Spring is here and the open road is looking all the more appealing. Before you hit the highway, it’s important to take the time to complete auto maintenance tasks that’ll help to optimize performance and safety. At Willie Automotive & Towing Service, we can prepare your car for your journey with expert auto maintenance in Lakeland, FL. Here are five types of maintenance to complete before your road trip. Oil Change and Fluid Check Engine oil plays a vital role in lubricating engine components and preventing wear. It’s smart to schedule an oil change before your road trip and make sure all essential fluids—such as transmission fluid, brake fluid, and coolant—are at the proper levels. Clean fluids contribute to optimal engine performance and reduce the risk of overheating or mechanical issues. Tire Inspection Well-maintained tires are essential for a safe and fuel-efficient road trip. Check the tire pressure, including the spare, and inflate them to the manufacturer's recommended levels. Also, inspect the tire tread for signs of uneven wear, bulges, or damage. And have your tires rotated if you’re due. Brake System Check Your vehicle's brake system is crucial for your safety. Before your road trip, an experienced mechanic should inspect the brake pads, rotors, and brake fluid. Any brake issues should be resolved before you hit the road. Battery Health Check A dead battery is one of the most common reasons for breakdowns. Have your battery tested to ensure it can be trusted to work reliably during your journey. If your battery is more than three years old, consider having it replaced, as older batteries are more prone to failure. Check Lights and Wipers Visibility is paramount for safe driving. Verify that all exterior lights—including headlights, brake lights, and turn signals—are functioning correctly. Replace any burnt-out bulbs before your trip. Also, inspect the windshield wipers and replace them if they show signs of wear. Clear visibility, especially during adverse weather conditions, is essential for a safe road trip. Auto Maintenance in Lakeland, FL For auto maintenance in Lakeland before your road trip, contact Willie Automotive & Towing Service at  863-777-5591  . At our local auto shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!

Your car's alternator generates the electrical power needed to keep your vehicle running smoothly. When the alternator malfunctions, it can lead to a variety of issues, and may leave you stranded. At Willie Automotive & Towing Service, our local mechanics provide expert alternator repair in the greater Lakeland, FL area. Here’s a look at five warning signs of alternator trouble. Dashboard Warning Light The battery-shaped icon or the "ALT" warning light illuminating on your dashboard is a clear indication that there's a problem with the charging system. Ignoring these warnings may lead to a dead battery and a stalled vehicle. Dead Battery While a dead battery doesn't necessarily mean the alternator is at fault, it can be a consequence of alternator problems. The alternator continuously charges the battery while the engine is running. If the alternator fails, the battery will eventually lose its charge, resulting in a vehicle that won't start. Issues with Electrical Accessories The alternator supplies power to your vehicle’s accessories, such as the radio, power seats, and power windows. If your alternator is malfunctioning, then these accessories may start to act erratically. Abnormal Noises Unusual noises coming from under the hood could be another sign of alternator trouble. A failing alternator may produce grinding or whining sounds, indicating issues with the internal components such as the bearings or the belt. Ignoring these noises may lead to complete alternator failure, leaving you stranded. Dimming/Flickering Lights One of the common early warning signs of an alternator problem is the dimming or flickering of the vehicle's lights. If you notice that your headlights are not as bright as usual or if they flicker intermittently, it could indicate a drop in electrical power from the alternator. Alternator Replacement in Lakeland, FL When you need auto repair in Lakeland, FL and the surrounding area, contact Willie Automotive & Towing Service at  863-777-5591  . At our local auto shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call today to schedule an appointment!

To stay optimally safe on the road, it’s crucial that you’re driving with healthy brakes. When you first notice a sign of brake trouble, it’s best to alert the mechanic. At Willile Automotive & Towing Service, our local mechanics provide expert brake repair in the greater Lakeland, FL area. Here are five warning signs of a brake problem. Squeaking or Grinding Noises One of the most common signs of brake trouble is unusual noises when applying the brakes. If you hear a high-pitched squeak or a grinding sound, it could be an indication that the brake pads are worn down. Brake pads have a metal indicator that creates noise when it comes into contact with the rotor. Ignoring these sounds can lead to more significant damage. Vibrations or Pulsations If you feel vibrations or pulsations when applying the brakes, it might be a sign of warped brake rotors. Warped rotors can result from excessive heat build-up during braking, causing uneven surfaces. This issue can compromise your braking efficiency, so it’s important to address it ASAP. Soft or Spongy Brake Pedal A soft or spongy brake pedal can be an indication of air in the brake lines or a brake fluid leak. Brake fluid plays a crucial role in transmitting force from the brake pedal to the brake components. Any compromise in the brake fluid system can result in decreased braking performance. If your car is leaking brake fluid, it creates a serious safety hazard. With such a leak, you shouldn’t drive your car. Rather, you should have your vehicle towed to the shop. Warning Light If your ABS (anti-lock braking system) warning light comes on, it should be promptly brought to the mechanic’s attention. This light can get triggered by issues such as low brake fluid and faulty wheel speed sensors. Veering If your car veers off to one side when you hit the brakes, you could be dealing with a caliper problem. This is a serious issue that substantially increases the risk of an accident. Veering could occur if a caliper seizes up due to corrosion. Brake Repair in Lakeland, FL When you need auto repair in Lakeland, FL and the surrounding area, contact Willie Automotive & Towing Service at  863-777-5591  . At our nearby auto shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!

Regular maintenance is the key to keeping your car running smoothly and efficiently. Among the various tasks that contribute to the well-being of your vehicle, following your oil change schedule is particularly important. You can refer to your owner’s manual to see your vehicle’s requirements for oil change mileage intervals, as well as specific oil type. These guidelines should always be followed. At Willie Automotive & Towing Service, we provide full-service oil changes in the greater Lakeland, FL area. Here are four benefits of keeping up with oil changes. Engine Longevity The engine is the heart of your vehicle, and proper lubrication is essential for its longevity. Fresh, clean oil ensures that the engine components move smoothly, reducing friction and wear. Regular oil changes prevent the build-up of sludge and contaminants, which helps to maximize the lifespan of your engine. Enhanced Fuel-Efficiency Maintaining a clean and well-lubricated engine leads to improved fuel-efficiency. When your engine runs smoothly, it doesn't have to work as hard to perform its functions, resulting in better gas mileage. As the miles add up, this can lead to significant savings at the pump, helping to make regular oil changes a cost-effective investment. Optimal Performance A well-lubricated engine is more capable of operating at peak performance levels. Fresh oil better enables parts to function as intended, promoting smoother acceleration and improved responsiveness. Neglecting oil changes may result in decreased engine performance, causing sluggishness and a reduction in power. Temperature Regulation Oil plays a crucial role in regulating the temperature of the engine. It helps dissipate heat generated during combustion, reducing the risk of the engine overheating. Old and contaminated oil loses its ability to perform this function efficiently, putting your engine at greater risk of overheating and potential damage. Full-Service Oil Change in Lakeland, FL When you need auto maintenance in Lakeland, FL and the surrounding area, contact Willie Automotive & Towing Service at  863-777-5591  . At our local auto shop, our experienced mechanics can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call today to schedule an appointment!