Hage-Kobany Transmissions & Auto Service Blog

Engine repairs and replacements are among the most expensive types of auto work, so taking steps to protect the engine can save you significant money over time. Fortunately, many of the best practices for engine health are easy to follow and cost-effective. With regular attention and smart habits, you can keep your engine running smoothly for years to come. Here are four simple ways to help preserve your engine’s long-term health. Stick to a Regular Oil Change Schedule Oil lubricates internal engine components, reduces friction, and helps regulate temperature. Over time, oil breaks down and accumulates contaminants that can harm engine parts. Following your manufacturer’s recommended oil change intervals is one of the most important things you can do to keep your engine clean and protected. Regular oil changes help ensure that your engine always has fresh, effective lubrication, which can significantly extend its lifespan. Replace Air Filters When Needed Your engine needs clean air for efficient combustion. When the air filter becomes clogged with dirt and debris, it can restrict airflow and force the engine to work harder than necessary. This can lead to decreased performance and reduced fuel-economy. Replacing the air filter at the recommended intervals helps maintain proper airflow while stopping pollutants from harming the engine. Keep the Cooling System in Strong Condition An overheated engine can suffer serious damage in a short amount of time. The cooling system— which includes the radiator, thermostat, water pump, and coolant—plays a vital role in preventing overheating. Make sure the coolant is at the proper level and has not degraded. Routine inspections of the cooling system components help ensure they’re functioning correctly and reduce the risk of overheating and engine damage. Pay Attention to Warning Lights and Unusual Sounds Your dashboard warning lights are there for a reason, and ignoring them can lead to larger problems. If the check engine light comes on or you hear strange noises like knocking, ticking, or grinding, it’s important to have your vehicle inspected promptly. Addressing small issues early can prevent them from developing into major engine problems that are far more expensive to repair. Engine Repair & Maintenance in Columbia Heights, MN When you need an experienced mechanic 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 to schedule an appointment !

Planning a road trip can be an exciting adventure, but before you hit the open road, it’s essential to make sure your vehicle is ready for the journey. While it might seem like an extra step, getting a professional inspection from a trusted mechanic can save you time, money, and stress in the long run. Even if your car seems to be running fine, hidden issues can become major problems once you're far from home. At Hage-Kobany Transmissions & Auto Service, we can get your vehicle ready for your journey. Here are four reasons to schedule an inspection before your next road trip. Prevent Breakdowns in Remote Areas A road trip often takes you through remote or unfamiliar areas where access to roadside assistance or auto shops may be limited. A pre-trip inspection helps identify potential problems like worn-out belts, low fluid levels, or failing batteries before they cause a breakdown. Your mechanic can assess your vehicle’s overall health and help ensure you won’t end up stranded in the middle of nowhere, waiting hours for help. Ensure Tire Safety and Performance Tires are one of the most important parts of your car when it comes to safety and fuel-efficiency. Worn or underinflated tires can reduce traction, increase the risk of blowouts, and negatively impact gas mileage. During an inspection, the mechanic can check your tire pressure, tread depth, and alignment. If your tires are showing signs of uneven wear or are close to the end of their lifespan, you’ll have the opportunity to replace them before your trip, ensuring safer travel. Check and Top Off Vital Fluids Your car relies on several fluids to function properly, including engine oil, coolant, transmission fluid, and brake fluid. Low or dirty fluids can lead to overheating, shifting problems, and braking issues. The mechanic can inspect fluid levels and condition and recommend changes if needed. This preventive maintenance can go a long way in avoiding unexpected mechanical failures during your trip. Confirm Brakes and Suspension Are Road-Ready Your vehicle’s braking system and suspension take on added importance when traveling long distances or through hilly or mountainous terrain. The mechanic can inspect brake pads, rotors, shocks, and struts to ensure everything is functioning correctly. Addressing any wear or damage ahead of time will give you peace of mind and improve safety for everyone in your vehicle. Auto Maintenance in Columbia Heights, MN For auto maintenance in Columbia Heights 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 to make an appointment!

The transmission is one of the most vital components of your vehicle, and when it starts to fail, it can severely impact performance and safety. Ignoring early warning signs can lead to more extensive damage and higher repair costs. At Hage-Kobany Transmissions & Auto Service, we provide expert transmission repair in the greater Columbia Heights, MN area. Here are four signs that you shouldn't ignore if you suspect transmission trouble. Delayed or Slipping Gears One of the most noticeable signs of a transmission problem is when your vehicle hesitates before shifting or slips out of gear unexpectedly. You might press the gas pedal and experience a delay before the car actually accelerates, or you might feel the car suddenly shift for no reason. These issues can signal worn-out transmission bands, low fluid levels, or internal component failure. If left unaddressed, slipping gears can compromise your ability to drive safely. Unusual Noises Grinding, whining, or clunking noises coming from your transmission are never a good sign. These sounds often point to mechanical wear or damage inside the transmission system. In automatic transmissions, whining or humming could suggest fluid issues or a torque converter problem. In manual transmissions, grinding often means there’s a problem with the clutch. Strange noises mean something is wrong, and the longer they persist, the more likely the damage will worsen. Fluid Leaks Transmission fluid is essential for keeping your transmission cool and lubricated. If you notice reddish fluid pooling beneath your car, it could be a sign of a leak. Leaks often stem from worn seals, cracked gaskets, or damaged transmission pans. Even a small leak can lead to serious issues if the fluid level drops too low. Driving with insufficient transmission fluid can cause the system to overheat and suffer internal damage, so it’s best to address leaks immediately. Burning Smell A strong burning odor coming from your car may indicate that the transmission is overheating. This often occurs when the fluid becomes old, dirty, or too low to do its job properly. Overheating can lead to accelerated wear of the transmission components and may result in a complete failure if not corrected. If you smell something burning while driving, it’s important to have your vehicle inspected as soon as possible. Transmission Repair in Columbia Heights, MN For expert transmission repair in Columbia Heights and the surrounding area, contact Hage-Kobany Transmissions & Auto Service at  (763) 200-4945  . At our local auto shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!

Your vehicle’s transmission is one of its most important components, responsible for transferring power from the engine to the wheels. Without a properly functioning transmission, your car won’t be able to shift gears smoothly, which can lead to performance issues and costly repairs. Fortunately, with regular maintenance and good driving habits, you can keep your transmission operating smoothly. Here are four tips for keeping your transmission in top shape. Check and Change Transmission Fluid Regularly Transmission fluid plays a vital role in keeping your transmission running smoothly by lubricating moving parts, reducing friction, and preventing overheating. Over time, the fluid can become contaminated with debris or break down due to heat and wear. Checking your transmission fluid regularly and changing it as recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer will help prevent damage. If the fluid appears dark or has a burnt smell, it’s time for a change. Keeping the fluid clean and at the proper level helps ensure that your transmission operates efficiently. Drive Smoothly and Avoid Aggressive Habits Your driving habits directly impact the health of your transmission. Aggressive driving, such as rapid acceleration and hard braking, can put unnecessary strain on transmission components. Also, if you tow heavy loads, be sure you don’t exceed weight limits, which could cause your transmission to become overly stressed and potentially overheat. Shift Smoothly To help minimize the risk of transmission issues, you should always come to a complete stop before shifting between park and drive or reverse. If you drive a manual transmission, it’s important that you properly engage the clutch pedal when shifting, and that you don’t ride it while just cruising along. Pay Attention to Signs of a Developing Issue Your vehicle will often give you early warnings when something is wrong with the transmission. Common signs of trouble include delayed shifting, slipping gears, unusual noises, or a burning smell. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to have your transmission inspected as soon as possible. Ignoring these warning signs can lead to major damage and costly repairs. Addressing small issues early can save you money and keep your vehicle running smoothly. Transmission Service in Columbia Heights, MN For 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 to schedule an appointment!