Crosse Auto Repair

Great! You're on your way to an important event and your car won't start! You immediately think that the battery is dead. But it could also be the alternator. The alternator feeds power to the electrical system for your entertainment system, accessories and charging ports. The battery gets recharged with any extra electrical power. A failing (failed) alternator may not be able to keep the battery charged. Most often, when the alternator fails it is due to bearings failing and seizing up. You might hear a grinding noise or even an electrical smell. There are other symptoms your vehicle may be showing as well. It's best to get your vehicle in for an inspection with a trained technician for diagnosing your vehicle's issue(s). You may contact us at 608-782-1375 or ... read more

What is a serpentine belt? How do I know if it needs to be replaced? A serpentine belt is a very important part of the engine. This belt's primary job is to transfer power to parts like the power steering pump, the alternator or air conditioning compressor. Without the serpentine belt all these parts would stop working. And you would be totally stranded wherever you are! How do you know if your serpentine belt needs to be replaced? These belts typically need to be replaced around 100,000 miles. Older serpentine belts, made of regular rubber, will start to crack over time. Newer belts, made of neoprene-- a specialized type of rubber, will not crack but will show signs of wear. It's common for the serpentine belt to start squealing or start making a chirping sound as they start to wear out. Your engine's serpentine belt is most definitely something you need to keep on top of. Here at Bob's Auto, we inspect your vehicle's serpentine belt at each oil change.