Auto Repair Near Me

At RB Car Company's body shop, we take great pride in the quality of our work and our commitment to customer satisfaction. Our experienced mechanics near you use only the highest quality materials and state-of-the-art equipment to ensure that your vehicle is repaired to the highest standards. We understand that your car is a significant investment, which is why we go above and beyond to ensure that it looks and performs like new. Whether you need routine service or auto repair near you, you can trust our Elkhart car dealer to provide top-quality service and excellent results. Come see us today and experience the RB Car Company difference for yourself!

Frequently asked questions about auto repair near me

How often should I get my vehicle serviced?

The frequency of servicing your vehicle depends on several factors, including the make and model of your car, its age, and the type of driving you do. However, here are some general guidelines for routine vehicle servicing at our auto shop near you:

• Oil Changes: It is typically recommended to have your oil changed every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or every six months, whichever comes first. However, newer vehicles may have extended oil change intervals, so it's essential to consult your vehicle's owner's manual for the manufacturer's recommendation.

• Tire Maintenance: Regularly check your tire pressure and tread depth. It's a good practice to have your tires rotated and balanced every 5,000 to 7,500 miles to ensure even wear. Additionally, consider having your alignment checked periodically, especially if you notice uneven tire wear or your vehicle pulling to one side.

• Fluid Levels: Regularly check the fluid levels of your vehicle, including coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and transmission fluid. Top up or replace fluids as needed, following the manufacturer's recommendations.

• Filters and Belts: Air filters, cabin filters, and fuel filters should be inspected regularly and replaced as necessary. Serpentine belts and timing belts also need to be checked for wear and replaced according to the manufacturer's recommendations.

• Brake Inspection: Have your brakes inspected regularly, and replace brake pads or shoes as needed. Brake fluid should also be checked and replaced according to the manufacturer's guidelines.

• Battery and Electrical System: Inspect the battery terminals for corrosion and ensure a secure connection. Test the battery regularly and replace it if necessary. Also, have the charging system and electrical components checked periodically.

What does routine maintenance involve?

Routine maintenance involves a series of regular checks, inspections, and services performed on your vehicle to ensure its optimal performance, reliability, and longevity. Here are some common aspects of routine maintenance:

• Oil Change: Regularly changing the engine oil and oil filter helps lubricate the engine, prevent friction, and remove contaminants that can accumulate over time.

• Fluid Checks and Changes: Routine maintenance involves checking and replacing various fluids in your vehicle, such as coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, transmission fluid, and windshield washer fluid. This helps ensure proper functioning and longevity of critical components.

• Tire Maintenance: This includes regular tire rotation, balancing, and inflation checks to promote even tire wear, maintain traction, and extend tire life.

• Filter Replacements: Air filters, cabin air filters, and fuel filters should be inspected and replaced at recommended intervals to maintain proper airflow, prevent engine damage, and improve air quality inside the cabin, which can prevent needing AC repair for cars.

• Brake Inspection: Regular brake inspections involve checking brake pads, shoes, rotors, and drums for wear and tear, as well as examining the brake fluid level and condition.

• Battery Maintenance: Battery checks involve examining battery terminals for corrosion, ensuring a secure connection, and testing the battery's performance. If necessary, battery replacement may be recommended.

• Belt and Hose Inspection: Routine maintenance involves checking serpentine belts, timing belts, and hoses for signs of wear, cracks, or leaks. Damaged belts or hoses should be replaced to prevent breakdowns or engine damage.

• Spark Plug Replacement: Spark plugs ignite the air-fuel mixture in the engine cylinders, and routine replacement ensures efficient combustion, smooth engine operation, and optimal fuel efficiency.

• Suspension and Steering Checks: Regular inspection of suspension components, including shocks, struts, and bushings, helps maintain ride comfort and stability. Steering system components are also inspected to ensure proper functionality and responsiveness. Our suspension shop near you has ample experience repairing and replacing these components.

• Other Checks: Routine maintenance may involve additional checks such as windshield wipers, lights, battery terminals, exhaust system, and overall vehicle inspection.

How can I tell if my car needs repairs?

There are endless signs that indicate your car may need auto repair near you. Paying attention to these warning signs and addressing them promptly can help prevent further damage and costly repairs. Here are some common indications that your car needs attention from our auto shop near you:

• Dashboard Warning Lights: If any warning lights illuminate on your dashboard, such as the check engine light, ABS light, or battery light, it typically indicates a problem that needs to be diagnosed and repaired.

• Strange Noises: Unusual noises like grinding, squealing, rattling, knocking, or hissing can indicate issues with various components, such as the brakes, suspension, exhaust system, or engine. It's important to have these noises checked by a qualified technician at our suspension shop near you.

• Vibrations or Shaking: Excessive vibrations or shaking while driving, especially at high speeds, may indicate issues with the tires, wheels, suspension, or drivetrain. These issues should be addressed to ensure safe operation of the vehicle.

• Fluid Leaks: If you notice puddles or stains of fluid under your car, it could indicate a leak. Common fluids include engine oil, coolant, transmission fluid, brake fluid, or power steering fluid. Addressing leaks promptly is crucial to prevent damage and maintain the proper functioning of your vehicle.

• Reduced Performance: A decrease in power, acceleration, or fuel efficiency may indicate issues with the engine, fuel system, or other components. If you notice a significant change in performance, it's advisable to have it diagnosed and repaired.

• Unusual Smells: Strange odors like burning rubber, fuel, coolant, or exhaust fumes can indicate problems with various systems in your car. These smells should be investigated to identify and address any underlying issues.

• Handling or Braking Issues: If your car pulls to one side while driving, the steering feels loose or unresponsive, or the brakes feel spongy or grind, it could indicate problems with the suspension, steering, or braking system. These issues should be inspected and repaired to ensure safe handling and braking.

• Changes in Fuel Efficiency: A sudden drop in fuel efficiency may indicate issues with the fuel system, spark plugs, or other engine components. Addressing these issues can help improve fuel economy and prevent further damage.

People also ask the following questions about auto repair near me

How do I know if my battery needs to be replaced?

Let’s review some common signs that your battery may need to be replaced:

• Difficulty Starting the Engine: If you notice that your engine is slow to crank or requires multiple attempts to start, it may be a sign of a weak battery. This is particularly noticeable in cold weather when the battery's performance is reduced.

• Dim or Flickering Lights: A weak battery may cause your headlights, interior lights, or dashboard lights to appear dim or flicker while driving. This can indicate insufficient power supply from the battery, or that your vehicle needs headlight restoration.

• Electrical System Malfunctions: A failing battery can lead to various electrical issues in your vehicle. You may experience problems with power windows, door locks, infotainment system, or other electrical components. If multiple electrical systems are malfunctioning, it could be a battery-related issue.

• Low Battery Fluid Level: Some batteries have a transparent casing that allows you to check the battery fluid level. If the fluid level is below the recommended level, it may indicate a battery problem. Note that many modern car batteries are maintenance-free and sealed, so you may not be able to check the fluid level.

• Swollen or Bloated Battery Case: A swollen or bloated battery case is a clear indication of battery failure. It typically occurs due to excessive heat or overcharging, and it's a sign that the battery needs to be replaced immediately.

• Age of the Battery: The average lifespan of a car battery is typically around 3 to 5 years. If your battery is older than this or nearing the end of its recommended lifespan, it's wise to consider replacing it preventively.

If you notice any of these signs or suspect a problem with your battery, it's recommended to have it tested by a qualified technician. They can use specialized equipment to measure the battery's voltage, capacity, and overall health. At RB Car Company's service center, our experienced mechanics near you can help diagnose battery issues and provide you with the necessary recommendations for replacement or further maintenance.

What are the signs that my brakes need to be replaced?

Maintaining your rotors and brake pads is essential to keep your vehicle safe. Here are common indicators that your car may need to visit our brake shop:

• Squeaking or Grinding Noises: If you hear high-pitched squeaking or grinding noises when applying the brakes, it is likely a sign that the brake pads are worn down. Brake pads are equipped with a wear indicator that produces these sounds to alert you that they need replacement. Schedule a brake service near you at RB Car Company immediately!

• Reduced Responsiveness: If you notice that your brake pedal feels soft, spongy, or requires more pressure than usual to engage the brakes, it could indicate a problem. This could be due to worn brake pads, air in the brake lines, or a brake fluid leak. Reduced brake responsiveness should be addressed promptly.

• Vibrations or Pulsations: If you experience vibrations or pulsations in the brake pedal when applying the brakes, it may indicate warped brake rotors. Warped rotors can affect the even contact between the brake pads and rotors, compromising braking performance.

• Longer Stopping Distances: If you notice that your vehicle takes longer to come to a complete stop, it may indicate worn brake pads or other brake system issues. This can significantly compromise your ability to stop quickly and safely. RB Car Company has the tools and technology to provide speedy, accurate repair or replacement for brakes near you.

• Pulling or Veering: If your vehicle pulls to one side when you apply the brakes, it could suggest uneven brake pad wear, a sticking brake caliper, or other alignment issues. Properly functioning brakes should provide even stopping power.

• Dashboard Warning Light: Many modern vehicles are equipped with a dashboard warning light specifically for the brake system. If this light illuminates, it's essential to have your brakes inspected as soon as possible to identify any underlying issues.

• Visible Wear on Brake Components: In some cases, you may visually inspect your brake components. If you can see that the brake pads are worn down to a thickness of around 3mm or less, it is recommended to have them replaced at our brake shop. Also, if you notice any signs of damage or leaks in the brake system, professional attention is definitely necessary.