Minneapolis Auto Repair

Transmission Failure Warning Signs:Fluid Leaks Transmission failure can be caused by leaking transmission fluid. A little liquid on your driveway can swiftly turn into an immense car predicament. Transmission fluid is vital to your car’s shifting capabilities. It is bright red and sweet smelling. Unlike motor oil, your transmission does not absorb or burn up fluid during use, so if you notice your fluid is running low, it is usually caused by a leak. Keeping an eye on your transmission fluid level is an excellent way to stay on top of this issue. Common causes for a transmission fluid leak are: -A loose transmission pan/pan leak -Any recent service or part replacement that involves disconnecting cooler lines -Out of balance drive shaft -Worn seals or gaskets -Damaged bell housings -Worn axles (FWD), engine and transmission mounts Warning Light Activates Cars in modern times have sensors meant to pick up and trigger your vehic ... read more

The arrival of winter in Minnesota always stirs up a longing for adventure (or warmer destinations). After a few months cooped up inside and navigating icy roads, blue skies and sunny weather are reason enough to pack up your car and hit the road. However, your best planning will be ruined if you cannot rely on your car. A malfunction on your everyday commute is one thing, but could you imagine your car leaving you stranded miles outside your hometown? Car care is essential year-round, but especially before a road trip, so complete this road trip inspection before becoming a horror movie cliché. Neglecting to do a quick mechanical once-over (even on newer cars) before hitting the road is asking to be stranded. We are not talking about rebuilding the cylinder head or performing a line-bore on the crankshaft mains. We are merely stating a few reminders that may slip your mental checklist in a rush to get bags packed, and the children prepared. Fluids Fluids are ... read more

Walnut blasting is now being offered at DJ Foreign Auto Care! What is walnut blasting you may ask? Walnut blasting is a process that is used to treat heavy carbon build-up. Cars require oxygen to run. With modern direct injection engines, when your foot is placed on the accelerator, the car releases gasoline into the combustion chamber of the vehicle. The spark plugs then ignite the gasoline in the combustion chamber, causing the car to run. Carbon is released into the engine as a byproduct of this process.  The carbon interferes with the vehicle’s normal combustion, which in turn alters the compression ratio, operating temperature, and sensor readings.  The carbon builds up and coats the inside of your engine including the air intake valves, combustion chamber, and exhaust, restricting your car’s ability to breathe and also affecting your car’s efficiency and power. When the carbon builds up, one of the common ways to clean it out of your engine is through ... read more

"Engine oil flush" or "Performance Oil Change" describes a process where a service technician adds chemicals to the oil so that built-up carbon deposits are cleaned out of narrow oil passages, valves and combustion chambers.  The dirty oil and chemicals are then flushed out of the system and replaced with clean oil. Performing an engine oil flush is especially beneficial when large amounts of sludge and deposits build up in the oil system, which can clog oil passages and potentially lead to serious engine problems, when the many moving parts in the engine get gummed up.  An engine oil flush can restore fuel efficiency and power to your engine, as well as save on wear and tear by keeping all the parts in your engine moving as they should.  A performance oil change / engine oil flush service may be a good idea when there have been long intervals between oil changes, when you purchase an older vehicle and you don't know ... read more

BMW oil leaks from the engine area are a common problem that we see at DJ Foreign Auto Care. Since fluids in your BMW do not get used up or go anywhere (with the exception of gasoline and windshield washer fluid) if you notice that any are low, it is likely that there is a leak somewhere. If you notice your oil level is low when you check the oil, it is important to have a reputable BMW repair shop check for leaks right away. If all oil is lost, damage to the BMW engine will extensive and a new engine may even be needed. According to Autohausaz, engine oil is a "...honey or dark-colored, greasy fluid".  Symptoms of leaking oil are a burning smell and/or signs of drips or wet spots under the engine or vehicle. Valve Cover Gasket Leak: Valve cover gasket leaks are a common BMW oil leak. Valve covers are located at the top of the engine and protect the ro ... read more