Skip To Content

Best Auto Repair, Princeton

3860 NJ-27 Princeton, NJ 08540

732-297-9515
Opening Hours
  • Mon 8:00AM - 5:30PM
  • Tue 8:00AM - 5:30PM
  • Wed 8:00AM - 5:30PM
  • Thu 8:00AM - 5:30PM
  • Fri 8:00AM - 5:30PM
  • Sat Closed
  • Sun Closed
CONTACT US

Archive for March 2021

Steer Right in Princeton

Posted March 28, 2021 9:24 AM

Virtually all vehicles come with power steering, so many Princeton drivers have never driven a car or truck without it. Power steering assists you when you turn your vehicle steering wheel. Without it, it would be very hard to steer.

Now this power assist comes in a couple of forms. In recent years, a lot of vehicles have an electric motor that reduces steering effort and helps improve performance and handling.

The other kind of power steering is hydraulic. This is the kind most older NJ vehicles — and a lot of newer ones — have. Power steering fluid is pressurized by a pump and is used to assist steering. Of course, vehicles need the right amount of fluid in the system. If it's too low, your steering is affected and you could damage your vehicle pump.

Also, power steering fluid can become corrosive over time and damage the pump, hoses and connectors, leading to leaks and repairs. Power steering service at KPS Princeton Garage in Princeton includes removing the contaminated fluid and replacing it with fresh fluid.

A word for Princeton drivers about power steering pumps: Some are powered by an electric motor. Others are driven by the serpentine belt. A worn serpentine belt stresses all of the vehicle components it drives, including the power steering pump, so replace the belt at KPS Princeton Garage as advised to avoid undue repairs.

Losing your power steering while driving in Princeton can be unsettling – just remember that you can still steer, it'll just be harder. Check with your service advisor at KPS Princeton Garage to see if it's time to service your vehicle's power steering system.

In addition to power steering service, at KPS Princeton Garage we offer comprehensive automotive services.

Give us a call.

KPS Princeton Garage
732-297-9515
3860 NJ-27
Princeton, NJ 08540



Keys to a Long Lasting Vehicle

Posted March 21, 2021 9:42 AM



We live in a disposable society. Everything from elaborate packaging to our clothing. Even cell phones are disposable. When replacement is cheaper than repair, the term "built to last" goes by the wayside. An exception is our vehicles. They're still a very big investment and Princeton drivers want to make them last as long as possible.  We also want to make keeping them running as cheap as possible. When talking vehicles, it's all about preventive maintenance. There is an old saying that says, "A stitch in time saves nine," and that is really true when it comes to taking care of your vehicle. A great example is coolant service in Princeton.

Your coolant not only protects your engine from overheating and freezing, it must also protect cooling system components from corrosion. Over time, coolant becomes corrosive and actually starts to damage your radiator and other parts. That's why you need to have your cooling system serviced on a regular schedule.

The same is true for your power steering system, brake fluid, air conditioning system, differential and transmission. And of course, Princeton vehicle owners shouldn't forget those oil changes right on schedule. Skipping even one change can start the build up of harmful oil sludge.

Our engines are full of gaskets and seals. Fresh fluids condition those gaskets and seals to keep them from drying out and leaking. Automotive fluids contain additives that help clean and lubricate the various systems they protect. Over time, the additives are used up and the fluid just does not provide the protection it did when it was fresh. And don't forget the mechanical systems. Changing brake pads before they are worn to the point that they cause damage to rotors is a great way to keep your operating costs down.

Replacing serpentine belts and timing belts on schedule is much cheaper for Princeton drivers than repairing the damage that can be caused by failure. Also, air filters, fuel filters, PCV valves and batteries are all important. Regular wheel alignments, tire rotation and balancing will make your tires last longer. And don't forget to replace your shocks and struts when they wear out. Your fuel system needs regular cleaning to keep running well, prevent mechanical damage and improve fuel economy.

Now this is a lot to remember for Princeton drivers - too much, really. But it is your Princeton automotive technician's job to keep on top of this stuff. At KPS Princeton Garage we can tell you what your manufacturer recommends and help you with a plan to take care of it. We can advise you about which  maintenance schedule you should use - the regular schedule or the severe service schedule - depending on the kind of driving you do. We also know the right fluids for your vehicle and may even suggest higher mileage formulations for your older vehicle.

Bottom line - take care of this stuff on schedule and you will reduce operating costs, prevent damage and maintain your warranty coverage.

Of course, you want your vehicle to look as good as it runs. Regular washing will prevent rust and protect your finish. Take advantage of cleaners, waxes and protectants for your interior and tires. Your vehicle will look great and you'll be proud to drive it longer.

Most of us in Princeton can't afford to throw away our car when it breaks down. By budgeting for regular preventive maintenance, we can prevent many inconvenient - and expensive - problems down the road, and can keep driving "old faithful" for years to come.

KPS Princeton Garage
3860 NJ-27
Princeton, NJ 08540
732-297-9515



All Lined Up: Wheel Alignment Service at KPS Princeton Garage

Posted March 14, 2021 10:52 AM

When all of your vehicle's wheels are lined up exactly with each other, your wheels are in alignment. Hitting a road hazard or even just the normal bumps and bounces of everyday driving in Princeton can cause your vehicle's wheels to be out of alignment.

Driving for an extended time around Princeton when your wheels are out of alignment results in uneven tire wear. This is dangerous … and expensive. Worst case scenario, you have a blowout on a crowded NJ highway. It can also cause premature wear to your suspension system, which can be really expensive to repair. At the very least, you may have to replace your tires years too early.

The ideal alignment for your vehicle was designed by its engineers. Alignment service at KPS Princeton Garage starts with an inspection of the steering and suspension – to see if anything's bent or broken. Then your friendly and knowledgeable KPS Princeton Garage technician will look at tire condition.

From there, the vehicle is put on an alignment rack and an initial alignment reading is taken. The wheels are then aligned to vehicle’s specifications.

Your vehicle owner's manual probably has a recommendation for how often your alignment should be checked – usually every couple of years. If you suspect an alignment problem, get it checked at KPS Princeton Garage before you suffer expensive tire or suspension damage.

KPS Princeton Garage
3860 NJ-27
Princeton, NJ 08540
732-297-9515



Drive Train Service in Princeton at KPS Princeton Garage

Posted March 7, 2021 11:52 AM

The drive train in your vehicle includes all the components that transfer power from the transmission to the wheels. Those components differ depending on what type of vehicle you drive, namely, front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive, all-wheel drive or four-wheel drive. The preventive maintenance your driveshaft needs will also differ by what type of vehicle you drive.

Let's start with front-wheel drive. In this vehicle, the transmission and the differential are combined in one component, known as the transaxle. The transaxle is connected to two half-shafts (axles), which are then connected to the wheels with a constant velocity (or CV) joint, which is protected by an airtight rubber boot.

KPS Princeton Garage service for this type of driveline includes servicing the transaxle and inspecting the CV boot. If the boot is damaged, the CV joint will need to be inspected, and the boot will need to be replaced. If you hear a clicking noise in your wheel wells when you turn, you may have a damaged CV joint. A damaged CV joint should be replaced.

Rear-wheel drive vehicles generally have a transmission in the front of the car and the differential in the back. A driveshaft (it looks like a long tube) connects the transmission to the differential. Some vehicles may have a two-piece driveshaft, which are connected to the differential with universal joints or U-joints. Again, the differential is connected to two half-shafts that go out to the wheels.

KPS Princeton Garage service on the drive train on a rear-wheel drive vehicle starts with servicing the differential. It will need its fluid drained and replaced regularly. The seals on the axles should also be inspected for wear or leaks. Leaking or damaged seals may mean the axle needs to be serviced as well. Also, U-joints can wear out. If you hear clunking or feel a jolt when you shift into drive or into reverse, it could indicate a driveline problem.

All-wheel drive vehicles provide power from the transmission to all of the wheels, instead of just to the front or rear. The advantage is that the vehicle can adapt to different driving conditions and transfer more power to the front or back wheels as needed. The disadvantages are that the driveline is more complicated, and the vehicle weighs slightly more.

Many all-wheel drive vehicles are based on a front-wheel drive set-up. They also have a differential in the rear and one in the center of the vehicle that allows power to transfer to the front and rear. A shaft runs from the transfer case to the center differential, and another from the center differential to the rear differential.

Servicing an all-wheel drive at KPS Princeton Garage involves servicing ALL of the differentials and inspecting the joints and seals for wear, leaks or damage.

Four-wheel drive vehicles are rear-wheel drive vehicles that have an option to transfer power to the front wheels. In other words, they can be driven as either rear-wheel or four-wheel drive vehicles. These vehicles are specifically designed for the harsh driving conditions Princeton drivers encounter off-road. The driveline in a four-wheel drive vehicle is similar to that of an all-wheel drive vehicle. The center differential, however, is a transfer case. Maintenance requires servicing both of the differentials and the transfer case, as well as an inspection of the joints and seals.

Princeton auto owners would be wise to check with their owner's manual for recommendations on how often to service their vehicle drive train. It's also good auto advice to check with your friendly and knowledgeable KPS Princeton Garage service advisor as well. You may live in an area in NJ where weather or driving conditions require more frequent servicing of the drive train.


Good car care at KPS Princeton Garage in Princeton always includes taking care of your driveline. Without it, your vehicle becomes a very large paperweight.

KPS Princeton Garage
3860 NJ-27
Princeton, NJ 08540
732-297-9515



Search



Archive

September 2020 (18)
October 2020 (4)
November 2020 (5)
December 2020 (4)
January 2021 (6)
February 2021 (4)
March 2021 (4)
April 2021 (4)
May 2021 (5)
June 2021 (4)
July 2021 (4)
August 2021 (5)
September 2021 (4)
October 2021 (5)
November 2021 (4)
December 2021 (4)
January 2022 (6)
February 2022 (4)
March 2022 (4)
April 2022 (4)
May 2022 (5)
June 2022 (4)
July 2022 (5)
August 2022 (4)
September 2022 (4)
October 2022 (5)
November 2022 (4)
December 2022 (4)
January 2023 (5)
February 2023 (4)
March 2023 (4)
April 2023 (5)
May 2023 (4)
June 2023 (4)
July 2023 (5)
August 2023 (4)
September 2023 (4)
October 2023 (5)
November 2023 (4)
December 2023 (5)
January 2024 (5)
February 2024 (4)
March 2024 (3)

Categories

Air Conditioning (3)Alignment (6)Alternator (3)Auto Safety (3)Automotive News (1)Battery (6)Brakes (5)Cabin Air Filter (4)Check Engine Light (2)Cooling System (7)Dashboard (1)Diagnostics (4)Diesel Maintenance (1)Drive Train (4)Engine Air Filter (1)Exhaust (2)Fluids (7)Fuel Economy (2)Fuel Saving Tip: Slow Down (1)Fuel System (22)Headlamps (2)Inspection (3)Keys to a long lasting vehicle (1)Maintenance (26)Monitoring System (3)Oil Change (3)Older Vehicles (3)Parts (4)PCV Valve (1)Serpentine Belt (3)Service Intervals (4)Service Standards (1)Shocks & Struts (3)Spark Plugs (2)Steering (4)Timing Belt (2)Tires (1)Tires and Wheels (14)Transmission (3)What Customers Should Know (24)Wheel Bearings (1)Windshield Wipers (3)Winter Prep (3)Winter Tires (1)

coupons

$10 OFF FULL SYNTHETIC OIL & FILTER CHANGE

view coupon

  • ASE (Automotive Service Excellence)
  • IATN (International Automotive Technicians' Network)
  • ASE Master Technician
  • Bosch Service
  • Car Care Aware

Testimonials

, 03/08/2024
Every interaction has been perfect. My old car drives perfectly. Numerous repairs (all appropriate in light of the age of the vehicle) and routine maintenance all perfect experience with these folks.
view all reviews
TAP TO CALL NOW 732-297-9515 X