Best Auto Repair, Wausau

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AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE BLOG

Working Hours
  • Mon 7:30AM - 5:00PM
    Tue 7:30AM - 5:00PM
  • Wed 7:30AM - 5:00PM
    Thu 7:30AM - 5:00PM
  • Fri 7:30AM - 3:00PM
    Sat Closed
  • Sun Closed

AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE BLOG

Maintaining your vehicle at home is a satisfying way to keep your motoring costs down. With the right knowledge and products even someone who isn't very mechanically inclined can take care of many of the smaller issues in everyday driving. Sometimes, however, car issues can be too specialized or complex for the average motorist to take care of by themselves and it becomes time to take your car to the pros. Below you'll find three major warning signs that you need to get to a mechanic ASAP, as well as some of the potential causes behind them.



Engine and Drivetrain Problems

Let's start at the beginning. If your car won't even turn over and start up, then the rest of the problems on this list won't come into play. The simplest cause of this issue is a dead battery, which you can remedy with jumper cables, and the instructions that come printed on their packaging. If jumping the car doesn't work, you may have a larger problem with your ignition system. It's advisable to take your car into the shop at this point because finding the root of the problem will likely involve removing a few parts from your engine. Whether it's dead spark plugs or electrical problems, it's better to have it dealt with by a professional. Likewise, engine surging where the revs rise and fall can mean a problem with your fuel injectors, which are fairly deep within your motor. It's unwise to drive around with a surging engine, as this burns more gas and can cause unintended acceleration. Drivetrain issues are another major issue requiring professional attention. Everybody fears the dreaded transmission repairs, so if certain gears won't engage or they shift at the wrong times you should definitely take your car to the qualified mechanics here at West Side Automotive Service.



Vibration While Driving

This issue can be caused by damaged drivetrain components, but can also stem from misaligned wheels or unbalanced or flat tires. If you feel any vibration or shuddering as you drive along, you should get to a mechanic as soon as you can. At its worst, this issue can lessen your control over the car, potentially causing accidents. This will also wear out your tires more quickly than if everything was straight and true. Unwanted vibrations put stress on important (and costly) components like suspension and brakes while decreasing gas mileage, so it's smart to take your car in as soon as these issues develop.



Poor Braking Performance

Your brakes are vital to keeping you safe on the road and should definitely be cared for by a professional, unless you're absolutely sure you know what you're doing. Common signs of issues with your car's braking system include squeaking or squealing when the brakes are applied, or the brakes feeling spongy and failing to slow your vehicle properly. Squealing brakes are caused by the brake pads wearing through the pad surface to the metal underneath. At this point the metal behind your brake pad is coming into contact with the brake rotor. This can be disastrous and produce unwanted heat, reduced stopping power, and cause you to have to buy new rotors as well as the relatively cheap pads. Spongey and weak brakes can mean there's a problem with your master cylinder, which converts the mechanical pressure of you pressing the pedal into hydraulic pressure to apply the brakes. In either case, it's best to have your brakes seen to by the professional mechanics here at West Side Automotive Service.



There are instances where car maintenance is simple and easy, but if you notice any of these issues developing, it's best to take your car in for a qualified mechanic's checkup so the problems can be remedied before they turn into much more serious issues. West Side Automotive Service has the tools and expertise to have you safely back on the road in no time at all.



What People Say About Us

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    I've had Tim (ASE Master Technician) and Nate work on my vehicles and they've always done great work at reasonable prices. Before I recently traded my old Pontiac Vibe in to the dealer, I had these guys get everything in tip top condition and Kocourek gave me a really good price. When my son was up here visiting, the heat shield bracket to the muffler had come loose and was making a terrible noise. These guys knew exactly what it was, got it up on the lift and 10 minutes later, finished. $10 bucks. All without an appointment. I've seen big rigs in there, so they know what they're doing. Highly recommended.

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    These guys run a tight ship and are very professional. They obviously have years of experience. Their customer service is fantastic and I would recommend them to anyone who needs there car worked on!

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    This is easily the best auto service within Marathon county, and I've been everywhere. The customer service is on par with a 5 star resort and hotel. Also when shopping around for the lowest price on a job or repair, this place always maintains the best price.

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    This is my go-to auto service center. They're reasonably priced, offer quality service, and most of all, they're honest.

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    West side auto has provided me excellent service time and time again...I couldn't be happier about their quality of work, great customer service, helpful attitude, and competitive pricing. I would recommend this shop above any others.

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    This auto shop is one I trust. They always provide me options with their recommendation along with answering the whys. Highly recommended!

Call us for service: 715-842-0300

ASE (Automotive Service Excellence)
Wix Filters
Interstate Batteries
Amsoil
Monroe
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