St. Joseph Automotive & Diesel

Learn This for "Safety's Sake"

2012-01-25T15:08:00.000-06:00

Brought to you by Car Care Council

We've all heard the exclamation, "For Pete's sake!" But in the world of automotive emergencies, motorists need to learn certain procedures for "safety's sake." Two of the most valuable lessons, changing a tire and hooking up jumper cables are best learned before an emergency arises, according to the Car Care Council.
The process of boosting a battery is especially important in cold weather. Jumper cables or cables on a portable battery booster should be connected properly to avoid sparks, which can cause an explosion of the hydrogen gas emitting from a battery. Beyond this, an incorrect hook up can damage critical, and expensive, electronic components.
The procedure is simple: Connect the positive (+) clamp to the positive terminal of the healthy battery and the other positive clamp to the corresponding terminal of the dead battery. Next, the negative (-), or ground, terminal on the good battery and, finally, the negative clamp to the engine block, frame or other grounded metal as far as possible from the battery. You want to avoid sparks in the vicinity of the explosive hydrogen gas that emits from the battery. Do not connect it to the ground terminal (negative).
When using a portable battery booster, the process is much the same. Connect the positive clamp of the booster cable to the positive clamp of the dead battery. Then connect the negative cable to the engine block or other grounded metal away from the battery.
The Council offers an additional suggestion: if you are buying jumper cables or a portable battery booster, buy the best quality you can afford. Look for well-insulated clamps and 8-gauge wire. (Note: the lower the wire gauge number, the heavier the gauge.) Under the heavy electrical load of boost starting, lightweight cables may not be able to deliver enough current to start some engines. In fact, they have been known to melt in the user's hand.
If your battery is three-years old or older and you haven't had it checked, it's a good preventive measure to do so, suggests the Council. A battery's power is reduced as the temperature drops. And that's when the engine's starting demands are greatest.
The Car Care Council is the source of information for the "Be Car Care Aware" campaign, educating consumers about the benefits of regular vehicle maintenance and repair. For more information visit www.carcare.org.

Midwest Automotive & Diesel is a full service automotive repair facility serving the Champagin and Urbana Illinois area . Our Technicians are ASE master certified and hold several master level dealer certifications. We specialize in everything automotive. From tune-ups to complete engine overhauls, from fluid flushes to transmission diagnostics and rebuilds. Bumper to bumper, we are the experts. Don't forget to check us out on Facebook. or give us a call at 217-352-7343

Engine's Air/Fuel Mixture Key to Fuel Efficiency, Reduced Emissions

2012-01-24T09:51:00.000-06:00

Brought to you by Robert Bosch LLC

Sluggish performance, hard starting? Could be a worn out or sluggish oxygen sensor. The automotive gasoline engine uses a mixture of air mixed with gasoline to create a combustible mixture. It is the burning of this mixture that operates the engine, and after the combustion process a small amount of oxygen remains in the exhaust.
The oxygen (O2) sensor monitors unburned oxygen in the exhaust, and is part of the fuel management system. The vehicle’s powertrain control module (PCM) uses the information sent by the oxygen sensor to determine if the fuel mixture is rich (too much fuel) or lean (not enough fuel). To provide the best performance, fuel economy and emissions, the PCM has to constantly readjust the fuel mixture while the engine is running. It does this by looking at the signal from the O2 sensor(s), and then increasing or decreasing the on-time (dwell) of the fuel injectors to control fuel delivery.
Developed by Bosch in the 1970’s to help control automotive exhaust emissions, the oxygen sensor’s monitoring and signaling allows the engine computer to optimize engine performance and fuel efficiency, and reduce harmful emissions.

Pay Attention to Check Engine Light

If the oxygen sensor wears out and fails to accurately generate a signal for the engine computer, the computer may adjust the mixture too lean or too rich as it tries to accommodate the perceived variation from where if should be. In addition to causing sluggish performance, hard starting and decreased fuel economy, this can cause possible damage to the catalytic converter and other major components – which may translate into quite expensive repairs.
All modern automobiles are equipped with from one to four oxygen sensors at various locations in the exhaust stream, depending on the vehicle make, model and year. So how do you know if an oxygen sensor has worn out? You may experience poor performance, hard starting, and declining fuel economy, and almost certainly, a check engine light will light up on your dashboard.
Although drivers might be tempted to ignore it if the vehicle seems to be running without problems, this is not a good idea. If you ignore it, and continue to drive without having an automotive technician check it sometime soon, you may be setting yourself up for a hefty repair bill.
“A check engine light that is on and flashing means immediate attention is needed – get the vehicle to an automotive service facility and have them check it out, soon. But even if the check engine light is on but not flashing, have a technician give it a close look if you want to save on significant repairs later,” said Dave Pankonin, Product Manager, Engine Management Systems, for Bosch.
“If an oxygen sensor is causing a check engine light to appear and needs to be replaced, it’s a good idea to install an oxygen sensor from the supplier that invented it,” Pankonin noted. Bosch, the world’s largest supplier of automotive parts and systems, introduced the automotive oxygen sensor in 1976, and recently produced the 500 millionth oxygen sensor, Pankonin indicated.
Bosch is a proud supporter of the Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers Association’s Know Your Parts® education and awareness campaign. This initiative promotes the importance of quality brand name aftermarket parts backed by full service suppliers, and its impact on delivering reliable products to today’s motorists. For more information visit: www.AASAKnowYourParts.org .

Midwest Automotive & Diesel is a full service automotive repair facility serving the Champagin and Urbana Illinois area . Our Technicians are ASE master certified and hold several master level dealer certifications. We specialize in everything automotive. From tune-ups to complete engine overhauls, from fluid flushes to transmission diagnostics and rebuilds. Bumper to bumper, we are the experts. Don't forget to check us out on Facebook. or give us a call at 217-352-7343

The Official Midwest Automotive & Diesel Facebook Contest

2012-01-23T12:12:00.000-06:00

The Official Midwest Automotive & Diesel Facebook Contest

Log on to Facebook and "Like" Midwest Automotive & Diesel AND
Send Valid e-mail address to matt@procomputersol.com with Midwest Contest in the Subject line for notification.
After we reach 250 likes the random drawing will be held on February 29, 2012.
Winner will be notified via e-mail.
Winner must provide Valid photo I.D. at Midwest Automotive & Diesel 1306 N. Prospect Ave., Champaign, IL 61820 Phone: 217-352-7343
Winner must log in to Facebook at Midwest Automotive & Diesel for official verification.
Contestants are encouraged to invite as many friends as possible to help reach the 250 likes.

Contest Terms:

We are going for 250 likes on our Facebook page by February 29, 2012.(The people who have already "liked" our page will also be included in this contest.) If 250 "likes" are received by February 29, 2012 we will draw ONE name, from the 250 names, as the winner. Contestants will be required to submit their frequently checked email address to matt@procomputersol.com for notification purposes Enter Midwest Contest in the subject line. Your email and information will not be sold or otherwise distributed to any other business or entity and will only be used by Midwest Automotive & Diesel and Pro Computer Solutions for periodic marketing. By participating in this contest hosted by Midwest Automotive & Diesel, the participant must comply with all but not limited to that which is stated on this disclaimer in order to be a candidate for winning the prize. The winning participant will receive an Oil and Filter Change(gasoline engine only, up to 5 quarts standard oil) Tire Rotation, and Tire Balance. Midwest Automotive & Diesel reserves the right to change the prize at any time before the end of this contest. Midwest Automotive & Diesel reserves the right to disqualify any contestant at any time if Midwest Automotive & Diesel feels that the contestant is involved in any foul play or misrepresentation during the contest. Midwest Automotive & Diesel reserves the right to refuse any individual applying to be in the contest if Midwest Automotive & Diesel feels that there is a conflict of interest. This Contest is held for the general public and for all individuals representing ONLY themselves. Neither Corporate entities nor “Teams” composed of more than one individual may represent one contestant to win. Midwest Automotive & Diesel will provide details of beginning date and ending date of the contest. No actions from any contestant(s) will be taken into consideration of winning this contest before the beginning date or after the ending date specified by Midwest Automotive & Diesel. There is no age limit for contestants. Midwest Automotive & Diesel will not be Held Liable for any individual(s) attending this contest. All who become a contestant will do so purely on his or her own free will. Midwest Automotive & Diesel will not be liable for the actions of any contestants during this contest. If 250 likes are not received by February 29, 2012, all terms of this contest will be void, and the prize will be held for another contest. If the contest winner is found to have not complied with the rules an alternate winner will be drawn. If the contest winner does not redeem prize by March 30, 2012 an alternate winner will be drawn and will have 10 days to claim their prize. Upon winning, contestants will be required to log in to there Facebook account in front of an official at Midwest Automotive & Diesel and also show photo I.D. for verification purposes only.

Also check out Pro Computer Solutions Contest. Its the same rules with a computer as the prize.

It’s All in the Timing

2012-01-23T12:09:00.000-06:00

Brought to you by Car Care Council

With automotive engines as with many aspects of daily life, timing is critical. One vehicle component often overlooked during routine maintenance is the engine-timing belt. If it fails, the engine will stop and the car will coast to a stop. The lucky motorist will only have the inconvenience of being stranded on the side of the road until the car can be towed to a repair facility to have the timing belt replaced. On the other hand, the engine might suffer severe, if not catastrophic, damage to its internal components.
This potential disaster can be avoided easily and relatively inexpensively by replacing the timing belt within the required replacement interval.
Timing belts resemble an engine accessory serpentine belt in appearance, only they typically have square teeth on the inside surface. They usually are constructed of rubber reinforced with nylon. The timing belt transfers the rotation of the crankshaft to the camshaft. The rotating camshaft activates the valves, which provide air and fuel to the cylinders and expel combustion gases to the exhaust system.
The valves and pistons are constantly moving up and down at very high speeds. When the pistons are down, the valves are open; when the piston is at the top of its travel, the valves are closed. Some engines don’t allow clearance between a valve at its lowest point and a piston at its highest. The timing belt, therefore, is the critical link to ensure that these components don’t collide. If collision occurs, damage to the valves, pistons, cylinder head and cylinder walls can result. This can be an expensive repair.
Timing belts usually are protected from foreign objects by a cover, making visual inspection impossible.
Many domestic vehicles built within the last several years and the majority of imports are equipped with a timing belt. Other engines rely on a timing chain rather than a belt. Refer to your owner’s manual or take your car to a repair facility if you are unsure. The owner’s manual maintenance schedule is a source of timing belt replacement intervals, typically every 60,000 to 90,000 miles.
Timing belt replacement usually requires removal of the engine drive belt that operates the alternator, water pump, power steering pump and air conditioner. Consider replacing this belt, or multiple belts, when having a new timing belt installed.
The Car Care Council is the source of information for the "Be Car Care Aware" campaign, educating consumers about the benefits of regular vehicle maintenance and repair. For more information visit www.carcare.org.
This article was copied from: http://www.carcarenewsservice.org

Midwest Automotive & Diesel is a full service automotive repair facility serving the Champagin and Urbana Illinois area . Our Technicians are ASE master certified and hold several master level dealer certifications. We specialize in everything automotive. From tune-ups to complete engine overhauls, from fluid flushes to transmission diagnostics and rebuilds. Bumper to bumper, we are the experts. Don't forget to check us out on Facebook. or give us a call at 217-352-7343

Back to Cool

2012-01-20T12:25:00.000-06:00

Brought to you by Car Care Council

Six Point Checkup Means Less Trouble During Blustery Winter

The Car Care Council strongly recommends that all vehicle owners check six key systems before the temperatures start to drop. But since they already have now is as good of time as any.

Battery - Keep the battery connections clean, tight and corrosion-free. Cold weather is hard on batteries – your local mechanic can check the battery and charging system for optimum performance. Batteries don't always give warning signs before they fail completely so it’s wise to replace batteries that are more than three years old.
Antifreeze - Antifreeze (coolant) should be flushed and refilled at least every two years in most vehicles. As a reminder, do not add 100 percent antifreeze as full-strength antifreeze actually has a lower freeze point than when mixed with water.
Brakes - Have the brakes checked. The braking system is the vehicle’s most important safety item and is key while driving on icy or snow-covered roads.
Tires - Check the tire tread depth and tire pressure. If snow and ice are a problem in your area, consider special tires designed to grip slick roads. During winter, tire pressure should be checked weekly as tires will lose pressure when temperatures drop.
Oil - Be diligent about changing the oil and filter at recommended intervals. Dirty oil can spell trouble in winter. Consider changing to low-viscosity oil in winter, as it will flow more easily between moving parts when cold. Drivers in sub-zero driving temperatures should drop their oil weight from 10-W30 to 5-W30 as thickened oil can make it hard to start the car. Have your technician check the fuel, air and transmission filters at the same time.
Wiper Blades - Cold weather can affect the life of windshield wipers. Freezing temperatures can make the rubber hard and brittle and increase the potential for cracks. Wiper blades that are cracked or torn, or that chatter, streak and don’t properly clean your windshield, should be changed. Some manufacturers offer special winter blades that have a rubber boot covering the arm assembly to keep snow and ice out. When changing the blades, have the windshield wiper system nozzles cleaned and adjusted if necessary, and check the windshield washer reservoir in case it needs fluid.

“Checking these six key systems in your vehicle ahead of time will give you confidence when you’re driving in brutal winter conditions,” said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council. “Vehicle maintenance is always more convenient when you’re doing it on your schedule, and a few easy preventive measures can save you the headaches and cost of an emergency breakdown.”
During the winter, the Car Care Council recommends keeping your vehicle’s gas tank at least half full as that decreases the chances of moisture forming in the gas lines and possibly freezing. Finally, if you’re due for a tune-up, consider having it done before winter sets in. Winter magnifies existing problems such as pings, hard starts, sluggish performance or rough idling.

Midwest Automotive & Diesel is a full service automotive repair facility serving the Champagin and Urbana Illinois area . Our Technicians are ASE master certified and hold several master level dealer certifications. We specialize in everything automotive. From tune-ups to complete engine overhauls, from fluid flushes to transmission diagnostics and rebuilds. Bumper to bumper, we are the experts. Don't forget to check us out on Facebook. or give us a call at 217-352-7343

National Standards Help Consumers Locate Qualified Automotive Technicians

2012-01-16T09:41:00.002-06:00

National Standards Help Consumers Locate Qualified Automotive Technicians

Brought to you by ASE - National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence

Car owners know they should keep their vehicles in good operating condition, but often do not know where to turn or what to look for in a repair shop.
Some choose a repair shop based solely on its convenient location or an advertised special. Not the best move, according to officials with the non-profit National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence, also known as ASE. “Look for the ASE sign,” says Martin Lawson, Editorial Director at ASE. “It indicates the repair shop employs one or more ASE-Certified technicians.” According to Lawson, finding a competent auto technician need not be a matter of chance. Much of the guesswork has been eliminated, thanks to a national program conducted by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence. “Qualified technicians are the backbone of any repair establishment,” notes ASE’s Lawson.
ASE tests and certifies automotive professionals in all major technical areas of repair and service. With almost 400,000 currently certified professionals, the ASE program is national in scope and has industry-wide acceptance and recognition. ASE-certified technicians and parts specialists can be found at every type of repair facility, from dealerships, service stations, and franchises to parts stores, independent garages, and even municipal fleets.
Certification Benefits Motorists
ASE certifies the technical competence of individual technicians, not repair facilities. Before taking ASE certification tests, many technicians attend training classes or study on their own in order to brush up on their knowledge. By passing difficult, national tests, ASE-certified technicians prove their technical competence to themselves, to their employers, and to their customers. ASE does not certify repair shops or police individual business practices, but it stands to reason that those shop owners and managers who support their service employees' efforts to become technically certified will be as concerned about the other aspects of their business as well, according to Lawson.
How Certification Works
ASE certification exams are offered several times a year in hundreds of secure, proctored test sites across the U.S. and Canada The tests are developed by industry experts with oversight from ASE's own in-house pros and are designed to measure on-the-job competency. Technicians who pass at least one exam and fulfill the two-year work experience requirement become ASE-Certified. Those who pass a battery of exams (and fulfill the experience requirement) earn Master Technician status.
There are specialty exams covering all major areas of repair. There are nine tests for auto technicians alone: Engine Repair, Engine Performance, Diesel Engine, Electrical/Electronic Systems, Brakes, Heating and Air Conditioning, Suspension and Steering, Manual Drive Train and Axles, and Automatic Transmissions. (There are also exams for collision repair, school bus and transit but technicians; damage estimators, parts specialists, and others.)
ASE certification is not for life. ASE requires technicians to re-test every five years to keep up with technology and to remain certified. All ASE credentials have expiration dates.
Finding ASE-Certified Technicians
Repair establishments with at least one ASE technician are permitted to display the ASE sign. Each ASE professional is issued personalized credentials listing his or her exact area(s) of certification and an appropriate shoulder insignia. Technicians are also issued certificates that employers often post in the customer-service area. And employers often display the blue and white ASE sign as well.
Businesses with a high level of commitment to the ASE program (75 percent of service personnel certified) are entitled to a special "Blue Seal of Excellence" recognition from ASE, with distinctive yellow and blue signage. These elite facilities are among the best in the national. More than 1,500 businesses participate in this growing program.
As with other professionals—physicians come to mind¬—automotive technicians often specialize. So it's wise to ask the shop owner or service manager for a technician who is certified in the appropriate area, say, brakes, engine repair, or air conditioning.
Vehicle owners can visit the ASE website – www.ase.com – for more information about certified automotive technicians as well as seasonal car care tips and more.

Images

Auto Repair Facilities with Certified Technicians often Display this Sign.
This article was copied from http://www.carcarenewsservice.org/

Midwest Automotive & Diesel is a full service automotive repair facility serving the Champagin and Urbana Illinois area . Our Technicians are ASE master certified and hold several master level dealer certifications. We specialize in everything automotive. From tune-ups to complete engine overhauls, from fluid flushes to transmission diagnostics and rebuilds. Bumper to bumper, we are the experts. Don't forget to check us out on Facebook. or give us a call at 217-352-7343

Give Your Car a Brake

2012-01-11T12:44:00.001-06:00

Research shows that vehicle safety is the number one motivator for most motorists when it comes to vehicle maintenance and the brake system is at the top of the vehicle safety checklist. The Car Care Council advises not to stop short of checking brakes routinely and repairing or replacing when necessary.
“Brakes are a normal wear item for any car and eventually they’re going to need to be replaced for both performance and safety reasons,” said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council. “A properly operating brake system helps ensure safe vehicle operation and control under a variety of conditions. However, many motorists are unaware of the signs and symptoms that their brake system may need maintenance or repair.”
It’s important to be alert and recognize the warning signs of brake trouble. If your car is pulling to the left or right, or if you hear odd noises when you apply the brakes, you should inspect your brakes. Other warning signs include an illuminated brake warning light, brake grabbing, low pedal feel, vibration, hard pedal feel and squealing.

For routine maintenance, check a vehicle’s braking system at least once a year. A thorough inspection should include brake lining wear, brake fluid level, rotor thickness, condition of hoses and brake lines, brake and dash warning lights, as well as taking the car for a test drive to detect other potential brake system problems.
Several factors that affect brake wear include driving habits, operating conditions, vehicle type and the quality of the brake lining material.
Never put off routine brake inspections or any needed repair, such as letting the brakes get to the ‘metal-to-metal’ point, which can be potentially dangerous and lead to a more costly repair bill. If you haven’t checked your brakes in the past year, now is a great time to ‘give your car a brake’ and make sure it’s in safe working condition.
This article was copied from http://www.carcarenewsservice.org/

Midwest Automotive & Diesel is a full service automotive repair facility serving the Champagin and Urbana Illinois area . Our Technicians are ASE master certified and hold several master level dealer certifications. We specialize in everything automotive. From tune-ups to complete engine overhauls, from fluid flushes to transmission diagnostics and rebuilds. Bumper to bumper, we are the experts. Don't forget to check us out on Facebook. or give us a call at 217-352-7343

The Four C's of Winter Driving

2012-01-10T10:45:00.001-06:00

Check:

Lights - Headlights, taillights, turn signals, reverse lights and horn.
Antifreeze/ Coolant - Check level and if it’s still good with simple test strips.
Tire Wear - Not just if there is no tread but also any sign of uneven wear. It may mean a suspension or alignment problem.
Tire Pressure - Check for the proper pressures in your owners manual or door placard (not the numbers on the side wall). Don’t forget to check your spare tire too! For every 10ºF of outside temperature change – you will lose 1 pound of pressure!
Leaks - Check under the hood and where you park your car for any signs of leaks. These should be repaired as soon as you notice them.
Battery - If you are having trouble starting your car - it may be the battery - have it checked.
Brakes - Does your brake pedal seem a little soft? Is it taking longer to stop your vehicle? Have your brake fluid and brake system checked by a professional. Now is the time - not when it is too late!
Oil Change - Every 3-5000 miles. Check your maintenance section of the owner’s manual. Be sure to get a good quality, name brand oil and oil filter. Check your oil once per month. If it looks dark brown - change it.
Air Filter - Change air filters every 12,000 miles or every 6 months. It’s easy to do it yourself! Be sure to get a quality name brand filter. This will give you better fuel economy and performance.
Squeaks - If your doors or car squeaks, have a professional check it out. It may be something simple like a door hinge and a little needed lubricant.
Tune-up - If your gas mileage seems like its less than it was and your car is running rough - now is the time to have a check up. We recommend using OEM sparks plugs.

Change:

Winter Wiper Blades - The protective sleeve will help keep the blade on your windshield.
Winter Washer Fluid – De-Icer washer fluid will make your life easier on those real bad days. Some major brands are a yellowish color instead of the blue stuff.
Snow tires - Even if you have a 4 wheel drive vehicle, winter tires are your safest way to travel in bad weather. They are designed for cold weather driving. All season tires are just that, all seasons in average weather, when the snow is deep and the roads are slippery, winter tires make a real safe difference.

Carry:
Carry these items in your trunk in a box or duffel bag.

Jumper cables - (Jump it- self contained battery and jumper cables) - The safest choice!
Tire Chains – A great item to carry if the roads get icy or the weather gets out of control.
Flashlight with new batteries
Tire inflator
First aid kit
Flare and safety triangle
Protein bars - In case you are stuck and waiting for help.
Bottled water
Snow brush with ice scraper - Get the best one you can find.
Blanket for every passenger
Cell phone - Inexpensive emergency plans are available.
Road service card - Especially good if you travel out of town.
Maps
Paper towels
Glass cleaner
Extra washer fluid
Work Gloves
Basic tools

Clean:

Clean your vehicle and undercarriage to protect your investment.
Clean and wax your vehicle at least once a week!
Windshields, back window and side windows, headlights and taillights.
Wiper blades and snow from the top and hood of your car.

This article was copied from http://www.carcarenewsservice.org/

Midwest Automotive & Diesel is a full service automotive repair facility serving the Champagin and Urbana Illinois area . We specialize in everything automotive. From tune-ups to complete engine overhauls, from fluid flushes to transmission diagnostics and rebuilds. Bumper to bumper, we are the experts. Don't forget to check us out on Facebook. or give us a call at 217-352-7343

The SECRET To A Safe Winter - See and be seen!

The Official Midwest Automotive & Diesel Facebook Contest

2012-01-09T10:41:00.000-06:00

Log on to Facebook and "Like" Midwest Automotive & Diesel AND
Send Valid e-mail address to matt@procomputersol.com with Midwest Contest in the Subject line for notification.
After we reach 250 likes the random drawing will be held on February 29, 2012.
Winner will be notified via e-mail.
Winner must provide Valid photo I.D. at Midwest Automotive & Diesel 1306 N. Prospect Ave., Champaign, IL 61820 Phone: 217-352-7343
Winner must log in to Facebook at Midwest Automotive & Diesel for official verification.
Contestants are encouraged to invite as many friends as possible to help reach the 250 likes.

Go Green

2012-01-09T10:40:00.001-06:00

Being green doesn’t have to mean you have to spend a lot of green. According to the Car Care Council, by properly maintaining your vehicle’s fuel system, you will not only improve the performance of your vehicle, but lower its emissions and save money at the pump, too.
“A well-maintained fuel system is essential for good gas mileage,” said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council. “By simply replacing your car’s fuel filter every two years or 24,000 miles and having your fuel injectors flushed out every 30,000 miles, you will not only have a cleaner, ‘greener’ car, but you will also spend less ‘green’ at the pump.”
In addition to routine maintenance, your fuel system should be checked immediately if you smell gas, or suddenly have poor fuel economy, because there might be a leak in the fuel system. If the “Check Engine” light is illuminated, it may mean a problem with the fuel injectors or oxygen sensors. While oxygen sensors are part of the emission system, they have a large impact on your vehicle’s fuel economy.
The fuel system in your car includes a pressure regulator, fuel injectors, lines/hoses, fuel filter, fuel tank and one or more fuel pumps. These components work together to supply fuel to the vehicle as needed. The fuel system transfers fuel from the fuel tank, passing it through a fuel filter for cleaning before it arrives at the injectors. A pressure regulator controls fuel pressure to ensure good engine performance under a variety of speed and load conditions. Fuel injectors, when activated, spray a metered amount of fuel into the engine. Some vehicles use a return line system to return unused fuel back to the tank.
“While the fuel system may seem complex, preventative maintenance will keep it running at peak performance and keep you in the ‘green,’” said White.
This article was copied from http://www.carcarenewsservice.org/

To find out more go to our website or our facebook page. or simply contact Midwest Automotive & Diesel at 217-352-7343.

The Official Midwest Automotive & Diesel Facebook Contest

2012-01-06T09:49:00.011-06:00

Log on to Facebook and "Like" Midwest Automotive & Diesel AND
Send Valid e-mail address to matt@procomputersol.com with Midwest Contest in the Subject line for notification.
After we reach 250 likes the random drawing will be held on February 29, 2012.
Winner will be notified via e-mail.
Winner must provide Valid photo I.D. at Midwest Automotive & Diesel 1306 N. Prospect Ave., Champaign, IL 61820 Phone: 217-352-7343
Winner must log in to Facebook at Midwest Automotive & Diesel for official verification.
Contestants are encouraged to invite as many friends as possible to help reach the 250 likes.

Gas-Saving Tips for Trying Times

2012-01-05T14:03:00.001-06:00

Every day seems to bring higher prices at the gas pump. Some commuters are sharing rides, others are taking public transportation. But if you are like countless others, you depend on your personal vehicle. So here are some easy-to-follow gas-saving tips from the experts at the non-profit National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) on how to conserve fuel and make sure your car or truck gets optimal miles per gallon.

Monitor tires. Under-inflated tires or poorly aligned wheels waste fuel by forcing the engine to work harder.
Remove excess weight. Remove unnecessary items from the vehicle. Less weight means better mileage.
Consolidate trips and errands. Also, try to travel when traffic is light so you can avoid stop-and-go conditions.
Keep your engine "tuned up." Replace filters and fluids as recommended; have engine performance problems (rough idling, poor acceleration, etc.) corrected. Given today's high-tech engines, it's wise to have this type of work done by automobile technicians who are ASE certified in engine performance.
Use windows and air conditioning wisely. Keep windows up at highway speeds to reduce air drag. This is true even with the air conditioning on. But turn off the A/C in stop-and-go traffic to save fuel.
Avoid excessive idling. Shut off the engine while waiting for friends and family.
Observe speed limits. Speeding decreases your miles per gallon.
Drive gently. Sudden accelerations guzzle gas. Anticipate traffic patterns ahead and adjust your speed gradually.

The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence works to improve automotive service and repair through the voluntary testing and certification of auto service professionals. ASE-certified technicians wear blue and white insignia and carry credentials listing their exact area(s) of certification. Their employers often display the blue and white ASE sign. Visit www.ase.com for seasonal car care tips and more.
This article was copied from http://www.carcarenewsservice.org/

Midwest Automotive & Diesel: Let's Get Started, Shall We

2012-01-04T08:15:00.001-06:00

Midwest Automotive & Diesel: Let's Get Started, Shall We
I will start off by telling a little bit about myself. I was born and raised in Indiana where my father owned and operated a small automotive shop. He was pretty successful and did something he loved to do. Eventually the shop had to be closed down, because the family started growing and dad needed to spend more time with us and less time in the shop. I've wanted to work on cars ever since I can remember because of the shop, so I started out as the typical high school kid/shade tree mechanic. Doing side jobs was a great way to make a little cash, but, ultimately, I had to put that career on hold to make a steady paycheck after high school as a fabricator and welder at a local steel shop. It took me a while to realize, but I finally decided I wanted to be more than a slightly above minimum wage guy. At that point I took off for Chicago, Illinois to attend Universal Technical Institute so I could take my shade tree knowledge to the professional level. UTI is a technical school that offers courses that don't take a long time to finish, however I was there for two years. I figured that I was already there, and I probably would not have a chance to go back if I graduated and started a good career. So I signed up for every single class that they offered. In the end I graduated at the very top of the class with quite a few awards and accomplishments. From there I landed a job at a Ford Dealership in Champaign, Illinois on a recommendation from a very good instructor. During my time at Ford I became Senior Master Certified (almost, I needed one more certification which happened to be a class that they rarely offered anymore), and ASE Master Certified. The dealer that I worked for got bought out by a local business man. A select few people, including myself, were transferred to the new facility to work with the other dealership that was already owned by that business man. After a few years my service advisor and myself found the politics of the new dealership to be too much to handle, and they sure didn't like me because I did not get involved in it, I just kept my head under the hood of the car I was working on and did my job. At that point we set out to open our own shop in Champaign, IL. so we could take care of our customers the way we knew they should be taken care of. Our shop is Midwest Automotive & Diesel and is located at 1306 North Prospect Ave. (217)352-7343. One Year after we opened Midwest Automotive & Diesel we had a slow day so we decided to diversify a little. Pro Computer Solutions was born. Jason and I opened the first Pro Computer Solutions Store at 12 E. Washington Street in Champaign, IL 61820 (phone: 217-607-2494) with the same drive and determination as Midwest. We employed James Wang to manage the store and currently have two other employees. You can stay up to date with Pro Computer Solutions at Procomputersol.com, on our Facebook page, on Twitter (@procosolutions, or on our Pro Computer Solutions Blog. I started these blogs in order to keep our customers informed so they can ultimately make better decisions about the repairs that they need for their vehicles and their computers. So please, sign up for our RSS feed or email. and like us on Facebook and follow me on Twitter (@matthewjphillip).

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!

2012-01-02T11:50:00.000-06:00

I hope everyone had a blast on New Years. I had a good time hanging out with family in Elizabethtown IN, having good food and drinks, then recovering the next day. There is a lot going on in the next year, 2012 is going to be a big one. We are expanding at Midwest Automotive & Diesel and bringing on another A level master technician to help handle the work load. Having an A level technician work on your car is just one of the many ways we try to insure that your car is in the best hands possible, we also use OEM factory equipment, this is equipment that is designed to work with the brand of your vehicle, and only that brand. Can this be expensive? Absolutely, but we have taken this opportunity to provide this service at a level you can only get in the dealerships. We also have started this blog, along with a few other online services such as our interactive vehicle inspection form that you will receive anytime you have your vehicle serviced at Midwest Automotive & Diesel. With all of these tools at our disposal, we are setting out to make sure you, the customer, are informed to the best of our abilities as to the repairs your vehicle needs, and maintenance steps that will keep your vehicle in operating order. You can also check us out on our Facebook page.
So to all of you, I hope that 2012 is as good of a year for you as I think it will be for us . GOOD LUCK!!!

Facebook Contest

2011-12-28T12:55:00.000-06:00

Okay, I have got most of the contest rules figured out. As soon as we get 250 likes on each of our facebook pages we will have a drawing from those names. There will be a sign in and verification process to make sure that everyone has a fair chance and so that we don't get scammed. So get as many of your friends as you can to like Midwest Automotive & Diesel and Pro Computer Solutions facebook pages. The sooner we hit 250, the sooner we will have the drawing. Again, as listed below the prizes will be a desktop computer for Pro Computer Solutions and an Oil Change/tire rotation/tire balance from Midwest Automotive & Diesel.

The full rules and regulations will be posted in the next few days. Stay tuned.

Contest

2011-12-22T12:44:00.002-06:00

After a few meetings, my business partner and I decided to host a contest for Midwest Automotive & Diesel as well. It will take a little while to get the contest details in order with the "fine" print. Both of the contests will be hosted on our Facebook pages (Pro Computer Solutions, Midwest Automotive & Diesel) It will happen pretty soon. I was thinking for both businesses it will be a prize drawn from the fans of the page if the fan count reaches a certain number in a set amount of time. For Pro Computer Solutions the prize will be a free PCS 100 or comparable computer. For Midwest Automotive & Diesel the prize is yet to be determined. We were thinking either a free service, such as an oil change/tire rotation, or maybe just a gift certificate. I am really looking for feedback on this, as this is the first time that I have tried to do this type of marketing.

Been A While

2011-12-20T11:28:00.000-06:00

Hey there, long time no see. It started to get super busy at the shop and I had to abandon my post for a short time, but I am back. The blog will be updated every Monday from here on out, so be sure to check in when you can. I am going to be hosting a contest for Pro Computer Solutions so keep in touch with us over on facebook at http://www.facebook.com/pages/Pro-Computer-Solutions/149771728443568. I will post the details of the contest as soon as I get them all worked out. Also in having to take the time to work at the shop my "Get to Know Your Car" series had to be put on hold, but it too will soon be up and ready to go. Stay Tuned.

Getting Used to It

2011-11-03T08:26:00.000-05:00

I don't know, but I think it starts a new page at the beginning of every month. Is there any way to get around this?

Busy

2011-11-03T08:08:00.000-05:00

It is still very busy at the shop. I have two engines to remove and overhaul, several trucks that need driveline work, plus all the regular day to day door traffic. Who knew that starting a blog would be so hard to do when you have limited time? Certainly not me. The first installment of my "Get to Know Your Vehicle" series is still in the works. I thought I would have it posted by now. However that's not the way the cookie crumbles.

In the mean time, what things about your vehicle would you like to know more about?

Hold On (Just one minute please)

2011-10-24T20:24:00.000-05:00

There has been quite a lot going on these last few days. We are getting ready to expand at the shop, and are looking for an A level flat rate technician. We keep gaining momentum in the community from the quality of work we do and the satisfied customers we produce. All that being said, I regretfully had to push back my blog schedule. As of right now I have the first installment, of the "Get to Know Your Vehicle" series, on the books for next Monday, October 30, 2011. The first post will be all about the most important feature of your vehicle, the brakes, after all what good is driving if you can't stop once you reach your destination? Can't wait to see you there.

Let's Get Started, Shall We

2011-10-20T10:01:00.001-05:00

I will start off by telling a little bit about myself. I was born and raised in Indiana where my father owned and operated a small automotive shop. He was pretty successful and did something he loved to do. Eventually the shop had to be closed down, because the family started growing and dad needed to spend more time with us and less time in the shop. I've wanted to work on cars ever since I can remember because of the shop, so I started out as the typical high school kid/shade tree mechanic. Doing side jobs was a great way to make a little cash, but, ultimately, I had to put that career on hold to make a steady paycheck after high school as a fabricator and welder at a local steel shop. It took me a while to realize, but I finally decided I wanted to be more than a slightly above minimum wage guy. At that point I took off for Chicago, Illinois to attend Universal Technical Institute so I could take my shade tree knowledge to the professional level. UTI is a technical school that offers courses that don't take a long time to finish, however I was there for two years. I figured that I was already there, and I probably would not have a chance to go back if I graduated and started a good career. So I signed up for every single class that they offered. In the end I graduated at the very top of the class with quite a few awards and accomplishments. From there I landed a job at a Ford Dealership in Champaign, Illinois on a recommendation from a very good instructor. During my time at Ford I became Senior Master Certified (almost, I needed one more certification which happened to be a class that they rarely offered anymore), and ASE Master Certified. The dealer that I worked for got bought out by a local business man. A select few people, including myself, were transferred to the new facility to work with the other dealership that was already owned by that business man. After a few years my service advisor and myself found the politics of the new dealership to be too much to handle, and they sure didn't like me because I did not get involved in it, I just kept my head under the hood of the car I was working on and did my job. At that point we set out to open our own shop in Champaign, IL. so we could take care of our customers the way we knew they should be taken care of. Our shop is Midwest Automotive & Diesel and is located at 1306 North Prospect Ave. (217)352-7343. One Year after we opened Midwest Automotive & Diesel we had a slow day so we decided to diversify a little. Pro Computer Solutions was born. Jason and I opened the first Pro Computer Solutions Store at 12 E. Washington Street in Champaign, IL 61820 (phone: 217-607-2494) with the same drive and determination as Midwest. We employed James Wang to manage the store and currently have two other employees. You can stay up to date with Pro Computer Solutions at Procomputersol.com, on our Facebook page, on Twitter (@procosolutions, or on our Pro Computer Solutions Blog. I started these blogs in order to keep our customers informed so they can ultimately make better decisions about the repairs that they need for their vehicles and their computers. So please, sign up for our RSS feed or email. and like us on Facebook and follow me on Twitter (@matthewjphillip).

Midwest Automotive & Diesel: The New Blog

2011-10-19T12:17:00.000-05:00

Midwest Automotive & Diesel: The New Blog

The New Blog

2011-10-19T12:15:00.000-05:00

This is my first time writing a blog, so please bare with me until I get in the groove. My first go at this will be a multiple part series on the different vehicle systems---brakes, transmission, engine, etc. So stay tuned for some really valuable information. Who knows this info may even save your life!