Friday, March 1, 2024

Why Alignments Matter!

European Auto Repair Ann Arbor


Did you know it’s wheel alignment season? Why should you care about an alignment? Why do alignments matter? Let’s find out!

If your wheel alignment is really bad, you’ll notice it when you drive. You’ll be fighting with the wheel to keep your car going straight down the road. Quit fighting your car and enjoy easier driving when you fix your car’s alignment!

 

Alignments have many benefits including:

 

1.     Tire longevity – get the most out of your tires and extend their lifespan when you make sure they’re aligned.

2.     Improved handling and performance – you won’t be fighting your wheel anymore and you’ll notice your steering improve. 

3.     Enhanced safety – Misaligned tires can veer off course, making it challenging to stay in control, especially during inclement weather like rain and snow.

4.     Prevent costly repairs – neglecting a wheel alignment can lead to suspension and steering component issues down the road. Prevent costly repairs, a wheel alignment will protect your investment and is great preventative maintenance.

 

“I had some new tires put on (not at ArborMotion!) but I did not do an alignment. My tires should have lasted at least a couple of years since I don't do much driving, but about a year after I had them put on they were already so worn down in some spots that they were dangerous. So I had to pay for two new tires, again, much quicker than I expected. Lesson learned - get the alignment checked after putting on new tires, and after any long trips or hitting any big bumps! My bank account will thank me for being proactive in the future.”

 

Learn more about alignments here.


Schedule Your Alignment in Ann Arbor at ArborMotion Today

 

If you’re experiencing a problem with your alignment, please don’t hesitate to call ArborMotion to check it out! We want to make sure that your vehicle is not only safe for you but for your family as well. We treat our customers like family! Contact ArborMotion today – we specialize in Asian and European repair in Ann Arbor.

 

Prepare for Spring Travel Season!

European auto repair Ann Arbor
Planning a spring road trip? 

Make sure your vehicle is ready with a spring prep inspection at ArborMotion today!

 

What should you prepare for? Ask yourself the following questions to make sure you’re prepared:

 

1.     Are you due for an oil change? Oil changes are the simplest way to maintain your car’s performance and properly lubricate your engine.

2.     Are your brakes in good health? If you’re experiencing braking issues, it’s important to get your brakes inspected before a big road trip.

3.     When was the last time you checked your tire pressure? Overinflated and under-inflated tires can cause steering issues and uneven wear and tear on your tires. Stay safe on the road by double checking your tire pressure. It only takes a couple of minutes! 

4.     Are your windshield wipers streaking or noisy? It may be time to replace your wiper blades. It’s also important to make sure your sprayers are working, and your windshield washer fluid is topped off. 

5.     Is your vehicle comfortable for pets? It is safer for your dog to be properly restrained during travel. There are several doggy seatbelt options available or consider a crate or cage for longer trips.

 

Prepare Your Car for Your Spring Road Trip at ArborMotion

 

Our Asian and European auto repair technicians at ArborMotion are here for you! Bring your vehicle to ArborMotion and we’ll have it running in tip-top shape in no time! No question is too big or small. Call ArborMotion at 734-761-1088  to schedule your appointment today!  

 

Thursday, February 1, 2024

What to Know About Engine Over Revs

Porsche Service Ann Arbor

This is on the mind of almost every Porsche enthusiast, whether you’re looking to purchase a car or are a weekend track warrior guilty of shifting your car from 4th to 3rd instead of 4th to 5th. We’d like to dig into one of the reasons why avoiding high rpms is so important and the reasons to avoid it.
 

Piston weight. 

Understanding the concept of compression and exhaust stroke is important to understanding why high rpm happens. When a piston travels on a compression stroke, both the intake and exhaust valves are closed, which creates compression. Think of this as a cushion for the piston. When a piston travels on an exhaust stroke, the exhaust valve is open to evacuate the exhaust from the controlled burn and the intake valve is slightly open (valve overlap). When the exhaust valve is open and the intake valve is on overlap, the compression cushion goes away. Without that compression cushion, the piston wants to leave the engine. This increases the weight of the piston based on inertial force. This force exponentially increases with rpm as the crankshaft and connecting rod work to pull the piston back after expelling the exhaust from the cylinder. 

For example, in an M96.03 engine with the factory set rev limiter of 7300rpm: 

·       With a rough piston weight of 1.9lbs and a stroke of 3.07 inches, at 7300rpm the piston weight reaches 4,413lbs. At 7300rpm, this happens 121 times a second. 

·       The range for over-rev weights can be much higher. For example, at 9000rpm, the piston weight reaches a whopping 6,709lbs. At 9000rpm, this happens 150 times every second. Let that sink in. 

·       Disclaimer. There are a few ways to calculate over-rev weights. However, regardless of how precise the numbers are, there are still thousands of pounds of inertial force on internal components. 

Why should this concern you? 

Such force leads to internal components being put under stresses that they were not designed for which could lead to stretching the connecting rod bolts, breaking a connecting rod or even cracking or breaking the piston. This is why it is so important to pay attention to engine rpms. You should have your car scanned for over revs pre-purchase, think twice about flashy tunes that increase the factory rev limiter, and last but not least, avoid the 4th to 3rd  'money shift'. 

Schedule Porsche Service at ArborMotion - Ann Arbor’s Porsche Shop!

At Rennstatt, we’ve got a certified passion for Porsche! Our Porsche technicians work hard to ensure that your vehicle is performing at its best. When you’re ready to schedule Porsche service in Ann Arbor, give us a call at 734-761-1088. We’re happy to help you with all your Porsche maintenance and repair needs.

How to Love Your Vehicle!

We know you love your vehicle, so why not show it some love on Valentine’s Day too? 

european auto repair Ann Arbor

Show your car and the attention it deserves this Valentine’s Day with these ideas from ArborMotion:

 

1.     Make it shine with a car wash

2.     Perform regular maintenance

3.     Buy a new set of tires

4.     Check your alignment

5.     Shield it from inclement weather

6.     Clean your interior

7.     Replace your windshield wipers

8.     Restore your headlights

9.     Check your tire pressure

10.  Practice good driving hbits

 

Schedule Service Today with European Auto Repair Specialists in Ann Arbor

 

If you need help showing your car the love, you can count on ArborMotion. We understand what your car means to you and make your car our top priority.


At ArborMotion, we specialize in European auto repair in Ann Arbor. All our technicians are ASE certified and three have ASE Master Technician certifications. If you want a reputable technician who specializes in your brand of vehicle, schedule an appointment with us today!


Monday, January 1, 2024

We’re Your Volvo Repair Shop in Ann Arbor

Volvo Repair Ann Arbor


Are you hearing a weird noise while driving your Volvo?

Do you need an expert technician to diagnose your issue?

 

With the help of ArborMotion’s technicians, it’s never been easier to stay up to date on preventative maintenance. Our Volvo specialists have the most experience of any independent shop in Ann Arbor, in fact, ArborMotion started as an independent Volvo repair shop in 1986. We have professional, hands-on experience working with all Volvo models. We also invest in the latest technology for diagnostic equipment so we can quickly uncover any problems and start working on the solution.

 

ArborMotion Helps You Manage Your Vehicle’s Maintenance Services


We automatically keep track of your vehicle’s maintenance schedule and keep you fully informed along the way. At each service you receive a full report of which items are up to date (so you don’t spend money needlessly) and which items are coming due, and we’ll send you an email or text to remind you to schedule an appointment. These reminders make sure you get every mile possible out of every maintenance service, saving you money. This is one more way ArborMotion is working every day to make your auto care easy. 

 

The team at Arbor Motion are awesome! I had my Volvo C 30 towed in for a mechanical repair. They kept me up to date throughout the entire process. They did what they stated they would do in a timely fashion and the repair estimate was right on point. My car is running better than ever. I will return to Arbor Motion for all of my car needs. The staff is knowledgeable, friendly, and accommodating. As an added surprise...my car was washed/cleaned when I arrived to pick it up. Thank you for making this a good experience.”

 

Doc, Google Review

 

“This is the best automotive service one could ever hope for. ArborMotion provides the ultimate in customer service and auto care. I've been a loyal customer for the past eight years, and have continued to take my Volvo there even after moving.”

 

Kelley, Google Review


Volvo Repair in Ann Arbor: Schedule Service Today


If you’re experiencing a problem with your Volvo, please don’t hesitate to call ArborMotion to check it out! We want to make sure that your vehicle is not only safe for you but for your family as well. We treat our customers like family! Contact ArborMotion today – we specialize in Volvo repair in Ann Arbor.

Proper Winter Car Care You Don’t Think About

Want to get the most out of your car this winter? 

European Auto Repair Ann Arbor

Have you been putting off routine maintenance?

 

Are you afraid your car won’t start in frigid temps?

 

ArborMotion offers these tips to ensure a smooth ride all winter long, including:

 

1.     Car wash – Believe it or not, a car wash is one of the best things you can do for your car during the winter. Salt from the road can build up over time and eat away at the metal making up the undercarriage of your car.

2.     Replace old wiper blades – Newer windshield wipers will do a better job at clearing ice and snow from your windows.

3.     Top off your fluids – To ensure your engine turns over, check your owner’s manual for manufacturer recommendations about how often you need to check and top off your fluids in cold weather.

4.     Take your car for a quick drive – Don’t let your car sit for too long during really cold days. This helps warm up your engine, brakes, and transmission.

 

Learn more about the basics of proper winter maintenance here.

 

Prepare Your Car for Winter at ArborMotion

 

Our Asian and European auto repair technicians at ArborMotion are here for you! Bring your vehicle to ArborMotion and we’ll have it running in tip-top shape in no time! No question is too big or small. Call ArborMotion at 734-761-1088  to schedule your appointment today!  

Friday, December 1, 2023

How to Spot IMS Bearing Replacement Symptoms

We don’t want you to fear an IMS bearing issue. We’re here to make your life easier and help you spot the early signs before they develop into something serious. 

Porsche Ann Arbor

But, there really aren’t many warning signs to look out for and if you own a Porsche vehicle with an M96 or M97 engine, you should be aware that the intermediate shaft bearing can fail.

 

You can do some simple checks on a routine basis like:

 

·      If you notice metallic debris in your oil filter, it probably came from the bearing.

·      Oil leaks at the rear of your engine could be a sign that oil is leaking from you rear main seal.

 

If you discover something unsettling with your Porsche, bring it to Rennstatt at ArborMotion. Our Porsche specialist will determine the heart the problem and let you know whether an IMS bearing upgrade is recommended.

 

Schedule Your IMS Bearing Upgrade on Your Porsche in Ann Arbor. Drive Further 


At Rennstatt, we’ve got a certified passion for Porsche! Our Porsche technicians work hard to ensure that your vehicle is performing at its best. The upgrade will take about a week at our shop. When you’re ready to upgrade your IMS bearing, give us a call at 734-761-1088. We’re happy to help you with all your Porsche maintenance and repair needs.