Fort Madison Auto Repair

If you’re shopping for a truck or trying to figure out what yours is truly capable of, you’ve probably come across terms like light-duty and heavy-duty. At first glance, the distinction might seem simple—light-duty trucks are for lighter tasks, and heavy-duty trucks are for bigger jobs. But there’s more to it than just size or towing numbers. Understanding what separates these two classes of trucks is important if you’re planning to haul, tow, or even just choose the right vehicle for everyday use. From frame strength to engine power, light-duty and heavy-duty trucks are built for very different purposes. What Is a Light-Duty Truck Light-duty trucks—like the Ford F-150, Ram 1500, or Chevy Silverado 1500—are the most common pickups on the road. They’re designed to balance towing capability, ride comfort, and fuel efficiency. Most people choose them for daily driving, home improvement projects, recreational towing (like ... read more

A rough idle can be frustrating, especially when you’re stopped at a red light or waiting in a parking lot. Instead of a steady, smooth hum, your engine may sputter, shake, or even feel like it’s about to stall. There are many possible causes of rough idling, from minor issues to more serious engine problems. Understanding why it’s happening can help you figure out if it’s something simple or if you need professional repair. Common Causes of a Rough Idle A rough idle can stem from several different issues, ranging from fuel system problems to worn-out engine components. Some of the most common causes include: Dirty or Faulty Spark Plugs Spark plugs ignite the air-fuel mixture in your engine’s cylinders. Over time, they can become dirty, worn out, or misfiring, which leads to uneven combustion. This can cause your engine to shake or stumble when idling. If your vehicle hasn’t had a tune-up in a while, replacing the ... read more

Car trouble always seems to happen at the worst possible time. Maybe you're running late for work, heading out on a long drive, or just trying to get through your day when—bam!—your car won’t start, or something starts making an unusual noise. While some breakdowns happen without warning, many can be prevented with the right maintenance and care. Keeping your car in good shape doesn’t just save you from unexpected repairs—it also makes your vehicle safer and more reliable. So, what can you do to avoid being stranded on the side of the road? Stay on Top of Regular Oil Changes Oil is the lifeblood of your engine. It lubricates moving parts, reduces friction, and helps regulate temperature. When oil gets dirty or runs low, it loses its ability to protect your engine, leading to excessive wear and potential breakdowns. Every car has a recommended oil change interval, usually found in the owner’s manual. While older vehicles needed ... read more

Have you ever wondered about the legal boundaries for exhaust noise levels in Iowa? With strict state laws and even stricter local ordinances, understanding what’s allowed can save you from fines or penalties. Whether you’re a car enthusiast tweaking your vehicle’s exhaust system or simply curious about the regulations, knowing the rules is key. Iowa's Statewide Exhaust Noise Regulations Iowa law mandates that all motor vehicles must have a muffler in good working order, continuously operating to prevent excessive or unusual noise. It’s not just about being courteous on the road—it’s the law. According to Iowa Code 321.436, it’s illegal to use muffler cut-outs, bypasses, or similar devices that amplify exhaust noise on highways. Specific Noise Limits by Vehicle Type The state has established measurable limit ... read more