Davenport Auto Repair

Your vehicle has a suspension system which offers dampening of shocks and jarring as you drive on the road. The vehicle suspension also helps enhance vehicle handling, significantly contributing to your driving experience. Many different types of suspension systems exist, but the most common one is a system comprising shock absorbers and struts. For older vehicles, shock absorbers are used in both rear and front wheels, while modern vehicles use the shock absorbers only on the rear wheels with strut assemblies on the front wheels. Why and When Replace Your Shock Absorbers Both struts and shocks operate in a similar way as they use either compressed liquid or gas to help absorb the up and down movement of your vehicle caused by speed bumps, potholes, bumps, and dips. The shock absorbers are in use every time the wheels of your vehicles are in contact with the ground—whether it is moving or not. As a result, they are subjected to intensive wear and tear, and at some point, they ... read more

The extreme coldness that accompanies winter can spell tragedy for the car batteries. Essential fluid in the car battery evaporates during hot summer. When winter comes, the battery slows down its chemical reaction and ends up overworked. Although many batteries survive during winter, others are not lucky, they die. Your car battery can last up to between three to five years. But if your car has the battery that it came with, you should consider buying a new one during winter. Remember that buying a large battery will not last or offer you the best performance. Ensure the battery you are choosing is compatible with your car. Here is more information about why the car batteries do not last during winter season; Effects of Cold Lead acid car batteries can survive in many temperatures, but their performance drops drastically during winter. The capacity of lead acid temperatures drops by 20 percent during winter, and around 50 percent when the thermometer sinks to -22 degrees Fahrenhei ... read more

Brakes are very important in a car because they will keep you safe. Just imagine driving and when you need to use the brakes and there are none. It can cause a very bad accident and also claim lives. Therefore brake fluid is very important in brake performance. How does brake fluid work? Most cars have a hydraulic brake system. When you put pressure on your brake a piston in the brake caliper is compressed which increases pressure in the brake lines. The pressure goes to the brake pads which will then press against the brake rotors making the car slow down or come to a stop. Without brake fluid, you will not have brakes. Brake fluid should be of high quality because poor quality brake fluid can have disastrous effects on your brakes. Brake fluid can be contaminated and that can cause problems. Signs that your brake fluid needs replacing can include: You have a brake warning light on your dashboard You need to put more pressure on your brake pedal before getting a ... read more

With the transition to the winter season may be slow or abrupt, we need to start thinking about giving your car, SUV, or truck a winter makeover. While maintenance and automotive repairs need to be performed throughout the seasons, your vehicle needs a bit more attention during the harsh winter. Road conditions in Davenport, IA, can become very hazardous, making your car inoperative. It's essential to plan ahead so you don't end up stuck in a snowstorm. Our mechanics have compiled the following list of helpful tips and tricks to best prepare your vehicle for the cold weather.    Install Winter Tires - Winter tires have thicker and more appropriate tread, making it easy to grip the road in rainy, icy, or snowy conditions. If it snows a lot where you live, winter tires are a great investment to make. Besides tire changes, you need to keep up with your tire maintenance (pressure checks, tire rotations, etc.) Test Your Battery - Cold weather makes it more difficult for ... read more

Belts are one of the most undermined parts of the vehicle. However, if and when they start to show signs of wear and tear, they can majorly affect your car's drivability. Your car's timing belt, in specific, is an indispensable part of your engine. It is necessary to synchronize and manage the rotation of the engine's crankshaft and camshaft. Without this proper movement, the engine valves would not start and stop at precise times. This rubber belt has ribbed teeth to provide harmonious movements. If the timing is off or the timing belt is overall weak, it could be disastrous for your engine.   There are a few warning symptoms that symbolize that your timing belt needs a replacement. Here's what to be on the lookout for: A high-pitched sound emanating from the engine Visual signs of belt wear—cracks, glazing, and dirt & grime build-up Slow or sluggish engine starts, or overall incapable to start Most vehicle manufacturers recommend that you change y ... read more