Are you wondering how do you know if you have a bad Alternator?

The alternator is a key component in your vehicle’s electrical system. When your engine is running, the job of the alternator is to charge the battery and supply power to the vehicle’s electrical systems. Modern vehicles are loaded with sensors and computers that all require electricity. From lights to GPS systems, the alternator powers it all.  If the alternator starts to fail, a lot of other things will stop working too!

If you know the warning signs of a bad alternator, you can have it replaced while it’s slowly going bad and avoid being suddenly stranded.  Wondering how do you know if you have a bad alternator?

1. The indicator light -- This light in the dashboard titled "ALT" or "GEN" is often the first indicator that the alternator is going bad. 
2. Dim headlights -- Dimming lights usually means the alternator is struggling to perform.
3. Other electrical failures -- Other systems that are powered by the alternator may start to act up, including power windows and locks, dashboard lights, air conditioning, radio, GPS, etc. 
4. Strange noises -- Alternator failure can cause some of the bearings to fail in the engine, creating unusual rattles. 
5. Car stalls or has difficulty starting -- When the alternator is failing, there might not be enough power in the spark plugs to keep the engine alive, which can cause it to stall for no reason while running.
6. Dead battery -- A bad alternator can actually cause the battery to drain because it's failing to recharge it. If your battery goes dead, have the alternator inspected when replacing the battery so it doesn't happen again.

If you are unsure if you’re starting issue is with the starter, the battery or the alternator, have your vehicle checked for safety, performance, and peace of mind.  

Wondering what are the signs of a bad alternator?  Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Gary’s Quality Automotive for more information about the alternator, car starter and battery, and to make an appointment.  Our auto repair shop proudly serves vehicle owners in Grand Island, NE, Wood River, NE and Doniphan, NE.

Do you know What Can an Auto Repair Service Technician Do?

Most car owners know that auto repair service technicians change oil, repair tires and check brakes, but are you aware of the extent of the training and knowledge that a technician acquires to help you take care of your car?  

Take a moment to consider your auto repair shop and the service you receive there.  Is the shop AAA approved?  Are the technicians ASE-certified?  If so, you can have confidence in knowing that your car will be well taken care of!  An ASE-Certified auto repair service technician.

• Uses specialized diagnostic equipment to pinpoint existing or pending issues so that the correct repair is done right the first time.
• Knows maintenance checklists to make sure that all the critical parts of your vehicle are thoroughly checked on a regular basis and maintained appropriately.
• Endorses and performs preventative car maintenance at the right intervals, including tune-ups, oil changes, transmission flushes, tire rotations, belts, A/C units, and much more.
• Can repair or replace worn-out parts, such as brake pads, wheel bearings, air filters, and much more.
• Can disassemble, clean, and reassemble major vehicle parts, such as transmissions, radiators, and engines.
• Knows how to explain in easy-to-understand terms customers’ vehicle issues, the auto repair service needed, as well as the cost and time required.
• Has received specialized training for the electronic systems in today’s modern vehicles.  
• Is knowledgeable about cars that run on alternative fuels, such as ethanol and electricity.

Let your certified auto repair service technician take care of your vehicle so you can leave the auto repair shop with confidence knowing that you are driving as safe as possible!   

Are you looking for quality auto repair service?  Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Gary’s Quality Automotive for more information about our auto repair shop and to make an appointment.  Our auto repair shop proudly serves vehicle owners in Grand Island, NE, Wood River, NE and Doniphan, NE.

Are you looking for quality automotive repair?

A smart vehicle owner understands the difference between routine automotive service and a compulsory automotive repair.  When your mechanic mentions automotive service, they are normally referring to the schedule of items listed in your vehicle's owner's manual intended to keep your vehicle in tip-top operating condition, such as oil changes or tire rotations.  Automotive repair is wanted to fix an unexpected issue, ranging from rebuilding transmissions to replacing shocks.

Most auto shops have access to the manufacturer's latest technical service bulletins on how to fix common issues or the routine maintenance associated with your particular model of vehicle.  Because maintenance items are fairly standard, any professional auto center should be able to perform the job, plus you will find that independent auto shops are less expensive than dealerships for the same work.  

Fortunately, it’s a Federal law that automotive service can be performed at any auto shop without affecting your guarantee coverage.  You don't have to go to the dealer where you bought the vehicle.  The only time you may need to go to a dealership is if your car is included in a recall for a potential issue.  It is a good idea before purchasing an extended warranty to check the terms to see who must perform covered automotive service and repairs.

Are you looking for quality automotive repair?  Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Gary’s Quality Automotive for more information about automotive service and to make an appointment.  Our auto repair shop proudly serves vehicle owners in Grand Island, NE, Wood River, NE and Doniphan, NE.

Are you Wondering How Do You Know If You Need an Alignment?

Are you having car alignment issues and wondering how it affects your tires, suspension and steering systems?  With the extreme winter conditions around the country, you are possibly driving over roads that are filled with ice ruts, potholes, and other debris.  These conditions can negatively impact the wheel alignment on your vehicle.  

Car alignment problems aren’t always obvious right away and they tend to get worse over time.  If you’re experiencing car misalignment issues, it is highly likely that your tires are not pointing in the same direction as the steering wheel.  This condition can shorten the life of your tires by thousands of miles and compromise crucial steering and suspension parts.

How do you know if you need an alignment?  Here are a few signs to look for:

• Vehicle pulls to the left or right
• Uneven or rapid tread wear
• Your steering wheel is crooked when driving straight
• Squealing tires

Has your car alignment inspected about every 6,000 miles?  At the very least, have it inspected at every other oil change or at the first sign of premature tire wear.  As soon as you start to notice steering issues, make sure to make an appointment.  The price of a car alignment service is much more cost-effective than paying for a new set of tires!

Are you wondering how do you know if you need an alignment?  Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Gary’s Quality Automotive for more information about our wheel alignment services and to make an appointment.  Our auto repair shop proudly serves vehicle owners in Grand Island, NE, Wood River, NE and Doniphan, NE.