Automotive News & Information - Van Meter Auto Repair

What is your flywheel, and when do you need to replace it? Van Meter Auto Repair in Mantua, NJ has the answers you’re looking for.

The steering and suspension systems are key safety-related systems that largely determine your car’s ride and handling. Have these systems checked regularly, at least once a year, and usually with a wheel alignment.

What does it do? - The suspension maintains the relationship between the wheels and the frame or unibody. The suspension system interacts with the steering system to provide vehicle control. When working properly, the suspension system helps absorb the energy from road irregularities such as potholes and helps to maintain vehicle stability. The steering system transmits your input from the steering wheel to the steering gear and other steering components to control the car’s direction.

Typical Wear and Tear - Over time, steering and suspension components wear out and require replacement. Regular checks are critical to maintaining a safe car. Factors that affect wear include driving habits, operating conditions (potholes in road), vehicle type, type of steering and suspension system, and frequency of regular maintenance. Some symptoms that you are having issues with your vehicle steering and suspension include the car pulling to one side, uneven tire wear, excessive noise, vibration or bouncing, and loss of control.

Call or come by Van Meter Auto Repair in Mantua today to have our professionals make sure your car is road-ready!

These days, it seems like the oil options for your oil changes are limitless - full synthetic, blends, conventional, high mileage, and the list goes on and on. We are frequently asked if it's okay to switch between oils, and how do you know what is okay to use? At Van Meter Auto Repair in Mantua, NJ we're here to help you answer that question. When it comes to engine oil, the answer to this question can be as complicated or as simple as you want it to be!

Van Meter Auto Repair in Mantua, NJ services all kinds of trucks, regardless of weight class. From small trucks to semi’s, we’ve got you covered. For the sake of curiosity, however, what classifies a truck as light or heavy-duty?

Whether you drive a Powerstroke, Cummins, or Duramax diesel, your truck is a complex piece of equipment. Emissions systems, fuel systems, and systems you’ve probably never heard of all work together to keep your truck going strong. Sometimes, however, a warning light will pop up on your dash, and leave you wondering what’s going on. From ABS to Check Engine Lights, Van Meter Auto Repair in Mantua, NJ has you covered.

mechanic with hood up and looking at car

For all your transmission repair and maintenance needs, trust the specialists with the knowledge and ability necessary to keep your car, truck, or SUV reliably on the road. At Van Meter Auto Repair in Mantua, NJ, we prioritize quality over everything. A huge aspect of that goal is keeping up with the technology of the modern era.

Judging by the number of near-rear-endings we witness on our morning commutes, the typical attitude toward brake maintenance appears to be, “Brakes: Don’t let them stop you!” This puzzles us because monitoring your braking system’s health is one of the most straightforward aspects of car ownership. You do have to know what to look for, though, or rather, what to listen and feel for. So let us, uh, break it down for you. Here are the top three signs that your brakes need fixing.

Tires may be the only part of a vehicle that physically meets the road, but your shock absorbers are next in line. Working with the suspension springs, they absorb shocks from bumps and cracks in the road, while simultaneously controlling bounce and body roll.