Spring Road-Trip Checklist: What to Inspect Before Heading North

Planning a spring road trip “up north”? Before you pack the car and hit I-75, make sure your vehicle is ready for the miles ahead. Michigan winters can leave behind hidden wear and tear, and a quick pre-trip inspection can help prevent unexpected breakdowns. 

1. Cooling System

Check coolant levels, inspect hoses for cracks or leaks, and ensure your radiator and water pump are functioning properly. European vehicles rely on precise temperature regulation, and even a small cooling issue can escalate quickly on a long drive.

 

2. Suspension & Alignment

If your vehicle feels bouncy, pulls to one side, or handles differently than usual, it’s worth having the suspension inspected. Proper alignment not only improves comfort but also protects your tires during extended highway driving.

 

3. Brakes

Before heading north, confirm your brake pads, rotors, and fluid are in good condition. Stop-and-go traffic, salt exposure, and cold weather can accelerate wear. Strong, responsive braking is essential—especially when traveling with family or cargo.

 

Scheduling a pre-trip inspection with a shop that specializes in European auto repair in Ann Arbor ensures your BMW, Audi, Land Rover, Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen, or MINI receives brand-specific care. Our technicians understand the engineering behind your vehicle and can identify small issues before they become major travel disruptions. Read more about the services we offer here.

 

A little preparation now means fewer surprises on the road. Schedule your spring road-trip inspection and enjoy the drive north with confidence.

Don’t Skip Your Car Battery Health Check

Don’t get stranded in the middle of winter with a dead battery! That can be a major inconvenience, disrupting your day or your week. Did you know a regular car battery health check can prevent this frustrating situation? Here's a guide to help you assess your battery's condition:

If you think your battery is beginning to fail, ask yourself the following questions: 

• Does your engine turn over slowly when you start the car?
• Are your headlights dim?
• Do you notice your interior lights dimming?
• Is your car making a clicking noise when you try to start the car?
• Does your battery need to be recharged often?
• Is your battery old? Most car batteries only last 3-5 years, so if your car battery is getting up in age, it may be time to replace it.      

Deeper Battery Testing

For an accurate assessment of your vehicle’s battery health, consider these options:

• Load test: This measures the battery's performance under load. A load tester simulates the current draw of a starter motor.
• Conductance test: This advanced test measures the battery's internal resistance, providing insights into its overall health.

Contact us today to perform these battery tests on your car to give you peace of mind.

Keep Your Ride Rolling: Schedule Service on Your Asian or European Vehicle Today!

We’d love to be your go-to repair shop! 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 us for domestic and European auto repair at 734-761-1088  to schedule your appointment today!

All About Brake Flushes

Have you had a brake flush recently? What does a brake fluid flush do for your vehicle?

A brake flush cleans out all your old brake fluid, as well as any water vapor or particulates that may have accumulated. If a brake flush isn’t done on a regular schedule - every 20,000 miles or 2 years - moisture can build up in your lines. If that happens, it can cause corrosion or rusting of the metal materials. This buildup can severely impact your ability to brake properly brake, which can be very dangerous. Maintaining your brake pads and rotors and getting regularly scheduled brake flushes is imperative to keeping your vehicle operating properly! 

Learn more all about your brakes here!

Schedule Service on Your Asian or European Vehicle Today!

We’d love to be your go-to repair shop to help ensure you and your family are safe. Bring your vehicle to ArborMotion and we’ll have it running in tip-top shape in no time! At ArborMotion, we care about your safety! No question is too big or small. Call ArborMotion for domestic and European auto repair at 734-761-1088  to schedule your appointment today!