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  • Mon 7:00AM - 6:00PM
    Tue 7:00AM - 6:00PM
  • Wed 7:00AM - 6:00PM
    Thu 7:00AM - 6:00PM
  • Fri 7:00AM - 6:00PM
    Sat Appointment Only
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608-244-9040 | 3712 Milwaukee St Madison, WI 53714

Auto Electrical Repair & Maintenance

Comprehensive Auto Electrical Repair and Maintenance Services

Whether it's a battery, starter, alternator or another electrical issue, you can count on Midwest Engine Service for all of your auto electric repair and maintenance needs. Our technicians are experts in electrical issues and will provide you with the highest level of customer service.
Our auto electric repair and maintenance services include:

Alternators
An alternator is a crucial automotive component responsible for converting mechanical energy into electric energy (alternating current). It plays a pivotal role in your vehicle's engine, and any malfunction can result in your car's breakdown. If you encounter issues with your car's alternator, it is imperative to seek expert assistance.

Batteries
The battery is the powerhouse that supplies electrical energy to vital automotive systems such as the ignition system, starter motor, and lights. If you find yourself needing a jump-start to kickstart your vehicle in the morning, it may be a sign that your battery is deteriorating. Depending on the extent of damage, a failing battery can either be repaired or replaced. If you are experiencing battery-related issues, do not hesitate to contact us in Madison, WI. We offer convenient battery testing and replacement services, designed to swiftly get you back on the road. From battery replacement and charging to installation, testing, and recycling, we cover it all.

Starters
The starter serves as the motor, whether electric, hydraulic, or pneumatic, responsible for initiating the operation of your internal combustion engine. Starters are vital components within your car's engine, and any malfunction can lead to your vehicle's failure to start. In the event of starter problems, it is crucial to seek professional assistance. Our team of experts is well-equipped to handle all your starter-related needs efficiently, ensuring you can resume your journey promptly. Visit Midwest Engine Service today for expert starter services.

Car Starting FAQs

What does a dead starter sound like?
Clicking noises upon turning the key are a classic sign of starter failure. However, this isn't the only clue. A dying starter might remain completely silent or offer subtle warnings through whirring or grinding sounds before finally giving up the ghost.

Why won't my car start?
The most common reason why a car will not start is a bad or dead battery. However, there are several other possibilities too. If you are having trouble getting your vehicle started, give Midwest Engine Service a call at 608-244-9040. Our auto repair professionals will try to help you diagnose the issue, which could be one of these problems:
  • Failing alternator
  • Starter motor
  • Ignition switch malfunction
  • Bad spark plugs
  • Cracked distributor cap
  • Broken timing belt


How do I change my keyless entry remote battery?
This should work for most remotes:
  1. Remove the metal blade key from the remote.
  2. Use a standard (flat head) screwdriver to gently pry open the fob
  3. Remove the battery. It is usually a small round lithium watch battery.
  4. Insert a new battery
  5. Snap the key fob back together
  6. Insert the metal blade key into the fob.


How do I unlock my steering wheel?
Place your foot on the brake and turn the wheel in the direction in which it has a little range of motion. This should ease the tension in the steering column and allow you to turn the key. Turning the key unlocks the steering wheel. Do not try to unlock your steering wheel without a key or if the battery is dead. This should only be done by a professional auto repair technician.

Battery FAQs

How do I replace my car battery without losing car memory?
Use a car memory saver or other secondary power source. If you don't own a car memory saver, come to Midwest Engine Service and we can do this process for you. First, make sure to turn off your car before you unplug the battery. Next, plug the car memory saver into the cigarette lighter or the OBD2 connector. Remove the old battery and install the new battery and attach the connectors. Finally, unplug the memory saver from the car.

What should I be careful of when changing a car battery?
It may sound obvious but be sure that you do not drop the battery. Be careful not to let the tools touch both the negative and positive terminals simultaneously, as it could create a spark, cause the battery to short out, or even damage the vehicle's electrical components. Make sure to separate the cables to the side so that they don't touch the battery until it is in place. Attach the negative cable first and then the positive cable. If have any doubts while you are trying to change your battery you should always call in an expert.

What are mistakes made when jumping a car?
Mixing up negative and positive cables is the most common mistake. When you mix up the negative and positive cable it ruins your car's alternator. Just remember black to negative and red to positive. Other common mistakes are using cheap cables that don't conduct properly, letting the cables swing and become detached, touching the clips together, and ignoring cracks in your battery or dirty battery terminals.

Why is my engine stalling after replacing my car battery?
If your car lost battery power completely then your car's computer system may have lost valuable information to regulate engine performance causing it to stall even after you replace the battery. However, the car's system will quickly collect new data and engine performance should return to normal. In some case you may need to have the throttle body, or your idle air control valve cleaned out as carbon deposits can build up inside these parts, pushing them beyond the computer's ability to regulate engine performance.

Headlight FAQs

Do parking lights and turn signals use the same bulb?
Yes, your car uses the same bulb for the front turn signal and parking lights. Side bulbs are located on the inside of the wheel wells. All lights on your car will eventually burn out and need to be replaced.

What are the 3 situations where headlights are required?
First, you should make sure both of your headlights are in good working order before driving your car. Headlights must be in use from sunset to sunrise. Headlights are also necessary when you cannot see more than 400 feet in front of you. You should also use your car's headlights whenever windshield wipers are in use. In addition, some studies have shown that when drivers elect to always drive with their headlights on it can reduce automobile accidents.

To learn more about our Electrical services, call us at 608-244-9040 or request a quote by clicking below:


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What Our Customers Are Saying

Midwest always does great work and I never feel like I'm being "taken for a ride". I appreciate the honest assessments of what needs to be done and in what time-frame. Always more reasonable than the dealership on both counts! Super handy to have a loaner car, and I love that my car is always shiny and feels like new when I pick it up, even after an oil change! Thank you!!

, 09/03/2021

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I am from IL and was going to our home in Northern Wisconsin when I experienced car trouble. Lucky for me, I got off at the first Madison exit. I called Midwest Engine Service. They were AWESOME! They had me towed to their shop. Clean building and great staff. They got me back on the road within 3 hours. The repair bill was very reasonable. I would highly recommend this auto repair facility!



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I cannot begin to tell you how very much I appreciate the INCREDIBLE service I received from your staff ! I have been in the customer service business for over 30 years, I certainly have no problems recognizing EXCELLENT SERVICE and let me tell you your team GETS IT. From the helpful phone call to your shop when I was stranded at Home Depot to the tow truck driver calling to confirm to me that my truck was picked up...I will not ever take my truck anywhere else and you have a customer for life. I will tell everyone I know to do the same. Keep up the good work!

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To all of you -a BIG- thank you for all the time and effort you put into my car! I don't really know all the things you do but its much better now. The steering is better, the breaks feel better, and in general it just feels better to drive!

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Dear Wayne, Thank you for your note regarding my Audi TT alignment mishap and for being so noble as to stand behind the work done at Midwest Engine. I'm sure it is difficult at times, when trying to run a business well, to negotiate mishaps, both with customers and your staff, and I appreciate that your rose to the occasion and did the right thing by me, even as a cost to you.

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Thanks for the fast service and getting me in right away.

  • BBB Accredited Business
  • ASE (Automotive Service Excellence)
  • AERA (Automotive Engine Rebuilders Association)
  • AutoWares - BTB - CSC
  • IATN (International Automotive Technicians' Network)
  • AutoWares
  • Car Care Aware
  • Call Us For Service: 608-244-9040