Steve's Car & Truck Services
General Vehicle Maintenance
General Vehicle Maintenance
The long-established centerpiece of the automobile sector, known as the "tune-up," has experienced significant transformations over the years. Despite certain misconceptions, contemporary vehicles still necessitate tune-ups for optimal functioning.
With the swift advancement of technology, the methods involved in conducting a traditional tune-up have undergone a considerable evolution. Sophisticated ignition and fuel systems have become standard, integrating one or more onboard computers to regulate critical engine and transmission functions.
Neglecting proper vehicle maintenance can impede your ability to reach your intended destination. For modern vehicles, a thorough inspection of various systems is essential during the 21st Century Tune-up, including the battery, charging and starting engine, mechanical powertrain control (including onboard diagnostic checks), fuel ignition, and emissions.
To ensure peak performance, fuel efficiency, and reduced emissions, the Car Care Council recommends that drivers invest time in familiarizing themselves with their vehicles. Study the owner's manual meticulously to grasp the operation of all systems, paying special attention to indicator lights and instruments.
Getting Your Vehicle Ready for Winter
Some of the ensuing advice can be managed by any do-it-yourselfer, while others necessitate the expertise of a professional auto technician.
Heater/Defroster
Ensure that the heater and defroster are functioning correctly for passenger comfort and optimal driver visibility. Remember to replace the cabin air filter periodically.
Battery
Detect a weak battery accurately with professional equipment. Routinely remove corrosion from posts and cable connections and check the fluid level if the battery caps are removable.
Tires
Worn tires are ineffective in winter weather. Check tire pressure monthly, examine tread life and for uneven wear, and rotate tires as recommended. Also, ensure the spare tire and jack are in good condition.
Preparing Your Vehicle For Summer
The heat, dust, and stop-and-go traffic of summer can take a toll on your vehicle. Combine that with the wear from the previous winter, and you might be at risk of a breakdown. However, regular maintenance can reduce the chances of mechanical failure, ensuring that your vehicle lasts longer and retains a higher resale value. Some of the following tips can be easily implemented, while others may require the expertise of a skilled auto technician.
Air Conditioning
Have your air conditioning system examined by a qualified technician, especially if it's showing signs of marginal operation. Check and replace cabin air filters as directed in the owner's manual.
Cooling System
The primary cause of summer breakdowns is overheating. Ensure that the cooling system is flushed and refilled regularly, with a 50/50 mix of anti-freeze and water. Check the condition of drive belts, clamps, and hoses.
Brakes
Regularly inspect your brakes as per the owner's manual, and address any minor issues promptly to avoid major problems.
Discover More About General Maintenance Tips At Steve's Car & Truck Services in Lake Mills
Ask The Mechanic
OUR REVIEWS
Tires, near Lake Mills, WIBarbro Andren , 05/29/2025I was in Lake Mills this morning running an errand. I live in Cambridge (which by the way it’s not on your drop-down list. It’s only about 10 miles away so definitely worth the drive.) Anyway I was driving through town and my tire light went on. I pulled into a gas station and their tire gauge was broken, but the guy there said to me “See that building over there?” I said yes, and he said “Go over there. They’ll help you. He’s a really nice guy.” So I drove over to the back of the building, (Steve’s) and I ran into a really nice guy (Steve) working on a car at the back of the shop. I asked if he could help me, and he said sure, just go have a seat upfront, and indicated he’d take a look at it as soon as he could. They were crazy busy. I’ll be here for awhile, I thought. I went up front and explain my dilemma to Cassy in the front office. I was planning to leave at 7 o’clock tomorrow morning to drive to St. Louis, but when Steve, within minutes, showed me the size of the hole in my tire. I knew that was not going to happen. I have a Volkswagen Tiguan, four-wheel-drive, and tires are not easily found. But Cassie was on it and located some that could be delivered and put on the next morning. Meanwhile, Steve put my spare limper tire on, and all the while I was talking back-and-forth with a service guy at my car dealer in Madison. I learned my tires were under warranty and that my roadside assistance would take care of it (whew) but only if the work was done by them in Madison. I asked Cassy what I owed them, and was tempted to pay them double just to make myself feel better. It was beyond reasonable. I thanked Steve and Cassie profusely and actually felt bad that a warranty thing couldn’t be covered there. (But not sorry to save big bucks.) Meanwhile, another customer had been telling me how she’s been going there for 37 years, and that she couldn’t imagine going anywhere else. No kidding. If your car needs literally anything done to it, run don’t walk, to Steve’s. It’s one of those places that’s just like America used to be. Although all they did was change my tire, they absolutely made my day, and kind of restored my faith in humanity a little bit. Yay, Steve’s! Thank you!
partners
