher speeds and is often triggered by hitting a bump or uneven road surface. The death wobble can be a frightening experience for drivers, as it can cause the entire vehicle to shake uncontrollably, leading to a loss of steering control and potentially dangerous driving conditions.

Several factors can contribute to the occurrence of the death wobble in Jeep steering systems. Common causes include worn-out or damaged suspension components, such as track bars, tie rods, or ball joints, which can lead to instability and vibrations in the front end of the vehicle. Additionally, improper wheel alignment, unbalanced tires, or worn-out steering dampers can exacerbate the issue and increase the likelihood of experiencing the death wobble. It is crucial to address these underlying mechanical issues promptly to prevent the recurrence of the death wobble and ensure the safety of the driver and passengers.

To resolve the death wobble in a Jeep steering system, it is recommended to have the vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic who can diagnose the specific cause of the issue. Depending on the underlying problem, repairs may involve replacing worn-out suspension components, realigning the wheels, balancing the tires, or installing a steering stabilizer to dampen vibrations. Regular maintenance and proactive inspection of the steering system can help prevent the occurrence of the death wobble and ensure a safe and smooth driving experience in your Jeep.

Give us a call and schedule an appointment today.

Tire Repair & Maintenance Ensures the Safety of Your Vehicle

Thu, 22 Feb 2024 11:33:29 GMT

Flat tire repair is essential for maintaining the safety and performance of your vehicle. A flat tire can occur unexpectedly due to various reasons such as punctures from sharp objects on the road, improper tire inflation, or worn-out tire treads. Driving with a flat tire can not only damage the tire further but also compromise the handling and stability of the vehicle, increasing the risk of accidents. Therefore, timely flat tire repair is crucial to ensure the overall safety of both the driver and passengers.

Additionally, neglecting a flat tire can lead to more severe consequences, such as damaging the wheel rim or causing a blowout while driving at high speeds. This can not only result in costly repairs but also pose a significant safety hazard on the road. By promptly addressing a flat tire through professional repair services, you can prevent further damage to your vehicle, maintain optimal driving performance, and ensure a safe and smooth driving experience.

Give us a call and schedule an appointment today.

Joe’s Slinger Service

220 Info Hwy Court

Slinger, WI 53086

262-644-8276

www.joesslingerservice.com

Shuttle Service Makes Repairing Your Car More Convenient

Thu, 22 Feb 2024 11:31:19 GMT

Convenience is key when it comes to getting your car’s maintenance and repairs done at Joe’s Slinger Service, and having a shuttle service available to take you to and from the auto repair facility makes the process much easier for busy individuals. We know our customers rely on their vehicles for daily activities and having access to a shuttle service ensures they can continue with their routines without interruption. This added convenience makes the overall experience positive when getting your repairs done because it doesn’t interrupt your day with driving back and forth to get your vehicle serviced. Joe’s is willing to go the extra miles to provide a seamless and efficient service to make our customer’s lives easier.

Benefits of a Shuttle Service

Saves you time and hassle.
No need to bother others for alternate transportation.
Provides peace-of-mind.
Makes the entire services experience more enjoyable

Give us a call and schedule an appointment today.

Joe’s Slinger Service

220 Info Hwy Court

Slinger, WI 53086

262-644-8276

www.joesslingerservice.com

The Importance of Well Trained Technicians

Thu, 15 Feb 2024 15:21:38 GMT

It’s very important to us to keep you happy and on the road. You might be surprised at the amount of money service centers spend every year to make sure their technicians are properly trained. Properly trained technicians is the foundation for a reputable automotive service center.

Joe’s Slinger Service offers a variety of car care services to many kinds of vehicles. We need to be up to date on the latest techniques and parts so that we can care for your car properly. We subscribe to data services that list the high-quality parts and fluids recommended by your manufacturer. Our technicians have a checklist of standard procedures to follow so we can safely deliver a consistent level of high-quality service.

Some services require the use of specialized equipment. Our technicians are trained extensively on this equipment so that they can service your car quickly and efficiently. Classroom, video, and hands-on training is provided by the company and outside trainers. It’s not only important that service technicians be able to perform a given task, they also need to be thoroughly trained in inspection and diagnostic techniques. One of the great services they perform is to spot potential problems before they become serious.

The automotive service industry has standards for classifying and communicating problems to customers. For example, it’s one thing to learn that your manufacturer recommends that you change your serpentine belt every 30,000 miles and another to learn that the belt is on the verge of failure. These standards help you understand the urgency of recommendations, letting you make better service decisions. You may be interested to know that service technicians are trained in compliance with federal and local laws and regulations, including environmental regulations regarding the disposal of used parts and fluids.

It’s the goal of Joe’s Slinger Service to provide fast, courteous service. You should feel free to ask your technician or one of the service advisors about your service or for more information about their recommendations.

Give us a call and schedule an appointment today.

Why do my brakes squeak?

Mon, 15 Jan 2024 15:17:27 GMT

There are a couple of reasons the brakes on your vehicle could be squeaking.

The first is if your vehicle has been sitting for several days. Sometimes surface rust can develop on the stopping surface of your brake rotors, causing a squeak noise during your first few brake applications. This is not a safety concern and this will normally stop after a few brake applications.

Additionally, worn-out brake pads or rotors may produce a squeaking noise as they approach the end of their lifespan. The reason they squeak is because they are very low and ready for repair.

At Joe’s Slinger Service we are dedicated to keeping our clients in safe and reliable transportation. We help our clients plan their vehicle maintenance and repair by inspecting vehicles before we service them. We will let you know a measurement of how much brake pad you have left, the condition of your brake hoses, brake fluid and the overall condition of your braking system.

Give us a call and schedule an appointment today.

Slinger Digital Vehicle Inspection - Joe's Slinger Service, LLC

Mon, 15 Jan 2024 15:16:12 GMT

A digital vehicle inspection is used by automotive technicians to thoroughly assess the condition of a vehicle using digital tools and technology. This process involves using smartphones, tablets, and specialized software to document and record various aspects of a vehicle’s condition, including both visual and mechanical components.

During a digital vehicle inspection, technicians take photos or videos of different parts of the vehicle, such as the engine, tires, brakes, suspension, and interior. They may also use specialized diagnostic equipment to gather data about the vehicle’s performance.

The information collected during a digital vehicle inspection is then compiled into a detailed report that can be easily shared with the vehicle owner. These reports often include images, videos, and annotations, providing a clear and comprehensive overview of the vehicle’s condition. This allows the owner to make informed decisions about necessary repairs or maintenance.

Digital vehicle inspections offer several advantages over traditional paper-based inspections, including improved accuracy, efficiency, and transparency. They also help streamline communication between technicians and vehicle owners, ultimately leading to better service and customer satisfaction.

On most services Joe’s performs a FREE multi-point inspection to ensure your vehicle is in tip-top shape! After we complete this inspection, you will be better prepared to stay on top of any maintenance or repairs required to keep your vehicle running smoothly. By learning about potential issues early, you have the chance to make fixes before they become costlier repairs.

Why is my tire pressure light blinking?

Mon, 15 Jan 2024 15:15:10 GMT

Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) is a great feature that allows the operator of a vehicle to know when their tire pressure is low. Low tire pressure is the top cause for highway speed tire failure and can cause poor fuel economy.

HERE ARE THREE REASONS YOUR TIRE LIGHT IS ON OR FLASHING:

1) Your tires are low and need air.

The most common reason for a low tire light is that your tires need air. If all tires are low we recommend inflating your tires to the recommended pressure for your vehicle. If one of your tires is low we recommend having that tire checked. One tire at a lower than the rest is a sign that that tire is having a problem.

2) Your internal battery inside of the tire pressure sensor has failed.

Many tire pressure monitoring systems rely on watch battery powered sensors. Over time the battery will get weak. A weak or dead battery will not broadcast the needed signal to the vehicle and your tire light will flash or come on

3) Your TPMS system needs to be reset after inflating your tires.

Many vehicles need to have their Tire Pressure Monitoring System manually reset. If your vehicle requires a manual reset after a tire rotation or tire inflation your tire light will illuminate until reset.

Tire Pressure Monitors are a great safety feature. Joe’s recommends keeping them in good working order. If you have a flashing tire pressure light or a tire light that will not go out the mechanics at Joe’s have the experience and equipment to help!

Give us a call and schedule an appointment today.

Aquapel Glass Treatment – See Clearly. Drive Safer.

Tue, 09 Jan 2024 14:58:26 GMT

Aquapel Glass Treatment is a product that when applied to glass it repels water making it much easier to see what is on the road. Aquapel forms a chemical bond with glass that increases water repellency, causing it to bead and shed. It was first created for the aviation industry. Once people realized what a great product it was, it was used anywhere on glass. Aquapel can be used not only on cars and trucks, but boats, and windows at home as well.

Aquapel is a long-lasting glass treatment that:

Repels rain for remarkably improved vision
Makes it easier to clear ice, snow, and even dirt
Reduces glare in the rain, especially at night
Helps reduce water marks and keeps down salt water

Aquapel can last for months under normal driving conditions. If the product is applied correctly, it lasts six times longer than other rain repellent glass treatments. It will remain on the treated area after a car wash, squeegee and glass cleaner, or ammonia-based cleaner is applied. If you have a resin repaired windshield it will not affect the repair.

The real value of having this treatment to your windshield is the added safety. You won’t drive well if you can’t see well. Adding this treatment with new windshield wipers really makes a difference. If you would like this product applied to your vehicle when it comes in for repair, please let us know. We are always willing to help make your ride safer.

Give us a call and schedule an appointment today.

Common Auto Repairs Explained

Fri, 10 Nov 2023 14:57:39 GMT

You may not be familiar with all of the common auto repairs and what specifically is involved with each repair. Here is a quick description of some of the typical services that you can get at Joe’s. Remember to speak to your service advisor at Joe’s to find out about what your vehicles needs are and how we can help.

Fuel System Cleaning : Over time, the fuel system gets gum and varnish built up. A fuel system cleaning gets rid of that, and cleans out the fuel injectors. This service will save gas consumption in your vehicle as well.

Headlamp Replacement : Halogen and standard headlamps gradually fade. When one burns out, you should replace both so they’ll have the same brightness. Also, if your headlamp lenses are yellowed or cloudy, you can have them professionally restored to like new-condition.

Vehicle Inspection : Slinger area drivers get inspections for many reasons. Maybe they’re going on a trip or just want to make sure their vehicle’s ready for winter. Maybe they just bought a used car and want to give it the once over. An inspection at Joe’s Slinger Service may reveal some things that are broken or are getting close to having a problem.

Oil Change Service – Some auto service centers offer just an oil change and new filter. Here at Joe’s we will also check and top off all of your other fluids and do a visual inspection and a test drive with a full service oil change.

PCV Valve Service : PCV stands for Positive Crankcase Ventilation valve. It’s a little part that releases pressure from the engine. It can get gummed up and that can lead to engine damage. Just needs to be changed now and then.

Power Steering Service : Power steering is often overlooked. The technician will evacuate the old fluid, clean out the system and replace it with clean fluid. This service keeps the system running well for a long time.

Serpentine Belt Replacement : The serpentine belt powers the engine’s accessories like the alternator, air conditioner, power steering and brakes. You’ll want to replace the serpentine belt before it breaks or wears down too much.

Shocks and Struts Replacement : This starts with an inspection of the suspension components. Shocks last a long time and wear out slowly, so many drivers don’t notice when it’s time to change them. If they’re worn or leaking, they need to be replaced promptly.

Transmission Service : This service involves removing the transmission fluid and replacing it with clean fluid. It’s like an oil change for your transmission.

Tire Rotation and Wheel Balancing : The tires are rotated from front to back using the recommended rotation pattern. This helps tires wear more evenly. Wheels need to be balanced from time to time to keep them turning without any wobble or bounce. Helps the ride and saves tire wear as you drive around Slinger.

Give us a call and schedule an appointment today.

All-Wheel Drive: Do You Really Need It?

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 14:56:48 GMT

All-wheel drive (AWD) offers better traction and stability in challenging road conditions. Vehicles with AWD often come with increased costs from reduced fuel efficiency and higher maintenance expenses compared to front-wheel-drive (FWD) or rear-wheel-drive (RWD) cars. Consider your needs and the typical driving environment when deciding if AWD is a smart purchase.

What Is All-Wheel Drive?

The term “all-wheel drive” refers to how power and torque are distributed among the wheels. Some powertrain systems only deliver power to the front wheels (FWD) or rear wheels (RWD). But vehicles with all-wheel drive deliver power to each wheel. This offers better traction control in difficult driving conditions and increased stability as you steer. Most drivers choose AWD for optimized performance on challenging or unfamiliar roads.

Pros of All-Wheel Drive

There are many benefits to owning or driving an AWD vehicle. While a driver’s safe habits are a big factor in how well a car handles, AWD assists with technology and mechanics to help keep vehicles moving in the right direction on wet roads and icy patches. In areas with harsh winters, you’re less likely to get stuck on snow-covered roads. There’s no question that AWD improves traction. The system allows all four wheels to spin, which can be helpful if two of them are on a slick or slippery surface. It can also be helpful if two wheels are stuck. That’s a reality that many drivers in snowy, northern climates have to face. Therefore, we strongly recommend AWD if you live where you often face this type of weather.

Most AWD vehicles offer better resale value than their 2-wheel-drive (2WD) counterparts. There’s a reason: AWD costs more upfront, making a vehicle more capable. No, you won’t see every penny back if you decide to tick the AWD option box. But your car will be easier to sell when that time comes. Also, choosing AWD means you’ll never have to worry about resale if you move to a northern climate. Regardless of where you live, you likely get at least occasional bad weather. Whether it’s snow, rain, or anything in between, you’ll certainly sleep better knowing you have AWD when the going gets really tough. That alone justifies ticking the AWD box on a car’s options list for some drivers.

Cons of All-Wheel Drive

It’s a great feature, but AWD won’t make your vehicle invincible to all road conditions. There are other factors to consider when choosing which powertrain system is best for you. While AWD offers improved resale value over 2WD, it also comes at a higher cost. For one, it’s more expensive to buy initially. Many automakers charge a premium between $1,500 and $3,000 for it. But AWD can also be more expensive to maintain since it’s more complex than 2WD. That’s especially important for shoppers considering a used car that may be out of warranty. In addition to the extra cost of buying and owning a car with AWD, these vehicles also return worse fuel economy than 2WD models. AWD systems must use more energy to deliver power to all four wheels, and they are also heavier, which hampers fuel economy further. While numbers vary, the Environmental Protection Agency estimates AWD cars lose one to two miles per gallon over their 2WD counterparts.

Can modern technology help a 2-wheel-drive car replace an AWD one? Not quite — but it’s getting there. Many modern vehicles offer traction control and stability control, which help keep you on the road even in difficult conditions. Most can completely cut power to one wheel, if necessary, or control a vehicle’s skid to eliminate the possibility of it going out of control. Also, anti-lock braking systems (ABS) help us stop better than ever — in any car. This means it’s easier to get by with a 2WD if you live in an area with milder weather.

Do You Need All-Wheel Drive?

Is AWD for you? The answer is probably yes if you live in an area frequently hit by harsh winter storms and paralyzed by slick streets. Furthermore, AWD can give you additional peace of mind and boost confidence behind the wheel if you frequently travel to areas with challenging weather conditions. For those who don’t have to deal with such difficult climates, you might not need it as much as you think — especially since it comes with a higher price tag and lower gas mileage. FWD and RWD vehicles can both offer enough traction for most urban and highway driving scenarios.

Regardless of the drivetrain type, quality tires are essential. Tires are the only part of your vehicle making direct contact with the road. Their performance significantly impacts traction, handling, and braking. Choose the right tires for the season and driving conditions. That way, you can cruise safely and efficiently regardless of the power distribution. If you aren’t sure which tires are right for you and your vehicle, call us and ask. We are always happy to help you when you are making decisions for your vehicle.

Give us a call and schedule an appointment today.

How To Improve Your Fuel Economy

Tue, 29 Aug 2023 14:55:51 GMT

Let’s review some things that drivers can do to improve fuel economy. Bottom line, the better you maintain your vehicle, the less fuel you will use. It all adds up in a big way. For example, replacing your dirty engine air filter will pay for itself in fuel savings before your next oil change and will keep saving you money after that.

A clean, well-maintained fuel system really pays big dividends for budget conscious drivers. A clogged fuel filter wastes gas. So does a dirty fuel system, grimy fuel injectors and plugged up PCV valves. A fuel system service decreases the gas you use and increases the power, so you can’t go wrong with that.

Some of us ignore our check engine light. But fixing the problem that caused the light to come on will usually save some fuel as well. It may be a bad oxygen sensor that can really rob your fuel economy. Perhaps it may be time for a tune-up. Tune-ups should improve your fuel economy. Don’t overlook the routine maintenance items, like scheduled oil changes, transmission and cooling system service. Dirty or low fluids actually use more fuel. Just look at your car maker’s recommended service intervals in the owner’s manual or ask your Joe’s Slinger Service service advisor for the schedule.

Don’t forget your tires. Under inflated tires waste gas. And if your wheels are out of alignment you won’t get the gas mileage you need. Be sure to get a new gas cap if yours leaks or is worn. None of these things are very complicated or expensive for drivers to stay on top of. When you maintain your car properly, you save gas today and prevent pricey repairs tomorrow.

Give us a call and schedule an appointment today.

The Benefits Of A Wheel Alignment

Wed, 02 Aug 2023 14:55:18 GMT

Drivers are concerned about wheel alignments for two primary reasons: safety and money. When your wheels are out of alignment, they can pull to one side, maybe pretty hard. A moment of inattention could put you into on-coming traffic on a busy street, or completely off the road. A bad alignment will chew up your tires very quickly.

We had one guy in our Slinger auto service center who said his wheels were a little out of alignment before a family vacation, but he didn’t think it was that bad. So he didn’t take care of it before he left. A couple of long days of highway driving and his front tires were worn down to the cords. He had to take a half day out of his vacation to find a rural town in Wisconsin big enough to have a tire center for replacements.

All four wheels are supposed to be lined up and point in the same direction. Sometimes one or more goes out of alignment and is pulling against the rest of the team. In addition to excessive tire wear, this also hurts fuel economy. Part of the alignment service at Joe’s Slinger Service is an inspection of the steering and suspension components. Whatever caused the wheels to be knocked out of alignment in the first place may have also damaged important parts. So we want to be sure to replace broken or bent parts as needed. The process corrects alignment of each wheel along three axes (toe, camber and caster) as well as front to rear alignment.

Your owner’s manual may have a recommendation for how often alignment should be checked. If not, ask your friendly and knowledgeable service advisor at Joe’s.

Here are some things that should tell you that you need an alignment check right away:

Your vehicle is pulling to one side
Your steering wheel isn’t centered
You feel a vibration at high speed
You see unusual tire wear

Give us a call and schedule an appointment today.

How Time Flies… When It Comes To Your Battery

Fri, 14 Jul 2023 14:54:35 GMT

It’s funny how the mind can play tricks on you when it comes to your vehicle’s service. If you’re not keeping track closely, time can slip away.

A driver recently took his 10-year-old vehicle into his mechanic for an oil change. Knowing the colder weather was approaching, his technician took the opportunity to check out a few components that are vital for a vehicle to work correctly in the winter months.

One was the battery. They performed a battery test to determine the battery’s health and ability to hold a charge. The service technician found this battery was not holding a charge well. The Service Advisor asked the driver how old the battery was, and he thought he’d replaced it “a couple of years ago.” The battery said otherwise. Most batteries have a manufacturing date stamped on them, and the technician was able to determine it was five years old. That’s about when most batteries begin to fail. The technician also checked to see if the vehicle’s charging system was sending enough current to charge the battery; it was.

The diagnosis and recommendation: a new battery. The driver realized if the technician hadn’t run that simple test on the old battery, he might have wound up stranded on a cold day because the battery didn’t have the cranking power to start his engine. With so much to keep track of these days, it’s easy for a driver not to be able to remember when the battery had been replaced, or many other services were performed last.

That’s why it’s important to stay on top of your vehicle maintenance. It helps to save your service records. Here at Joe’s we keep records of what services you’ve had done, and which need doing. Time marches on, and so will your vehicle if you make sure all its systems are kept up to date.

Give us a call and schedule an appointment today.

Simple Answers from Joe’s: Transfer Case Service

Mon, 12 Jun 2023 14:35:58 GMT

Question:
I was told I need to have my transfer case serviced. What is that?

Joe’s Slinger Service Answer:
On a four-wheel-drive (4WD) vehicle, power needs to be transferred to both the front and rear axles. The transfer case is the mechanism that makes that happen. There are many drivetrain configurations out there, so we’ll just talk in generalities.

Trucks and larger SUV’s are often primarily rear-wheel-drive. When the driver (or the vehicle’s computer) selects 4WD, the transfer case also sends power to the front axle. The transfer case may also contain an additional gear set for off-roading.

The transfer case is lubricated and cooled by special gear oil. Over time, the oil gets contaminated and needs to be changed, just like your engine oil and transmission fluid. Your will have a schedule and your friendly and knowledgeable Joe’s Slinger Service service advisor can help.

Now many vehicles around Slinger have all-wheel-drive (AWD). AWD vehicles are often based on a front-wheel-drive or rear-wheel-drive vehicle with the addition of a center differential that sends power to the rear wheels when needed. This center differential, like the transfer case, has a service schedule for replacing contaminated lubricant. The work of transfer cases and differentials is demanding and proper maintenance should not be neglected by drivers.

Knowing the service schedule for your transfer case and differentials will help keep your vehicle running well and avoid premature wear.

Give us a call and schedule an appointment today.

Why Isn’t My Air Conditioner Blowing Cold Air?

Wed, 17 May 2023 14:35:15 GMT

Joe’s Slinger Service Answers:

Your air conditioning system uses refrigerant to create cold air. The most common reasons Slinger drivers lose their cold air have to do with the refrigerant.

The first is not enough refrigerant. Refrigerant is a gas in the system, and very small holes in a hose, seal or coupler can allow enough to leak out to prevent the creation of cold air.

Another potential problem for Joe’s Slinger Service customers is contamination . Over time the inside of the rubber hoses can deteriorate, and little bits of rubber can clog up various filters and other parts of the vehicle A/C system, preventing proper circulation of the refrigerant. A component could also be worn or broken. The first step for drivers who can’t cool their vehicle is a thorough air conditioning inspection, looking for leaks and worn parts. In fact, Federal law requires an inspection before adding refrigerant. Some states do not allow topping off a leaking system.

Once any repairs are made, refrigerant is added. At the same time, special oil is added to the system. This oil cools and lubricates various components as it circulates along with the refrigerant. If you have a refrigerant leak, you also have an oil leak, and it’s important that both be replenished for proper function and protection of your A/C system.

Sometimes overlooked by Joe’s Slinger Service customers is the fact that a worn serpentine belt (which drives the A/C compressor) leads to belt slippage, which puts additional strain on the compressor. Replacing your serpentine belt and belt tensioner on schedule will extend the life of your A/C compressor and other belt driven accessories.

Here at Joe’s Slinger Service, we can diagnose your air conditioning issue, repair it, and get you back to enjoying your vehicle in cool comfort.

Give us a call and schedule an appointment today.

Winter is Coming: Check your Vehicle’s Battery

Sat, 15 Oct 2022 14:33:53 GMT

Batteries are a huge part of modern life in Slinger WI. I mean, how many battery chargers do you have?

Of course, our purpose here is to talk about your car battery. When people come into our Slinger WI service center and need a new battery, they’re really not that happy about having to spend the money. But the fact is that 70 percent of batteries don’t make it for 4 years.

There are some things that you can do to extend the life of your battery . First, keep it clean. If you see it getting dirty or greasy, let us know at Joe’s Slinger Service and we can clean it off. A dirty battery runs hotter and that shortens its life. If your battery terminals are corroded, let us take a look at that too. We can clean them, and if the corrosion has gotten into the battery cables, we can replace them .

Also running your battery way down is bad for it: Things like running the headlights or watching a DVD player with the car turned off can deeply deplete your battery . The typical battery can only take about 10 of those deep cycle depletions before it gives up the ghost.

Because we often take short trips around Slinger with lots of stops for errands, our batteries can end up not getting fully recharged just by driving around. That also shortens battery life. You can hook up a good quality automatic battery charger at home from time to time. We recommend charging once a month during hot months and every three months during cold months.

Now when it’s finally time to get a new battery, we can help you find the right replacement . We’ll always make sure to meet your manufacturer’s recommendations. Now if you have special needs – like live in a very cold climate or run a lot of electrical accessories, we can look at an upgrade that’ll give you the power you need.

Engine Air Filter

Thu, 15 Sep 2022 14:33:08 GMT

Today we want to talk about your engine air filter.

That’s the filter that cleans the air before it’s burned in your engine. Many people in Slinger wonder how often they should change their engine air filter . The simple answer is “when it’s dirty.” That’s a function of how much air has passed through the filter, so your vehicle manufacturer will recommend a mileage interval for replacing the air filter . But you can imagine that how dirty the air is would affect how quickly the filter gets filled.

If you drive in Slinger where there’s lots of dust, pollution or pollen, your engine air filter will get dirty more quickly and need to be changed sooner. That’s why we check the air filter with every full-service oil change at Joe’s Slinger Service. We can visually tell if the filter needs to be changed.

Your filter can only hold so much dirt. Once the filter is full, dirt will pass through to the engine. This dirt gums up the combustion chamber, hurts fuel economy and may cause damage. It can also contaminate the Mass Air Flow Sensor which will affect drivability and can be fairly expensive to replace .

A dirty air filter would also restrict the amount of air that gets to the engine, which hurts fuel economy . We can replace your engine air filter with one that matches the factory specifications or you can upgrade your filter for enhanced performance.

So when your Slinger, WI, service advisor at Joe’s Slinger Service shows you your dirty air filter, you know how important it is to get it replaced.

Simple Answers from Joe’s Slinger Service: Spark Plugs

Mon, 15 Aug 2022 14:32:13 GMT

Question:
I’m confused about when I should get my spark plugs replaced. What’s the deal?

Answer from Joe’s Slinger Service:
Well, it can be confusing for Slinger drivers because there are several types of spark plugs and some last longer than others. Your owner’s manual will have a recommendation for when your spark plugs should be changed.

Here’s a little background from Joe’s Slinger Service. Spark plugs are in the combustion chamber of your engine. They send a little spark between two electrodes at the end of the spark plug which ignites the gasoline. This little spark goes off thousands of times a minute. Over time, the electrodes on standard grade spark plugs wear away, increasing the gap between them. When that happens, the spark isn’t as strong and the fuel doesn’t burn as well.

As I mentioned above, there are several types or grades of spark plugs. The standard grade is copper core. They are great for quick starts and may last 12,000 miles/20,000 kilometers.

Single platinum spark plugs use platinum on one of the electrodes. These typically last 30,000 to 60,000 miles/50,000 to 100,000 kilometers and have improved ignitability and performance. Double platinum plugs use platinum on both electrodes. This virtually eliminates gap erosion. They may last 60,000 to 100,000 miles/100,000 to 160,000 kilometers..

Then there are the plugs that use iridium in their electrodes. These last over 100,000 miles/160,000 kilometers. They are very durable and give premium performance and improved fuel economy.

Now it’s important that Slinger drivers always use at least the grade of spark plug that originally came on their vehicle. This makes sure that your spark plugs are up to delivering the performance and fuel economy your vehicle was designed for. Of course, you may upgrade your spark plugs for better durability and performance. Talk with your friendly and knowledgeable Joe’s Slinger Service service advisor about how you want your vehicle to perform and let him help you choose the spark plug that best suits your needs.

Tire Pressure Monitoring System – What is it?

Fri, 29 Jul 2022 14:26:18 GMT

All new cars and light trucks in Slinger since 2008 have come equipped with a tire pressure monitoring system, or ‘TPMS’. The TPMS system detects when a tire becomes under-inflated and lights up a warning light on the dash.

So what’s the big deal? Well, under-inflated tires can be a real safety concern for everyone in the US. First of all, they don’t handle properly and that can lead to an accident. Second, under-inflated tires can overheat and cause the tire to come apart, which can also lead to an accident .

Government regulations requiring TPMS systems aim to reduce accidents and save lives: A very worthy goal. There are also positive environmental effects because under-inflated tires are fuel wasters – you lose 1 percent of your fuel economy for every 3 pounds of pressure below ideal. So proper tire inflation can save you a tank of gas a year . And your tires last longer so you won’t have to replace them as often.

There are two kinds of TPMS systems . So-called direct systems have a battery powered sensor in each wheel that measures tire pressure. The sensor sends a signal to a receiver that illuminates the warning light if pressure is low on a tire.

Indirect systems use a computer program to detect under-inflation by measuring wheel rotation speeds and other data.

You’ll have to replace TPMS parts as they wear out. Obviously, the batteries in the sensors will run out someday. Road salt and grime can damage sensors too. The system needs to be reset when you rotate or change your tires.

Because the TPMS system is so important to your safety , you should make the necessary repairs when needed. And remember, TPMS is no substitute for regularly checking your tire pressure– at least once a month.

Disc Brakes – Staying Ahead

Fri, 08 Jul 2022 14:31:20 GMT

Your brakes are extremely important as you drive around Slinger. Having good brakes just keeps you out of trouble. You’ll want to carefully maintain your brakes. With disc brakes, brake pads rub on a disc – or rotor – to slow the wheels.

The brake pads are attached to a caliper that squeezes the pads against the rotor. It’s kind of like how squeezing the handbrake on a bicycle pushes the brake pads against the wheel of the bike.

Now pads just wear away with use – kind of like a pencil eraser wears out. The good news is that replacing brake pads is a straight-forward repair.

If you hear squealing or grinding when you use the brakes, have your Joe’s Slinger Service advisor check them out. They’ll have a technician perform a thorough brake inspection to see what needs to be done. They’ll check for signs of brake problems and go over other brake components to see that they’re working properly .

They can tell you if it’s time to replace the pads or if there are other issues with your brakes that should be addressed. Some people ignore the warning signs and keep driving long after the pads are completely worn out. When that happens, metal brake components will grind on the rotor, damaging it enough that it needs to be resurfaced or replaced.

Rotors can also warp or crack , in which case they’ll need to be replaced . Brake calipers also wear out over time. They can develop leaks or the caliper pistons can freeze open or closed – either way it’s not good. When this happens it’s time to replace the calipers. A thorough brake inspection will reveal worn bearings or seals as well.

The new brake pads we put on your vehicle will restore your brakes to manufacturers’ specifications . Or, we can install upgraded parts to increase your stopping power and reduce brake noise and brake dust. We have several options to meet your braking requirements and your budget.

Taking care of your brakes keeps them working safely – and you could prevent premature brake repairs down the road.

Air Conditioning Maintenance At Joe’s Slinger Service

Mon, 23 May 2022 14:24:11 GMT

Most Slinger area car owners don’t service their air conditioning until after it fails . Maintaining your vehicle air conditioning system means that you always have enough refrigerant to properly do the job. Small leaks in the air conditioning system allow the refrigerant to escape and the system can’t cool the air as well.

Along with the refrigerant, a special oil circulates in the system. The oil lubricates air conditioning components and keeps the seals resilient. Low refrigerant and lubricating oil means that the air conditioning parts will wear out prematurely, and we all know that air conditioning repairs can be costly in Slinger.

Air conditioning service at Joe’s Slinger Service in Slinger starts with a visual inspection of the components for signs of damage or leaks. The compressor is driven by a belt from the engine, most often the serpentine belt, so it’s inspected for cracks or wear.

The air conditioning compressor and other components are checked for proper operation by your Joe’s Slinger Service service advisor. Then comes the leak test. If a leak is detected, often in a hose or connection, it’s repaired and the vehicle system is retested. Your Joe’s Slinger Service technician will also perform a temperature drop test.

If needed, the old refrigerant is evacuated and the system is recharged with clean, fresh refrigerant. A final test insures that the air conditioner is working, and you’re on your way.

How often this should be done at Joe’s Slinger Service varies from vehicle to vehicle. Your vehicle owner’s manual will have the manufacturer’s recommendation and, of course, your friendly and knowledgeable Joe’s Slinger Service service advisor can tell you. It’s typically every two years.

Winter Tires, All-Season Tires, OR All-Weather Tires?

Mon, 22 Nov 2021 14:23:06 GMT

For many years there has been a debate whether all-season tires are just as good as winter tires. Many years ago we used to call the winter tire the snow tire. Most tire companies fail to offer a snow tire any longer. The winter season not only brings snow and ice, but also cold temperatures – a guaranteed occurrence here in Wisconsin every year. Hence the name winter tire from snow tire. The tire companies decided to develop a tire that will work on snow, ice and also on clear pavement, when the temperature drops.

Production of tires became more sophisticated over recent years so the old snow tire was replaced by the winter tire. The difference was chemistry and a tread designed to grip both snow and ice and still remain flexible in cold weather conditions.

The tire companies have also developed a new tire referred to as an “all-weather” tire. This have a tread pattern similar to that of a winter tire, but durable enough to last the entire year, even when the temperature rises. The all-weather tire has a compound that remains flexible in extreme cold with one that does not become too soft in warm weather. The question to ask is, are all-weather tires the best tires to have on your vehicle year round?

Winter tires are actually the best tire to have on your vehicle when the temperature drops to 7° Celsius (44 degrees Fahrenheit). The fact remains, the all-season tires aren’t as good when the temperature drops compared to winter tires. All-season tires become very stiff or hard when the temperature drops. Perhaps they should be called “3 season tires”?

The rubber compound from winter tires is softer and the tread design allows you to grip the road better. It will allow you to stop quicker on snowy and icy road conditions as well as in cold weather. It will also give you better traction to also move your vehicle out of the way to avoid collisions. You don’t have to have snow to benefit from winter tires. To know if the tire you’re looking for is rated well to handle the winter season, they’ll get the winter snowflake pictograph on the sidewall. It is an outline of a mountain with a snowflake.

As far as the new all-weather tire, they would be good for those drivers who wish not to change tires from all season to winter. All-weather tires are a compromise, kind of like the “jack-of-all-trades” tire. They too have the 3 point mountain with a snowflake in the middle of it imprinted on the sidewall. They are better than all-season tires in the winter, but not as good as summer or all-season tires in the summer. The choice really goes to the consumer. Decide is it cost or safety you’re looking for. As you think about it, I’ll enjoy driving around safely on my winter tires during this cold winter season.

What To Do When Your Car Overheats

Wed, 21 Jul 2021 14:21:58 GMT

It might be a flashing light on your dashboard.

Or, a temperature gauge needle gliding into the red zone.

Or, maybe a readout on your dash display saying “temperature warning.”

Or, perhaps it’s billows of steam coming out from under your hood.

One way or another, your car is telling you it’s too hot.

So, what do you do when your car overheats?

First, you need to pull over safely. If possible, find a gas station, roadside rest stop or business that you can pull into. They may also have water and/or tools you will need.

Do not take off the radiator cap! This is important. You need to wait for your engine to cool down before you remove the radiator cap. If you remove it too soon the steam may severely burn you.

Wait for your engine to cool down. While you wait, you can pop the hood and look for signs of a broken hose or leaking coolant. However, use common sense. If there is steam coming out of your hood, give it some time to cool before you attempt to inspect the damage.

Once the engine is cool, you can remove the radiator cap or coolant reservoir cap. You may not need to remove the cap at all if you have a clear coolant reservoir where you can see the level of coolant.

Add coolant if it’s below the full line. If your car is overheating, you will more than likely need to add coolant. There are several different types, so consult your owner’s manual to find out which type your car needs. If you don’t have coolant, you can add some bottled water for a temporary fix. Although, you might want to check your warranty to make sure you don’t void anything.

Bring your car to a mechanic to investigate why the car is losing coolant. Your car’s cooling system is designed to be completely sealed and any signs of losing coolant can indicate problems.

How to prevent a car from overheating

There are some preventative measures you can take to help reduce the likelihood of your car overheating. Mainly, keep up with your vehicle’s maintenance.

Get routine oil changes. Our techs at Joe’s Slinger Service in Slinger, WI will check the coolant level during the oil change.
Follow a regular maintenance schedule provided by the manufacturer, including the intervals when your vehicle’s coolant should be flushed and replaced.
Periodically check your coolant levels as directed by your vehicle’s manufacturer.
Have your vehicle checked for worn belts and hoses yearly, or as recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer.

If you notice your coolant needs to be refilled regularly, you probably have a leak that needs repair.

Why do cars overheat?

Typically, overheating is because your vehicle does not have enough coolant. Low levels in the coolant tank are commonly caused by a worn-out water pump or a deteriorated or loose hose. This can be hard to spot but a trained mechanic should be able to see it.

So, by staying on top of routine service, you will likely be able to avoid it along with a slew of other potential problems.

How can I utilize my road trouble service when my car overheats?

If you find yourself on the road and stranded with an overheated car, it’s a good time to utilize your insurance’s road trouble service. You can typically find instructions on how to reach your road trouble service provider on your proof of insurance cards.

Call us to make an appointment and get preventative maintenance done to avoid your car overheating and other issues.

Used Car Inspection at Joe’s Slinger Service in Slinger

Tue, 25 May 2021 14:20:45 GMT

In the market for a ‘new to you’ vehicle?

It’s natural for Slinger drivers to be a little anxious when they buy a used car in the Slinger area; you worry that it has something wrong with it or that it hasn’t been well maintained. If it’s possible, bring the vehicle in for a used car inspection at Joe’s Slinger Service. Your friendly and knowledgeable Joe’s Slinger Service, service advisor can tell you if there are current or emerging problems. The peace of mind is well worth the price of the inspection service.

Used vehicle inspections are a popular service we offer, and have saved countless customers from inheriting money pits! Our goal is to keep you safe, on the road, at an affordable and manageable price.

Used Car Maintenance

It’s also important for Slinger drivers to get on track with the maintenance schedule and stay on track. If you don’t have maintenance records for the vehicle, assume the worst and get started with an oil change at Joe’s Slinger Service. The inspection by Joe’s Slinger Service that comes with a full-service oil change will reveal basic problems. Be sure to bring up any specific concerns with your service advisor. A more intense inspection can find hidden problems like body damage and sealer in A/C units which can be major expenses down the road.

The more ya know, the more ya know!

Purchasing a Carfax report may let you know if the vehicle’s been in a major accident and give you a title history. You can find out if that ’71 Barracuda really was owned by a little old lady who only drove it to church on Sundays in Slinger.

If you’ve bought well, there’s no reason to believe that with proper maintenance your “new” used vehicle won’t last a long time.

Check Engine Light Diagnosis At Joe’s Slinger Service In Slinger

Thu, 08 Apr 2021 14:19:28 GMT

Check Engine Light On? The horror…

The check engine light might come on in your vehicle. It’s an amber colored light that shows on your dashboard. In newer vehicles it might just be a problem with your gas cap not being screwed on tight enough (or a worn gas cap), causing the vehicle to fail the self-diagnostic evaporative emission test. All you need to do is go to your gas cap and verify that it is tight. If that was the problem, the light will turn off and everything will be fine within one or two days.

DO NOT!

Resist the temptation to have someone “clear” the codes to turn off your check engine light. This erases important diagnostic information that your technician needs to diagnose the underlying problem for the check engine light – and any other pending problems that may be stored in the computer.

If the problem is still there – you still see the light – bring your vehicle in and have it checked out as soon as possible.

Safe Driving in WI: Eliminating Food Distractions

Thu, 11 Mar 2021 14:16:57 GMT

Driving safe is important, you can have a safe reliable vehicle and still get into an accident. Drive safe!

So, what’s most distracting food in the car?

Is it:

A Hamburger?
Coffee
A Soft Drink
Twizzlers

Well, all but the licorice makes the top ten, but coffee’s the number one food distraction.

These distractions cause 25% of all car crashes, over a million and a half each year.

All the top ten distracting food items are messy. You might spill, then try to clean up. If you’ve got to eat on the run, take five, then drive. And keep drinks in spill-proof containers.

So, taking a food break… Or filling out accident reports. It’s a no brainer.

We want you to keep your eyes, and your mind, on the road.

2021 Q1 Newsletter: Fluid Exchange Offer

Tue, 02 Mar 2021 14:18:21 GMT

This months special is $15 off Fluid Exchange; as fluids fail, your transmission has to work harder and it gets hotter thus causing an expensive repair. Exchanging your fluids reduces wear, prevents costly repairs and keeps your car shifting smoothly down the road.

A good rule of thumb is every 3 years or 30,000 miles. Remember, it’s cheaper to maintain than replace ! Because grades of oil and types of coolant, transmission fluid, brake fluid, etc. are so carefully matched to the vehicle, take care to always use the proper fluid if you are topping off at home. Check your vehicle’s owner’s manual or ask your friendly and knowledgeable Joe’s Slinger Service service advisor. The wrong fluid can cause damage.

Viva la Differential

Thu, 25 Feb 2021 14:09:10 GMT

With front-wheel drive being so common these days, the differential is just taken care of during a transmission service, so most folks don’t even have to think about it. Most rear-wheel drive differentials don’t need to be serviced for many miles, so it’s understandable that it’s not something on the top of mind. So, it’s not uncommon for people to not know they have a differential let alone know that it needs service.

What does a differential do?

To better understand what a differential does, think about a high school track. There are lanes marked off on the track. For the long-distance races, the starting lines are staggered. The starting lines for the outside lanes are ahead of the starting lines for the inside lanes. That’s to compensate for the longer length of the outside lanes. Staggering the starting lines means that each runner has the same distance to run.

The differential compensates for the difference in speeds on drive wheels between the inside wheel and the outside wheel in a turn, because they must travel together through slightly different distances.

Differentials do a lot of work and require very heavy-duty parts. And those parts need protection. The differential fluid lubricates the gears in the differential and keeps them cool. The fluid eventually gets dirty and worn down. Some kinds of differentials require special additives that breakdown over time. So, manufacturers recommend intervals for replacing your differential fluid.

What can we do?

Your service technician will drain the used fluid and check it out for metal bits, which could be a sign of excessive wear on the gears. He’ll then replace the fluid and install the additives if necessary.

Four-wheel drive vehicles need special attention to their differentials because they have a differential on both the front and rear axles that work at different times and sometimes under heavy loads – so they may need to be serviced at different intervals.

Your service advisor can look up the manufacturer’s recommended service interval or you can check your owner’s manual.

Vehicle Emergency Preparedness in Slinger, WI

Wed, 10 Feb 2021 14:15:41 GMT

Sometimes even the most diligently maintained vehicles run into problems.

Reduce the anxiety and stress that comes with unexpected emergencies by being prepared! A well-packed emergency kit will provide tools and on-hand assistance in getting help and alerts other drivers to the presence of your vehicle.

Remember… Peace of mind IS diligently maintaining your vehicle to prevent car troubles and breakdowns.

Prepared kits are also sold – be sure to familiarize yourself with the contents and replace any items you may use. Here are some things you can do to prepare for potential car troubles.

Contents of emergency kit

First aid kit – Keep a first aid kit in your car at all times. Include items such as

antiseptic wound cleanser
various sizes of adhesive bandages
gauze pads
medical tape
safety pins
Scissors
tensor bandages
rubber gloves
burn care
aspirin and any medications you may need

Blanket –a blanket can help to keep you warm without having to run your engine. A further precaution is to pack a thermal blanket will help contain your body heat.
Cell phone – Always fully charge your cell phone before when preparing for a road-trip and make sure to include a spare cell phone charger in your emergency kit. Even a cell phone without a service plan or out-of-service range can be used to call for help in the case of an emergency.
Fire extinguisher – Keep as small multipurpose dry chemical fire extinguisher in your trunk – only to be used for small fires that have just ignited (wiring, oil leaks, etc).
Flares – Flares can help to attract attention, identify your location to roadside assistance operators, and warn other drivers of the location of your vehicle – particularly in poor visibility conditions.
Flashlight – A waterproof flashlight (in case of inclement weather) can help you see and be seen in the dark.
Jumper cables – Jumper cables can help you start your car if you’re experiencing trouble with your battery or charging system. If you are unsure how to use them, call for roadside assistance..
Reflective warning triangles and vest – Ensure you have at least three triangles, to warn oncoming traffic. Put on your vest for visibility.
Comfortable shoes and socks – Comfortable shoes are a must for changing tires, walking for assistance and even warmth.
Umbrella/waterproof jacket – Keep waterproof gear in your car in case you have to exit your car in the rain so you stay warm and dry.
Whistle – A whistle can help you attract attention if you’re in trouble.

Winter, add the following items to your emergency kit:

Candle
Matches for light and warmth
Road salt and/or kitty litter
A small shovel
A snow brush or ice scraper
Extra windshield washer fluid.

Serpentine Belt

Wed, 27 Jan 2021 14:04:52 GMT

The serpentine belt is powered by the engine as it turns. Your alternator, air conditioning compressor and power steering pump depend on your serpentine belt to run. On some vehicles it also runs the water pump, radiator fan and power brakes.

If your serpentine belt breaks, your battery won’t last long. If it runs your fan or water pump, your engine could overheat before your battery dies. Steering and braking would also be affected. Hopefully, we’ve made a good case for replacing your vehicle’s serpentine belt when it’s worn out.

Your owner’s manual will advise you when to replace your serpentine belt. Your friendly and knowledgeable service advisor at Joe’s Slinger Service can inspect the belt as well, to see if it’s close to failure.

You may have heard that it’s a good idea to check for cracks in your belt to see if it’s time for a new one. However, with the newer belts, belt thickness is a more reliable indicator of the status. At Joe’s Slinger Service, we use a nifty tool to measure the depth of the grooves to see if a replacement is in order.

A worn belt can cause problems even before it breaks. It can slip out of place and put undue stress on the accessories it runs.

There’s a tensioner pulley on your engine that puts pressure on the belt to keep it at the right tension. Since the spring on the tensioner wears out like any other part, Joe’s Slinger Service recommends replacing the tensioner pulley when you switch out the serpentine belt.

Replacing your serpentine belt on schedule will save you from a dangerous breakdown.

Customer Detective Work In Slinger WI 53086

Thu, 14 Jan 2021 14:05:45 GMT

One might say the most challenging part of being an automotive service technician in Slinger is diagnosing a problem before it can be fixed .

Cars 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 Slinger 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 Joe’s Slinger 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 Joe’s Slinger 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 Slinger technician at Joe’s Slinger Service know where to start. Based on your car and the tech’s experience, we’ll know where to look on you vehicle 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 take your vehicle 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 take the car in. So, it is a big help for you to describe what’s happening in as much detail as possible.

Your Slinger technician at Joe’s Slinger 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 mph/80 kph.”

If your Slinger technician at Joe’s Slinger Service can experience the problem personally, he’s better able to make a diagnosis and repair, then test to see if the repair solved the problem.

Fuel System Cleaning At Joe’s Slinger Service In Slinge

Wed, 06 Jan 2021 14:08:03 GMT

Fuel, whether gasoline or diesel, is delivered to your engine to be burned to generate the power needed to keep you moving. This fuel leaves a residue as it moves through your fuel system. This may not seem like much, but it can cause big problems. Gum and varnish build up inside fuel lines, your throttle body and injectors. It’s like plaque build-up in your arteries – it restricts the free flow of fuel and can even clog your fuel injectors.

In addition, carbon from combustion starts to accumulate on your valves, inside the combustion chamber and on your pistons. This interferes with proper mixing of fuel and air and can prevent your valves from sealing properly. This means less power, rough running engine and wasted fuel – and could even lead to expensive damage over time.

A fuel system cleaning clears out the gum and varnish from your fuel system and gets your injectors working properly, restoring power and fuel efficiency. Carbon deposits are dissolved, and your engine starts running like new again.

If your engine seems sluggish and less responsive than it used to be, it might mean that you need a fuel system cleaning. Ask your service advisor if a fuel system cleaning is right for you.

Joe’s Slinger Service Guide To Selecting Tires

Wed, 09 Dec 2020 14:01:35 GMT

Looking for tires near you can be a challenging, Joe’s Slinger Service is your tire shop near you. Living in rural areas like Slinger, WI you may find yourself driving further to get to your destination. Or you could be taking back roads to enjoy the scenery. Picking out the right tire is important – and can be fun – just as finding the right shoes to a runner is. Now not everyone enjoys these same ventures, and many people in WI have found that shopping for tires can be overwhelming- there are just so many choices .

Tire Categories

Summer Tires: You would buy summer tires if you’re looking for maximum summertime performance. The rubber is a little softer to help you stick to the road in fast corners. The tread has wide blocks at the shoulder to stiffen the tire in turns.
Winter Tires : You would buy winter tires if you still like performance driving when it’s cold and slippery out, so you need a tread design that’ll really bite into ice and snow. The rubber compound is formulated to stay pliable when temperatures drop below 45 degrees F/7 degrees C.
All-season tires: Now, most new cars come with all-seasons in Washington County. The idea is a tire that you can use all-year round in WI. Naturally, the tread design and rubber compound is a compromise that won’t give you the extreme capabilities of summer or winter tires, but if you’re driving and weather conditions aren’t at the extreme ends of the spectrum, all-season tires might suit you just fine.
All-terrain tires: These tires are designed for both around Slinger and off-road use. If you need a tire that gets good traction in the dirt and is tough enough for rocks and ruts and stuff, but still performs well on the road, an all-terrain tire might be just what you need

Looking for tires near me

Talk with your friendly and knowledgeable Service Advisor, Dennis, at Joe’s Slinger Service. Our slinger tire professional will recommend the right tire that fits your driving needs and works best with your budget.

Newsletter & December Promotional Deal

Tue, 01 Dec 2020 14:03:25 GMT

As I write this newsletter, the election is over, Covid-19 is still hanging around and it seems as the holidays may not be the same. I hope you are all in good health and getting through this time as best as you can, remember this too shall pass. Many of the things that are currently happening are out of control, let’s focus on what we can control. At times, customers have received costly repair estimates due to lack of maintenance on their vehicles- when this happens, I think to myself how different and more manageable this situation could be. Please do your diligence on getting regular maintenance done, this will help manage the cost of repairs and keep your vehicle in safe working condition. Remember, taking care of your vehicle is similar to caring for your body. Needless to say, control what you can and let go of what you can’t. In the meantime, if you have questions, I am here for you! Remember there is NOT a dumb question especially when it involves your safety, Dr. Joe is here to help.

Thank you for your past and continued business, your support through these tough times has been a blessing. Merry Christmas and Cheers to a better 2021! All of us at Joe’s Thank you for your business.

Joe

Auto Repair: Question on Tailpipe Smoking

Tue, 24 Nov 2020 13:57:50 GMT

Question

My name is Landon. I have an auto repair question, I just bought a new car and it started smoking out the tailpipe, someone told me my head gasket went out. What can I do to prevent this from happening again?

Answer

Thanks for your auto repair question regarding your tailpipe smoking. The head gasket fits between the top of the engine and the cylinder head. Its job is to seal that connection and keep oil and coolant circulating in the right parts of the engine.

When it leaks, oil can get in the coolant and vice versa. Sometimes coolant or engine oil can get into the combustion chamber where it gets burned with the fuel – which is what makes all that smoke Landon was talking about.

He said his car was new, so it’s likely that the head gasket failed because it was improperly installed– which is very rare. Sometimes they just burn through.

Engine overheating is a leading cause for blown head gaskets. Following the manufacturer’s schedule for cooling system service is a great way to avoid overheating. Doing regular maintenance is important to keep your auto repair costs manageable. In this case it sounds like it was out of the customers control.

Replacing a head gasket is expensive, it’s worth investing in regular cooling system maintenance to avoid that job. Ask your service advisor if it’s time for a cooling system service.

Auto Repair Exhaust Tips- There’s more to it..

Mon, 16 Nov 2020 13:59:01 GMT

Auto repair exhaust tips; We’ve all heard a car or truck that needs a new muffler. But there’s more to the exhaust system than just the muffler.

The exhaust system has three main functions:

To safely get hot exhaust gas from the engine out the tailpipe
Treats the exhaust to remove harmful pollutants
Muffle the engine noise

Exhaust gas is poisonous. You don’t want it getting into the passenger compartment. For example, carbon monoxide can be deadly. That’s why you should never run your engine in a closed garage. If you have a leak somewhere in the exhaust system, exhaust could get into the passenger cabin and make you sick or even kill you.

If you smell exhaust in the vehicle, roll down your windows and get it inspected. You may smell or see exhaust coming from the engine compartment or under the vehicle if you have a leak. Sometimes the sound from an exhaust leak is loud and obvious.

Sometimes it’s a ticking sound when you start the engine that goes away as you drive. That could be a small crack or a bad fitting that leaks when it’s cold but seals up when the metal heats and expands.

Auto repair addressing the environmental issues. Exhaust gas contains several pollutants and particulates. The catalytic converter scrubs some of those harmful substances. And diesel vehicles have systems to deal with soot. Catalytic converters eventually wear out and need to be replaced. They’re expensive so you want to help them last as long as possible by keeping the fuel system clean and replacing your air filter. These components need to be tested for function with an emissions test from time to time.

And that leaves the muffler. The beauty of getting a new muffler is that you can suit your taste: Some want whisper quiet and others like a little rumble. And some like a roar.

Transfer Case Service

Thu, 05 Nov 2020 13:59:56 GMT

You may not know much about transfer cases, but if you have a 4-wheel drive vehicle, you’ve got one. It makes sure you have power available for both the front and rear axles. For example, if you have a rear-wheel drive SUV, power goes to the rear wheels until you need 4-wheel drive. That’s when the transfer case steps in and transfers some of the power to the front wheels as well. You might use a shift lever to go into 4-wheel drive, or it could be a button on the dash, or it might even go into 4-wheel drive automatically, depending on your vehicle.

The transfer case is serviced by periodically draining its fluid and replacing it with fresh fluid. We also check for leaks and damage. Transfer case fluid cools and lubricates the gears, chains, bearings, shafts and other parts. Over time, the additives in the fluid wear out and it doesn’t protect as well. Also, bits of metal and clutch material wear off and contaminate the fluid. Look, there isn’t a filter in the transfer case, so if the contamination stays for too long, it’ll further accelerate wear.

Now, your owner’s manual may not have a recommended interval for when you should change your transfer case fluid – so ask your service advisor. There are several things that affect how often you should change the fluid, so tell her how much you use 4-wheel drive, if you drive in wet environments like crossing streams or through mud and snow. That kind of stuff really shortens the drain interval.

Transfer case parts will eventually wear out and you’ll have to make repairs. But properly servicing your transfer case will keep that day as far in the future as possible.

Trust the Service Center Procedures

Mon, 26 Oct 2020 21:49:34 GMT

It’s comforting for Slinger drivers to know that Joe’s Slinger Service has exacting standards and procedures for taking care of your car. There are inspection procedures and auto service procedures.

When Slinger drivers come in for a routine service like an oil change, our technicians will give things the once over. They look to see if parts need to be replaced, such as your windshield wipers or air filter. They’ll check what your owner’s manual recommends be done at your mileage.

They’ll come to you with suggestions for things to be taken care of, along with a prioritization, so you’ll know if there’s anything urgent. They will also let you know about things that will need attention in the coming months.

Look, it’s really like going to the dentist for regular check-ups. No one wants to hear that they need dental work done – it’s unpleasant and costs money. Same thing with your car or truck.

But think about those times when you haven’t been to the dentist for five years and go in with a screaming toothache. That little cavity that could’ve easily been fixed has turned into a root canal. And you can bet that there’s more than one thing on the to-do list when you leave from that visit.

There are so many things on your vehicle that are fairly inexpensive to take care of when they’re scheduled but can lead to very inconvenient repairs if ignored.

Think of the car maintenance schedule in your owner’s manual like the checklist your dentist goes through when you get your semi-annual check up. The checklist makes sure things aren’t overlooked. Add in a trained eye, and you’ll catch most things before they leave you out of service.

Slinger drivers know things need to be done on their vehicles. When you’re working with a service center you trust, like Joe’s Slinger Service in Slinger, you can feel that their recommendations are in your best interest. Now, open wide . . .

Gasoline Direct Injection

Wed, 21 Oct 2020 21:51:40 GMT

Question:
My new car has a “GDI” engine. What does that mean to me and other Slinger vehicles with this new type of engine?

Joe’s Slinger Service Answer:
GDI stands for Gasoline Direct Injection. It’s a type of fuel injection system that is becoming very popular on modern engines.

Let’s talk about the two most common forms of fuel injection. Port Fuel Injection has been common in Slinger vehicles for the last several decades. With this type, there is a small port just outside the cylinder on the engine.

The fuel injector squirts a bit of gas into this area just before the intake valve opens
When the valve opens, air enters the port and mixes with the gas, then flows past the valve and into the engine
The gas and air mixture is compressed by the piston

The spark plug fires, igniting the gas which pushes against the piston, thus powering the engine

With Gasoline Direct Injection the process is a bit different.
First, there is no port outside the cylinder
When the intake valve opens, air is drawn into the cylinder
The air is compressed by the piston
At the correct time, the engine management computer signals the fuel injector to spray gasoline directly into the cylinder (hence, Gas Direct Injection)
The pressurized gas and air are ignited by the spark plug, powering the engine

So why move to GDI? Well, by injecting the gas directly into the engine, the management computer is able to time the injection event more precisely. Also the gas sprayed directly into the engine cools the compressed air enough to allow for better combustion. This adds up to more power and better for a given engine size.

Now these two types of fuel delivery systems call for different kinds of fuel injectors. Port fuel injectors squirt their fuel at 40 to 65 pounds per square inch – that’s like the pressure in a bicycle tire.

GDI injectors operate at over 2,000 pounds per square inch. Of course it’s always important to keep your fuel injectors clean – but it’s even more important for GDI injectors. When they become contaminated, the performance and fuel economy diminish.

Speaking of fuel system cleaning, different cleaners and cleaning processes are required for GDI engines. Intake valves get a fair amount of carbon build-up over time. With port injection, some gasoline flows over the valve when it opens to let in the gas and air. This has a cleaning effect which doesn’t occur with GDI. So pouring a bottle of fuel system cleaner in your gas tank will not reach the backside of those intake valves. A professional fuel system cleaning process at Joe’s Slinger Service in Slinger will take care of that concern for Slinger drivers.

So GDI will continue to be more prevalent in WI on everything from compact cars to pick-up trucks. Ask your Joe’s Slinger Service service advisor if your vehicle could benefit from a fuel system cleaning.

Deep Breathing in Slinger: Engine Air Filter

Wed, 23 Sep 2020 21:46:34 GMT

Your engine really needs clean air to operate efficiently: it takes about twelve thousand gallons of air to burn a gallon of gas in your engine. And clean air is much better than dirty.

When your air filter’s dirty, it simply can’t trap any more dirt, so the dirt just passes through into your air intake system. From there it can get into the engine combustion chamber. And burning dust and pollen in your engine does you no good.

The verdict: When your engine air filter needs to be replaced; it needs to be replaced. How often depends entirely on how dirty the air is where you drive. A simple visual inspection will tell you when you need a new engine air filter.

When you look at the air filter on your furnace at home and see it’s all clogged up with dust and dirt, you don’t hesitate to replace it. But don’t wait until your air filter (furnace or automobile) is totally pugged – by that time you’ve been running inefficiently for a lot of miles.

When your service technician brings out your nasty engine air filter, you now know why you should go ahead and change it out.

Let’s Make One Thing Clear

Fri, 28 Aug 2020 21:44:59 GMT

When we drive, it’s important for us to be able to see well. That means, of course, keeping the glass in our vehicles as crystal clear as we can.

If you’ve ever driven your car directly into bright sunlight, you know dirty, scratched or fogged windows can render you almost completely blind. Not a good thing when you’re moving down the road.

And, it’s important to be able to see your mirrors and other vehicles behind you. So, a little clarity here can go a long way.

Let’s take a look at how you can maximize your visibility:

Clean windows with the right cleaner. Don’t use cleaners that have ammonia or alcohol in them. Ammonia can cause the surfaces of your vehicle’s interior to dry out and can damage some window tints. Special automotive glass cleaners are available, and your service advisor can make recommendations.

Don’t use abrasives on your windows. Some kitchen sponges have a pad on one side meant to clean pots and pans. Don’t use those! That abrasive can scratch glass and permanently damage it! Instead, a microfiber designed for cleaning glass is the one recommended by pros.

We may remember to clean the outside, but the inside is just as important. We’ve all seen that film that develops on the inside of our vehicle windows. It can be caused by cigarette smoke or by sunlight baking your vehicle’s plastic and leather interior surfaces, releasing oils into the cabin. Thoroughly clean that oily layer.

Once your windows are clean, it’s important to be able to keep them clean when you’re on the road, especially your windshield. Replace your wiper blades regularly since the material used in them deteriorates over time even if they’re not used all that much.

There are several different types of wiper blades, and among the newest is the “beam” blade.

Beam blades have several advantages over more traditional blades, including a more contoured fit to the windshield surface. Some even incorporate an aerodynamic design that presses them tighter to the glass at higher speeds.

Your service advisor will be able to recommend the best blade for your vehicle and install them properly.

If you are having trouble seeing out your windshield, let us inspect your wiper blades at your next service.

Air Conditioning Service at Joe’s Slinger Service

Tue, 04 Aug 2020 21:45:45 GMT

Most people don’t service their air conditioning until after it fails. Maintaining your air conditioning system means that you always have enough refrigerant to properly do the job. Small leaks in the air conditioning system allow the refrigerant to escape and the system can’t cool the air as well.

Along with the refrigerant, a special oil circulates in the system. The oil lubricates air conditioning components and keeps the seals resilient. Low refrigerant and lubricating oil mean that the air conditioning parts will wear out prematurely, and we all know that air conditioning repairs can be costly.

Air conditioning service starts with a visual inspection of the components for signs of damage or leaks. The compressor is driven by a belt from the engine, most often the serpentine belt, so it’s inspected for cracks or wear.

The air conditioning compressor and other components are checked for proper operation. Then comes the leak test. If a leak is detected, often in a hose or connection, it’s repaired, and the system is retested. The technician will also perform a temperature drop test.

If needed, the old refrigerant is evacuated, and the system is recharged with clean, fresh refrigerant. A final test ensures that the air conditioner is working, and you’re on your way.

How often this should be done varies from vehicle to vehicle. Your owner’s manual will have the manufacturer’s recommendation and, of course, your service advisor can tell you. It’s typically every two years.

What Joe’s Slinger Service Customers Should Know

Tue, 07 Jul 2020 21:42:00 GMT

There are some things Joe’s Slinger Service customers should know about automotive service and repair in Slinger . First and foremost, Joe’s Slinger Service cares about you and your family’s safety . And they really appreciate your business. Joe’s Slinger Service wants to build a trusting relationship that becomes the foundation for a mutually beneficial experience for years to come.

Building on that foundation, there are some things that would help you understand the Slinger auto service and repair business better. First, it can be really hard to fix cars. The days of shade tree mechanics in WI are long gone. The majority of automotive systems are computerized. It takes a lot of training and very expensive equipment to diagnose and repair modern vehicles.

The technicians who work at Joe’s Slinger Service need extensive computer training – not just how to run the diagnostic systems, but also how to search for the right parts, network with other technicians to help them with a difficult problem and pull together a job order that makes sure that each step of the process is addressed.

The threshold for getting started as a technician gets higher all the time and there is a huge commitment to on-going training every year. This training takes time and money. It contributes to business overhead. The average Slinger driver may not realize the business and environmental regulations Joe’s Slinger Service must comply with. Of course, that costs money too. Like any Slinger business, overhead is a big factor.

When you go into your favorite Slinger restaurant, you don’t value the meal by what the food would cost at the grocery store. The restaurant has rent, wages, insurance, taxes, utilities, professional fees, equipment, supplies – you get the picture. The restaurant has to charge enough to not only pay for the ingredients, but for all these other things as well while making enough profit to remain in business. If you value the meal and are satisfied with your dining experience, you’ll come back and tell your Slinger friends.

It’s the same for Joe’s Slinger Service in Slinger. The value of its service is not the cost of the parts they replace, but in your satisfaction with the results. If they deliver a good product at a fair price, customers are happy to see them succeed as a business.

Your team at Joe’s Slinger Service loves to see Slinger customers whenever they come in, but they would much rather see them three or four times a year for routine maintenance than once a year on a tow truck. They want to work together with you to avoid breakdowns.

Tell your friends and family to go into Joe’s Slinger Service for their scheduled maintenance, too. That lowers Joe’s Slinger Service’s marketing costs and helps keep its labor rates down. That’s good for everyone.

Simple Questions- Wheel Bearings

Tue, 23 Jun 2020 21:37:05 GMT

Question:

I remember my dad having the shop “pack the bearings” on the family car. Is this something I need to have done?

Answer:

That’s a 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 technician 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 – ask your service advisor to have your bearings inspected.

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 will prevent corrosion.

It would be a good idea to have trailer wheels inspected 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 one wants that to happen, so follow a regular inspection schedule – your service advisor can help.

PCV Valve Service in Slinger WI

Mon, 08 Jun 2020 21:37:58 GMT

The WI push for fuel economy has the benefit of using less gas as well as fewer emissions in our local Slinger environment. Cars and trucks run cleaner than ever.

Many people in the Slinger area may not realize that the first federally mandated pollution control device was in 1960: the PCV valve.

‘PCV’ stands for Positive Crankcase Ventilation. The crankcase is the lower part of the engine where the crankshaft is housed and where the engine oil lives. When fuel is burned in the engine some of the explosive gases from combustion squeeze past the pistons and down into the crankcase.

Now this gas is about 70 percent unburned fuel. If it were allowed to remain in the crankcase, it would contaminate the oil and quickly turn it to sludge. Sludge is like Vaseline and clogs passages in the engine, leading to damage.

Also, the pressure build-up would blow out seals and gaskets. In the old days, there was just a hose that vented the crankcase out into the air, obviously not good for the environment.

Enter the PCV valve. It’s a small, one-way valve that lets out the gases from the crankcase and routes them back into the air intake system where they can be re-burned in the engine.

As you might imagine, the valve gets gummed up over time. If you skip oil changes now and then, the PCV valve gets gummed up even faster. If the PCV valve is sticking you could have oil leaks. Fortunately, the PCV valve is very inexpensive to replace. Some can even be checked for function by your technician.

Manufacturers usually recommend they be changed somewhere between 20 and 50 thousand miles (30,000-80,000 kilometers). Unfortunately, PCV valve replacement is left out of some owner’s manuals, so you may need to ask your service advisor.

Come down to Joe’s Slinger Service and have us take a look at the condition of your PCV valve to ensure you are running at top efficiency. Just come by our service station in Slinger, WI 53086, or give us a call at (262) 644-8276 .

Budgeting for Auto Maintenance In Slinger WI

Thu, 04 Jun 2020 21:41:04 GMT

We all do our best to budget for scheduled vehicle maintenance. What’s hard is planning for unexpected repairs. The truth is that our vehicles can stay on the road longer than ever before with proper maintenance. That’s because of improved vehicle design and manufacturing quality. But some of those same improvements also lead to higher repairs costs.

There’s a tool that can be found on Edmunds.com that you can use to prepare your service and repair budget.

Let’s suppose you have a used Toyota Camry – a very popular car. It’s now paid for and you’d like to keep it running for the next three years. You can go to Edmunds’ True Cost to Own calculator and enter your vehicle’s data. The calculator will provide estimates of what it’ll cost to service and repair your vehicle over the next five years. The estimate’s based on where you live, manufacturers’ recommendations and repair experience for your specific model.

Of course, these are just estimates – there’s no way to predict what will really happen to the car in your driveway, but it’s a good starting point. The calculator also has estimates for depreciation, financing, insurance, taxes and fuel costs.

Let’s focus on maintenance and repair. This table shows that the average monthly cost of maintenance and repairs for our example is eighty-three dollars. That may sound like a lot but compare it to a new car payment.

So, if you set aside eighty-three dollars a month, you’d go a long way towards taking care of routine maintenance and being prepared for the unexpected repairs that arise.

Some people are afraid of what can go wrong with their older car, so they buy a new one. That’s fine if you really want a new car, but if you properly maintain your older vehicle, you’ll save a lot of money on new car payments and insurance. It just makes good economic sense.

OEM or Aftermarket? (Choosing Replacement Parts)

Tue, 26 May 2020 21:34:28 GMT

It happens – a part on your vehicle breaks or just wears out. The replacement part is very important. You want it to last and perform like new. That’s why your NAPA AutoCare Center uses quality NAPA replacement parts. The parts we install on your vehicle will meet or exceed the specifications of the original parts.

Let’s break that down. “Meets” means that the new parts will perform the same as the parts they’re replacing. “Or exceeds” means that sometimes, the replacement parts improve on the original part.

A replacement part choice may be tailored to your preferences. Let’s take brake pads for example. Perhaps you value quiet brakes. Someone else prefers high-performance stopping power, or minimal brake dust accumulating on their wheels. Your service advisor can help you select brake pads that best meet your needs.

There are hundreds of thousands of auto parts needed to service all the vehicles on the road – including yours. Your NAPA AutoCare Center will install the right parts for your vehicle. They also provide a nationwide parts and labor warranty – ask your service advisor for details.

The Foggiest Idea (Fogged Windows in Cold Weather)

Mon, 11 May 2020 21:35:10 GMT

In cold weather, you may notice your windows fogging up. Then you can’t see where you’re going, and suddenly you and those around you are in danger. So, what causes your windows to fog up in cold weather, and how can you stop it?

Fog is simply moisture condensing on a cold surface. When the air inside your vehicle is moist and warmer than the outside air, it hits the glass that’s cooled by the outside temperature, and you get fog.

If your windows fog up, you probably already know to try the defroster for your windshield. You may also have an electric defroster for your rear window and outside rearview mirrors. Electric elements in the window and mirror glass heat up, so the moisture doesn’t condense on the glass.

If the defroster isn’t working on all the windows, turn up the temperature setting on your heater. Hot air holds more moisture. Switch on the air conditioning. As the air moves over the cooling coils, the moisture is removed. Turn your ventilation system off the “recirculating” setting, so it lets in outside air. Open a couple of windows slightly to move some of the moist, warm air out as the cooler, dry air comes in. Your windows should quickly clear up.

For this to work, all the systems in your vehicle must be working properly, of course. Blower motors must work, and the air conditioner condenser and its other components need to be in good operating condition. Plus, you have to be able to roll down your windows.

This is why it’s essential to keep all of the components in your vehicle in good working order. Who knew it was so important for your air conditioner to work in cold weather months? Add to that the fact that, in many vehicles, the air conditioner automatically comes on when you turn on your windshield defroster. That way, the A/C removes moisture as the heat warms the glass to prevent condensation, a very effective one-two punch. It’s a good idea to have your NAPA AutoCare Center perform an A/C inspection every year to make sure it’s working as it should all year round.

Oh, one thing that helps prevent fogging is making sure the insides of your windows are cleaned regularly. Dirt and oil on the glass give water molecules something to cling to. Boy, this sure clears up the subject of foggy windows!

Courtesy Inspections

Tue, 05 May 2020 21:36:01 GMT

Most people in Slinger, WI, come to their service advisor with specific services in mind and an idea of how much they’ll be spending. Sometimes, a courtesy inspection and a review of your service history will uncover additional items that require attention. How should you react to that?

Here’s some advice: It’s not as if your service advisor is saying “Do you want fries with that?” or “Supersize for 59 cents more.” Joe’s Slinger Service’s service advisors are not recommending something extra or something you don’t need. Recommendations are either based on the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule or on a problem uncovered during an inspection.

An important part of the service advisor‘s role is to help you understand the manufacture’s recommendations: recommendations that cover every system on the car and are set by the engineers that design the vehicle. If WI drivers followed every one of those recommendations they would save money on fuel, enjoy better performance, be safer and avoid a lot of breakdowns and repairs.

Your Joe’s Slinger Service service advisor is an educator who will help you with a plan for catching up scheduled services and a partner in taking care of your family’s vehicle priorities – they are there to help you manage your vehicle needs.

That Sinking Feeling (Suspension Failure)

Tue, 28 Apr 2020 21:30:52 GMT

There’s nothing quite like the feeling of driving down the road and, suddenly, the back end of your vehicle collapses. A possible cause is that something in your suspension has broken. Suspension components gradually wear out – you may not even notice the ride and handling slowly getting worse. But a sudden failure is unnerving and will often leave you unable to drive your vehicle.

A broken spring can cause your suspension to drop suddenly. There are different types of springs, including coil springs, leaf springs, and air springs. Most vehicles these days use coil springs, and they look just like you think they’d look: a coiled-up metal spring like what you’d find if you took apart a ballpoint pen. Coil springs fail from rust (thanks, brine and road salt), trauma (think potholes, speed bumps, curbs) and just plain metal fatigue.

Leaf springs are often used in larger vehicles such as trucks and large SUVs. The design has been around since the early days of carriages, and they are designed to handle heavier loads. Since leaf springs are made up of metal plates stacked together, rust and fatigue are common causes of failure.

Another type of spring that can suddenly fail is an air spring. Air springs are rubber bags that hold pressurized air. They have an air compressor, an air reservoir, and height sensors. The advantage of an air suspension is that you can adjust the ride height, level loads, adjust handling characteristics, and lower the vehicle to make it easier to get in and out.

Eventually, the rubber in an air spring can rot out, or the airbag can be punctured causing the air to leak out all at once. Not only can the corner of the vehicle with the failed air spring drop suddenly, but it’s also possible for the entire air system to lose air, allowing the vehicle to drop. Plus, compressors, solenoids, air lines, and sensors can also fail.

Your NAPA AutoCare Center technician can check your suspension components for rust, metal fatigue, cracks, or other worn or failing components. If you notice that your ride quality and handling is deteriorating, have us check your suspension.

Fuel Pump

Wed, 22 Apr 2020 21:31:31 GMT

Help your fuel pump last longer. One pump killer is contamination in the fuel tank. Sometimes this comes from the fuel itself. Buying fuel at a reputable Slinger station will help make sure you are putting clean fuel into the tank. Older vehicles tend to have more sediment in the tank from years of rust or corrosion from the tank itself. The tank may need a thorough cleaning or replacement.

Another thing you can do is refill your tank when it gets down to about a quarter full. The fuel pump is submerged in the fuel which cools and lubricates it. When the tank runs low, the pump has to work harder to suck up the fuel from the bottom and there is no fuel to cool it. This can lead to premature wear.

When the day comes that your fuel pump needs to be replaced, Joe’s Slinger Service in Slinger will use a quality replacement pump that meets or exceeds your vehicle manufacturer’s specifications. The entire assembly should be replaced. Your Joe’s Slinger Service service advisor will be sure to install a replacement pump that is compatible with your fuel type. For example, if you have a FlexFuel vehicle that can run on gasoline with up to 85% ethanol content, your fuel system components – including the fuel pump – must be able to withstand the corrosive effects of high alcohol content fuel.

Tire Rotation and Balancing

Fri, 17 Apr 2020 21:33:28 GMT

You can make your vehicle tires last longer with regular tire rotation and wheel balancing.

Let’s start with tire rotation . In normal driving around Slinger WI, your front tires wear more on the shoulders because they handle much of the cornering forces in turns. Front-wheel drive vehicles have even more force on the front tires.

We rotate the tires so that all of the tires do some duty on the front end as well as getting a little break on the back end. That way, all four tires wear more evenly over their life and last longer.

For most vehicles in Slinger WI, tires are rotated front to back . Some manufacturers recommend a cross rotational pattern that includes the spare tire, and some high-performance vehicles have different size tires on the front and rear and may even have uni-directional tires that can only be on the left or the right side of the vehicle. Your Slinger WI service advisor at Joe’s Slinger Service can help you sort that out and will perform the right tire rotation for your vehicle.

Your tire manufacturer will have a recommendation for how often you should rotate your tires . It’s usually somewhere around 5,000 to 8,000 miles, or 8,000 to 13,000 kilometers.

Let’s move on to wheel balancing. That’s when there are heavy spots on the tire and wheel that cause it to wobble .

Balancing adds weights to the wheel to balance it out. Now, we are talking about very small weight differences. Variations in the tire and wheel manufacture can cause a slight imbalance. The valve stem, and now the tire pressure monitoring sensors in the tire, also play into the equation.

Even small differences can cause annoying vibrations at speed: the wheel is essentially bouncing a bit as it goes down the road. For example, at freeway speeds, an out of balance wheel can be slamming into the road 14 times a second. That’s annoying and can cause your tires to wear out more quickly .

If a front wheel’s out of balance you’ll feel the vibration through the steering wheel. When it’s a rear tire, you’ll feel the vibration through your seat. If you’re getting bad vibes from your vehicle, bring it in to see if it’s a balance issue or something else. You should balance your wheels whenever you get a new tire or remount a tire like when it’s been removed for a flat repair.

Wiper Blades- Importance

Mon, 30 Mar 2020 21:27:42 GMT

Wiper blades may not be the most exciting topic for most Slinger residents – but they are pretty important. Most of us Slinger residents have had an experience when a sudden snow or rain storm hits while we’re driving; then when we turn on the wipers – nothing but streaks. This can be especially disconcerting at night when the glare of on-coming headlights distorts your vision.

Simple answer: change your wiper blades BEFORE they fail. Check them out every couple of months just to see how they are working. Of course, the more you use your wipers, the sooner they’ll wear out. Areas with lots of storms or those who drive a lot in WI where there are bugs and road grime will use their blades more.

But even when you’re not using your blades, they are exposed to sunlight, ozone, soap and extreme hot and cold WI temperatures which lead to deterioration. Your blades can just rot away and fall apart before you need them. Of course, using your wipers when the blades are torn can lead to scratches in your windshield. Slinger residents don’t want to risk windshield replacement over the cost of a couple of wiper blades.

Now let’s talk about wiper blade upgrades. Slinger residents can upgrade both the design and the wiper material. Let’s start with the material. Traditional black rubber blades do a great job of clearing your windshield when they are new. Over time, all of the conditions mentioned above damage them and degrade their performance. Silicone blades are far less affected by environmental conditions and will simply perform better for a longer time for Slinger residents.

There are two elements to the design. First, the wiper blade itself: Some have a single wiping edge. Others have multiple edges – kind of like a multi-blade razor. The idea is to maximize wiping power during both swipes of the blade.

The other design element is with the wiper frame. This is the structure that applies pressure on the blade as it passes over the windshield. A conventional frame has four to six contact points on the blade. These apply pressure used to clear water and snow. A beam frame provides uniform pressure along the entire surface of the wiper. Their shape catches the wind passing over the vehicle to provide additional downforce to help get a clean swipe. A hybrid frame has four to six contact points as with a conventional blade, but also incorporates an airfoil to provide additional downforce as with beam blades.

So which blade should you choose? Well always use at least the grade and design that came with the vehicle from the manufacturer. Upgrade for better performance and longer lasting blades. The extra cost of premium blades is a good value for this safety system.

While you’re at it, make sure you have plenty of windshield washer solvent (use a winter formulation when Slinger temps drop below freezing) and that your washer nozzles are working well. Talk with your friendly and knowledgeable Joe’s Slinger Service service advisor about upgrading your wiper blades.

Why You Need to Change Your Transmission Fluid

Wed, 25 Mar 2020 21:28:38 GMT

It’s easy to forget about servicing your transmission because it doesn’t need it very often, but proper transmission service keeps your vehicle 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 – much higher than engine temperatures. Those high temperatures eventually cause the transmission fluid to start to break down and loose efficiency. At best, your 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 engine to the drive wheels and improves fuel economy. That’s why manufacturers have recommended changing your transmission fluid at regular intervals. Your owner’s manual has a schedule for transmission service and, of course, your Joe’s Slinger Service Service Advisor can tell you what the manufacturer recommends. At Joe’s Slinger Service, we 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.

COVID-19 Update

Tue, 24 Mar 2020 21:29:54 GMT

MEMO

TO: Customers and Suppliers

FROM: Joe Schumacher, Owner

RE: COVID UPDATE

DATE: March 24, 2020

RE: Customers Service Appointments

Here at Joe’s, the safety of our customers’ and employees has and continues to be one of our number one priorities. Facing the current crisis our commitment to that goal will not change.

As one of the leading automotive repair centers in the Slinger Area, we want to ensure we are doing our part to assist in preventing the spread of the virus while maintaining a healthy environment for both clients and team members.

With accordance to the CDC, Joe’s has and continues taking the following precautions:

The repeated routine of cleaning all commonly used surfaces in our shop throughout each day.
Our clients’ vehicles will be disinfected before and after service to protect clients and team members.
Our technicians and office staff have been instructed to wash hands for 20+ seconds regularly throughout each day.
To wear gloves during services provided.

We are monitoring all staff for symptoms and will require them to stay home if any viral symptoms are present.

RE: Emission test services are postponed until further notice. Emission inspection deadlines are extended.

As of Tuesday, March 24 ^th 2020 10:15AM we have been instructed to hold off on Emission testing to reduce the rick of spreading of COVID-19.

Please note that emission test requirements have extended deadlines:

Registration date(s) after March 12 that require an emission test will have 90 days from their renewal date to complete an emission test and maintain valid registration.
Customers who obtained a new vehicle registration this year (Jan. 26-Mar. 12) will need to complete an emission test by June 10 to maintain valid registration.
Customers who apply for, or obtained, new registration after March 12 will have 90 days from their date of registration to complete an emission test and maintain valid registration.

RE: Parts Deliveries

There have not been any changes to deliveries or the process of procuring signatures. Please continue to deliver parts with past business practices. If you are uncomfortable with this process please let us know how we can accommodate you.

Car Battery Vs Heat

Tue, 10 Sep 2019 21:25:32 GMT

Remember this winter when we had wind chills -50 degrees? You saw a lot of people starting their cars making sure the battery would start. Well what most people don’t realize is the heat is actually harder on your car battery than the cold.

When it’s hot outside, it’s even hotter under your hood. If the outside temperature is 90 degrees, it’s probably around 140 degrees underneath your car’s hood. This heat causes battery fluid to evaporate, which damages the internal structure and speeds up corrosion. These two factors affect both the internal and external structures of the battery.

Colder temperatures increase the thickness of the engine oil, making the engine harder to turn over, causing the battery to have to work more. These factors lead to harder starting.

To get the most life out of a battery, Palo Alto Shell suggests the following simple steps:

Be sure the electrical system is charging at the correct rate; overcharging can damage a battery as quickly as undercharging.
If your battery is the type that needs to be topped off, check it regularly, especially in hot weather. Add distilled water when necessary.
Always replace a battery with one that’s rated at least as high as the one originally specified.
Keep the top of the battery clean. Dirt becomes a conductor, which drains battery power. Further, as corrosion accumulates on battery terminals it becomes an insulator, inhibiting current flow.

Joe’s Slinger Service has been serving Slinger and all of Washington County and Dodge County for over 20 years. And at Joe’s, we never recommend services or repairs unless we feel they’re absolutely necessary, so give us a call at (262) 644-8276 to experience how Joe’s goes the extra mile so you can too! www.joesslingerservice.com

Top 5 Reasons to Use Independent Repair Shops vs. Dealerships

Thu, 05 Jul 2018 21:24:39 GMT

Not only are people more satisfied with independent repair shop’s customer service, they also tend to be less expensive than dealerships. Independent repair shops rely on word-of-mouth recommendations and customer referrals for much of their business. So it’s no surprise that many independent garages place a high premium on customer service and satisfaction.
Because independent shops tend to be small, with maybe three to five technicians, you’ll get to know the owner and everyone that works there. You’ll be able to ask questions directly to the mechanic working on your car.
Because of lower prices, a small independent shop is a great place to go for basic maintenance and repairs not covered by a car’s warranty. Everything from oil changes on up will cost more if you take your car to the service department at a dealership.
A lot of people think you have to go to a dealer for maintenance to keep your warranty and that’s absolutely not true.
Worried that a smaller garage won’t know how to fix your car’s problem? Don’t be. Thanks to new software programs, today’s independent garages are privy to the same technical and repair information as dealers. In the past five years, independent shops have caught up to dealers in terms of information. The independents these days have the same computer system, same records, same level of service as the dealer. A good independent garage knows just as much about a technical service bulletin on your car as a dealer does. Manufacturers publish technical service bulletins to assist technicians in diagnosing and repairing problems in cars, trucks and sport utility vehicles.

Still, knowledge is one thing, skill is another. You’ll want to choose a repair shop with certified technicians. Look for mechanics that are certified by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence . ASE certified mechanics must pass comprehensive exams and must be re-certified every five years.

One thing missing from a dealer shop is the personal touch. At a dealership you rarely see the tech, so you don’t know who’s working on the car. Now you could ask to speak to the mechanic each time you bring your car into a dealer service department. Just be prepared to meet someone new with each visit as a large dealership could have 20 or 30 technicians or more working at any given time. So a different technician could work on your car each time you bring it in. At Joe’s you can always speak directly with the tech whenever you like.

Your Vehicle Is A Lot Like Your Body

Thu, 12 Feb 2015 21:23:06 GMT

Your vehicle is a lot like your body. When you notice something is hurting, you wait until you just can’t stand it anymore, finally calling your doctor so they can examine your symptoms and prescribe a solution. Your mechanic is similar to your doctor because when your vehicle is making strange noises or lights you never knew existed light up on your dashboard, you sometimes hold off on calling him because you think it’s going to cost you money. After all, your vehicle is still getting you where you want to go! Some of you even get creative and hide the vehicle’s symptoms such as covering up your check engine light with tape so you don’t have to look at it! (true story) When the time comes that you can’t stand the noise/light etc. you take your vehicle in for a diagnosis. Then you dread the call of the service writer calling you with the estimate of repairs needed. After he explains what the mechanic has found, and the price to repair it, he also informs you that it could have been prevented if you had just done your preventative maintenance he offered you last time you were in the shop. Just like your body is wired, so is your vehicle. Everything is connected. Your body can’t run on one organ alone, just like your vehicle cannot run on one part alone. So it makes sense to maintain all of your body’s parts, as well as all of your vehicle’s parts. The best part of this is that each vehicle gives you a cheat sheet (owner’s manual) that tells you exactly what needs to be done, and when, in order to keep your vehicle running at it’s best.

The ASE certified team at Joe’s Slinger Service are here to help you and your vehicle when lights and noises arise. But they are also here to provide necessary maintenance helping to avoid major repairs down the road. We even keep track of service done to your vehicle and recommend when the next planned maintenance should be done so you don’t even have to think about it. You can even track your maintenance and repair history via a website specific to your vehicle.

Go to www.joesslingerservice.com to read testimonials from others who have had work done at Joe’s and how pleased they are with our service. You will also find out how to get a FREE OIL CHANGE and many other great deals and offers. Check out Joe’s Facebook Page for coupons/specials etc. that can only be heard about on Facebook. Joe’s even has You Tube videos on “how-to-do” simple services such as check your fluids and how to check the air in your tires. We work hard to keep you and your family safe on the road. If you are a current customer, thanks for your trust in us. If you are not a customer yet, go to our website and read the testimonials and give us a try next time you need some help.

How to Hire a Mechanic – Part 2 of 2

Tue, 02 Dec 2014 21:22:06 GMT

Written by Joe Schumacher – Owner/Mechanic of Joe’s Slinger Service LLC

How to know if your Mechanic is Honest

Searching for the right mechanic is a multi-step process. Word of mouth will often help you zero in on a garage that does good work and reading reviews provided on an Auto Repair Shop ’s website or going to Facebook is always a good idea. Most importantly, don’t assume that just because you go to a dealership, that they are the best at fixing your “model” of vehicle either. However, you shouldn’t be satisfied until you visit the garage in person and speak to the mechanic and/or owner personally.

Once at the repair shop, there are a few more questions you should ask. Whether you need something fixed immediately or are simply searching for a garage for the next time something goes awry, these questions will help you determine what kind of mechanic you’re dealing with.

What would do if it was your car?

This question tends to catch a mechanic off guard, forcing him to be truthful about the work needed to be done on your car. If he was truthful when outlining exactly what repairs were going to be done, he should have no problem answering you. However, if he was over-exaggerating the cost or amount of work, you might be able to see it in his face after posing this question.

A good mechanic will always give it to you straight: if you don’t need to replace a certain part, he’ll tell you. Of course, he should also be able to notice when urgent work needs to be done.

Price of Work

Do I have an option of choosing new parts or used ones?

Car repair shops work in different ways. Some have associations with scrap yards and other used-parts businesses, while others find it easier (and more profitable) to use new parts whenever possible. Ideally, though, the use of new or used components would depend on the situation. Look into what this particular garage usually does and comment on what you would like to do. If the mechanic says he was going to replace a certain part with a brand new one, ask him to consider a used-part alternative. Joe’s uses both recycled and brand new parts to give you the best performance and best price. If you have a preference, please discuss it with our service writer prior to repairs being authorized to be completed. We always ask the customer for approval prior to replacing parts with used parts.

Don’t be shy in asking about this option. The staff at Joe’s would be happy to explain your options. However, don’t always insist on used parts, since this can lead to frequent trips back to the same mechanic.

Can I get an itemized invoice and an explanation of what was done to my car?

Unfortunately, sometimes invoices from repair shops aren’t easy to read. Often, this is done from unscrupulous auto repair shops on purpose, so customers won’t question every single detail of a certain job. Don’t stand for this. Before technicians start working on your vehicle, specify that you would like a detailed breakdown on your invoice of the repairs done.

Feel free to ask your mechanic for a tour of your car and for him to point out what was removed, replaced and repaired. Ask to see the old part that was changed. Joe’s would be happy to do this for you upon request prior to the work being done. (we ask for this prior to the repairs because used parts get literally tossed into a junk bin) Joe’s welcomes numerous questions. We love to talk about our work, however, some customers would rather just pay the bill, as they trust us and are not interested in what we have done for their vehicle.

Services and Post-Repair Questions

Ask about warranties and other post-repair questions. A good mechanic will call and follow up with you to make sure you are satisfied with the repairs. If you live within 10 miles of Joe’s, we will give you a ride home while we are repairing your vehicle at no additional charge. Joe’s also has a Nationwide policy on some of their parts.

How to Hire a Mechanic – Part 1 of 2

Fri, 21 Nov 2014 21:19:42 GMT

Written by Joe Schumacher – Owner/Mechanic of Joe’s Slinger Service LLC

Searching for the right mechanic is a multi-step process. Word of mouth will often help you zero in on a garage that does good work and reading reviews provided on Auto Repair Shop ’s website is always a good idea. Most importantly, don’t assume that just because you go to a dealership, that they are the best at fixing your “brand” of vehicle either. However, you shouldn’t be satisfied until you visit the garage in person and speak to the mechanic and/or owner personally.

Once at the repair shop, there are a few questions you should ask. Whether you need something fixed immediately or are simply searching for a garage for the next time something goes awry, these questions will help you determine what kind of mechanic you’re dealing with.

Questions to ask the Mechanic

Before a technician even lays a finger on your car, approach the owner. There are three categories of inquiries you should make about his business: the credentials of the garage and competence of the workers, the price of the work being done and, finally, the policies and extra services. Let’s take a look at the first recommended set of questions.

Quality of Work

Do you have an Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certificate?

Another, more common known indication of quality service is an ASE certificate posted up somewhere in the garage. ASE workers do on-site evaluations of vehicle repair establishments across the country, handing out certificates to those places that conform to ASE standards. When you can’t spot this exclusive piece of paper, ask if this garage has been approved. Again, if it hasn’t, it’s a sign that the workmanship is questionable.

Does your garage specialize in a particular type of car? A particular type of work?

Without it being explicitly written on a sign outside the garage, many mechanics will admit they do their best work on a certain make of car or certain repair job. Ask about this, since you probably wouldn’t want your Infiniti worked on at a place that is used to repairing Ford minivans. By the same token, it may not be wise to get a spark plug problem fixed at a garage that has a history of repairing air conditioners. Make sure you know what your garage’s strengths and weaknesses are.

Automobile Warning Lights

Thu, 17 Apr 2014 21:18:33 GMT

Warning Lights That Signal Car Repair

Do you know what each and every one of the warning lights on your car’s dashboard represents? Probably not, but there are a few warning lights that every driver should know, if only because they cannot be ignored (regardless if you’re a regular commuter or you only use your automobile for short trips).

The warning indicators on your dashboard are there for a reason, and most illuminate in different ways to signal different situations. For instance, when you start your car, all of the lights on your dashboard will typically flash, letting you know that each of your vehicle’s systems is in working order. If, however, one illuminates while you’re driving or after this start-up sequence, it could indicate that your car needs repair, and quick.

Here’s a run-down of the most important lights on your dashboard.

Oil Pressure Light

This light may actually be one of the most important lights on your dashboard. Often showing a little oilcan or the word “OIL,” the oil pressure light illuminates when your vehicle experiences a drop in oil pressure.

Because it is vital that your engine be well-lubricated during operation, you should never drive your vehicle if this light is on. If it turns on and stays on while you are driving, pull off the road at the first safe opportunity, turn off your engine, and call someone for assistance. Driving your car while the oil pressure light is on can cause serious, irreparable damage to your engine.

Engine Temperature Light

Another important warning indicator, the engine temperature light is often a thermometer icon or the word “TEMP.” This dashboard light illuminates when the temperature of your engine exceeds safe levels and, unless it is quickly brought into “the safe zone,” can damage your engine.

An illuminated engine temperature light could indicate a coolant leak, a faulty temperature sensor, or another serious issue. If the engine temperature indicator turns on and stays on while you are driving, you should try not to drive your vehicle. Instead, pull off the road at the first safe opportunity, shut off your engine, and call for help.

If your engine is steaming, be extremely careful if you try to open your hood. And do not, under any circumstances, try to remove your radiator cap while the engine is hot.

Charging System Light

Typically a battery symbol, the word “GEN” or the word “ALT,” the charging system light lets you know when there is a problem with your vehicle’s electrical system (specifically, that your electrical system is not getting power from the alternator).

If this light comes on, turn off any unnecessary electrical drains (like your radio, heater, air conditioner, or iPod charger) and drive your vehicle to a car repair shop as soon as you can. Be aware that if you park your car, you may not be able to start it again without a “jump.”

Check Engine Light

The Check Engine Light is another helpful dashboard indicator that lets you know that you should have your car checked out by a service professional. Typically, this light (which is often an engine icon and/or the words “CHECK” or “CHECK ENGINE”) lets you know when there is something wrong with your vehicle’s exhaust system.

This light can stay on or flash, depending on the type of problem that your vehicle’s sensors are sensing. If the light stays on, make an appointment with a car repair shop as soon as is convenient. If the light flashes, this could indicate a more serious problem, so it’s best to make an appointment (or emergency repair visit) immediately.

Other Dashboard Indicators

The warning lights listed above aren’t the only dashboard lights that can indicate your car needs to be serviced, but they are the most important. Depending on the type and year of your vehicle, you may also see any of the following dashboard indicators:

Brake System Light
Battery Charge Warning Light
Low Coolant Level Warning Light
IMA Light (for Integrated Motor Assist)

Disregarding the warning lights on your vehicle can cause serious, costly damage. It can also endanger the safety of anyone in the vehicle (and other cars on the road). If your warning indicators light up or act in a way that seems unusual, be sure to call a qualified auto repair service technician or repair shop to make sure that your vehicle is still safe to drive.

Automobile Emissions Testing in Slinger Wisconsin

Fri, 05 Oct 2012 21:16:33 GMT

Emissions Testing – What’s the Deal?

Blog by John Mecikalski

Earlier this spring, a gentleman walked into our shop. He asked us this question; “Would you like to increase the number of potential customers coming through your shop?” Now, this is not the first time, nor will it be the last time someone comes in the shop wanting us to buy whatever they are selling because it is the magical golden ingredient for success. But this was different. The man went on to explain that the Wisconsin Department of Transportation was closing the emission testing stations throughout the state, and those duties will be placed with individual repair shops instead. The state of Wisconsin chose to hire a company called Systech, from Utah, to oversee and manage the brand new program that would be taking effect July 2, 2012. The gentleman was from Systech, who would also be responsible for choosing which repair shops would be added to this program as testing facilities.

He said, “Would your shop like to be apart of this new program?”

This seemed like exciting and new territory. It is great for our existing customers, who previously had to drive to West Bend for a test, and also the possible new customers that visit us for the first time for a free emissions test. Joe’s Slinger Service would be reimbursed from the state for the tests, so they are at no charge for the customer. This is an opportunity to better serve our customers, quickly and easily. Passing tests are given a printed PASSED inspection sheet. The failed tests are also given a printed inspection and a reason for the fail. All test results are sent to the DOT electronically, so there is no extra work for the customer.

Finally, an emissions procedure we can live with. That sounds like a win-win!

So, why was Joe’s Slinger Service chosen as a testing facility? The repair shops chosen for the program were picked for a few different reasons. Joe’s has been around since 1998, we are an established shop in the Slinger area. Joe’s is also a well respected shop that has great customer reviews (which can also be seen on our website). Here at Joe’s we have a large, clean facility that has the capabilities to handle the extra vehicles. These things combined with Joe’s knowledge and ability to fix cars morally and properly, made Joe’s Slinger Service an easy choice to become a Wisconsin DOT Testing Facility .

The test itself is very fast and simple. Stop by Joe’s, let us know you need an emissions test and have a seat in our comfortable waiting room. The test usually takes less than 10 minutes and you are back on the road! If you choose, you may also re-new your vehicle registration and receive your updated license plate sticker right here at the shop!

So when it does come to emission testing time, remember that Joe’s is a trusted testing facility. If your vehicle fails its emissions test and you schedule repairs at Joe’s, mention this blog for 10% off your repair bill. If you have any questions, you may check out the WIVIP website which is https://www.wisconsinvip.org or you can certainly call us anytime at Joe’s, (262) 644-8276 .

Hot Weather Vehicle Checklist

Wed, 18 Jul 2012 21:14:36 GMT

I remember when I was a kid, my mom always had me running through a sprinkler or into the swimming pool on hot days to make sure I was keeping cool in the summer heat. Weather like we are experiencing now can be difficult to handle, for ourselves and our vehicles, even for a short time. Running your car through the sprinkler won’t have the same result. However, there are 4 very simple maintenance items to check when the Mercury rises.

1. Batteries.

“I can tell you first hand, heat is a batteries worst enemy. Extreme heat like this can boil the battery acid and fluid inside the battery. The battery expands, and will cause them to leak. This will result in battery failure in the long run. When you stop in for a routine oil change, we test the battery for you to ensure that it is in good condition, or find a poor performing battery before it leaves you sweating and stranded.”

2. Tires.

“This is one of the easiest things to check. Heat can raise the tire pressure, which is why car makers suggest checking inflation before driving. As you drive your car through any month of the year, your tires PSI (pounds per square inch) will go up 5-8 PSI. In extreme heat, even higher. If you have weak, bald or bulging tires, this increases your chances for blowout. The bonus is, proper inflation also helps improve fuel economy.”

3. Cooling System (Anti-freeze)

“Anti-Freeze doesn’t just protect from freezing, it is also the engines coolant during hot weather. Low coolant levels can spell disaster for engines if not corrected. Worn hoses, and belts that have deteriorated with age will be pushed to the limits during extreme temperatures. A blown radiator hose can cause severe damage, sometimes before you may even notice. A simple inspection can catch these hoses before they turn into a problem.”

4. Air Conditioning

“An A/C performance check is fast and easy. We check the refrigerant level and ensure that your A/C is cooling down to the proper level. In some cases, the refrigerant (freon) is low or has leaked out which can cause the A/C to switch on and off or blow warm air. Running the Air Conditioning continuously in extreme weather can put extra strain the the engine. If taking long trips, cycling the A/C on and off yourself can save fuel mileage, and unnecessary wear and tear.”

Granted. As car owners and mechanics both know, vehicles can be unpredictable complicated beasts. If you have any questions, concerns about your vehicle or the topics in the blog, please contact us that the shop, we are happy to help!

Radiator Service Keeping Your Vehicle Cool Under the Hood

Tue, 17 Apr 2012 20:31:48 GMT

Your vehicle’s engine consists of many moving parts, as they move they create friction, which creates heat. It’s the radiators job to cool down the engine. Your vehicle’s radiator keeps everything cool under the hood to help prevent overheating and other serious problems. To keep your engine cool and running properly the radiator pumps a mix of water and antifreeze through the chambers in your engine to absorb the excess heat.

Coolant System Fluid Exhange Service

Keeping your vehicle cool under the hood may only mean a quick part replacement, or it could involve more complex repairs. Our technicians can perform a detailed inspection of your vehicle’s cooling systems to determine what work is needed. Most vehicle manufacturers recommend replacement of the anti-freeze at scheduled intervals.

Unlike many service shops that just perform a “drain-and-fill”, Joe’s provides a complete radiator fluid exchange service that includes the following:

inspect system and pressure test for leaks
add flush chemicals to the radiator
power flush system through flush machine
refill system with proper amount of recycled anti-freeze
add sealant/lubricant to the system
12-month/12,000-mile limited warranty*

*See your auto advisor for complete terms and conditions of written, limited warranties.

The key components we replace or repair are:

radiator
radiator cap
radiator hoses
radiator fan/fan clutch
anti-freeze
water pump
thermostat
fan belts
serpentine belt
cooling sensor
heater core
heater hoses
temperature sensor

Transmission Services

Thu, 12 Apr 2012 20:30:16 GMT

Your vehicle’s transmission is the “heart and soul” of your vehicle. If it is not taken care of properly, its life will be reduced significantly. Some people think getting their transmission fluid “flushed” is an auto repair’s shop “scam.” I’m here to tell you that it is not and here are some important facts about why you should get one. Always refer to your owner’s manual or better yet, give Joe a call to schedule time for him to look at your vehicle and make his best recommendations to keep your car full of life for a very, very long time!

Automatic Transmission Fluid Exchange

Why is it important?
Transmission gears deliver power from the engine to the drive wheels, shifting automatically to provide the best power and efficiency for your driving speed. A special transmission fluid cools and lubricates the gears. Over time, this fluid degrades, and its lubricant qualities diminish. Changing the fluid at the correct intervals can help prevent premature wear and damage to the transmission.

What is the service?
Removal of the old transmission fluid and replace it with new, clean fluid of the grade recommended by your vehicle manufacturer.

Automatic Transmission Drain and Fill

Automatic transmission fluid lubricates, cools and cleans internal components of the transmission. It also helps to maintain the hydraulic pressure necessary forthe transmission to function. The additives in the transmission fluid can be depleted over time.

The Automatic Transmission Drain & Fill service includes:

Removing the transmission fill/drain plug to remove the old automatic transmission fluid
Reinstalling transmission fill/drain plug
Refilling the transmission with new automatic transmission fluid to the proper level

Automatic Transmission Filter Replacement

The automatic transmission filter helps remove dirt and contaminants from the automatic transmission fluid.

The Automatic Transmission Filter Replacement Service includes:

Removing the transmission pan
Removing the old transmission filter and replacing it with a new transmission filter
Removing the old gasket material
Replacing the pan gasket with a new gasket and reinstalling the pan
Refilling the transmission with new automatic transmission fluid to the proper level

Automatic Transmission Fluid Exchange & Filter Replacement

Automatic transmission fluid lubricates, cools and cleans internal components of the transmission. It also helps to maintain the hydraulic pressure necessary for the transmission to function. The additives in the transmission fluid can be depleted over time.

The Automatic Transmission Fluid Exchange & Filter Replacement service includes:

Changing the fluid in the transmission system, including the torque converter and transmission cooler
Removing the transmission pan
Removing the old transmission filter and replacing it with a new transmission filter
Removing the old gasket material
Replacing the pan gasket with a new gasket and reinstalling the pan
Refilling the transmission with new automatic transmission fluid to the proper level

Manual Transmission Service

A transmission is a speed and power-changing device located between the engine and the driving wheels of a vehicle. It provides a means for changing the ratio between engine RPM and driving wheel RPM to meet each particular driving situation.

Manual transmission fluid provides lubrication to gears, bearings, shafts, and other internal components. Heat, pressure and friction can slowly breakdown the additives in the manual transmission fluid. In addition, small particles of metal may come off the gears as they wear and these metal particles can mix with the fluid. Fluids can also become contaminated with water.

The service includes:

Evacuating the old manual transmission fluid
Filling the manual transmission fluid with the manufacturer’s recommended type and quantity of new fluid

What is Synthetic Oil?

Mon, 05 Mar 2012 20:28:25 GMT

Wikipedia’s definition is:
Synthetic oil is a lubricant consisting of chemical compounds that are artificially made (synthesized). Synthetic lubricants can be manufactured using chemically modified petroleum components rather than whole crude oil, but can also be synthesized from other raw materials. Synthetic oil is used as a substitute for lubricant refined from petroleum when operating in extremes of temperature, because, in general, it provides superior mechanical and chemical properties than those found in traditional mineral oils. Aircraft jet engines, for example, require the use of synthetic oils, whereas aircraft piston engines do not.

AMSOIL Inc. developed the first synthetic motor oil to meet API service requirements. Lieutenant Colonel Albert J. Amatuzio, President and CEO of AMSOIL Inc. witnessed synthetic lubricants in action as a jet fighter squadron commander. He noted that synthetic oils were developed for (and still are used exclusively in) aircraft jet engines because of their ability to reduce friction and wear on engine parts. This performance was due to synthetic oil having incredible ability to function dependably at severe hot and cold temps as well as to withstand rigorous and lengthy engine operation without viscosity breakdown. This is critical in aircraft engine operation because, if oil breaks down at 30,000 feet, aircraft engines can fail and … well, you get the picture. Amatuzio decided that he would develop synthetic motor oil to be used in automobiles for the same benefits. In 1972 AMSOIL introduced the first motor oil for automotive applications. In the early seventies, another company was also working on synthetic oil development for the automobile … Mobil Oil Company. They came to market with synthetic motor oil in 1975. By the 1990’s the other major oil companies added their synthetic oils to the marketplace, in addition to their petroleum-based products.

Before we discuss whether you should use synthetic motor oil in your car and the pros and cons of the product, let’s first take a look at how motor oil is made.

Here is what Mobil Oil says about the subject on their website :
“Conventional oils come from crude oil that is pumped from the ground. Crude oil is made up of a complex mixture of molecules that form chains and rings of different sizes and shapes. Long chains of carbon atoms produce a thick, viscous fluid that flows slowly. Shorter chains produce fluid that flows more readily.

In an oil refinery, crude oil is separated into various fractions. These become the basis for lubricating oils and fuels. Thick tangled masses of carbon chains become asphaltic materials used in roofing tar and road work. Very short chains and ring compounds of carbon are volatile and can be refined to produce gasoline and other products.

While petroleum refining is an advanced science, small amounts of contaminants, such as sulfur and reactive hydrocarbons, cannot be completely removed from petroleum, and may end up in motor oil base stocks.

All motor oils are made up of base oils and additives. In general, fully synthetic motor oils contain non-conventional, high-performance fluids. Synthetic blends usually use some non-conventional, high-performance fluids in combination with conventional oil.”

Should I Use Synthetic Oil In My Car?
That depends on the vehicle’s age, mileage, and the carmaker’s recommendations for engine lubricants. Older vehicles with high mileage tend to have excessive mechanical wear in the engine, allowing for internal oil leakage. On vehicles with high mileage, it is not recommended to use full synthetic oil because it is thin and very free flowing, and use of it does (more often than not) result in internal oil combustion. I used full synthetic oil in a Plymouth Neon. After logging120K miles the car started to consume oil at an alarming rate. Concerned, I switched to a semi-synthetic oil that was more full-bodied and the consumption stopped. I logged another 30K miles and sold it. It’s still running with over 200K miles today and it doesn’t burn oil. Carmakers use full synthetics and semi synthetics in some of their engines today. In most cases, you will find that a synthetic lubricant is used when there’s a high performance engine with tight engine tolerances, high compression, and high operating temperatures. Follow your owner’s manual for motor oil recommendations. If you want to use synthetic oil and your car is still under warranty, check with your local dealer before switching to synthetic oil (just to make sure you’re covered with the switch).

Does It Work Better In Some Cars Than Others?
As I stated earlier, some carmakers recommend only using synthetic oil in their engines. For instance, Chevy recommends the use of Mobil One full synthetic oil in its new generation Chevy Corvette engine. I have used synthetic oil in all of my vehicles for the last six years with great results, with one exception. I didn’t use a full synthetic in my Ford Taurus 3.0 DOHC V-6. Ford specifies using a 5W20 semi synthetic due to engine design, so I followed the manufacturer’s specification. Remember, before changing to synthetic oil, check with your dealer on carmaker’s recommendations. As stated earlier, you could void the warranty.

What are the pros and cons of using synthetic oil in my car?

Pros:
It flows easier in cold weather, therefore no loss of prime when the oil is cold. Also, it is highly resistant to viscosity breakdown (the ability of the oil to flow easily in all temps) from heat, friction, chemical contaminants.

Longer change intervals: 5,000 – 7,000 miles between oil changes (compared to 3,000 for regular oil). Some folks have documented up to 25K miles between changes. However, I would not advice going that long!

Cons:
Cost is twice as much as conventional oil per quart. However it lasts longer, so the actual cost increase is closer to 50 – 60 percent.

Flows easily, therefore not recommend for use on high mileage engines; nor do I recommend using it in new engines during the break-in period because it is so slippery and dramatically limits the wearing of new mating parts within the engine. This initial wearing of parts is what makes for proper engine break-in, sealing of piston rings, mating of camshafts and lifters, etc.

Does it make my engine last longer?

Yes, because it’s so slippery, synthetic makes for less engine wear and thus greater engine longevity.

How to Not Break Down in the Dead of Wisconsin Winter

Tue, 10 Jan 2012 20:26:49 GMT

Some simple seasonal auto service can keep your wheels moving. Joe’s Slinger Service offers these winterizing tips for drivers:

Check antifreeze.
Cooling-system failure is the No. 1 cause of engine related breakdowns. Maintain a 50/50 ratio of antifreeze to water, and flush antifreeze at the manufacturer recommended intervals, typically every two years.
Replace wiper blades.
Replace windshield wiper blades twice a year, and fill windshield washer tank with freeze-resistant solution (water and standard washer fluid freezes).
Check car battery.
If your battery is more than three-years-old, have a technician check its capacity. Ask to test the alternator, and make sure battery terminal ends are corrosion-free.
Check tire pressure.
Cold weather causes tires to contract and pressure to drop, so it’s best to check pressure when tires are cool. Set the tire pressure according to your manual’s specific recommendations.
Check tire treads.
Look at the tread depth on your tires. Put a penny headfirst between the treads. If you can see the top of Lincoln’s hair, it’s time to replace the tire.
Check spare tire.
Make sure it has proper air pressure, tread depth, and all tire-changing equipment is in the vehicle.
Make sure lights, heater and defrosters work properly.
Check rubber hoses and belts for damage.
Coolant hoses wear from the inside-out, so have a professional inspect all hoses and check for cracks or chunking in the belts.
Get brake system checked.
If you haven’t had the system inspected in the last six months, be sure to do so before you hit the road.
Put together a winter emergency kit.

Include: a blanket, extra boots and gloves, ice scraper, windshield washer fluid, jumper cables, first-aid kit, flares, small snow shovel, flashlight, bottled water, and kitty litter (creates traction when stuck in snow). Keep kit in the trunk in case of emergency.

Joe’s Short Course on Wheel Alignment By: Joe Schumacher

Wed, 30 Nov 2011 14:25:53 GMT

If you ask my wife, the old saying, a mechanic’s car is usually the last one to get fixed she’ll tell you that statement is more than true!

She has been insisting that her SUV has been pulling one way and I just can’t remember to look into it. That got me thinking about all of you who have the same problem, but just don’t feel the need to get it looked at. Here’s a short course on the basics of wheel alignments.

I hope you find it helpful!

In its most basic form, a wheel alignment consists of adjusting the angles of the wheels so that they are perpendicular to the ground and parallel to each other. The purpose of these adjustments is maximum tire life and a vehicle that tracks straight and true when driving along a straight and level road.

Four-Wheel Alignments:

There are two main types of 4-wheel alignments. In each case, the technician will place an instrument on all four wheels. In the first type the rear toe and tracking is checked, but all adjustments are made at the front wheels. This is done on vehicles that do not have adjustments on the rear. The second type is a full 4-wheel alignment where the adjustments are first made to true up the rear alignment, then the front is adjusted. A full 4-wheel alignment will cost more than the other type because there is more work involved.

Balancing:

The two really have nothing to do with each other except for the fact that steering or tracking problems.

Here are some other facts every driver should know about wheel alignments:

-A proper wheel alignment should always start and end with a test drive

-The front end and steering linkage should be checked for wear before performing an alignment

-The tires should all be in good shape with even wear patterns. If you have a tire with excessive camber wear, for instance, and you correct the alignment problem that caused that wear, the tire will now be making only partial contact with the road.

-Pulling problems are not always related to wheel alignment. Problems with tires (especially unequal air pressure), brakes and power steering can also be responsible. It is up to a good wheel alignment technician to determine the cause.

I hope you find this helpful and I am proud to tell you that Joe’s Slinger Service has just installed a brand new, state-of-the-art Hunter alignment machine and we are itching to try it out. Watch for upcoming specials on alignments so you are ready for the rough winter road season!

And remember, you can stop in anytime for us to take a look at your tires for absolutely no charge. We want you and your family to be safe so please don’t ever hesitate to stop in for our advice!

Joe