Integrity Auto Care Blog

Winter in South Beloit, Illinois often brings freezing temperatures and a lot of snow that can challenge even the most experienced drivers. To stay safe and keep your vehicle running smoothly during the coldest months, it’s important to prepare your car before winter weather arrives. A few simple maintenance steps can go a long way in preventing breakdowns and improving safety on slippery roads. At Integrity Auto Care, we provide expert winter auto maintenance in the greater South Beloit area. Here are five tips to help get your vehicle winter-ready. Test the Battery Cold temperatures can quickly drain your battery’s power, making it harder for your car to start. Batteries that are weak or nearing the end of their lifespan are especially vulnerable in freezing weather. Have your battery tested by a professional to check its charge and overall health. Replacing it before it fails can save you from being stranded in the cold. Consider Switching to Winter Tires Winter tires are specially designed to stay flexible in cold conditions and feature deeper tread patterns. In South Beloit, where snow and freezing rain are common, switching to winter tires can significantly improve traction and handling. The investment in winter tires can make a big difference in your car’s ability to steer safely on slick roads. Have Your Brakes Inspected Your brakes are one of your car’s most important safety systems, especially in winter. Before the cold sets in, have the mechanic inspect your brake pads, rotors, and fluid. Worn components or low fluid levels can reduce performance and increase the risk of accidents. Ensuring your brakes are in top condition is crucial for driving safely through South Beloit’s winter weather. Replace Wiper Blades/Fill Up with Winter-Grade Wiper Fluid Visibility is vital during winter storms. Old wiper blades can leave streaks or miss patches of snow, making it difficult to see clearly. Installing new blades and using winter-grade wiper fluid helps prevent freezing and enables your windshield to stay clear. This simple step can make driving in South Beloit’s wintry conditions much safer and less stressful. Have Your Heater and Defroster Inspected A functioning heating and defrosting system is essential for comfort and visibility during winter drives. If your heater isn’t warming up properly or your defroster struggles to clear foggy windows, have the system checked before temperatures drop. Proper airflow and heat not only keep you warm but also help ensure your windshield stays clear, which is crucial for driving safely on winter roads. Winter Auto Maintenance in South Beloit, IL When you need auto maintenance in South Beloit and the surrounding area, contact Integrity Auto Care at  (815) 957-4159  . Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!

Your vehicle’s alternator plays a critical role in keeping the electrical system running. It generates power to charge the battery and operate essential components like headlights, dashboard systems, and electrical accessories. When the alternator starts to fail, your car may still run for a short time on battery power, but eventually, the electrical system will shut down. Recognizing the symptoms early can help you avoid a breakdown. At Integrity Auto Care, we provide expert alternator replacement and auto electric repair in the greater South Beloit, IL area. Here are five common signs that your alternator may be on its way out. Warning Light on the Dashboard Most modern vehicles are equipped with a dashboard warning light that indicates alternator trouble. It may appear as a battery icon or as ALT or GEN. Ignoring this warning can result in a total loss of electrical power, which can be dangerous if you’re driving at night or in heavy traffic. Malfunctioning Lights One of the more apparent symptoms of a failing alternator is dim or flickering headlights and dashboard lights. Since the alternator is responsible for supplying consistent power, any drop in output can cause your lights to lose brightness. Issues with lights are a strong indication that the alternator is struggling to provide steady voltage. Electrical Accessory Issues A weak alternator often leads to unusual behavior from electrical systems. You might notice power windows moving slowly, your radio cutting out, or AC not working right. These malfunctions occur because the alternator isn’t generating enough power to meet the vehicle’s electrical demands. Dead or Weak Battery A dead battery doesn’t always mean the battery itself is bad—it could be the alternator. If your alternator is not charging the battery properly, the battery will drain quickly. If you find yourself needing frequent jump-starts despite having a relatively new battery, the alternator could be the true culprit. A mechanic can test whether the alternator or the battery is at fault. Strange Noises Unusual noises can also signal alternator trouble. A failing alternator may produce grinding or whining sounds caused by worn-out bearings or issues with the belt system. These noises usually come from the engine bay and may grow louder as the problem worsens. Alternator Replacement & Auto Electric Repair in South Beloit, IL When you need auto repair in South Beloit and the surrounding area, contact Integrity Auto Care at  (815) 957-4159  . At our local auto shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!

When your engine begins to show signs of trouble, acting quickly can help prevent major damage and costlier repairs. At Integrity Auto Care, we provide expert engine diagnostics and repair in the greater South Beloit, IL area. Here are five common symptoms of engine trouble that shouldn’t be ignored. Knocking or Tapping Sounds If you hear a knocking or tapping sound coming from the engine, it could indicate a serious internal issue. These sounds are often caused by worn engine bearings or insufficient lubrication. If your engine starts making unfamiliar noises, it’s time to stop driving and have it inspected. Discolored/Excessive Exhaust Smoke Excessive or discolored exhaust smoke often points to significant engine trouble. Blue smoke typically means the engine is burning oil. White smoke may indicate a coolant leak into the combustion chamber, possibly due to a blown head gasket. Black smoke suggests the engine is burning too much fuel. These issues should all be checked right away. Check Engine Light The check engine light is your vehicle’s way of telling you something is wrong. While some causes are relatively minor, others can be serious. If the light comes on, it’s best to have the vehicle scanned for codes. Ignoring the check engine light can result in reduced fuel-efficiency, poor performance, or further engine damage depending on the underlying issue. Overheating An overheating engine is a clear sign that something is wrong with the cooling system or internal engine components. If your temperature gauge climbs into the red zone or you see steam coming from under the hood, pull over safely. Continuing to drive while overheating can warp the cylinder head or blow the head gasket. A professional should diagnose the cause, whether it’s a faulty thermostat, coolant leak, or water pump failure. Loss of Power or Stalling If your engine is suddenly sluggish, struggles to accelerate, or stalls unexpectedly, there may be a serious problem with fuel delivery, ignition, or internal engine components. This can be dangerous if it happens while driving. Immediate inspection is necessary to identify and fix the issue before it worsens or leaves you stranded. Engine Repair in South Beloit, IL For expert engine repair in South Beloit and the surrounding area, contact Integrity Auto Care at  (815) 957-4159  . Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!

Our team at Integrity Auto Care aims to consistently exceed our customers’ expectations by providing top-quality auto repairs and maintenance at fair prices. No matter the scope of the job at hand, our local mechanics will work meticulously to complete it to the highest standards. And we appreciate it when our customers offer feedback about the work that we did for them. Here’s a look at some of our recent customer reviews. “Took my 2017 Jaguar here stressed out of my mind! Not only did they fix it but at a reasonable price!!!! This is a wonderful establishment—if you run into any car trouble come here!” — Nico V. “They helped us work with our warranty company to get everything fixed. They took care of all our worries and got everything done we needed to. Never worked with a more happy, hardworking car repair company before. We definitely recommend this place for all your car repair needs. Also their text repair sheet they send you is awesome!” — Andy L. “Heidi was very helpful and knowledgeable answering all of my questions. They did a great job and had my car back to me within a few hours. I will definitely use them anytime that I need work done from now on.” — Jacqueline L. “Very friendly and kind staff. They go out of their way to accommodate my needs. Thank you for excellent workmanship.” — Susan S. “Customer service was excellent. Very professional. They finished the job a lot sooner than I would have expected and the work they did was done right. I am definitely going to recommend them to my family and friends.” — Sven B. “Fast and friendly service–issues were taken care of professionally and with good communication.” — Brock S. Auto Repair in South Beloit, IL When you need auto repair in South Beloit and the surrounding area, contact Integrity Auto Care at  (815) 957-4159  . At our local auto shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

Your vehicle’s transmission fluid plays a critical role in keeping the transmission cool and lubricated. Without enough fluid, internal components can overheat or grind together, leading to serious damage and costly repairs. A common issue drivers face is a transmission fluid leak. Recognizing the signs early can help prevent long-term problems and extend the life of your transmission. At Integrity Auto Care , we provide expert transmission leak repair in the greater South Beloit area. Here are four indications that your vehicle may be leaking transmission fluid. Fluid Spots on the Ground The most obvious sign of a transmission fluid leak is a puddle of fluid under your vehicle. Transmission fluid is typically red—or reddish-brown if it’s older. If you notice a puddle or consistent dripping where your car has been parked, it’s a strong indication that something is leaking. The leak could be coming from a seal, gasket, or the transmission pan. Identifying and fixing the source quickly can prevent low fluid levels and further damage. Burning Smell A burning odor can signal leaking transmission fluid that’s dripping onto hot parts. As the fluid burns, it produces a strong, unpleasant smell. If you smell burning while driving or after shutting off your engine, it’s a good idea to have the vehicle inspected immediately. Low Transmission Fluid Levels If your transmission fluid is running low without any signs of burning or other issues, it’s likely leaking somewhere in the system. Many vehicles have a transmission dipstick that allows you to check the fluid level and condition. If you notice the fluid is consistently low even after topping it off, there’s likely a leak that needs to be addressed. Driving with insufficient transmission fluid can cause the system to overheat or slip, and could potentially lead to complete transmission failure. Shifting Problems Transmission fluid is essential for smooth shifting. If your vehicle begins to hesitate, jerk, or grind while changing gears, it could be due to low fluid levels caused by a leak. Delayed shifting can be a warning sign that fluid is leaking and not providing the proper hydraulic pressure. Transmission Repair in South Beloit, IL When you need transmission repair in South Beloit and the surrounding area, contact Integrity Auto Care at  (815) 957-4159  . At our local auto shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

Healthy shocks play a vital role in maintaining a smooth ride and enabling safe handling. They absorb the impact from bumps and potholes, while keeping your tires in proper contact with the road. Over time, shocks wear out and lose their ability to perform properly. When this happens, your car’s comfort and safety can be compromised, making it important to visit the shop. At Integrity Auto Care, we provide expert suspension repair in the greater South Beloit area. If you’re experiencing any of the following issues, it may be time to replace your shocks. Rough or Bouncy Ride One of the most common signs of worn-out shocks is a noticeable decrease in ride comfort. If your vehicle feels especially bouncy when you drive over uneven roads or small bumps, your shocks may no longer be absorbing impact like they should. You might also feel excessive up-and-down motion after going over a speed bump or dip. A ride that feels harsh is a clear sign that your suspension system isn’t functioning correctly. Poor Handling and Steering Response When shocks start to wear, your vehicle’s handling can become unpredictable. You may notice that the car leans excessively during turns or feels unstable when changing lanes. Sloppy steering, delayed response, and increased body roll are all signs that your shocks can no longer control the vehicle’s movement effectively. Replacing them will help restore proper handling. Visible Fluid Leaks Shocks contain hydraulic fluid that helps dampen movement. If you notice oily residue or leaks near your shocks, it’s a sign that the seals have failed and the fluid is escaping. Loss of hydraulic fluid means the shock can no longer perform its job effectively. Fluid leaks are a clear indication that the shocks are worn and need to be replaced as soon as possible. Uneven Tire Wear Your tires can also provide clues that your shocks are in bad shape. If the tread on your tires is wearing unevenly or showing bald spots, it could be due to poor shock absorption. Worn shocks can reduce even contact with the road surface and accelerate tire wear. Ignoring this issue can lead to reduced traction. Suspension Repair in South Beloit, IL For auto repair in South Beloit and the surrounding area, contact Integrity Auto Care at  (815) 957-4159  . At our local auto shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

Your vehicle’s cooling system plays a crucial role in keeping the engine at a safe operating temperature. When any part of this system fails, it can lead to overheating, engine damage, and costly repairs. Understanding the most common cooling system problems can help you catch issues early. At Integrity Auto Care, we provide expert cooling system repair in the greater South Beloit, IL area. Here are four cooling system problems to watch for. Low Coolant Levels One of the most frequent cooling system problems is low coolant. Coolant circulates through the engine and radiator to absorb and dissipate heat. If the coolant level drops too low due to a leak or evaporation, the system can’t function properly, and your engine may begin to overheat. It’s important to regularly check coolant levels after your engine has cooled down and top off with the correct type when necessary. If you find yourself frequently adding coolant, it could point to a more serious issue. Radiator Leaks Radiators are susceptible to leaks, especially in older vehicles or in systems that have not been properly maintained. A cracked or corroded radiator can allow coolant to escape, reducing the system’s ability to keep the engine cool. If you notice a sweet-smelling puddle under your vehicle or see steam coming from under the hood, a radiator leak may be the cause. Thermostat Failure The thermostat controls the flow of coolant between the engine and the radiator. When it fails, it can either become stuck open or closed. A stuck-open thermostat may cause the engine to run too cold. A stuck-closed thermostat is more dangerous, as it prevents coolant from reaching the radiator, resulting in rapid overheating. Replacing a faulty thermostat is relatively inexpensive and can prevent major engine damage. Water Pump Problems The water pump is responsible for circulating coolant throughout the engine. If the pump fails, coolant won’t flow properly, and the engine will overheat. Because the water pump is such a vital part of the cooling system, any issues should be addressed promptly. A grinding sound can indicate a failing water pump. Cooling System Repair in South Beloit, IL For auto repair in South Beloit and the surrounding area, contact Integrity Auto Care at  (815) 957-4159  . At our nearby auto shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

After months of putting off travel far from home, many of us are eager to hit the road and shout "Road Trip!" once more. But when was the last time the vehicle you plan to take underwent a comprehensive inspection? Is it prepared for several days on the highway? It’s time to arrange a professional trip inspection at our service center. Why Should I get a Pre-Trip Auto Inspection? For long journeys, ensuring that you can stop safely is crucial. We offer brake inspections to assess the condition of your brakes. Our technician will visually evaluate the wear on your brake pads and rotors, as well as check your brake lines and fluids to ensure everything is in good working order. If you're gearing up for an extended trip, it’s vital to keep your engine well-lubricated. The technician will verify when your last oil change occurred, check levels, and inspect for any leaks in the system. If you're nearing an oil change, it's wise to take care of it before your trip—nobody wants to interrupt their vacation for an oil change in an unfamiliar place. Fresh, clean oil is far better for your engine than driving with old, dirty oil. Comfort during your journey largely hinges on the suspension system. Our technician can assess your shocks and struts to help you avoid an uncomfortable and potentially unsafe ride. Additionally, ensuring your wheels are properly aligned is key; a long drive in a misaligned vehicle can lead to steering issues and tire damage. Some minor elements that drivers often overlook are the engine air filter and wiper blades. A clogged air filter can negatively affect your fuel economy, costing you more on long trips. Worn wiper blades can impair visibility during rain, turning a drive into a blinding and hazardous experience, especially in unfamiliar areas. Pre-Trip Inspections in South Beloit If you routinely maintain your vehicle, many of these components may be in great shape. However, given the added stresses that a long road trip can place on any car, it’s wise to have our trained professionals take a closer look. This way, you can focus on sights like the Leaning Tower of Niles or the Gopher Hole Museum while enjoying peace of mind on the road. Before hitting the highway, head to Integrity Auto Care for a professional inspection and pre-trip auto maintenance in South Beloit for any car or truck.

If you drive a vehicle with an automatic transmission, you likely don't give much thought to gear shifting. In the early days of motor vehicles, manual shifting was the norm. However, the advent of the remarkable self-shifting transmission, commonly known as the “automatic,” revolutionized the driving experience. When is it time for a Transmission Flush? Automatic transmissions consist of numerous moving parts, all immersed in a fluid that ensures they remain lubricated and cool. This fluid plays a crucial role in the entire gear shifting mechanism. As you might expect, the longer this fluid serves its purpose, the more likely it is to accumulate contaminants. Occasionally, an automatic transmission may develop a leak. Insufficient or dirty transmission fluid can lead to a variety of issues, such as triggering your Check Engine light, or causing the transmission to operate improperly and emit unusual noises. Prevention is key to avoiding these complications. It's advisable to have your transmission fluid replaced at recommended intervals. Your vehicle manufacturer will specify how often this should occur. Additionally, regular checks of the fluid can help identify any issues before they escalate. During these checks, both the fluid level and its condition should be evaluated. Transmission Service in South Beloit Keep in mind that overheating is a primary cause of most automatic transmission problems. You can significantly reduce the risk of transmission failure by ensuring that your transmission—and its fluid—are routinely inspected and that the fluid is replaced as necessary. For all transmission repair and service in South Beloit, head to Integrity Auto Care. We're here to help!

Did you know that the computing power found in most new cars surpasses that of the Apollo 121 Lunar Module, which landed on the moon in 1969? These vehicles can be equipped with as many as 12 interconnected computers and more than five miles (eight kilometers) of wiring. In fact, for roughly the past decade, automotive computers have been responsible for managing about 85 percent of your vehicle's functions. Car Sensor Facts Modern cars come with sensors that monitor manifold air temperature, coolant temperature, manifold air pressure, airflow, throttle position, vehicle speed, and oxygen content. This array of electronic technology can be quite intricate. So, how do SOUTH BELOIT drivers know when something's amiss? It's straightforward; the Check Engine light illuminates. The onboard computer keeps track of all sensors and uses that data to make adjustments like optimizing the fuel mixture, spark timing, and idle speed. Additionally, the computer self-monitors its circuits. If a fault is detected, it activates the Check Engine light and logs a trouble code within the system. When the Check Engine light comes on, it can be quite alarming for SOUTH BELOIT drivers. We often question the severity of the issue. Typically, it’s not as critical as indicators for temperature or oil pressure, which signal immediate action is required. If the Check Engine light appears, it’s essential to visit Integrity Auto Care in SOUTH BELOIT at your earliest convenience to address the concern. Check Engine Light Repair in South Beloit Since 1996, the Check Engine diagnostic has incorporated a significant emissions control component. However, if your Check Engine light begins to flash, it indicates a more urgent issue, necessitating immediate attention to avoid potential damage. Drivers should reduce speed and refrain from towing or carrying heavy loads until the issue can be diagnosed. At Integrity Auto Care, our friendly and knowledgeable technicians possess specialized diagnostic tools to retrieve the trouble code from the computer, helping to identify the issue. From there, we can resolve the problem and get you back on the road. Stop by our South Beloit auto shop for expert diagnostics check engine light diagnostics .

Feeling puzzled? No need to fret, if you're unfamiliar with what a differential is – you soon will be. The truth is, if you drive a car, you have a differential. It doesn’t matter if your vehicle is front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive, or four-wheel drive; all of them include a differential. What is a Differential? Unsurprisingly, the primary function of a differential is to account for variations; specifically, the differences in wheel speed when navigating turns. For example, think about taking a corner near your home. Your inside wheel has a shorter distance to cover than the outside wheel during the turn. This means that your outside wheel must rotate faster to match the inside wheel’s pace. The differential enables the wheels to rotate at different speeds while still delivering power to your vehicle. Without it, tires would scrub and hop across the pavement during turns, much like the early cars did. Have you ever noticed the prominent bulge in the middle of the rear axle on trucks? That's the differential at work. Rear-wheel drive vehicles feature a differential at the back. Most four-wheel drive trucks and SUVs are equipped with a similar differential on the front axle as well. In a front-wheel drive vehicle, the differential is referred to as a transaxle because it combines both the differential and the transmission into one unit. An all-wheel drive vehicle will utilize a differential or transfer case that adjusts for speed discrepancies between the front and rear drive wheels. Differential Repair in South Beloit While it may seem a bit intricate to some drivers, it's clear that all of the engine's power flows through your differentials. They are robust enough to manage the demand, but – as we’ve mentioned before – they must be properly lubricated to maintain their strength. Therefore, it is essential to plan for a differential service at Integrity Auto Care in South Beloit from time to time. During this service, the used fluid is drained and replaced with fresh fluid. Some recommend that specific differentials have special additives incorporated. Ensure your differential is serviced at Integrity Auto Care in South Beloit.