McFarland Auto Repair

When temperatures drop, it's common to see cars idling in driveways on frosty mornings. Many drivers believe that warming up the engine is essential before hitting the road. But is that still true with modern vehicles? The answer depends on how you define "warming up" and what you're trying to protect. Let’s look at the facts and clear up a few common misconceptions. What Warming Up an Engine Actually Means Decades ago, carbureted engines required time to warm up because fuel delivery wasn’t computer-controlled. In those vehicles, a cold engine ran rough and could stall if driven too soon. Modern engines, however, use electronic fuel injection systems that adjust the air-fuel mixture automatically. That means they’re able to start and run in cold weather with much greater efficiency. But while modern engines don’t need to idle for 10 minutes before driving, they still benefit from a brief warm-up, just enough to allow oil t ... read more

Clear visibility is one of the most basic but essential parts of safe driving, especially during rainy or snowy weather. When your windshield wipers leave streaks, skip across the glass, or chatter noisily, it can turn a quick trip into a frustrating or even dangerous experience. If your wipers aren’t working smoothly, several underlying issues could be to blame. Let’s look at the most common causes and what you can do to fix or prevent them. Worn-Out Wiper Blades The most common reason wipers skip or leave streaks is simple wear. Rubber degrades over time, and wiper blades are exposed to sun, heat, rain, dirt, and snow year-round. That combination causes the edge of the blade to harden or crack, which prevents it from making full contact with the glass. Even if your wipers look fine at a glance, small cracks or uneven wear along the edge can cause poor performance. As a general rule, it’s a good idea to replace wiper blades every six to twelve mo ... read more

Electric vehicles (EVs) are changing the way we drive — with fewer moving parts, no oil changes, and less frequent routine service. But while EVs require less day-to-day maintenance than traditional gas-powered cars, they still need attention in some key areas. Staying proactive helps maximize performance, safety, and long-term value. 🔋 Battery Care Charge to 80–90% for daily use to preserve battery life. Avoid letting the battery drop below 20%. Use Level 2 charging at home when possible; reserve DC fast charging for road trips. Precondition the cabin and battery while plugged in to reduce strain. 🛞 Tires & Suspension EVs are heavier than gas cars, which stresses tires and suspension. Rotate tires every 5,000–7,500 miles. Check tire pressure monthly. Inspect suspension regularly — lightweight alloys used in EVs can wear differently. Keep wheel alignments up-to-date to protect ef ... read more

Stop Confidently This Fall: Why It’s Time for a Brake Fluid Flush As Wisconsin shifts into fall, slick roads, wet leaves, and misty mornings become part of the daily drive. While you’re pulling out the flannel and prepping for cooler temps, there’s one thing you might be forgetting: your brake fluid. It’s one of the most overlooked fluids in your vehicle, yet it plays a critical role in your safety. Especially this time of year, a brake fluid flush is one of the smartest preventative maintenance steps you can take. Why Brake Fluid Matters More Than You Think Brake fluid is what allows your vehicle to stop when you press the pedal. It transfers force into pressure, bringing your car to a safe and smooth stop. But over time, this fluid absorbs moisture from the air, and that moisture can severely impact braking performance. The wetter the weather, the worse it gets. Moisture in your brake fluid reduces its boiling point, whic ... read more

Road rage is more than just frustration while driving. It’s aggressive behavior that can put you, your passengers, and others on the road at risk. From tailgating and excessive horn use to shouting and weaving through traffic, road rage leads to dangerous situations. According to national traffic safety reports, aggressive driving is a factor in a significant percentage of crashes every year. Learning how to handle road rage is one of the most important steps toward staying safe behind the wheel. The Psychology Behind Road Rage Understanding why road rage happens can help drivers avoid it. Stress from work, fatigue, or even something unrelated to driving often contributes to short tempers behind the wheel. Some drivers feel a sense of anonymity when inside a car, which lowers their inhibition to act aggressively. Recognizing these triggers in yourself or others is the first step to preventing dangerous outbursts. Signs You Might Be Experiencing Road Ra ... read more