Kid Getting a New Car? Don’t Skip the Pre-Purchase Inspection

Handing over the keys to your teen’s first car is a big milestone. It’s exciting… and a little nerve-wracking. Whether you’re buying from a private seller, dealership, or even a family friend, a pre-purchase inspection is one step you simply shouldn’t skip.

We’ve seen it all when it comes to used vehicles. A car may look spotless on the outside, but what’s happening underneath the hood (or under the vehicle) tells the real story.

 

Why a Pre-Purchase Inspection Matters 

 

A professional inspection gives you peace of mind before money changes hands. During a comprehensive inspection, our technicians:

• Check for hidden mechanical issues
• Inspect brakes, suspension, and steering components
• Scan for warning codes or electrical faults
• Look for fluid leaks or signs of deferred maintenance
• Evaluate tires, alignments, and overall road-worthiness 

 

For European vehicles in particular, small issues can turn into expensive repairs if overlooked. Choosing trusted European auto repair in Ann Arbor means working with specialists who understand the unique systems and maintenance needs of these vehicles.

 

Selling a Car? Protect Yourself Too.

If you or your family is selling a vehicle — maybe upgrading or downsizing — a pre-sale inspection can be valuable. Providing documentation of a clean bill of health builds trust with buyers and can help justify your asking price. Transparency makes the transaction smoother for everyone involved.

 

Peace of Mind for Parents

When your child is heading off to college or starting a new job, reliability matters more than ever. A thorough inspection ensures their vehicle is safe, dependable, and ready for daily driving. If your teen is getting a new car, schedule a pre-purchase or pre-sale inspection with our experienced team and drive forward with confidence.

 

Call today to book your inspection and make sure that “great deal” really is one.

The Ultimate Fall Car Maintenance Checklist

As the crisp air rolls in and the leaves start to fall, it’s the perfect time to get your vehicle ready for the colder months ahead. Seasonal maintenance can prevent costly repairs, improve safety, and keep your car running smoothly all winter long. If you’re looking for European auto repair in Ann Arbor, this checklist will help ensure your vehicle is in top shape before temperatures drop.

1. Check Your Tires

Cooler temperatures can cause tire pressure to drop. Make sure your tires are properly inflated and have adequate tread depth to handle wet or slippery roads. If you drive a high-performance European vehicle, consider switching to winter tires for added grip.

 

2. Inspect Brakes

Wet leaves, frost, and early snow can make roads slick. Have your brakes inspected to ensure maximum stopping power.

 

3. Test the Battery

Cold weather is tough on car batteries. ArborMotion can check your battery’s charge and condition to avoid an untimely breakdown.

 

4. Replace Wiper Blades

Visibility is key in fall rain and snow. Replace worn blades and top off washer fluid with a winter-safe formula.

 

5. Check Lights

Shorter days mean more driving in the dark. Test all headlights, brake lights, and turn signals to ensure they’re working properly.

 

6. Service Fluids

From oil to coolant, fresh fluids help your engine run efficiently and protect against winter damage. A shop specializing in European auto repair in Ann Arbor can make sure you’re using the correct fluids for your make and model.

 

Fall maintenance isn’t just a seasonal chore—it’s an investment in your vehicle’s performance and safety. For expert care, trust a local shop that understands the unique needs of European vehicles.

 

We’re Ann Arbor’s Choice for Import Auto Repair & Service for 40 Years

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! 

What You Need to Know About Mud Maintenance

Do you live down a dirt road or maybe you enjoy driving down rugged terrain?

Do you make car washes a regular practice?

 

It’s important to make sure debris doesn’t end up in your wheel well. Why? Over time, this can cause damage and unnecessary wear and tear on your vehicle. 

 

Important things to consider when you drive on muddy roads:

 

1.Clean your undercarriage and wheel wells – Without a thorough clean a dirty undercarriage can lead to rust, corrosion, and mechanical issues. Be sure to pay attention to detail! Ensure no traces of mud are left behind. If you do an undercarriage clean but still notice any noises or unusual issues when driving, call ArborMotion for a suspension inspection. 

2. Inspect mechanical components – You should check your suspension, brakes and exhaust for mud. If you notice residue, it’s important to clean this up to prevent these components from malfunction and safety hazards. After cleaning, if you notice any gouges or dents, call us so we can help determine if the damage is surface damage or a mechanical issue. 

3. Rust Prevention- If  your vehicle has had prolong exposure to mud, this can accelerate the growth of rust and corrosion. You should consider applying a rust inhibitor to protect components from deterioration. Rust can eat away at metal and cause havoc down the line. If any components, especially in your suspension, seem overgrown with rust or corrosion it may be time for an appointment with ArborMotion to have that replaced.  

4.Regular maintenance- This will help ensure performance and durability after off-roading. Be sure to consult your owner’s manual for recommended maintenance intervals. By trusting ArborMotion with your regular maintenance, we help keep tabs on all of this for you so your vehicle can keep going mile after muddy mile!

 

Schedule Service Today with European Auto Repair Specialists in Ann Arbor

Dirt roads are riddled with potholes, so it’s crucial to check your alignment and suspension to ensure your ride is road worthy.

 

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!

What You Need to Know About Oil Changes

Do you know how old your oil is?

If you can’t remember, chances are it’s too old and you need an oil change.

 

You’ve probably had people telling you to stay on top of oil changes ever since you bought your first car. Motor oil needs to be changed regularly to maintain performance and reliability. Oil breaks down over time, collecting harmful particles to your engine.

Oil lubricates and cools the tightly packed parts inside your car’s engine. Ignoring your scheduled oil changes leads to metal-eating sludge, reduced efficiency and eventually engine failure. Synthetic oil should be changed every 5,000 miles and regular oil should be changed every 3,000 miles to keep your engine healthy.

If you do nothing else to your vehicle, changing engine oil will ensure that the most expensive component, your car’s engine, will stay fundamentally healthy.

Schedule an Oil Change on Your European or Asian Vehicle Today!

We’d love to be your go-to repair shop. Bring your vehicle to ArborMotion for an oil change and we’ll have it running in tip-top shape in no time! No question is too big or small. Call ArborMotion for asian and European auto repair at 734-761-1088  to schedule your appointment today! 

What To Do If You Smell Gas or Exhaust Fumes in Your Car

Does your car reek of exhaust fumes?

If you smell gas or exhaust fumes inside your car, you could have a leaky exhaust. You should immediately take your car in for service to have it diagnosed by a professional automotive technician. 

 

What’s causing the smell?

 

Let’s investigate! If you smell any of the following, you could have an expensive repair on your hands:

 

Gasoline: If you smell gasoline, you could have a damaged fuel injector leaking gasoline, or you could have a clogged gasoline filter, or a bad airflow sensor. You may also have black smoke emitting from your tailpipe. 

 

Rotten Eggs: This foul smell isn’t good. If your exhaust smells like rotten eggs, it’s likely caused by a damaged catalytic converter – which usually converts harmful gases into less harmful ones. If this becomes damaged or stolen, it can reduce your car’s performance.

 

Sweet Smell: This spells trouble. If your exhaust smells sweet, you could have a leaky or broken head gasket. As a result, your coolant can burn up, releasing a sweet aroma from your exhaust.

 

Schedule Service on Your European or Asian Vehicle Today!

Are you noticing an exhaust smell in your car? Bring your vehicle to ArborMotion to have it diagnosed and we’ll have it running in tip-top shape in no time! We’ll give you a clear and honest opinion on necessary vehicle maintenance and repair. You’ll be able to go online and view your vehicle's status, complete with notes from the advisors and technicians, pictures and even video of what we find. 

 

No question is too big or small. Call ArborMotion for asian and European auto repair at 734-761-1088  to schedule your appointment today! 

Taking Care of Your Mercedes-Benz

What does it mean to take care of your Mercedes-Benz? What’s the service schedule for your Mercedes?

Schedule A

You’ll see the Schedule A notification regularly. That notification for your Mercedes Benz lets you know that your vehicle is ready for an oil change. Along with the oil change, there’s a multi-point inspection that we perform, as recommended by Mercedes. 

 

Schedule B

This service schedule notification will come up approximately every 20,000 miles. This service includes an oil change, cabin and engine air filter replacements, a brake fluid flush, and a multi-point inspection. The brake fluid flush is necessary because moisture can build up in the brake lines over time, which can impact your braking ability.

 

Schedule C

You’ll see this maintenance reminder least often in your Mercedes Benz. Schedule C service is an oil change, multi-point inspection, changing of the wiper blades, and a computer-based scan of your vehicle for an overall health check. When we perform your Schedule A and Schedule B services here at ArborMotion, we’ll keep an eye on your wiper blades and perform all necessary maintenance checks. As a result, you’re less likely to see a Schedule C reminder.

 

Schedule Service or Mercedes Repair in Ann Arbor at ArborMotion!

We’d love to be your go-to repair shop to help ensure you and your family are safe. Schedule service or Mercedes repair in Ann Arbor at 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!

Schedule Your Pre-Purchase Inspection with ArborMotion

Have you found a great used vehicle? Want to make sure the deal isn’t too good to be true? Schedule your pre-purchase inspection at ArborMotion and we’ll give the vehicle a thorough inspection to tell you exactly what you’re getting so there are no surprises!

Along with pulling a CarFax report for you, we’ll check the following:

• Check for any Scheduled and Mileage Based Maintenance Due
• Pictures of any defects or repairs needed
• Scan vehicle for any codes or pending codes
• Malfunction Warning Lights, ABS - Light, Maintenance Lights Present
• Seat Belt Operation
• Gear Changes Smooth
• Cruise Control, Radio/Audio System, Reverse Camera, Navigational System Operational (If equipped)
• Engine Performance, Smooth Running/Acceleration
• Alignment - Pulls/Steering Wheel Off Center
• Clutch Pedal Feel (If equipped)
• Braking, Steering, Suspension Noises/Vibrations Heard
• HVAC System, Heat and A/C (If equipped), Blower Motor Operational at All Speeds
• Headlights, Fog/Daytime Running Lights  - Low/High Beams, Stop Lights, Turn Signal Lights, Reverse Lights, Parking Lights Operational 
• Emergency Flasher Operational
• Interior Lights, Including Trunk, Hood, Dash Lights, Dash Light Dimming Operational
• Power Window Operational, Including Switches
• Hood/Trunk Switches Operational (If equipped)
• 12v Outlet Operational
• Dashboard and Accessories Condition, Keyless/Alarm Operational (If equipped)
• Windshield Wiper - Switch/Speeds/Washers Operational, Wiper Blade Clearing Operation, Headlight Washers Operational (If equipped)
• Horn Operational
• Park Brake Switch - Light Illuminates When Applied
• Body Damage Noted - Accident Damage
• Hood/Trunk/Doors Close Properly, Hood/Trunk Supports Operational
• Convertible/Sunroof/Targa Top Operational (If equipped)
• Door Operation - All Handles/Hinges
• Visible Crash Damage Underneath
• Axle Shafts/Drive Shafts - Boots Torn, Play etc.
• Ball Joints, Bushings, Control Arms, Shocks/Struts/Springs, Power Steering Lines Condition (If visible)
• Exhaust System Condition
• Fuel Lines/Hoses Condition  (If visible)
• Tie Rods/Steering Rack Condition
• Wheel, Lug Nuts/Studs Condition
• Tires - Sidewall Condition, Tire Tread Depths Recorded
• Brake Pad/Shoe Thickness, Rotor/Drum Condition, Caliper/Wheel Cylinder, Lines/Hoses  Condition
• Brake Fluid Condition 
• Belt Condition
• Coolant Level/Color, Radiator/Hose Condition
• Battery Condition (If accessible)
• Oil Level/Color (If accessible)
• Transmission Fluid Level/Color (If accessible)
• Power Steering Fluid Level/Color (If accessible)

ArborMotion is a Bosch Certified service center in Ann Arbor ready to serve you!

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!  

Summer Maintenance Basics

We often think about prepping for winter by performing maintenance on our vehicles. But what about summer maintenance? There are things that should be done, even during the “easy going” warmer months!

Get your oil changed

Regular oil changes are among the most important maintenance jobs you can do. We talk about this all the time, and for good reason! This is just as important in the summer, when you’re more likely to go for a spontaneous cruise or weekend getaway. Having fresh oil running through your engine keeps everything properly lubricated and moving easily as you cruise down the road. 

Have your coolant checked

Having your cooling system in good working order is essential year-round. Your radiator will keep everything at the proper temperature so you don’t experience one of the most dreaded summertime issues - overheating. Making sure that your coolant level is correct and in good working order will help keep your vehicle happily driving along all day, and all night!

Check and recharge your air conditioning

Rolling your windows down is great for those mild summer days, but when you’re stuck in traffic and the temperature is sizzling… you need air conditioning that works. You can schedule all of these services at ArborMotion, and know that your vehicle will keep you comfortable all season long!

It's road-trip season! Make sure you're prepared, read this!

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! We care about your safety! No question is too big or small. Call us for domestic and European auto repair at 734-761-1088  to schedule your appointment today!  

Are You Ready For Spring?

Longer days and sunshine also come with rain and mud as we fully embrace springtime in Michigan. The warm weather is welcoming, the potholes less-so. Are you and your vehicle prepared for springtime road trips and road hazards?

Have your emergency kit stocked and ready!

Smart things to have inside your trunk include:

• Fresh bottles of water
• Snacks or meal bars
• Jumper cables
• A spare tire
• Portable battery backup with phone charging cord

Schedule your spring maintenance

You’ll want to have your ArborMotion specialist do a few things to prep for spring including:

• Oil change
• Swap winter tires for summer tires
• Check wheel alignment
• Install fresh windshield wipers

You may also want to consider a wheel alignment before your next road trip!

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!  

Winter Maintenance You Can DIY

When it comes to winter driving, everything you do to keep your vehicle in top-notch condition matters. There’s a handful of little things you can do to keep your vehicle running smoothly, even when it’s cold. 

These simple and important maintenance things include:

• Check your windshield wipers and make sure they’re in good shape. If you see streaking – or you notice that water droplets aren’t clearing from your windshield – it’s time to replace your wipers. You can visually inspect the rubber on the blades, too. If they’re cracked or there’s bits of rubber missing, it’s time for a new set.
• Check your tires regularly. There shouldn’t be any cracking or fraying. Use a tire gauge to check your tire pressure and keep them inflated based on your vehicle recommendations (this is found on a sticker on the frame where your driver’s side door closes).  Check your treads using the penny test, and if you can see Lincoln’s head, you need new tires asap! 
• Keep your gas tank full. In bad weather, it may take longer to get where you're going, and you want to make it all the way there. Plus, you don't want gas to freeze in the line!
• Check all your exterior lights. Having a headlight, brake light, or blinker out could mean you’re harder to see on the road, which could cause issues. 

As always, prevention is easier than fixing a major issue after it occurs. Taking care of the little things and scheduling regular maintenance for your vehicle will keep you happily rolling along even when it’s chilly. 

Learn more about the basics of winter maintenance for your Asian or European vehicle here.

Schedule Winter Maintenance 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!  

Winter Daily Driving Dos and Don’ts

We’ve all thought it before as we drive during Michigan winters: “Has that person ever driven in the snow?!” 

There are a few important things to remember as you set out on the road so you aren’t one of the people others are questioning. 

Slow down

We all know it’s important to slow down when the roads are slick, but that’s not just your rolling speed. Increase the distance between you and the vehicle in front of you so you can gently brake when you need to. This will help you avoid an accident. Being gentle with your acceleration can also help increase your traction and control. 

Clear those windows

It’s hard to see without clearing your windows properly. Clearing your windows all the way around your vehicle is so important! Even on frigid cold mornings when you’re tempted to skip it, removing ice and snow gives you the best ability to see what’s happening around you, so you can respond quickly. For those vehicles that come with an automatic start, setting your controls to defrost can help start the clearing process before you have to scrape. 

Fill your fluids

Check your fluid levels before the weather starts getting cold and pay close attention to your anti-freeze and your oil since those two are heavy-duty workers in the winter. Other good ideas include using windshield wiper fluid that’s rated for cold weather – you don’t want that to freeze – and keeping your gas tank at least half-full to prevent that from freezing in the lines.

To ensure you get where you're going safely this winter, read more 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!  

What do you need in the winter?

We all know we need a winter vehicle kit, but what do you need to have inside? What are the important must-haves? 

ArborMotion has got your back! Here’s our list of must haves to keep in your vehicle all winter long:

Must have:

• Blankets
• Hats
• Gloves
• Road flares
• Jumper cables
• A flashlight with fresh batteries
• First aid kit
• Snacks and bottled water
• A properly inflated spare tire and jack

It may also be a good idea to have these things:

• Cell phone charger (if you don’t already have one)
• Basic tool kit
• Adjustable wrench
• Duct tape
• Screwdriver
• Pliers
• Foldable shovel
• Kitty litter (to help give your tires grip if you get stuck in snow or ice)
• Hazard triangles or emergency lights
• Individually packaged hand warmers

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!  

Are your tires safe?

Are you and your vehicle ready for cold and icy weather? 

Have you recently inspected the treads on your tires, or had a mechanic inspect them?

Your tires are literally where the rubber meets the road. As the weather turns colder, their role in your safety increases significantly! The quality and wear of your tires determine your control over handling and stopping abilities. 

Common tire requests we fix at ArborMotion:

1. Check air pressure and tread wear
2. Tire rotation
3. Wheel alignment
4. Seasonal tire swap (and storage!)
5. Puncture repair or tire replacement

When it comes to your tire safety, visual inspection and checking tire pressure monthly is your first line of defense. If you notice anything concerning, or have any questions at all, we’re here to help!

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!  

Car Maintenance & Service Checklist!

Not only does your car perform at its best when it’s properly maintained but keeping up on maintenance maintains your resale value. 

Consider this scenario: you’re in the process of buying a car and you find two that you like and you’re trying to decide which one to buy. One has complete, up to date service records, and the other has a few random oil change receipts in the glovebox. All else being equal, most people will opt for the car that has been properly maintained and would likely pay more for it.

To properly maintain your car, make sure that:

1. Oil change and other scheduled maintenance is up to date.
2. Tire condition and air pressure is checked regularly.
3. All exterior lights are working.
4. Windshield wipers are wiping clean across the windshield.
5. A/C and heat are in good working order.
6. Engine coolant is fresh and topped off.
7. Proper wheel alignment. No one wants to go on a trip and fight their steering wheel!

Schedule Service on Your Domestic, 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!  

Why is Your Car Vibrating?

Is your car shaking?

Are you worried that there could be a serious issue?

Not sure where to start?

You expect a smooth ride to and from work each day. Let’s see what could be causing your vibration by asking these questions:

• Does the vibration get worse as you accelerate?
• Does the vibration happen only at certain speeds? If so, at what speed?
• Is the vibration concentrated in the car seat or the steering wheel?
• s there any abnormal noise when your car shakes?
• Does your car vibrate while idling?

Wheels and tires: Potential problems include improper wheel and tire balance, uneven tire wear, separated tire tread, damaged wheels or loose lug nuts.

Worn suspension, and joints: If your suspension or steering system is loose, it can cause your steering wheel to shake. We can inspect your ball joints and analyze other components to see what’s causing the vibration.

Engine and transmission: If the vibration happens while you’re driving and continues when you idle, the problem could be your engine or transmission.

Damaged Brake Rotors: Do you feel a vibration in your steeling wheel? If so, this could indicate a brake or rotor issue.

Schedule Service on Your Domestic, Asian or European Vehicle Today!

Recommended repairs should be addressed before you hit the road for any trip. We’d love to be your go-to repair shop for European auto repair 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 at 734-761-1088  to schedule your appointment today!