5 Warning Signs that Your Alternator Is Malfunctioning

Winter in Michigan can be harsh on both drivers and their vehicles. Snow, ice, and freezing temperatures pose unique challenges, but with the right preparation, you can help ensure your car is ready to tackle the season. Here are four tips for preparing your car for winter driving in Michigan. Check Your Tires and Consider Winter Tires Traction is crucial when driving on icy or snowy roads, so checking your tires is a top priority. Ensure your tires have enough tread depth (at least 4/32 inches) to grip slippery surfaces. In Michigan’s harsh winters, all-season tires may not provide enough traction, so switching to winter tires is often a smart choice. Winter tires are better designed to handle snow and ice, giving you more control in cold conditions. Test Your Battery Cold weather can be tough on car batteries, reducing their ability to hold a charge. Before winter hits, have your battery tested to ensure it’s strong enough to handle Michigan's frigid temperatures. If your battery is more than three years old, it might be time to replace it. You don't want to be stuck in the cold with a dead battery, so make sure it's up to the task before the snow starts to fall. Inspect Your Brakes Brakes are always important, but they’re especially critical in winter when road conditions are slick. Have your brakes inspected to ensure they’re in good working order. Worn brake pads or rotors can compromise stopping power, which is extra dangerous when driving on wintry roads. If your brakes are due for maintenance, take care of it before winter sets in. Stock Your Car with Emergency Supplies Michigan winters can be unpredictable, so it’s essential to be prepared for the unexpected. Keep an emergency kit in your car that includes: A blanket or warm clothes A flashlight with extra batteries Jumper cables A small shovel Ice scraper and snow brush Non-perishable snacks and water A bag of sand or kitty litter (to help with tire traction if you get stuck) Having these supplies on hand can make all the difference if you’re stranded in winter weather. 24/7 Towing & Roadside Assistance in Jackson, MI When you need towing or roadside assistance in Jackson, MI and the surrounding area, contact Jimmie’s Towing & Auto Repair. We also provide top-quality auto repair in the greater Jackson, MI area. Our local tow truck drivers will show up ASAP to get you out of harm’s way!

When you first notice a sign of engine trouble, you’ll want to address it ASAP. Otherwise, the problem could soon worsen and cost more to fix. At Jimmie’s Towing & Auto Service, we provide expert engine repair in the greater Jackson, MI area. Here’s a look at five common signs that you need engine repair. Check Engine Light This warning light can signal a range of issues, from minor to serious engine problems. While it’s easy to dismiss the light if your car seems to be running fine, it’s important to get it checked out as soon as possible. Common reasons the check engine light comes on include issues with oxygen sensors, MAF sensors, catalytic converters, and spark plugs. Unusual Noises If you hear knocking, tapping, or grinding sounds coming from your engine, it’s time to take notice. These noises often indicate a problem with engine components such as the bearings or pistons. Unusual noises should always prompt a visit to the mechanic for a diagnosis. Discolored/Excessive Exhaust Smoke The color and amount of exhaust smoke can reveal a lot about your engine’s health. If you notice blue, black, or white smoke coming from your tailpipe, this could point to specific engine issues. Blue smoke is a sign that oil is burning in the engine. Black smoke suggests that the engine is burning too much fuel. White smoke may indicate a coolant leak, which could mean a blown head gasket. Any unusual smoke should be checked out by a professional right away. Decreased Performance If your car feels sluggish when accelerating, or if it struggles to maintain speed, there could be an issue with your engine. This decrease in performance might be due to problems such as faulty spark plugs or fuel delivery issues. Loss of power is often one of the first symptoms of engine trouble, and it shouldn’t be ignored. Overheating An overheating engine is a clear sign of trouble. If your temperature gauge rises into the red zone or you notice steam coming from under the hood, it could be caused by a variety of issues such as a faulty thermostat, a leaking radiator, or a malfunctioning water pump. Overheating can cause significant damage to your engine if not addressed promptly, so it’s essential to pull over safely and allow your engine to cool before seeking help. Engine Repair in Jackson, MI When you need auto repair in Jackson, MI and the surrounding area, contact Jimmie’s Towing & Auto Repair at (517) 435-0314. We also provide fast 24-hour towing in greater Jackson, MI. Give us a call today if you’re having car trouble!

When you're on the road, unexpected situations can arise, from flat tires to dead batteries. That's where roadside assistance services come in. These services provide crucial support to drivers in need, ensuring that help is just a phone call away. At Jimmie’s Towing & Auto Repair, we provide 24/7 roadside assistance in the greater Jackson, MI area. Here’s a look at our top roadside assistance services. Flat Tire Assistance Flat tires can happen anywhere, often at the most inconvenient times. Roadside assistance can help by sending a professional to change your tire. This service is particularly beneficial for drivers who may not have the tools or knowledge to change a tire themselves. And even if you are skilled at changing tires, it’s best to let a professional handle it if you’re in a dangerous situation, such as on a tight shoulder on the side of the highway. Battery Jump-Start A dead battery can leave you stuck and frustrated, especially if you don't have jumper cables or another vehicle nearby to help. Roadside assistance provides battery jump-starts, where the technician will come to your location and jump-start your car, getting you back on the road quickly. Lockout Service It's surprisingly easy to lock your keys in your car, but getting back in can be a real challenge without the right tools or expertise. Roadside assistance provides lockout assistance, sending a professional to unlock your vehicle without causing any damage. Fuel Delivery Running out of gas is a common issue that can leave you stranded, especially in remote areas where gas stations are scarce. Roadside assistance can deliver enough fuel to get you to the nearest gas station, ensuring you're not left waiting for help. Towing Services One of the most critical roadside assistance services is towing. Whether you're involved in an accident or you encounter a mechanical issue that prevents you from driving, the towing service can transport your vehicle to a repair shop or a safe location. At Jimmie’s Towing & Auto Service, we can also provide roadside auto repair in many situations, getting you back on the road without having to be towed. 24/7 Towing & Roadside Assistance in Jackson, MI When you need towing or roadside assistance in Jackson, MI and the surrounding area, contact Jimmie’s Towing & Auto Repair. We also provide top-quality auto repair in the greater Jackson, MI area. Our local tow truck drivers will show up ASAP to get you out of harm’s way!

Your car's brake system is crucial for your safety and the safety of others on the road. Recognizing early signs of brake problems can help prevent accidents and more expensive repairs. At Jimmie’s Towing & Auto Repair, we provide expert brake repair in the greater Jackson, MI area. Here’s a look at five common symptoms of brake trouble. Squealing or Grinding Noises If you hear a high-pitched squealing sound when you apply the brakes, it’s likely that the brake pads are worn and need replacement. Grinding noises, on the other hand, often indicate that the brake pads are completely worn out, putting rotors at risk of damage. These sounds should be brought to the mechanic’s attention ASAP. Vibrations Feeling a vibration or pulsation when you apply the brakes can be a sign of warped rotors. Warped rotors can occur from excessive heat and stress, often due to heavy braking. If left unchecked, this can lead to uneven braking and reduced stopping power. Spongy or Soft Brake Pedal A brake pedal that feels spongy or goes to the floor when you press it indicates a problem such as air in the brake lines or a brake fluid leak. This issue can drastically reduce braking efficiency and should be addressed immediately. With leaking brake fluid, you’ve got a major safety hazard and should get towed to the shop instead of driving there. Pulling to One Side If your car pulls to one side when braking, it could be a sign of a stuck caliper, perhaps due to corrosion. Obviously, this creates a serious safety risk for you and other drivers. Therefore, you shouldn’t drive your car if it has this issue. Brake Warning Light The brake warning light on your dashboard can indicate various issues, from low brake fluid to problems with wheel speed sensors. If this light comes on, you should promptly have your brakes inspected by a professional to diagnose and fix the issue. Brake Repair in Jackson, MI When you need auto repair in Jackson, MI and the surrounding area, contact Jimmie’s Towing & Auto Repair at (517) 435-0314. At our local auto shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. We also provide fast 24-hour towing in greater Jackson, MI. Give us a call today if you’re having car trouble!

A malfunctioning cooling system can lead to overheating and serious engine damage. Recognizing the signs of a cooling system problem early can potentially save you from needing very expensive repairs. At Jimmie’s Towing & Auto Service, we provide expert cooling system repair in the greater Jackson, MI area. Here’s a look at four symptoms of a cooling system problem. Spiking Temperature Gauge If you notice the temperature gauge on your dashboard rising into the red zone or a warning light indicating high engine temperature, it’s a clear sign that your engine is running hotter than it should. This can be due to various factors such as low coolant levels, a malfunctioning thermostat, or a failing water pump. Ignoring this warning can result in severe engine damage. Visible Coolant Leaks Coolant leaks are another telltale sign of a cooling system problem. You might notice puddles of brightly-colored fluid under your vehicle, which could indicate a coolant leak. These leaks can occur due to issues such as a damaged radiator or worn-out hoses. It’s crucial to address these leaks promptly to maintain proper coolant levels and prevent overheating. Unusual Engine Noises & Smells Unusual noises coming from your engine can also point to cooling system problems. A whining or grinding noise could indicate a failing water pump. The water pump is responsible for circulating coolant throughout the engine, and if it’s not functioning correctly, the engine can overheat. Also, if you notice a sweet, syrupy smell, you’ve got a symptom of a coolant leak. Steam or Smoke from the Engine Bay Seeing steam or smoke rising from your engine bay is a serious warning sign of a cooling system problem. This often happens when the engine is overheating significantly, causing the coolant to boil and turn into steam. If you encounter this situation, it’s crucial to stop your vehicle as soon as safely possible, turn off the engine, and allow it to cool down before inspecting. Continuing to drive with an overheating engine can cause catastrophic engine damage. Auto Repair & Towing in Jackson, MI When you need auto repair in Jackson, MI and the surrounding area, contact Jimmie’s Towing & Auto Repair at (517) 435-0314. At our nearby auto shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. We also provide fast 24-hour towing in greater Jackson, MI. Give us a call today if you’re having car trouble!

Summer is just around the corner and road trip season is upon us. Whether you're planning a cross-country journey or a weekend getaway, ensuring your safety on the road should be a top priority. At Jimmie’s Towing & Auto Repair, our team is happy to offer a few helpful tips for safe driving during a road trip. Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection Conducting a thorough inspection of your vehicle before setting off is crucial for road trip safety. For those who aren’t mechanically experienced, it’s best to get this done at the shop. Check the tire pressure, tread depth, and overall condition of your tires. Inspect the brakes, lights, wipers, and fluid levels. Address any maintenance issues beforehand to minimize the risk of breakdowns on the road. Stay Focused and Minimize Distractions Distractions while driving can significantly increase the risk of accidents. Keep your focus on the road and minimize distractions inside the vehicle. Avoid using your phone or engaging in other activities that take your attention away from driving. Encourage your passengers to assist with navigation and entertainment, allowing you to concentrate on driving safely. Buckle Up and Drive Defensively Seat belts save lives, so make sure everyone in the vehicle buckles up before you start driving. Also, practice defensive driving techniques to stay safe on the road. Stay alert, keep a safe distance from other vehicles, and anticipate potential hazards. Avoid aggressive driving behaviors such as speeding, tailgating, and weaving between lanes. It's better to arrive at your destination a little later than to risk an accident by rushing. Take Regular Breaks Long hours behind the wheel can lead to fatigue and decreased alertness. To combat driver fatigue, take regular breaks to stretch your legs, rest your eyes, and recharge. Aim to stop every two hours or so, especially on extended road trips. Use rest stops as opportunities to hydrate and refuel your body with snacks or light meals. Be Prepared for Emergencies Despite your best efforts to stay safe, emergencies can still occur on the road. Equip your vehicle with essential emergency supplies such as a first aid kit, flashlight, jumper cables, and basic tools. Consider carrying extra water, non-perishable food items, and blankets in case of unexpected delays or breakdowns. Familiarize yourself with roadside assistance services available along your route, and have a plan in place for contacting them if needed. 24/7 Towing & Roadside Assistance in Jackson, MI When you need towing or roadside assistance in Jackson, MI and the surrounding area, contact Jimmie’s Towing & Auto Repair. We also provide top-quality auto repair in the greater Jackson, MI area. Our local tow truck drivers will show up ASAP to get you out of harm’s way!

Tire blowouts can lead to loss of control of the vehicle and potentially serious accidents. However, with proper maintenance and awareness, many tire blowouts can be prevented. But if your car does suffer a tire blowout and you need roadside assistance in Jackson, MI, our team at Jimmie’s Towing & Auto Repair will arrive ASAP to help you out. Here’s a look at four tips for preventing tire blowouts. Proper Tire Inflation Maintaining the correct tire pressure is crucial for preventing blowouts. Overinflated tires can cause the tire to become rigid and more susceptible to damage from road hazards. Underinflated tires are more likely to blow out due to more surface area contact causing overheating. Check your specified tire pressure and then inflate accordingly. Avoid Overloading Overloading your vehicle puts unnecessary stress on the tires, increasing the risk of a blowout. Every vehicle has a maximum load capacity specified by the manufacturer, including passengers and cargo. Exceeding this limit can lead to tire overheating and failure, especially during long drives or in hot weather. Watch for Road Hazards Road hazards—such as potholes, debris, and sharp objects—pose a significant risk to tire integrity. While some hazards are unavoidable, being vigilant can help minimize the chances of encountering them. Maintain a safe following distance from other vehicles to give yourself ample time to react to sudden obstacles on the road. If you spot a pothole or debris ahead, slow down and steer clear of it if possible. Rotate Tires Regularly Uneven tire wear is a common problem that can increase the likelihood of tire blowouts. Rotating your tires regularly helps distribute the wear more evenly, prolonging tire life and reducing the risk of failure. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for tire rotation intervals, typically between 5,000 and 7,000 miles. Also, at the shop, we can tell you if your tread has gotten too low, which increases the risk of a blowout, and means you should get new tires. 24/7 Roadside Services in Jackson, MI When you need towing or roadside assistance in Jackson, MI and the surrounding area, contact Jimmie’s Towing & Auto Repair. We also provide top-quality auto repair in the greater Jackson, MI area. Our local tow truck drivers will show up ASAP to get you out of harm’s way!

At Jimmie’s Towing & Auto Service, we aim to always exceed our customers’ expectations by providing top-notch towing services, fair rates, and flawless auto repairs. Our team takes great pride in earning our customers’ trust by completing each job to the highest standards. And we appreciate it when our customers’ offer feedback. Here are some of our recent customer reviews. “We needed our spare tire put on ASAP when our tire went out. We were 2 plus hours away from home and this shop was the only shop open. They did a great job and everyone there was friendly and professional. I would highly recommend this business to everyone.” —Bushra B. “Prompt and excellent and friendly service from Bob, the tow driver who rescued us after our tire went flat on I-94 a little east of Albion, Michigan.” —Peter B. “Thank you guys. My daughter was stranded with a flat and could not get the spare tire removed thanks to a rusted winch cable. It was a very busy afternoon with snow and slick roads causing many accidents, but you guys came to the rescue and got her back on the road. Did I mention this was the Sunday after Thanksgiving- one of the busiest travel days of the year significantly hampered with the weather. Thanks again.” —Dan C. “Thank you Jimmie's for your prompt and friendly service! It was appreciated.” —Brittany S. “We are full-time RVers and this is our first time in Michigan. We were unhooked and experienced an issue with our 3500 Ram dually while in town. It was a Saturday and Jimmy's was open. The dispatcher was very helpful and we had a tow within 30 min. Not only were they courteous and polite, but also gave us a ride to our campground. BIG THANK YOU to Jimmy's for making a challenging situation a little easier.” —April W. “The driver Noah was so kind, patient and just awesome!! I appreciate him, felt like a friend by the end of the tow. Thank you Noah.” —Judy A. 24/7 Towing in Jackson, MI When you need towing in Jackson, MI and the surrounding area, contact Jimmie’s Towing & Auto Repair. We also provide top-quality auto repair in the greater Jackson, MI area. Our local tow truck drivers will show up ASAP to get you out of harm’s way!

A healthy alternator is essential for keeping the battery charged and the electrical system running smoothly. Ignoring signs of alternator trouble can lead to sudden breakdowns, making it important that you get to the shop when you first notice signs of a problem. At Jimmie’s Towing & Auto Repair, we provide expert alternator replacement and auto electric repair in the greater Jackson, MI area. Here are five symptoms of alternator trouble. Dimming or Flickering Lights One of the most noticeable signs of an alternator problem is dimming or flickering lights. If you observe your headlights, interior lights, or dashboard lights fluctuating in brightness, it could be a sign that the alternator is struggling to maintain a consistent flow of electrical power. Dashboard Warning Light Commonly shaped like a battery, this warning light will illuminate when the alternator is not generating sufficient power. Ignoring this warning can lead to a dead battery and a stalled vehicle. Difficulty Starting the Vehicle An alternator is responsible for charging the battery, which provides the necessary power to start your vehicle. If you're experiencing difficulty starting your car, it might be due to a weakened or failing alternator. A simple battery replacement may not solve the issue, so it's crucial to have the alternator examined. Malfunctioning Electrical Accessories The alternator provides power to a variety of accessories, such as power seats, power windows, and the radio. If these components aren’t working properly, it could be due to an issue with your alternator. Strange Noises Strange noises coming from the engine compartment can be a sign of alternator trouble. A failing alternator may produce grinding, whining, or squealing sounds. These noises often result from worn-out bearings or a belt problem. If you hear anything out of the ordinary, it's best to bring it to the mechanic’s attention. Auto Repair & Towing in Jackson, MI When you need auto repair in Jackson, MI and the surrounding area, contact Jimmie’s Towing & Auto Repair at (517) 435-0314. At our nearby auto shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. We also provide fast 24-hour towing in greater Jackson, MI. Give us a call today if you’re having car trouble!