Your Local Auto Repair Shop in Morton Grove, IL


Dedicated to keeping your vehicle safe and running smoothly with top-notch care.

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Customer Reviews


"Awesome guys!! Was having trouble with passing my emissions for the past 2 weeks... These guys diagnosed that all of my 4 brand new o2 sensors from amazon were defective!!  They were straight to the point... Got new ones from dealer... Boom!!!.. ALL IS GOOD!"

Perry Beldia

"Had an issue with a vibration in my front end, even with new tires. Lee found that over time shops had just added weights to the wheels. He balanced them his way and no more vibration. Said the front end of the car was solid too. Honest shop."

Eric

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Services


Essential Maintenance for Your Vehicle in Morton Grove, IL

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oil change

Regular oil changes keep your engine running smoothly and extend your vehicle's life. We use high-quality oil and filters for optimal performance.

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auto a/c

Stay comfortable year-round with our expert auto A/C services. We diagnose and repair air conditioning issues to keep your system efficient.

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electrical services

Our electrical services ensure your vehicle's systems operate flawlessly. We handle everything from battery replacements to complex diagnostics.

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Welcome to ProAuto


Excellence in Auto Repair

At ProAuto, we provide top-quality auto repair services for the Chicagoland area. Our skilled technicians bring over 100 years of expertise, committed to delivering exceptional service. We pride ourselves on our honesty, reliability, and commitment to customer satisfaction. Whether it's routine maintenance or complex repairs, you can trust us to keep your car running smoothly.

Hassle-Free Auto Service in Morton Grove, IL

Located in Morton Grove, IL, ProAuto offers a hassle-free experience for all your auto service needs. From oil changes to brake repairs, our team is here to provide efficient and reliable services. We use the latest diagnostic tools and techniques to ensure accurate and timely repairs. Visit us for a seamless auto service experience and drive away with confidence.

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Our Mission


ProAuto's Commitment to Automotive Perfection

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EFFICIENT

At ProAuto, we believe that time is of the essence. Our team works diligently to ensure every repair and service is completed swiftly without compromising on quality, so you can get back on the road sooner.

FRIENDLY

We pride ourselves on fostering a welcoming and supportive environment. From the moment you walk in, our friendly staff is dedicated to making your experience pleasant and stress-free.

TRANSPARENT

Honesty is at the core of our business. We provide clear, straightforward explanations and upfront pricing, ensuring you always know what to expect and can make informed decisions about your vehicle.

Vehicles We Service


Top-Quality Service for Cars, Trucks, SUVs, and Hybrids in Morton Grove, IL

At ProAuto, we pride ourselves on providing top-quality service for a wide range of vehicles, including cars, trucks, SUVs, and hybrids. Located in Morton Grove, IL, our experienced technicians are dedicated to ensuring your vehicle runs smoothly and efficiently. Our comprehensive services include routine maintenance and inspections, such as oil changes, brake inspections, and tire rotations. We also handle complex engine and transmission repairs with precision and care, ensuring your vehicle is in peak condition.



Additionally, we offer thorough brake services, including inspections, repairs, and replacements, as well as suspension and steering repair to maintain a smooth and controlled ride. Our electrical system diagnosis and repair services cover everything from battery replacements to diagnosing electrical issues. Stay comfortable in any season with our AC and heating system repairs and maintenance. For hybrid vehicle owners, our technicians are trained to handle the unique needs of hybrid vehicles, ensuring optimal performance and efficiency. Visit ProAuto in Morton Grove, IL, for reliable, expert service for all your vehicle needs. Our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction makes us the go-to choice for vehicle owners in the area.

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Why Choose us


Exceptional Local Auto Service. Trusted by Morton Grove, IL Residents

We are a family-owned and independently operated business, headed by a seasoned automotive technician with over 30 years of experience in car servicing. At ProAuto, exceptional customer service is our top priority, equally as important as ensuring your vehicle's safety. We strive to be your trusted partner, offering comprehensive automotive repairs and services in Morton Grove, IL.

ProAuto Perks and Benefits:

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Drop Off Service

A convenient way to leave your car, ensuring it receives expert care while you carry on with your day.

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Local Shuttle Service

A transportation, allowing you to drop off your automobile and get a ride to your needed destination.

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Contactless Auto Repair

Safe way to have your automobile serviced without direct contact, maintaining all hygiene standards.

** Please contact us to learn more about the above services. Oil changes are not included for drop off or local shuttle services.

Frequently Asked Questions


  • What are your business hours?

    Our business hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. We're here to serve you during these hours for all your auto service needs.

  • Where are you located?

    We are located at 6100 W Dempster St, Morton Grove, IL 60053. Conveniently situated to serve the Morton Grove community and surrounding areas.

  • What types of vehicles do you work on?

    We work on a wide range of vehicles, including domestic and foreign makes and models. Our skilled technicians are equipped to handle various auto repair and maintenance needs.

  • Can I book an appointment online?

    Yes, you can easily book an appointment online through the button below. This convenient option allows you to schedule your visit at any time.

  • Are Your Services Cost-Effective?

    Yes, ProAuto offers high-quality services at competitive prices, making it a more reasonable alternative to dealership services without compromising on quality.

  • Do you offer any discounts?

    We offer various discounts and promotions throughout the year. Check our Coupons page or contact us to learn about current offers.

  • Can I check on the status of my car at the shop?

    Yes, you can check on the status of your car while it's at our shop just call us at (847) 232-7777. We provide updates to keep you informed about the progress of your vehicle's service.

  • Are you hiring?

    Yes, we are always looking for talented individuals to join our team. Please visit our Careers page or contact us for current job openings.

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Our Latest News


By Julie Hardegree 17 Oct, 2024
Road trips in winter with the family can be a whole bunch of fun, but it does take some serious planning to make sure you and your loved ones enjoy comfort and safety simultaneously. Not to mention that winter's just around the corner and with colder temperatures (and stickier roads) on their way, you'll want to be sure your car is ready for cold-weather driving. Needless to say, those snowy drives will happen soon…A quick list of things you can do in advance is not a bad idea. Before hitting the road, it is imperative to consider some items that you need to prepare with for your vehicle in winter conditions. With all of your check-marks complete, from the tires with proper grip to an emergency kit that has been pre-packed, there can be no lost time when it comes displaying just how ready you are for the next journey; every piece is a necessity as you gear up yourself and any family members prepared for what lies ahead. Here is a step-by-step guide to prepare your car for winter. Inspect and Replace Tires for Optimal Traction Inspect tire tread for safety: Start by checking your tread depth. When the weather is rainy or snowy good traction is a key factor and sufficient tread depth guarantees that there´s enough of it. Measuring tire with tread depth gauge, If the tread depth is 4/32 of an inch or less, it may behoove you to think about a new set of tires. No kidding - good tread will keep your car stable and controllable, even in the worst of icy conditions. In fact, tire tread patterns DO influence performance on snow. V-shaped grooves on directional tires create the best traction when driving in snow. The thicker the tread depth, the more traction you will have (i.e., helpful for driving in snow / sand / dirt and gravel). A combination of treads can lead to imbalanced handling and steering, The more aggressive lug design on the tread offer additional grip and control n snow conditions. Symmetrical represents energy conserving, long-life tires and asymmetry equals good wet grip. The correct tread pattern must be selected, in accordance with the differing driving conditions to assist grip and also performance. Maintain proper tire pressure: Tire pressure can drop in cold weather which saps your cars handling and fuel efficiency. Check and keep up the right tire pressure per your vehicle's owner manual or you can find it on the driverside inside the door frame. What happens with a tire during cold temperatures is the air it contains—air being gas—is caused to contract, so there ends up less of it inside that same compartment. This lower air pressure can cause the tire to contact more of the road surface, which improves its ability against weaker tractions and provides a safer drive, especially in winter and slippery roads. Changing the internal tire air pressure to match different road situations can help improve a tire's performance. Consider winter tires for enhanced grip: Winter tires (also called snow tires) are made to have better grip in colder temperatures and provide you with greater traction on icy roads so that you don't end up sliding off the road. These are constructed with a specific rubber compound that keeps them more pliable in cold weather, which works to increase the amount of contact they have on an icy road. Winter tires have distinctive open sipes along the entire tire tread, on the shoulder of the tire. They are very effective during dry conditions, as well as in wet and snowy/icy ones. A tread pattern is coarse is NOT for Snow! — Summer tires, on the other hand are fitted with coarse tread patterns which makes them unsuitable in winter conditions. The winter tire features softer rubber compounds, then summer tires which have stiffer and better performance in this season. Rubber is optimized with temperatures at or below 7°C; We highly recommend Winter Tires for Safe Driving. Inspect and Maintain the Battery Identify signs of wear and corrosion: Inspect the battery to see if it is worn out or corroded to start with. Make sure no cracks or bulging of the battery case is present along with inspecting for terminals that may have corrosion on them, which can reduce and stop all flow of electricity. And should the need arise, rinse any corrosion off your terminals by applying a mixture of baking soda and water to both sides. Corrosive conditions are one of the main culprits, with other aspects such as moisture, dirt buildup and age of battery coming into play. Cleaning the terminals with a baking soda mixture or battery terminal cleaner and then applying corrosion preventative spray can reduce occurrences of corrosion. Ensure the battery is fully charged: A 12.6 volt battery is a fully charged one. Check the voltage with a multimeter; it should be at an acceptable level. Some of the leading brands of car batteries with an exceptional reputation for best performance and durability are Odyssey, Exide Optima and DieHard. To stay away from unexpected breakdowns, drivers should definitely select the best possible car battery before heading out on a lengthy adventure. Ensure Proper Fluid Levels Check the oil level of your engine, as well as antifreeze and brake fluid to help performance even in winter driving conditions. Winter-grade oil should be used when you expect extremely cold conditions. Check the antifreeze level, and if it's been a while, consider flushing the system. Inspect the brake fluid level and fill as needed. Top off windshield washer fluid: Make sure you're using a low temp rated washer fluid so it doesn't freeze in the reservoir or on your windshield. Fill the washer fluid reservoir and ensure that the nozzles work. Inspect and Replace Wiper Blades Check for wear and functionality: Take a look to see if your wiper blades are worn, with cracks or no rubber. When blades are not doing a good job of cleaning off your windshield. It's time to get new ones. In general, stick with winter wiper blades (which are usually better at clearing ice and snow than regular ones). Check Heating and Defrosting System Test the car's heater: For efficiency. Start your car and let it run for a few minutes, then turn on the heater. Ensure it's blowing warm air consistently. If the heater isn't working properly, it could be due to a clogged heater core or low coolant levels. Ensure the defroster maintains clear visibility: Turn on the defroster and see how long it takes to clear the windshield. If It takes too long, or it does nothing at all. Bring it to a professional for inspection. Inspect Belts and Hoses Look for cracks and wear: Look at them for signs of wear, like cracking or fraying. The belts should not be glazed either. The belt specifically to watch is the serpentine, which drives everything from your engine-controlled accessories. A snapped belt can cause your engine to overheat and other catastrophic failures. Harmful, abhorrent damaged belts or hoses should be regularly inspected and replaced to avoid potential breakdowns. Replace damaged parts to avoid breakdowns: Change any loose belts or hoses immediately. Catching these potential failures before they happen and taking preventative action can deter most winter breakdowns, just by keeping up with the proper maintenance of all associated components. Prepare an Emergency Kit Essential Items to Include for Safety: Pack warm blankets, a change of clothes and non-perishable snacks in your emergency kit along with water, flashlight (and spare batteries), first-aid supplies, jumper cables or booster cables that are long enough to connect the vehicles safely; small shovel ice scrapper sand or cat litter for traction and road flares. Check Lights and Signals Verify the functionality of all Lights: Check each light individually to ensure it's working correctly. Have someone stand outside the car while you test the lights to confirm they are functioning as expected. Pay special attention to brake lights and turn signals. Replace burnt-out bulbs for safety: If you do find any burnt bulbs, replaced them straight away. Stashing a few bulbs in your car is helpful for fast changeouts while on the road. Final Checklist Wrap-Up After you have readied your automobile for the colder months in winter, it is best to review a final list of everything on this helpful checklist. Follow this wrap-up so that you are prepared and feel confident on your winter road trip! In summary — key preparation steps: Check and change tires when necessary inspect vehicle batteries and test life of the battery top all fluids off (transmission fluid coolant) check wiper blades to confirm they’re functioning properly make sure your heating/defrosting system is working too while at it you can also look up belts/hoses for any wear & tear prepare an emergency kit with basic supplies in case anything fails during a long drive. All signal lights are working. Regular maintenance reminder: Regular maintenance is key to protecting your car during the tough winter months. Make sure to see your mechanic regularly and tackle these problems before they get out of hand. If you are proactive with maintaining your car, it will save you both time and money in the long run. Frequently Asked Questions What Winter Gear is Essential for Road Trips? Pack essential winter weather gear such as warm blankets, extra clothing and non-perishable snacks along with water for every person in the vehicle; a flashlight or LED flare with extra batteries; first-aid kit; jumper cables; small shovel – if possible to remove snow from around stuck tires A light-emitting diode flashlights; ice scraper and Road flares. How Often Should Tire Pressure Be Checked? During the winter, you should look at tire pressure no less than once a month. Cold winter weather can lead to a reduction in tire pressure, which can result in poor vehicle handling and lower fuel economy. Check that your tires are at the right pressure using a tire gauge. What is the Best Way to Clean Battery Terminals? TClean off the battery terminals with a mixture of baking soda and water. Use a brush to apply the mixture and gently scrub it on - any corrosion will be removed! Wash it down with water and allow the cables to dry thoroughly before joining them back together. Properly cleaned terminals help your car's electrical system work more efficiently. How Do Winter Tires Improve Safety? Winter tires are made from a different rubber compound that retains its flexibility in colder temperatures to give better traction on snow and ice. They also feature more intense tread patterns for better traction to lessen skidding, which improves safety when driving in wintry conditions.
By Julie Hardegree 15 Aug, 2024
Recognizing when your car battery needs replacement is crucial for every vehicle owner. A failing battery can lead to frustrating breakdowns, leaving you stranded at the most inconvenient times. In this comprehensive guide, you will learn the telltale signs that indicate it's time to replace your car battery. From slow engine cranking and dashboard warning lights to electrical issues and age-related factors, this guide covers all the essential indicators of a dying battery. You will discover proactive maintenance tips to prolong your battery's lifespan and avoid unexpected failures on the road. Recognizing Signs of a Failing Car Battery Dim Headlights and Interior Lights Dim headlights or interior lights can signal a failing battery. If your car's lights appear noticeably dimmer, especially when starting the engine or driving at night, it may indicate that the battery is struggling to provide sufficient power. This issue can worsen when you use other electrical components, like the radio or air conditioning, which draw additional power from the already strained battery. Clicking Sound When Turning the Key Hearing a clicking sound when you try to start your vehicle is another clear indication of a weakening battery. This noise occurs when the battery fails to supply enough power to engage the starter motor effectively. Ignoring this issue can worsen battery damage and potentially leave you stranded. Slow Engine Crank If your engine cranks slowly or takes longer than usual to start, it’s a strong sign that your car battery may be nearing the end of its life. A sluggish start indicates that the battery is losing its ability to deliver the necessary power to initiate the engine. Factors Influencing Car Battery Lifespan Quality of the Battery The quality of your car battery significantly impacts its lifespan. High-quality batteries are designed to last longer and can withstand various conditions, often coming with extended warranties. Conversely, lower-quality batteries may deteriorate more quickly, leading to a shorter lifespan. Vehicle's Usage Patterns How you use your vehicle also affects the battery's lifespan. Frequent short trips can prevent the alternator from fully recharging the battery, while longer highway drives provide better recharging opportunities. Additionally, extreme temperatures can significantly impact the battery's performance; colder climates may reduce capacity, while hotter climates can accelerate internal corrosion. Impact of Climate on Car Battery Performance Extreme Temperatures Extreme weather conditions can weaken your car battery. Cold temperatures slow down chemical reactions within the battery, making it harder for the engine to start. Conversely, excessive heat can lead to evaporation of the battery's electrolyte, causing internal damage and shortening its lifespan. How Driving Habits Affect Battery Longevity Frequent Short Trips Drain the Battery Frequent short trips can significantly reduce your car battery's lifespan. Each time you start the engine, the battery draws power without sufficient time to recharge, leading to a gradual drain. This cycle can accelerate wear and tear, necessitating earlier replacement. Overusing Electronic Accessories Drains the Battery Leaving electronic accessories on while the engine is off can quickly drain the battery. Devices like headlights and entertainment systems consume power directly from the battery, reducing its charge and lifespan over time. Testing Your Car Battery's Health Checking Voltage with a Multimeter To assess your car battery's health, use a multimeter to measure its voltage. Ensure the vehicle is off and all electrical systems are deactivated. A healthy battery should read around 12.6 volts. Lower readings may indicate a loss of charge capacity and the need for replacement. Conducting a Load Test at an Auto Shop A load test performed at an auto shop can reveal hidden issues. Professionals simulate real-world conditions by applying an electrical load to gauge how well the battery performs under stress. If the battery struggles during this test, it may be time for a replacement. Checking for Corrosion on Battery Terminals Regularly inspect your battery terminals for corrosion. Clean any buildup to ensure a solid electrical connection, which is vital for optimal battery performance. Choosing the Right Replacement Battery Consider the Vehicle's Specifications When selecting a replacement battery, check your vehicle's manual for specific requirements, including group size, cold cranking amps (CCA), and reserve capacity (RC). Choosing a battery that meets or exceeds these specifications ensures optimal performance. Select a Reliable Brand with Good Reviews Opt for well-reviewed brands known for reliability, such as Optima, DieHard, ACDelco, and Interstate Batteries. Consumer reviews can provide valuable insights into battery performance and longevity. Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Your Car Battery Safety Precautions Before starting the replacement process, park your car in a safe, well-lit area. Wear protective gloves and eyewear to prevent accidents while handling the battery. Disconnecting the Cables Begin by disconnecting the negative terminal first, followed by the positive terminal. This order minimizes electrical hazards during removal. Tips for Extending Your Car Battery's Life Keep it Clean Regularly clean the battery terminals to prevent corrosion, which can lead to poor connectivity. A mixture of baking soda and water works well for cleaning. Limit Short Trips Try to minimize short trips to allow the alternator sufficient time to recharge the battery. Consider using a trickle charger for vehicles that sit idle for extended periods. Turn Off Electronics Ensure all electronics are turned off when the engine is off. Leaving devices running can drain the battery's charge. Importance of Regular Car Battery Maintenance Prevents Unexpected Breakdowns Regular maintenance helps ensure your car battery remains in optimal condition, reducing the risk of unexpected breakdowns. Extends Overall Vehicle Lifespan A well-maintained battery supports various electrical components, contributing to the overall health and longevity of your vehicle. Final Remarks Understanding the signs of a failing car battery and the factors influencing its lifespan is crucial for every vehicle owner. By recognizing these signs and taking proactive measures, you can ensure the longevity of your car's battery. This comprehensive guide equips car owners with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions about their batteries, ultimately saving time, money, and inconvenience. Frequently Asked Questions How can I recognize signs of a failing car battery? Look for slow engine cranking, dashboard warning lights, and dim headlights. If you notice electrical issues or unusual odors, it may indicate a failing battery. What factors influence car battery lifespan? Driving habits, weather conditions, and vehicle type affect battery lifespan. Short trips, extreme temperatures, and frequent use of electronic accessories can all impact longevity. How do driving habits affect battery longevity? Frequent short trips prevent the alternator from fully recharging the battery, leading to premature wear. Excessive use of electronic devices while the engine is off can drain the battery. What are some common causes of dead car batteries? Common causes include leaving headlights or interior lights on, old age, extreme temperatures, and parasitic drains from malfunctioning components. Why is regular maintenance important for my car's battery? Regular maintenance helps detect issues early on and ensures proper functioning, reducing the risk of sudden power loss while driving.
By Julie Hardegree 17 Oct, 2024
Road trips in winter with the family can be a whole bunch of fun, but it does take some serious planning to make sure you and your loved ones enjoy comfort and safety simultaneously. Not to mention that winter's just around the corner and with colder temperatures (and stickier roads) on their way, you'll want to be sure your car is ready for cold-weather driving. Needless to say, those snowy drives will happen soon…A quick list of things you can do in advance is not a bad idea. Before hitting the road, it is imperative to consider some items that you need to prepare with for your vehicle in winter conditions. With all of your check-marks complete, from the tires with proper grip to an emergency kit that has been pre-packed, there can be no lost time when it comes displaying just how ready you are for the next journey; every piece is a necessity as you gear up yourself and any family members prepared for what lies ahead. Here is a step-by-step guide to prepare your car for winter. Inspect and Replace Tires for Optimal Traction Inspect tire tread for safety: Start by checking your tread depth. When the weather is rainy or snowy good traction is a key factor and sufficient tread depth guarantees that there´s enough of it. Measuring tire with tread depth gauge, If the tread depth is 4/32 of an inch or less, it may behoove you to think about a new set of tires. No kidding - good tread will keep your car stable and controllable, even in the worst of icy conditions. In fact, tire tread patterns DO influence performance on snow. V-shaped grooves on directional tires create the best traction when driving in snow. The thicker the tread depth, the more traction you will have (i.e., helpful for driving in snow / sand / dirt and gravel). A combination of treads can lead to imbalanced handling and steering, The more aggressive lug design on the tread offer additional grip and control n snow conditions. Symmetrical represents energy conserving, long-life tires and asymmetry equals good wet grip. The correct tread pattern must be selected, in accordance with the differing driving conditions to assist grip and also performance. Maintain proper tire pressure: Tire pressure can drop in cold weather which saps your cars handling and fuel efficiency. Check and keep up the right tire pressure per your vehicle's owner manual or you can find it on the driverside inside the door frame. What happens with a tire during cold temperatures is the air it contains—air being gas—is caused to contract, so there ends up less of it inside that same compartment. This lower air pressure can cause the tire to contact more of the road surface, which improves its ability against weaker tractions and provides a safer drive, especially in winter and slippery roads. Changing the internal tire air pressure to match different road situations can help improve a tire's performance. Consider winter tires for enhanced grip: Winter tires (also called snow tires) are made to have better grip in colder temperatures and provide you with greater traction on icy roads so that you don't end up sliding off the road. These are constructed with a specific rubber compound that keeps them more pliable in cold weather, which works to increase the amount of contact they have on an icy road. Winter tires have distinctive open sipes along the entire tire tread, on the shoulder of the tire. They are very effective during dry conditions, as well as in wet and snowy/icy ones. A tread pattern is coarse is NOT for Snow! — Summer tires, on the other hand are fitted with coarse tread patterns which makes them unsuitable in winter conditions. The winter tire features softer rubber compounds, then summer tires which have stiffer and better performance in this season. Rubber is optimized with temperatures at or below 7°C; We highly recommend Winter Tires for Safe Driving. Inspect and Maintain the Battery Identify signs of wear and corrosion: Inspect the battery to see if it is worn out or corroded to start with. Make sure no cracks or bulging of the battery case is present along with inspecting for terminals that may have corrosion on them, which can reduce and stop all flow of electricity. And should the need arise, rinse any corrosion off your terminals by applying a mixture of baking soda and water to both sides. Corrosive conditions are one of the main culprits, with other aspects such as moisture, dirt buildup and age of battery coming into play. Cleaning the terminals with a baking soda mixture or battery terminal cleaner and then applying corrosion preventative spray can reduce occurrences of corrosion. Ensure the battery is fully charged: A 12.6 volt battery is a fully charged one. Check the voltage with a multimeter; it should be at an acceptable level. Some of the leading brands of car batteries with an exceptional reputation for best performance and durability are Odyssey, Exide Optima and DieHard. To stay away from unexpected breakdowns, drivers should definitely select the best possible car battery before heading out on a lengthy adventure. Ensure Proper Fluid Levels Check the oil level of your engine, as well as antifreeze and brake fluid to help performance even in winter driving conditions. Winter-grade oil should be used when you expect extremely cold conditions. Check the antifreeze level, and if it's been a while, consider flushing the system. Inspect the brake fluid level and fill as needed. Top off windshield washer fluid: Make sure you're using a low temp rated washer fluid so it doesn't freeze in the reservoir or on your windshield. Fill the washer fluid reservoir and ensure that the nozzles work. Inspect and Replace Wiper Blades Check for wear and functionality: Take a look to see if your wiper blades are worn, with cracks or no rubber. When blades are not doing a good job of cleaning off your windshield. It's time to get new ones. In general, stick with winter wiper blades (which are usually better at clearing ice and snow than regular ones). Check Heating and Defrosting System Test the car's heater: For efficiency. Start your car and let it run for a few minutes, then turn on the heater. Ensure it's blowing warm air consistently. If the heater isn't working properly, it could be due to a clogged heater core or low coolant levels. Ensure the defroster maintains clear visibility: Turn on the defroster and see how long it takes to clear the windshield. If It takes too long, or it does nothing at all. Bring it to a professional for inspection. Inspect Belts and Hoses Look for cracks and wear: Look at them for signs of wear, like cracking or fraying. The belts should not be glazed either. The belt specifically to watch is the serpentine, which drives everything from your engine-controlled accessories. A snapped belt can cause your engine to overheat and other catastrophic failures. Harmful, abhorrent damaged belts or hoses should be regularly inspected and replaced to avoid potential breakdowns. Replace damaged parts to avoid breakdowns: Change any loose belts or hoses immediately. Catching these potential failures before they happen and taking preventative action can deter most winter breakdowns, just by keeping up with the proper maintenance of all associated components. Prepare an Emergency Kit Essential Items to Include for Safety: Pack warm blankets, a change of clothes and non-perishable snacks in your emergency kit along with water, flashlight (and spare batteries), first-aid supplies, jumper cables or booster cables that are long enough to connect the vehicles safely; small shovel ice scrapper sand or cat litter for traction and road flares. Check Lights and Signals Verify the functionality of all Lights: Check each light individually to ensure it's working correctly. Have someone stand outside the car while you test the lights to confirm they are functioning as expected. Pay special attention to brake lights and turn signals. Replace burnt-out bulbs for safety: If you do find any burnt bulbs, replaced them straight away. Stashing a few bulbs in your car is helpful for fast changeouts while on the road. Final Checklist Wrap-Up After you have readied your automobile for the colder months in winter, it is best to review a final list of everything on this helpful checklist. Follow this wrap-up so that you are prepared and feel confident on your winter road trip! In summary — key preparation steps: Check and change tires when necessary inspect vehicle batteries and test life of the battery top all fluids off (transmission fluid coolant) check wiper blades to confirm they’re functioning properly make sure your heating/defrosting system is working too while at it you can also look up belts/hoses for any wear & tear prepare an emergency kit with basic supplies in case anything fails during a long drive. All signal lights are working. Regular maintenance reminder: Regular maintenance is key to protecting your car during the tough winter months. Make sure to see your mechanic regularly and tackle these problems before they get out of hand. If you are proactive with maintaining your car, it will save you both time and money in the long run. Frequently Asked Questions What Winter Gear is Essential for Road Trips? Pack essential winter weather gear such as warm blankets, extra clothing and non-perishable snacks along with water for every person in the vehicle; a flashlight or LED flare with extra batteries; first-aid kit; jumper cables; small shovel – if possible to remove snow from around stuck tires A light-emitting diode flashlights; ice scraper and Road flares. How Often Should Tire Pressure Be Checked? During the winter, you should look at tire pressure no less than once a month. Cold winter weather can lead to a reduction in tire pressure, which can result in poor vehicle handling and lower fuel economy. Check that your tires are at the right pressure using a tire gauge. What is the Best Way to Clean Battery Terminals? TClean off the battery terminals with a mixture of baking soda and water. Use a brush to apply the mixture and gently scrub it on - any corrosion will be removed! Wash it down with water and allow the cables to dry thoroughly before joining them back together. Properly cleaned terminals help your car's electrical system work more efficiently. How Do Winter Tires Improve Safety? Winter tires are made from a different rubber compound that retains its flexibility in colder temperatures to give better traction on snow and ice. They also feature more intense tread patterns for better traction to lessen skidding, which improves safety when driving in wintry conditions.
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Auto Repair Mechanic Near Me


Premier Auto Repair and Maintenance in Morton Grove, IL for Surrounding North Shore and Northwest Suburb Communities

Nestled in the heart of Morton Grove, IL - part of the Greater Chicago metropolitan area, ProAuto is your premier destination for exceptional auto repair services. As a BBB Accredited Business, we pride ourselves on delivering reliable and skilled maintenance for your vehicle. Our convenient location makes it easy for residents of Morton Grove and the surrounding areas to access top-quality automotive care.


Our service areas include:

  • Golf, IL
  • Glencoe, IL
  • Skokie, IL
  • Northfield, IL
  • Morton Grove, IL
  • Niles, IL
  • Glenview, IL
  • Park Ridge, IL
  • Wilmette, IL
  • Evanston, IL
  • Des Plaines, IL
  • Palatine, IL
  • Northbrook, IL
  • Winnetka, IL
  • Lincolnwood, IL
  • Wheeling, IL
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