Healthy shocks play a vital role in maintaining a smooth ride and enabling safe handling. They absorb the impact from bumps and potholes, while keeping your tires in proper contact with the road. Over time, shocks wear out and lose their ability to perform properly. When this happens, your car’s comfort and safety can be compromised, making it important to visit the shop. At Integrity Auto Care, we provide expert suspension repair in the greater South Beloit area. If you’re experiencing any of the following issues, it may be time to replace your shocks. Rough or Bouncy Ride One of the most common signs of worn-out shocks is a noticeable decrease in ride comfort. If your vehicle feels especially bouncy when you drive over uneven roads or small bumps, your shocks may no longer be absorbing impact like they should. You might also feel excessive up-and-down motion after going over a speed bump or dip. A ride that feels harsh is a clear sign that your suspension system isn’t functioning correctly. Poor Handling and Steering Response When shocks start to wear, your vehicle’s handling can become unpredictable. You may notice that the car leans excessively during turns or feels unstable when changing lanes. Sloppy steering, delayed response, and increased body roll are all signs that your shocks can no longer control the vehicle’s movement effectively. Replacing them will help restore proper handling. Visible Fluid Leaks Shocks contain hydraulic fluid that helps dampen movement. If you notice oily residue or leaks near your shocks, it’s a sign that the seals have failed and the fluid is escaping. Loss of hydraulic fluid means the shock can no longer perform its job effectively. Fluid leaks are a clear indication that the shocks are worn and need to be replaced as soon as possible. Uneven Tire Wear Your tires can also provide clues that your shocks are in bad shape. If the tread on your tires is wearing unevenly or showing bald spots, it could be due to poor shock absorption. Worn shocks can reduce even contact with the road surface and accelerate tire wear. Ignoring this issue can lead to reduced traction. Suspension Repair in South Beloit, IL For auto repair in South Beloit and the surrounding area, contact Integrity Auto Care at  (815) 957-4159  . At our local auto shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

Your vehicle’s cooling system plays a crucial role in keeping the engine at a safe operating temperature. When any part of this system fails, it can lead to overheating, engine damage, and costly repairs. Understanding the most common cooling system problems can help you catch issues early. At Integrity Auto Care, we provide expert cooling system repair in the greater South Beloit, IL area. Here are four cooling system problems to watch for. Low Coolant Levels One of the most frequent cooling system problems is low coolant. Coolant circulates through the engine and radiator to absorb and dissipate heat. If the coolant level drops too low due to a leak or evaporation, the system can’t function properly, and your engine may begin to overheat. It’s important to regularly check coolant levels after your engine has cooled down and top off with the correct type when necessary. If you find yourself frequently adding coolant, it could point to a more serious issue. Radiator Leaks Radiators are susceptible to leaks, especially in older vehicles or in systems that have not been properly maintained. A cracked or corroded radiator can allow coolant to escape, reducing the system’s ability to keep the engine cool. If you notice a sweet-smelling puddle under your vehicle or see steam coming from under the hood, a radiator leak may be the cause. Thermostat Failure The thermostat controls the flow of coolant between the engine and the radiator. When it fails, it can either become stuck open or closed. A stuck-open thermostat may cause the engine to run too cold. A stuck-closed thermostat is more dangerous, as it prevents coolant from reaching the radiator, resulting in rapid overheating. Replacing a faulty thermostat is relatively inexpensive and can prevent major engine damage. Water Pump Problems The water pump is responsible for circulating coolant throughout the engine. If the pump fails, coolant won’t flow properly, and the engine will overheat. Because the water pump is such a vital part of the cooling system, any issues should be addressed promptly. A grinding sound can indicate a failing water pump. Cooling System Repair in South Beloit, IL For auto repair in South Beloit and the surrounding area, contact Integrity Auto Care at  (815) 957-4159  . At our nearby auto shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!