Integrity Auto Care Blog

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.

Many drivers may not be aware that maintaining an exhaust system involves much more than just focusing on tailpipes and mufflers, particularly if you're noticing smoke or excessive noise. At a full-service automotive center like Integrity Auto Care, exhaust service has evolved into a much more comprehensive process. What Is the Function of the Car Exhaust System? For instance, since 1976, the U.S. federal government has mandated the inclusion of catalytic converters in all vehicles, and on-board emission control computers have been required since 1990. These IL and federal emissions regulations have prompted manufacturers to devise increasingly sophisticated methods to meet environmental standards, a requirement that also applies to vehicles sold in Canada. As a result, exhaust service has developed into exhaust and emissions service. The necessity of high-tech, computer-controlled emission devices is now standard. Due to this complexity, we recommend that you have your emission system inspected regularly by a qualified technician, like those at Integrity Auto Care, typically every six months or after driving 6,000 miles/10,000 kilometers, to ensure everything is functioning correctly. If your 'check engine light' illuminates while you're navigating the South Beloit area—especially if it's flashing—it's crucial to bring your vehicle into Integrity Auto Care as soon as possible. This is likely indicative of an emission-related issue. Symptoms of exhaust or emissions problems can include difficulty starting, unusual engine noises, or the presence of smoke. Car Exhaust Repair in South Beloit We hope this discussion hasn't been too 'exhausting'! A well-functioning exhaust system plays a vital role in the health and safety of IL. If you suspect your exhaust system may need attention, consult your friendly and knowledgeable service advisor at Integrity Auto Care in South Beloit. A quick inspection can help prevent costly problems down the line.

We live in a disposable society. Everything from elaborate packaging to our clothing. Even cell phones are disposable. When replacement is cheaper than repair, the term "built to last" goes by the wayside. An exception is our vehicles. They're still a very big investment and SOUTH BELOIT drivers want to make them last as long as possible. We also want to make keeping them running as cheap as possible. When talking vehicles, it's all about preventive maintenance. There is an old saying that says, "A stitch in time saves nine," and that is really true when it comes to taking care of your vehicle. A great example is coolant service in SOUTH BELOIT. Your coolant not only protects your engine from overheating and freezing, it must also protect cooling system components from corrosion. Over time, coolant becomes corrosive and actually starts to damage your radiator and other parts. That's why you need to have your cooling system serviced on a regular schedule.  The same is true for your power steering system, brake fluid, air conditioning system, differential and transmission. And of course, SOUTH BELOIT vehicle owners shouldn't forget those oil changes right on schedule. Skipping even one change can start the build up of harmful oil sludge. Our engines are full of gaskets and seals. Fresh fluids condition those gaskets and seals to keep them from drying out and leaking. Automotive fluids contain additives that help clean and lubricate the various systems they protect. Over time, the additives are used up and the fluid just does not provide the protection it did when it was fresh. And don't forget the mechanical systems. Changing brake pads before they are worn to the point that they cause damage to rotors is a great way to keep your operating costs down. Replacing serpentine belts and timing belts on schedule is much cheaper for SOUTH BELOIT drivers than repairing the damage that can be caused by failure. Also, air filters, fuel filters, PCV valves and batteries are all important. Regular wheel alignments, tire rotation and balancing will make your tires last longer. And don't forget to replace your shocks and struts when they wear out. Your fuel system needs regular cleaning to keep running well, prevent mechanical damage and improve fuel economy. Now this is a lot to remember for SOUTH BELOIT drivers - too much, really. But it is your SOUTH BELOIT automotive technician's job to keep on top of this stuff. At Integrity Auto Care we can tell you what your manufacturer recommends and help you with a plan to take care of it. We can advise you about which maintenance schedule you should use - the regular schedule or the severe service schedule - depending on the kind of driving you do. We also know the right fluids for your vehicle and may even suggest higher mileage formulations for your older vehicle. Bottom line - take care of this stuff on schedule and you will reduce operating costs, prevent damage and maintain your warranty coverage. Of course, you want your vehicle to look as good as it runs. Regular washing will prevent rust and protect your finish. Take advantage of cleaners, waxes and protectants for your interior and tires. Your vehicle will look great and you'll be proud to drive it longer. Most of us in SOUTH BELOIT can't afford to throw away our car when it breaks down. By budgeting for regular preventive maintenance, we can prevent many inconvenient - and expensive - problems down the road, and can keep driving "old faithful" for years to come.

There are several important factors drivers should consider regarding car service and repair in SOUTH BELOIT. Above all, Integrity Auto Care prioritizes your safety and that of your family. We genuinely value your business and aim to cultivate a trusting relationship that will serve as the foundation for a mutually beneficial partnership for years to come. To enhance that foundation, it’s helpful to gain a better understanding of the auto service and repair industry. First, repairing vehicles can be quite challenging. The era of shade tree mechanics is behind us, as the majority of automotive systems are now computerized. Diagnosing and repairing modern vehicles requires extensive training and costly equipment. The skilled professionals at Integrity Auto Care undergo significant computer training—not only to navigate diagnostic systems but also to identify the right parts, collaborate with other technicians on complex issues, and compile detailed job orders to ensure that every step of the process is thoroughly addressed. In Illinois, the entry requirements for technicians are continually rising, necessitating a strong commitment to ongoing annual training. This training demands both time and financial resources, contributing to the overall operating costs of the business. Average consumers in SOUTH BELOIT may not fully grasp the various business and environmental regulations that Integrity Auto Care must adhere to, which also incurs expenses. Like any business in Illinois, overhead plays a major role. When you dine at your favorite restaurant in SOUTH BELOIT, you don’t evaluate the meal solely based on the grocery cost of the ingredients. Restaurants have various operational expenses, including rent, wages, insurance, taxes, utilities, professional fees, equipment, and supplies. They must charge enough not just to cover ingredient costs but also to support these additional expenses while earning a profit to stay afloat. If you appreciate the meal and are satisfied with your dining experience, you’re likely to return and recommend it to others. The same principle applies to Integrity Auto Care. The true value of its services goes beyond the cost of the parts replaced; it lies in your satisfaction with the outcomes. If they provide a quality service at a reasonable price, customers will be pleased to support them as a reputable automotive business in Illinois.

Regardless of their quality, vehicles can still experience design or manufacturing flaws. When the government identifies a significant safety issue affecting residents in SOUTH BELOIT, IL, it mandates that the manufacturer issue a recall notice and rectify the problem at no cost to the vehicle owner. The manufacturer then attempts to reach out to all IL residents who own that particular model to facilitate the necessary recall repairs. You may have even received a postcard informing you of a recall. The government provides links on its websites, or you can check AutoNetTV for additional resources. Numerous websites offer free recall information and searches, including CarFax, AutoByTel, and the DMV. While recalls are serious matters, they are not overly common. In some instances, fewer problems arise, prompting manufacturers to issue a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) that informs service centers like Integrity Auto Care on how to address recurring or challenging issues. Car Recall Info South Beloit Industry professionals receive updated information via subscription plans, which are also available in consumer versions at a reasonable price. Therefore, when recalls are announced, it’s important to have the repairs completed to ensure the safety of you and your loved ones.

When you activate the air conditioning in your vehicle, you anticipate a refreshing breeze flowing from the vents. This feature is crucial, particularly during sweltering days, but it also plays a vital role in humid conditions by aiding in the defrosting of your windows and windshield. Signs of Car Air Conditioner Trouble The air conditioning system comprises multiple components, including fans and blowers that circulate air through the vents into the cabin, as well as parts designed to cool heated air. An electrical issue may be as minor as a malfunctioning switch or a defective blower motor. If the air isn’t cooling down, it could be due to a ruptured hose within the system or a refrigerant leak. Two primary elements of the system are the compressor and the condenser. The compressor is responsible for pressurizing the refrigerant, which is an essential step in the cooling process. Meanwhile, the condenser cools the heated refrigerant and reduces its pressure. Given the complexity of your vehicle's climate control system, it's advisable to entrust the diagnosis to a skilled technician. You can assist by observing and noting the specific issues you're experiencing to help the technician pinpoint the problem. Jot down any details that stand out. When you bring your vehicle to us for inspection, a technician will thoroughly examine the system, perform tests to confirm adequate refrigerant levels, and ensure there are no leaks. Auto AC Repair in South Beloit Modern vehicles typically come equipped with air conditioning systems. We’ve all come to appreciate the comfort of a pleasant cabin regardless of outdoor conditions. Let us ensure your system operates as intended. That’s definitely the cool choice.

You trade your winter boots for flip-flops come summer. So why not replace your winter engine oil with summer, high-temperature oil? While this might seem reasonable, there’s some good news: most drivers don't actually need to, and here’s why. Which Oil is Right for My Car? Engine oil is available in various thicknesses, known as viscosity, which refers to how easily it flows. It's logical that as temperatures rise, oil tends to thin out, making it less effective at lubrication. Therefore, using a thicker oil in the summer seems like a smart choice for better protection in warmer weather. In the past, oils were only available in a single viscosity, but advancements have changed that. Thanks to innovative formulations, oils can now adjust their viscosity—referred to as "multi-viscosity"—as temperatures fluctuate. They self-regulate to adapt to changing conditions, which is quite an impressive innovation. For most temperate regions, there's no need to change the oil type in your vehicle with the changing seasons. Sure, there are exceptions in extreme climates, but your service advisor can provide guidance on that. Your vehicle's owner's manual will also recommend the appropriate viscosity of oil to use. Full Service Oil Change in South Beloit Keep in mind that while you may not need to switch to a different oil type, you DO need to CHANGE the oil at regular intervals. Over time, oil deteriorates and accumulates contaminants; having outdated, dirty oil in your engine can lead to harmful friction and heat. Regular maintenance at your vehicle service facility will ensure that your vehicle runs smoothly and efficiently, like a well-oiled machine. Visit Integrity Auto Care for a professional and fast oil change in South Beloit for any car or truck.