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608-244-9040 | 3712 Milwaukee St Madison, WI 53714

8 Signs Your Car Needs a Professional Mechanic

Midwest Engine Service in Madison WI Is Here To Help

Sometimes it's hard to know when your car just needs a break and when it needs a mechanic. If you notice any of the signs detailed below, it's important to have your vehicle inspected by a professional mechanic as soon as possible. By addressing problems early on, you can help to prevent more serious damage and costly repairs down the road.

1. Car Experiences Stalling

Is your car experiencing stalling issues? This situation isn't ideal and could indicate various problems, such as a malfunctioning fuel pump or ignition issues. These are concerns you'd rather not confront while driving. We do not recommend waiting to see if this issue will correct itself.

If you sense that your car is struggling to accelerate, regardless of how forcefully you press the gas pedal, it's advisable to pull over and request assistance immediately.

2. Trouble Steering

Has your steering wheel suddenly become harder to control? Are your turns less reliable or smooth? This often indicates a significant problem with steering components, such as low power steering fluid or another malfunction. Any issue affecting your ability to control the car requires immediate attention at an auto repair shop.

3. Fluid Leaks

If your vehicle is leaving behind puddles of liquid, it's a sign you should investigate further. Examine the liquid closely. Water is usually not a concern, often originating from air conditioning condensation.

However, liquids like oil, transmission fluid (red or brown), coolant (blue, yellow, green), power steering fluid, or brake fluid (thick but clear) warrant closer inspection. A leak in one of these vital systems is likely the culprit.

Visit Midwest Engine Service to fix the leak and replace the fluids before it worsens and affects your car's performance.

4. Worn Out Brakes

Brakes naturally wear down over time. If your brakes are losing their effectiveness and emitting strange noises, it's a sign they may need attention. Screeching or squealing sounds usually indicate worn-out brake pads requiring replacement.

Shaking or vibrating brakes can suggest various issues, from worn brake pads to brake fluid problems or alignment issues-problems best addressed by auto repair experts.

5. Alignment Issues

If you've noticed your car's ride has become notably less smooth in just a few months, it might be time for a trip to the auto shop. Don't fret over potentially costly repairs; a shaky or vibrating ride, especially at higher speeds, often stems from wheel or alignment issues.

Even after a proper wheel alignment, wheels can gradually shift, influenced by normal wear and tear or sudden incidents like accidents or unexpected bumps. Realignment is a straightforward procedure best handled by professionals who can swiftly address the issue.

6. Uncommon Engine Noise

Engines should run smoothly. While they may become noisier with age, sudden noises or difficulty in turning the engine should prompt a visit to the auto shop. Keep an ear out for any unexpected grinding, popping, or growling noises when your engine is idling.

7. Diagnostic Lights

This one can be a bit tricky. Modern vehicles come equipped with engine diagnostic or check engine lights, but they don't always signal a genuine problem. Some are programmed to illuminate after a certain mileage for a routine checkup. Occasionally, the car's computer module may malfunction and trigger the lights when nothing's wrong.

However, these lights also serve as valuable indicators that something within your engine might be amiss. Generally, if a diagnostic light accompanies other signs like poor performance or unusual noises, it's a good idea to visit Midwest Engine Service. If you're simply tired of looking at it, a quick check at the shop can confirm if there's an actual issue.

8. Unpleasant Exhaust

Surprisingly, exhaust issues can help diagnose serious auto problems. If you notice your exhaust suddenly becoming dirty, black, or emits foul odors, some part of the filtering system may be clogged or damaged. It's advisable to have a mechanic investigate, whether it's related to your catalytic converter or another unknown issue.

Stop by Midwest Engine Service located at 3712 Milwaukee St in Madison, WI or call 608-244-9040 to talk to one of our friendly and professional technicians.


Our guarantee to you

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.

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  • ASE (Automotive Service Excellence)
  • AERA (Automotive Engine Rebuilders Association)
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  • IATN (International Automotive Technicians' Network)
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  • Call Us For Service: 608-244-9040