Hage-Kobany Transmissions & Auto Service Blog

Your brakes play a crucial role in maintaining your safety and that of others on the road. But like any other part, they can wear down, leading to potential hazards. At Hage-Kobany Transmissions & Auto Service, we provide top-quality brake repair in the greater Columbia Heights, MN area. Here’s a look at five symptoms of brake trouble. Squealing or Grinding Noises One of the most common signs of brake trouble is unusual noises when you apply the brakes. If you hear a high-pitched squeal or grinding sound, it's likely that your brake pads are worn down. Ignoring these noises can lead to damage to your brake rotors, resulting in more expensive repairs. Soft or Spongy Brake Pedal A brake pedal that feels soft or spongy underfoot is a clear indication of trouble. This could be due to air in the brake lines or a brake fluid leak. When brake fluid is leaking, you’ve got a major safety hazard and shouldn’t drive your car. Rather, you should get towed to the mechanic for the repairs. Vibrations or Pulsations If you feel vibrations or pulsations when you apply the brakes, it could be a sign of warped brake rotors. Warped rotors can develop due to excessive heat buildup and uneven wear and tear. Driving with warped rotors can compromise your braking performance. This issue should be addressed ASAP. Pulling to One Side A stuck caliper could cause your car to veer off to one side. Obviously, this poses a major safety risk to you and other drivers. With this symptom, you shouldn’t operate your vehicle until the necessary repairs are completed. Dashboard Warning Light An illuminated ABS warning light means that a problem has been detected that should be promptly brought to the mechanic’s attention. This light may turn on due to issues such as low brake fluid and faulty wheel speed sensors. Brake Repair in Columbia Heights, MN For auto repair in Columbia Heights and the surrounding area, contact Hage-Kobany Transmissions & Auto Service at (763) 200-4945 . At our nearby auto shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call today to schedule an appointment!

Your vehicle's transmission fluid acts as a lubricant, coolant, and hydraulic fluid. This makes it very important that you’re driving with the proper amount. If you’re having issues related to transmission fluid, it’s important to alert the mechanic ASAP. At Hage-Kobany Transmissions & Auto Service, we provide top-quality transmission service in the greater Columbia Heights, MN area. We can expertly handle transmission fluid issues. Here’s a look at five signs that your transmission fluid is too low. Slipping Gears If there’s a delay in the engagement of gears or unexpected shifting, it could be a sign that the transmission fluid level is too low. Inadequate fluid hinders the hydraulic pressure needed to keep gears engaged, resulting in erratic and inefficient gear changes. Unusual Noises Low transmission fluid can cause components to grind or overheat, leading to unusual noises like whining, clunking, or humming. These sounds may suggest increased friction and wear within the transmission system. Such noises mean the mechanic should conduct an inspection ASAP. Delayed or Rough Shifting A properly functioning transmission should shift gears smoothly without any noticeable hesitation or jarring movements. If you notice delays in shifting or feel a roughness during gear changes, it could be a sign of low transmission fluid. Inadequate fluid levels impede the hydraulic pressure required for smooth gear shifts, resulting in a less responsive transmission. Transmission Overheating Insufficient transmission fluid can lead to increased friction and heat within the transmission system. If your vehicle's transmission overheats, it may trigger a warning light on your dashboard. A burning odor is another warning sign. Overheating can cause severe damage to transmission components and lead to expensive repairs. Fluid Leaks An obvious sign that your transmission fluid is getting low is the presence of fluid puddles beneath your vehicle. Transmission fluid is commonly reddish in color. Leaks often form due to faulty seals and failing pan gaskets. Transmission Service in Columbia Heights, MN When you need transmission service in Columbia Heights, MN and the surrounding area, contact Hage-Kobany Transmissions & Auto Service at  (763) 200-4945  . Feel free to give us a call today to schedule an appointment!

At Hage-Kobany Transmissions & Auto Service, we aim to always outperform our customers’ expectations by providing top-quality repairs, fair rates, and attentive service. Whether you need in-depth transmission repair or some light maintenance, our team of ASE-certified mechanics will work meticulously to get the job done right the first time. And we’re truly thankful when our customers provide feedback about the work that we did for them. Here are some of our latest customer reviews. “Had some issues with my vehicle, they fixed my truck with wicked quick speed, quality workmanship, and customer service that was amazing. Fair prices and honest. Very impressed with them. Will recommend.” — Matthew C. “The costs of the repairs are very reasonable. I will be back for future service. It's always nice dealing with local companies that have an interest in the community. Thank you Mark for your assistance and the rest of the team at Hage-Kobany Transmissions.” — Tom F. “You are the bomb!! My car drives like a dream now & she’s all set for a fun Minnesotan winter. Mange Takk!!!!!” — Eileen S . “I was concerned because my son goes to the U in MN and he needed car repairs, we did not know a mechanic in the area. Mark was very responsive and honest, got the job done quickly for us. Will definitely use them again.” — Jen S. “We have been referring customers from our auto shop to Hage-Kobany for years as we do not do transmission work. They are always very straightforward and fair. Of the dozens of customers of ours they've helped, I haven't gotten a single complaint. Good small business that does things right.” — Chuck G . “I’m a very satisfied return customer and highly recommend their service. I’m confident in their repairs and professional attention they give me.” — Ron W. Auto Repair in Columbia Heights, MN When you need auto repair in Columbia Heights and the surrounding area, contact Hage-Kobany Transmissions & Auto Service at  (763) 200-4945  . At our nearby auto shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call today to schedule an appointment!

Your vehicle's suspension system plays a crucial role in ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride. But as the miles add up, wear and tear can lead to suspension issues that not only affect your driving experience but also compromise safety. This makes it important to get to the shop at the first indication of a suspension problem. At Hage-Kobany Transmissions & Auto Service, we provide expert suspension repair in the greater Columbia Heights area. Here are six symptoms of suspension trouble. Excessive Bouncing or Dipping A well-functioning suspension system should provide a smooth and controlled ride. If you experience excessive bouncing or dipping, especially during turns or sudden stops, it could be a sign of worn-out shocks or struts. Vehicle Pulls to One Side If your vehicle consistently pulls to one side while driving, it may be an indication of suspension trouble. This pulling can occur due to misaligned wheels or worn-out suspension components, affecting the vehicle's stability and making steering more challenging. Braking Issues Faulty suspension components may cause your vehicle to take longer to reach a complete stop after you’ve started braking. Also, suspension trouble could make it feel like your vehicle is nose-diving when you hit the brakes. Strange Noises While Driving Unusual sounds—such as clunking, banging, or creaking noises—can indicate problems within the suspension system. These noises may indicate worn-out or damaged components, such as bushings, ball joints, or sway bars. Uneven Tire Wear If you notice that the tread on your tires is wearing out unevenly, it could be a sign that your suspension system is not distributing the vehicle's weight properly. This could lead to handling issues, and an increased risk of tire blowouts. Visible Fluid Leaks Damaged shocks or struts may leak hydraulic fluid, compromising their effectiveness. When this occurs, replacement is commonly necessary. Suspension Repair in Columbia Heights, MN When you need auto repair in Columbia Heights, MN and the surrounding area, contact Hage-Kobany Transmissions & Auto Service at  (763) 200-4945  . At our nearby auto shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!

Your car's alternator plays a crucial role in keeping the electrical system running smoothly. A failing alternator can lead to various issues that affect the overall performance of your vehicle. Recognizing the symptoms of alternator failure is important for preventing breakdowns and costly repairs. At Hage-Kobany Transmissions & Auto Service, we provide expert alternator replacement and auto electric repair in the greater Columbia Heights, MN area. Here are six warning signs of alternator trouble. Dimming or Flickering Lights The alternator is responsible for generating electricity to power the lights and other electrical components. If you notice your headlights or dash lights becoming noticeably dimmer or flickering, it may signal a weakening alternator. Warning Light on the Dashboard Often shaped like a battery, this warning light is an indication that the electrical system is not functioning correctly. If the light comes on, it's crucial to address the issue promptly to avoid a complete loss of power. Strange Noises A failing alternator may produce a grinding or squealing noise, indicating issues with the internal components. These sounds are often a result of worn-out bearings or belt issues. Weak or Dead Battery While a weak or dead battery can be attributed to various factors, a malfunctioning alternator is a common culprit. The alternator charges the battery while the engine is running, so if it fails, the battery will not receive a proper charge. If you find yourself needing to jump-start your car frequently or your battery is consistently low, it's a sign that the alternator may be in poor condition. Electrical Accessory Failures A failing alternator can lead to sporadic or complete failures of various electrical components in your vehicle. This may include power windows, power seats, the radio, and other accessories. Alternator Replacement & Auto Electric Repair in Columbia Heights, MN When you need auto repair in Columbia Heights, MN and the surrounding area, contact Hage-Kobany Transmissions & Auto Service at  (763) 200-4945  . At our local auto shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call today to schedule an appointment!

If you drive a manual transmission vehicle, it's important to be aware of signs of a clutch problem. By getting to the shop at the first sign of clutch trouble, you’ll have the best chance to avoid more expensive repairs. At Hage-Kobany Transmissions & Auto Service, we provide expert clutch repair in the greater Columbia Heights, MN area. Here are five warning signs of clutch failure. Difficulty Shifting Gears If you find it increasingly challenging to engage gears, or if there's resistance or grinding when you try to shift, it's a sign that your clutch may be on the verge of failure. This problem could be caused by a worn-out clutch disc or a malfunctioning clutch cable or hydraulic system. Slipping Clutch A slipping clutch is a common issue that occurs when the clutch fails to engage properly. You might notice a sudden increase in engine RPM without a corresponding increase in vehicle speed. This can be due to a worn-out clutch disc, pressure plate, or release bearing. Unusual Noises If you hear grinding, squeaking, or chirping sounds when you press the clutch pedal, it could indicate a problem with the release bearing, pilot bearing, or clutch fork. Ignoring these noises can result in more costly repairs. Clutch Pedal Issues If the pedal feels excessively soft or spongy when depressed, it might be due to air in the hydraulic system or a leaking clutch master cylinder. And with a stiff clutch pedal, you may have issues with the clutch cable or linkage. Burning Smell If you notice a burning smell, particularly when engaging the clutch, it can be a sign of excessive friction and heat generated within the clutch assembly. This often results from a slipping clutch, and the burning odor is usually accompanied by increased wear on the clutch components. Clutch Repair in Columbia Heights, MN When you need transmission service in Columbia Heights, MN and the surrounding area, contact Hage-Kobany Transmissions & Auto Service at  (763) 200-4945  . At our local transmission shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s transmission needs. Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!

If your car develops a severe engine problem, then it could cost you a significant chunk of change to address. But by taking some simple precautions, you can significantly reduce the risk of major engine trouble developing. At Hage-Kobany Transmissions & Auto Service, we can expertly take care of your engine’s needs. We provide expert auto maintenance and engine repair in the greater Columbia Heights, MN area. Here’s a look at four quick tips for preventing serious engine problems. Always Keep Up with Oil Changes By always following your car’s oil change schedule, you’ll help to ensure that your engine’s moving parts stay thoroughly lubricated and safeguarded against harsh friction that could otherwise inflict major damage. The right level of unpolluted oil will also make it easier for heat to be redistributed from the combustion chamber, helping to keep your engine temperature within a safe range. Don’t Disregard the Check Engine Light An illuminated check engine light doesn’t automatically mean that your engine is nearing total disaster. Still, you should promptly visit the shop for diagnostics so that the issue that’s triggering the light can be addressed before it escalates and causes bigger problems. Follow You Factory Maintenance Schedule As part of 30/60/90k maintenance, important tasks are done that help to keep your engine healthy over the long term. During factory maintenance, tasks are completed as called for, such as fluid and filter changes, spark plug replacement, and installing a new timing belt. Get to the Shop Quickly if You Notice Any Symptom of Engine Trouble When you first notice a sign of an engine issue, you should visit the mechanic ASAP. Otherwise, the issue may soon worsen. Common signs of engine trouble include knocking noises, power loss, fluid leaks, and discolored exhaust smoke. Engine Repair & Maintenance in Columbia Heights, MN When you need auto repair in Columbia Heights, MN and the surrounding area, contact Hage-Kobany Transmissions & Auto Service at  (763) 200-4945  . At our nearby auto shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call today to schedule an appointment!

Staying current with oil changes is a critical part of keeping your engine healthy. In your owner’s manual, you can see your vehicle’s precise guidelines for what type of oil it requires and how often it should be changed. These specifications should always be followed. At Hage-Kobany Transmissions & Auto Service, our local mechanics provide full-service oil changes in the greater Columbia Heights, MN area. Here’s a look at five reasons to always follow your car’s oil change schedule. Proper Lubrication Regular oil changes play a crucial role in keeping your engine’s moving parts supremely lubricated and protected against severe damage that harsh metal-on-metal contact could cause. If your engine does become under-lubricated, you might notice signs of a problem, such as strange sounds coming from under the hood and/or an illuminated oil pressure warning light. Healthy Engine Temperature When you’re driving with the correct amount of uncontaminated oil, heat is more efficiently redistributed from the combustion chamber, which helps to keep your engine temperature at a safe level. Replace Oil Filter When you get a full-service oil change, you’ll get a new oil filter. Because an old dirty filter can prevent optimal oil circulation, it’s important that your filter is regularly changed. Eliminate/Prevent Engine Gunk If you skip oil changes, then there’s a higher risk of pollutants creating a gunky consistency in your oil. Gunky/sludgy oil puts your engine at risk of insufficient lubrication, and should be changed as soon as possible. Identify & Address Developing Engine Problems By getting your oil changed by an ASE-certified technician, rather than at a random express lube shop, you’ll have an expertly-trained automotive professional taking a look at your engine. This could result in the identification of an emerging engine issue, which can then be resolved before it gets worse. Oil Change in Columbia Heights, MN When you need auto maintenance in Columbia Heights, MN and the surrounding area, contact Hage-Kobany Transmissions & Auto Service at  (763) 200-4945  . At our nearby auto shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!

For your transmission to stay healthy and work efficiently, it’s crucial that you’re driving with the right amount of clean transmission fluid. Your vehicle’s transmission fluid is so important because it provides lubrication, cooling, fluid pressure, and rust prevention. So if you suspect a problem related to your transmission fluid, then you’ll want to promptly bring it to the mechanic’s attention. At Hage-Kobany Transmissions & Auto Service, we provide expert transmission fluid exchanges in Columbia Heights, as well as all other types of transmission service. Indications of a Transmission Fluid Issue If you’re just cruising along when all of a sudden your car pops out of gear, then you could have a transmission fluid problem. Gear slippage can happen if contaminants in the transmission fluid obstruct the fluid’s flow, causing fluid pressure to drop to the point that the car doesn’t remain in gear. By getting your transmission fluid exchanged, you may be able to resolve this problem. Other warning signs of polluted transmission fluid include grinding, as well as whining noises. Leaks are another common problem related to transmission fluid. When transmission fluid leaks, it’s often due to failing pan gaskets or cracked transmission lines. A sign of a transmission fluid leak is that there is reddish-colored fluid on the pavement beneath your vehicle. If the leaking fluid has a somewhat sweet smell, then you have further reason to believe that it is indeed transmission fluid. It’s smart to check your transmission fluid every month, even if you don’t suspect an issue with it. Typically, it’s best to check transmission fluid with the engine still on. If the dipstick shows that your transmission fluid is burning or for some reason getting really low, then you should have the mechanic take a look. When transmission fluid gets too low, symptoms may emerge such as delayed shifting or rough shifting. Transmission Service in Columbia Heights, MN When you need transmission service in Columbia Heights, MN and the surrounding area, contact Hage-Kobany Transmissions & Auto Service at  (763) 200-4945  . At our local transmission shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s transmission needs. Feel free to give us a call today to schedule an appointment!