Des Moines Auto Repair

A bouncy car ride may be funny and silly at first, but it could be very concerning. Besides, it is a little embarrassing to have all eyes on you when you're just trying to go about your day. If you notice that your vehicle is bobbing uncontrollably, please bring your vehicle to our expert mechanics at Richman Automotive & Towing immediately. At our shop, we can diagnose and repair the problem. Usually, three problem areas can cause your car to rock: tires, steering, and suspension. Tires Your tires are a fundamental portion of your vehicle; without them, you'd go absolutely nowhere. Sadly, they can be the reason why your car, SUV, or truck is springing up and down. If you've recently gotten them replaced, they may not have been installed correctly. Or your tires can be misaligned or not precisely inflated. All of these mishaps can cause your car to go wonky. Steering You'd have no control of your car without steering. This system of components enables you to han ... read more

Regular driveline inspections and maintenance are crucial if you want to keep your car or truck going. The driveline, also known as the drivetrain, connects your transmission to the wheels. It is responsible for transferring power from your engine to moving your tires. So if any part of it is damaged, you can count on not being able to go anywhere.   You may wonder, "how does it all work". The engine is the start of most operations in your car, and the motor creates the power, which is modified by the transmission to deliver the correct amount of power when you need it. The driveline moves the mechanical power from the transmission to the wheels, turning all that energy into acceleration. The primary component in the driveline is the driveshaft, and it is a long metal tube that connects the transmission at one end and the wheels at the other.    What Signs Indicate That I Need Driveline/Drivetrain Service? As with most vehicle systems, it's always wise ... read more

With the new school year ahead, now is the ideal time to make sure your vehicle is fitted to handle the carpools, college commutes, and rides back to the office. Regardless of who you are and where you are, back-to-school season affects all drivers. Here are some of our top tips on how to have your vehicle in good shape to handle the busy mornings and afternoon traffic!   Step 1: Inspect Your Tires Most people neglect their tires, but it is one of the most important safety aspects of the automobile. The first thing you should check is tire tread. Your wheels are legally required to have a minimum of 2/32" on their ridges to be considered operational. Tires that don't have enough track are hazardous for the many reasons: Weak and slow stopping power Increased likelihood of a tire blowout Loss of traction on wet roads   Step 2: Get An Oil Change Motor oil is incredibly vital to your engine's health and functionality. Oil is in charge of reducing friction, k ... read more

The cabin filter is cotton-made that is attached to the air-conditioning system. The filter is responsible for collecting contaminants and preventing them from entering the cabin. A clean filter is vital in ensuring that you don't breathe in any harmful pollutants. A clogged cabin filter won't just impact the HVAC system, but it can also influence the engine performance. To avoid the hazards of a dirty cabin filter, you must get it changed every 15,000 to 30,000 miles. Here are some of the common symptoms of a dirty air filter:   Decrease Air Flow A clogged cabin filter will restrict the amount of air that flows through the vents into the cabin. If you notice yourself needing to turn the air conditioner up to the highest setting to feel the airflow at all, check the cabin filter. Clogged cabin air filters can put stress on the fans, causing them to overheat and impact performance.    Increase Air Pollutants  Airborne pollutants can enter your vehicle a ... read more

You have been planning this trip for months. After all, who wouldn't desire to break free from the ordinary routine, breathe fresh air, meet new people, and visit new places? You are finally ready. Your bags packed, designated routes mapped out, and hotels booked. But how prepared is your car for this adventure? Nothing could be more frustrating than a vehicle breaking down on you while you are miles away from home. Here are some brilliant tips to help you stay safe and make the most of your road trip. Inspect Your Tire Thread Your tires are the only source of traction between your car and the road surface. Ensure that your tires are well treaded to facilitate maximum control and handling ability, especially when it rains. Also, check your tire pressure and ensure that it measures up to the manufacturer's recommended guidelines as indicated on your car manual. Do not forget to inspect the wheels for any signs of cracks or bulges. Get a Car Tune-Up If you cannot remember the ... read more