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Does Your Vehicle Need an Alternator Repair?

Your alternator generates all the electrical power for your car. It also provides the power to recharge your battery. A worn alternator will always show clear signs that something is wrong. As your GMC dealer, we can provide alternator repair if you need one. These are a few of the signs that your alternator is struggling and needs help.

Whining Sounds

As your alternator gets older it produces less power. Your car's electrical demands are relatively fixed. This means you'll start to experience a shortfall in electricity supply. The alternator will try to produce more electricity by working harder. As the alternator spins faster and faster, it will overwork and suffer further damage. You'll hear a whining sound from the alternator as it spins faster, and this sound increases as your RPMs increase. It will also produce a loud whining sound when your car is idling. These sounds are similar to the noises a damaged power steering pump makes. Our technicians will test your alternator, and we can easily replace it if it's failing.

Burning Wiring

Wiring connects the alternator to all of your car's electrical components and devices. This wiring is protected by thick plastic and rubber insulation as an engine is a harsh environment. In time, these wires can fray or break due to wear and tear. A broken wire will cut off the power to the component it's connected to, and this can cause additional problems. Your GMC computer will recognize the loss of power to the component and instruct the alternator to supply more power. As the alternator sends more electricity through the damaged wire, it will rapidly heat up. The heat from the electricity can cause the wire's insulation to catch fire. A burning plastic or rubber smell from the engine is a clue that your wiring needs to be checked.

Dim and Bright Headlights

If your headlights are dim, this could be due to an alternator fault. When an alternator can no longer supply enough power to meet demand, your GMC computer will start to shift power. The available electricity will be moved between components as needed. This can lead to strange electrical glitches as one component fails when you activate another component. Dim headlights are a sign that they're receiving only enough power to switch on. The lights may suddenly blaze brighter than they should if more power becomes available. This is an easy way to test that the alternator is the problem. Headlights are sensitive to electrical fluctuations, and you'll find that you have to replace your bulbs more frequently. Call our service department at Charles Auto Family if you have any problem with your alternator.
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Drive on Over: The Top Five Landmarks Near Garrettsville, OH

Drive on Over: The Top Five Landmarks Near Garrettsville, OH

There's nothing better than taking a new ride for a spin. Here in Garrettsville, OH we have many local and even national landmarks nearby. Cleveland, Akron, and Youngstown are all within short driving distance, and this area has so much to offer. From presidential houses to temples to theatres, there are a variety of sites that are sure to please everyone. more A Presidential Estate Did you know that Ohio has produced eight United States presidents? Our first stop is the James A. Garfield house. Garfield was the twentieth president of the United States. He served as president after the Civil War, and while his term was uneventful, his home in Hiram, OH is gorgeous. Be sure to check out the large front porch; that's where he held many campaign speeches. The house is part of the National Park Service and is located at 6825 Hinsdale St. Cascade Locks Historic District Head West to Akron to see Cascade Locks Park. It's a beautiful getaway in what used to be an abandoned urban landscape. It has since been restored to preserve the culture and heritage of the Ohio and Erie Canal systems. Check out the Mustill Store and Museum at the former Lock Fifteen to view some extraordinary exhibits and artifacts. The park is located near State Route 59 between locks ten and sixteen. Goodyear Airdock While you're in Akron, head over to the airport for a real treat. On the southern side of the airport is the Goodyear Airdock built specifically for the famous Goodyear blimps. The blimps are not an uncommon site in the area but when you see where they are housed you will be in awe of their size. The view from your new car will be perfect. Masonic Temple Are you afraid of ghosts? The Masonic Temple in Kent has been home to the Rockton Lodge 316 since 1923, however, it is also a very popular destination for paranormal investigators. It's a large structure that's very ornate and eerie and is the perfect place for a local adventure. Are ghosts real? Why don't you take the drive to find out? The temple is located at 409 Main Street. Loew's Theatre Let's head back to Akron for a little local culture. The Loew's Theatre, also known as the Akron Civic Theatre, has been hosting shows and special events for nearly 100 years. It is a breathtaking atmospheric theater, one of only five left designed by John Eberson in the United States. Check it out at 182 S. Main Street. A new Chevy will get you there in style. From beautiful countryside to bustling cityscapes, there is so much to see and do in Northeast Ohio. It is time to find that perfect car so you can experience it all. Visit Charles Auto Family to find the best ride for you.

3 Signs Your Car Needs a Transmission Repair

Your Chevy transmission smoothly translates the engine power into energy to move your car. It does this seemingly effortlessly and efficiently. The key to a smoothly running transmission is regular transmission servicing. Without this, your transmission can suffer damage, and you'll need a transmission repair. As your Chevy dealer, we can fix it for you. These are some of the possible problems we can repair. more Strange Transmission Noises Your transmission doesn't make any sounds as it shifts gears. This makes strange noises from the transmission a reason to worry. Noises from the transmission are always a sign of a problem. The particular noise helps to identify the source of the problem. Your transmission may make slight buzzing sounds, and these sounds eventually graduate to humming or whining noises. Our technicians will need to investigate the cause of the noises. One of the most common issues is a lack of transmission fluid. Transmission fluid plays many vital roles in your transmission, including reducing the heat, lubrication, and providing hydraulic power. A lack of fluid can also lead to your transmission seizing up. Once we've found the cause of the problem, we'll fix it. Leaking fluid As we saw above, transmission fluid is vital for your transmission. This fluid is pumped through the transmission and provides a friction-reducing film around all the moving components. As the fluid flows, it also helps dissipate the heat in the transmission and provides the hydraulic power that's needed to shift gears. If your transmission springs a leak, we need to repair it for you ASAP. Transmission fluid usually has a sweet smell and is bright or dark red. If you see liquid this color underneath your car, it's time to call us ASAP. Don't drive if you're leaking fluid, as you can cause serious damage to your transmission. You might also see a black, burnt-smelling liquid under your car. This is transmission fluid that's overheated and burnt. Blocked Transmission Filter Your transmission has a filter, and its job is to capture and remove any impurities or debris from the system. The fluid is pumped through your transmission, where it accumulates rust particles, clutch debris, and other loose particles in the transmission. As the fluid passes through the filter, a magnet draws the metal fragments away, and the filter captures the other detritus. Over time, the transmission filter can become clogged. A clogged filter will reduce the speed of the fluid, which can lead to transmission overheating, gear damage, and other problems. We can easily check the filter and replace it for you if needed. If your transmission shows signs of strain, come and see us at Charles Auto Family.

4 Benefits of Getting Car Financing at Your GMC Dealer

Finding a favorable car financing option is the first step to owning your dream SUV or truck. Many people don't realize you can get vehicle financing at your local GMC dealer. This is a great option because the dealer can help you with all your financing questions and quickly arrange for a car loan. Here are some benefits of getting financing at your dealer. more 1. Enjoy Competitive Rates Direct From the Manufacturer and Local Banks Dealerships have access to competitive rates direct from the manufacturer and local banks. This means that you are more likely to get a lower interest rate on your loan, which can save you money over the life of the loan. Additionally, by working with the dealer, you can avoid the hassle of shopping around for the best rate yourself. The dealer will work with you to find the best possible interest rate based on your credit history and other factors. 2. Access to a Personalized Finance Package When you choose dealer financing, you can take advantage of their personalized finance package. This package is tailored specifically to your needs, based on factors such as your credit history and the type of car you're interested in buying. The benefits of the  Package include lower interest rates, flexible repayment terms, and a range of other perks. In addition, by going through your dealer, you can rest assured that they will help find a package for you regardless of your credit score. 3. Enjoy Extended Warranty Packages The extended warranty provided by your dealership can help cover the cost of repairs if your car breaks down due to normal wear and tear. It can also provide peace of mind in knowing that you won't have to pay out of pocket if something goes wrong with your car. Before signing up, read the fine print to understand what is and is not covered. Otherwise, an extended warranty can be a great way to protect your investment and keep your car on the road for years. 4. Enjoy a Quick Auto loan Approval Getting an auto loan from your dealer can be a great way to get the car you want with quick and easy approval. Unlike banks and other credit lenders, dealerships have a streamlined financing process that makes it easy to get the loan you need. Plus, with GMC's exclusive financing offers, you can get a great rate on your auto loan. It pays to go to your local dealer when you're in the market for a new or used car. Not only will you have access to an extensive inventory of vehicles, but you can also take advantage of the great financing options. Contact us at Charles Auto Family today to kickstart your dream of owning a GMC. Our team of experts will be glad to assist you.