Spring arrives this month in West Michigan, and some of us may be spending an upcoming weekend getting their summer vehicle out of storage. During this process, it’s not uncommon to find things not working like they should, or even not working at all. The causes are as varied as the issues, but there are some common systems that can be affected while your vehicle is in storage.

In this article, we’ll cover some common issues you may see when taking your vehicle out of storage (or even just driving less over the winter,) things you can do to fix them, or what to look for that signal deeper issues beneath the hood. We’ll even include a couple of tips for winterizing your vehicle for a hassle-free 2023 season!

My Vehicle Doesn’t Even Try To Start

If you bring your vehicle out of winter storage and find it doesn’t start at all, it is most likely the battery. Batteries and extreme temperatures do not mix, so the first step is disconnecting your battery and taking it to the Borgman Service Center for testing. In most cases, charging or replacing your battery fixes the issue.

Next fall, we recommend disconnecting your battery, covering the posts with safety caps, and storing it somewhere warm for the winter. Make sure you take precautions against leaks and short circuits!

My Vehicle Tries To Start, But Sputters and Stalls

If you turn your ignition over and there’s a lot of sputtering, stalling, uneven idling or stalling, there could be a number of causes. However, there are only three main things to look for: fuel, air flow, and spark. A disruption to any of these will cause misfires, rough idle, or the engine shutting off entirely.

First, ask yourself if you put in fuel stabilizer when you stored the car last fall. If not, expired gasoline is likely the culprit. This one is easy enough to fix yourself. Get a bucket and a hand-siphon (both are very inexpensive) and remove the gas from the tank. Replace with fresh gasoline using an approved container and try again.

If that doesn’t work, check your air intake. It’s not uncommon to find that critters have taken up residence inside the air filter over the winter, or even the tailpipe. This is also a good time to replace your engine and cabin air filter anyway. You an find these at the Borgman Parts counter.

If you’re handy, you can remove the spark plugs to make sure they’re clear of carbon deposits and the wires are in good shape. We would be happy to check for you too if you have concerns.

In the fall, many people storing vehicles will go around the vehicle looking for places rodents might hide like the tailpipe and air intake. Plugging these areas with steel wool works great, (just don’t forget to take them out in the spring) and spreading moth balls under the vehicle adds an extra deterrent.

I Have Warning Lights On My Dashboard, But The Parts Are Ok

Usually when you see your dashboard light up like a Christmas tree in the spring, it’s a sign that something has taken to chewing on your wiring harness. Take a look at the wires under the hood and see if you can spot any obvious damage, but this is likely something the Borgman Service Center will need to handle. Take a look above for tips on keeping little critters away from your vehicle.

My Car Drives Lumpy

If you’ve had your vehicle sit on one spot the whole winter, chances are your tires have developed a flat spot. In less severe cases, you can even these out by driving for a while on a warm day but usually it means they’ll need to be replaced. Performance tires and low-profile tires are especially vulnerable.

There are a couple of ways to mitigate this over the winter. The easiest is to simply park the vehicle on plywood (which also can protect your garage from drips – more on this below.) Make sure you chock the wheels in case the parking brake gives out, and once a month go in and either raise each wheel with a jack and spin the tire, or just push it into another position. Use chalk to mark what part of the tire was touching the floor.

Another thing you could do is store the vehicle on jack stands all winter, but some argue this isn’t great for the suspension and there’s risk of injuring yourself or others.

Coolant Leaked All Over The Garage

If coolant leaked onto the floor, what likely happened is your coolant was too worn out to sustain colder temperatures and froze. When water freezes, it expands and this will crack hoses (which are already more brittle in the cold) or break the joins to the tank and radiator. If you’re handy and have an attention to detail you can try fixing this yourself but the Borgman Service Center can help too.

Next fall, make sure you take your vehicle in and have the coolant tested before storage. If it’s not up to snuff, you’ll need to get the system flushed before winter. Same goes for the transmission!

Leaks can happen, especially if your vehicle is classic or vintage. That’s why we also recommend putting a tarp down under the vehicle to prevent stains on the floor.

Other Things You Can Do To Prepare

Storing a vehicle for the winter is definitely doable on a budget – your biggest expense will likely be plywood for the tires. However, the best way to save time and money in the long run is to store the vehicle correctly. In addition to what we’ve already mentioned, here are some additional things you can do to make getting the vehicle out for spring easy:

• Change your oil before storage: Motor oil can build up contaminants that will soak into your engine parts over time. Getting an oil change right before putting it away will mitigate that risk. Be sure to check the oil level and color before running the engine in the spring!
• Wash thoroughly and use a car cover: Giving your vehicle some serious love before putting it away will pay dividends. Removing dirt, grime, and acids from the paint will ensure they don’t soak in and ruin the finish during the winter. Adding a layer of wax will further protect the paint. Letting it completely dry and using a car cover keeps dust off while in storage too, so it’s sparkling clean in the spring.
• Put moisture absorbers in the cabin
• Adding desiccants to the cabin will help keep that musty odor away in the spring. It’s also better for your health too!

Get Ready For Spring at the Borgman Service Center

If you’ve taken your vehicle out for spring and found issues or just want a checkup, the Borgman Service Center is here to keep you moving. Use our easy Online Scheduler to set up your appointment, then check out our Service Coupons for big savings this spring. We service all makes and models, and it’d be our pleasure to help you get the most out of your vehicle this summer. Come see why we’re the Best in the West!

Posted in News, Parts, Service | No Comments »

Many in West Michigan rely on All-Wheel Drive or Four-Wheel Drive to get to their destinations safely in the winter weather. While front-wheel drive has advantages over rear-wheel drive in slick conditions, nothing beats having all four wheels working together to keep you moving.

Naturally, having all four wheels receive power means there’s more moving parts to your vehicle, so in this article we’ll explain what those parts are called and how they function as well as how to maintain them. We’ll also cover the key differences between all-wheel drive and four-wheel drive. Let’s take a look!

Why All-Wheel Drive and Four-Wheel Drive Are Preferred in Winter Weather

With all-wheel drive and four-wheel drive (AWD and 4WD/4×4*) all four of your wheels are receiving turning power or torque from the transmission and pushing the vehicle forward. In slippery conditions, this means the force required to get the vehicle moving from a stop is spread out twice as much as with front-wheel drive, and the chances of all four wheels not having any traction is lower.

If you’ve ever been stuck in the snow with a front-wheel drive vehicle and needed people to get out and physically push to get you going again, this works on a similar principle. The rear wheels are there to spread out the required traction and push from the back in addition to pulling from the front.

Bear in mind the old adage, “Four wheel drive doesn’t mean four wheel stop.” This applies to all-wheel drive too. While it isn’t exactly true, as each wheel has their own brake, the message is that just because you can get moving easier doesn’t mean it’s easier to stop. Always give yourself extra space in slippery conditions.

*4×4 actually means “number of wheels” by “how many of them are powered.” In most cases with consumer vehicles, there are four wheels and four of them receive power. If a vehicle had six wheels, it may still have four-wheel drive but wouldn’t be a 4×4, it’d be a 6×4.

What Is The Difference Between All-Wheel Drive and Four-Wheel Drive?

AWD and 4WD work mostly the same way, but there is a key difference between them.

In an AWD vehicle, power is distributed between all four wheels independently, meaning if a wheel loses traction, it receives less power and the other three turn with more force to compensate. Most modern AWD systems are controlled electronically and will automatically activate when needed.

In a 4WD vehicle, the front wheels operate as normal but the rear wheels will each receive the same amount of power. Before you think this is a disadvantage over all-wheel drive, it’s actually preferred for drivers living outside the city on roads that don’t get plowed often. Some 4WD vehicles allow you to change the settings too based on the conditions or your preferences.

In short, All-Wheel Drive is preferable for city and suburban driving, while Four-Wheel Drive is better suited for more rural conditions.

Do All-Wheel Drive and Four-Wheel Drive Vehicles Need Extra Maintenance?

Short answer: not really. While there are extra parts such as differentials, sensors, axles, and driveshaft that will eventually need service, during your routine checkups and maintenance your technician will only need to check the fluid in the differential (or differentials on AWD.)

That being said, the important thing is to make sure that your transmission fluid is changed on a regular basis. This is true for front-wheel drive vehicles as well. Manufacturer specifications vary wildly on this, but Borgman recommends that your transmission be flushed every 36,000 miles. Your transmission fluid acts as both a lubricant for all of the intricate, moving parts inside as well as a coolant, so it’s of the utmost importance it’s replaced before it starts to chemically break down.

Keep Your Vehicle Ready For Anything at the Borgman Service Center in Grand Rapids MI

Stay one step ahead of the West Michigan winter weather with regular maintenance. Making sure your all-wheel or four-wheel drive system is in good order is key, but other things like tires, coolant, brakes, and your battery play a part too.

The experts at the Borgman Service Center are here to keep your vehicle running like new all year long. Use our easy Online Scheduler to make your appointment, then head over to our Service Specials to save on services you need most. Our customer service is what has set us apart for over 60 years, and we’re here to keep you moving. Come see why we’re the Best in the West!

Posted in News, Service | No Comments »

It’s been a milder winter in West Michigan so far, but the nights are still cold enough to freeze a battery. If you’ve been having trouble starting your vehicle in the morning, it’s probably time to replace it.

Batteries contain chemicals which react to store and discharge electricity. Your vehicle’s battery needs to store enough power to turn over the engine via the starter motor. This is more difficult in the cold for two reasons: first, motor oil is slightly more viscous in cold weather which creates more resistance, and secondly, the cold slows down the chemical reaction that releases electricity.

If your battery is getting worn out, you may not notice until the cold weather arrives. While you should replace your battery every 5 years, sometimes you need one sooner. In this article, we’ll explain how batteries work, why they wear out, and things you can do to prolong their life.

What Purpose Does a Battery Serve on a Vehicle?

Auto batteries serve two main functions within a vehicle:

• Store and deliver enough power for the starter motor and spark plugs to start the engine.
• Manage “keep alive” functions like clocks, security, and memory.

When you start your vehicle, the battery sends about 400 amps of current to the starter motor, turning the engine over until combustion starts. Once the engine is running, the Alternator generates electricity for the spark plugs and everything else in your vehicle that needs electricity like your headlights, dashboard, stereo, and more. It also recharges the battery for next time.

How Do I Keep My Battery Healthy

Maintaining a battery is pretty easy. With normal use, your battery should last about 5 years with low to no maintenance.

Vehicle batteries are designed to deliver a lot of power all at once, but draining them all the way will damage them. Each time this happens it shortens the life of your battery. You can prevent this by ensuring accessories and lights are turned off when you get out of the vehicle. However, a dead battery can happen to the best of us and once or twice usually isn’t a big deal.

Quick Fix For Corroded Terminals

If you sometimes have trouble starting, sometimes not, it might not be the battery itself – it could be corroded terminals. If it’s an issue, you’ll see it right away: blue-green deposits on the battery posts but don’t touch it. The Borgman Service Center can fix for you, but with a little elbow grease and a measure of caution, you can also clean these up yourself. All you’ll need a wrench, baking soda, an old toothbrush, a tub with hot water, and safety gear.

Safely disconnect the battery while wearing gloves and eye protection, then scrub the corrosion off of the posts with some baking soda and warm water. An old, plastic toothbrush works best for this. If you’re in a pinch, such as on the side of the road, you can also use a little bit of cola or any soft drink that contains sodium bicarbonate. It could work well enough to get you home for a proper cleaning.

Once they’re clean, thoroughly dry the terminals and battery posts and thinly coat them with dielectric grease or petroleum jelly. Then, reconnect the battery per your manual’s instructions.

If you see any cracks or leaks in your battery, stop immediately, bag it up, and bring it in to the Borgman Service Center to legally recycle it and for a replacement.

Having Battery or Electrical Issues? Trust The Experts at the Borgman Service Center

If you’re having trouble starting your vehicle or strange electrical issues, the Borgman Service Center Team is here to help. Use our easy Online Scheduler to make your appointment online or feel free to Contact Us by email or phone to discuss your vehicle.

We’ve been keeping West Michigan moving for over 60 years and counting. Come see why we’re the Best in the West!

Posted in News, Service | No Comments »

West Michigan is already seeing regular snowfall, and early on in the season you’re bound to see more traffic accidents than usual. Slippery conditions can appear out of nowhere too – one minute it’s sunny and the roads are merely wet, then the temperature drops and the interstate turns into an ice rink. Worse yet, sudden lake-effect snow storms can impact your visibility and handling. Driving here in the winter means you need to be adaptable and patient. The good news is that by just internalizing some simple techniques you can become a winter driving pro.

Below, we’ve gathered up some simple things you can do to keep you, your passengers, and other motorists safe. Some of these things are driving tips, others are things you can do outside of driving to improve your vehicle’s performance and preparedness. Take a look below, and Schedule An Appointment with the Borgman Service Center in Grand Rapids for upgrades such as winter tires, or if you are noticing certain features like Anti-Lock Brakes not working properly.

How To Prepare Your Vehicle For Winter Weather

As Sun Tzu wrote, “Victory lies in preparation.” Making sure your vehicle is ready before braving the winter elements is key to doing so safely. Thankfully, this is a relatively short list.

First, know that when air gets cold, it contracts. This means that the air in your tires stays the same, but takes up less space, resulting in a lower air pressure. Check your tires’ air pressure and make sure they’re inflated to your vehicle’s specification (it’s usually listed on a sticker in your driver’s side door well.) Now is an excellent time to check the condition and pressure of your spare tire too.

Next, make sure you have plenty of windshield washer fluid. This has solvents in it that work to remove dirt and debris, and also lowers the freezing point of water. That means if you’re having trouble seeing in a snowstorm, a quick spritz from your washers will clear away the snow and ice.

While the hood is open, check your oil and other fluids. Does anything look low? Is the oil black instead of a dark honey color? Have you noticed squishy brakes or strange behavior from the transmission? Have you forgotten when your air filters have been changed? Is anything at all out of the ordinary? If you said yes to any of the above, Schedule an Appointment with us and we’ll make sure your regular maintenance is current and all of your fluids are where they should be.

Finally, make sure you at least put a blanket, hat, warm socks, gloves, and your roadside assistance information or tow truck phone number somewhere in your vehicle for emergencies. You can get as elaborate as you’d like with this, adding kitty litter (for extra traction), a rope (for helping someone pull you out of a ditch) fire starters, hand warmers, an emergency radio, a portable shelter, protein bars, etcetera.

Winter Driving Basics

Perhaps the most important lesson from high school physics to apply to winter driving (and also briefly mentioned in the intro of a certain children’s science show) is the following phrase: “inertia is a property of matter.” That means, the bigger and heavier your vehicle is, the harder it will be to get it moving or slow it down. It’s a practical example of Newton’s First Law of Motion.

When you brake, brake pads apply friction to your wheels by squeezing the rotor to stop them from spinning. This works in tandem with the friction between your tires and the road. Take away that extra friction, and the result is pretty simple: you slow down slower. Your wheels could stop, but your vehicle keeps moving as if it was on skis. If you have ABS (which nearly all vehicles now do) all you can do is keep your foot firmly on the brake and prepare to slide around obstacles if safe and possible.

Another force that becomes more pronounced on slippery roads is centripetal force. This pushes objects away from the center of spinning motion. Put more simply, if you go to turn at higher speed and your tires don’t have enough grip to fight centripetal force, you’ll “under-steer” and only be able to turn half as much as you intended. If you really crank the steering wheel, your back wheels will do this instead and you’ll spin, also called “over-steer.”

So how do you counteract all of these forces of motion on your vehicle? Thankfully, all you need to do is slow down. The less forward motion you build up, the less of it you’ll need to compensate for, meaning less time to come to a stop and more predictable turns.

Now that you know the cardinal rule, here are some simple winter driving tips that could get you out sticky situations. Please remember to always be aware of your surroundings and don’t do anything that you’re uncomfortable with, unfamiliar with, or could endanger you, your passengers, or other motorists.

• Count Vehicle Lengths: Have you ever seen those posts along the side of the highway? When the car in front of you passes one, start counting. If you’re going 60mph, make sure you’re giving yourself at least 15 seconds before you pass the same landmark. You can reduce this and use things like stoplights or mailboxes at lower speeds, but the key is to ensure you have time to react and fully stop if you need to.
• Climbing Hills: West Michigan has a lot of hills. When approaching one, you don’t need speed; you need inertia. Build it up slowly as you approach so that when you start climbing up, the weight of your vehicle is what carries you up and you only need to cover the gas pedal to maintain that speed. Adding more gas could cause you to spin out on the way up, and once you stop, it’s really difficult to get going again.
• Descending Hills: To descend a hill, the best course of action is to do nothing but steer straight. Keep your foot over the brake at the ready, but let your vehicle smoothly descend. If you must brake, do so gently. Braking hard can lock up your wheels and send you into a spin, or worse, cause someone behind you to panic or crash into you. After you’re back on level ground, then gently brake more to slow yourself down. Make sure if someone is behind you to give them space to slow down too.
• Recovering From Skids: Unless you’ve been professionally trained to drive rally or track cars, there’s not much a civilian driver can do if you end up in a wild skid. However, with these two concepts, you might be able to recover. First: look where you want to go. Your hands will automatically take care of the rest. Second: the gas pedal is only used for going forward. Third: tapping the brake will shift the weight of your vehicle towards the front. In front-wheel drive vehicles, these wheels are the ones you need to have traction, and since they’re under the engine, throwing that extra weight forward will help you. Next, gently apply brakes and look (rule 1) to get the wheels pointed where you want to go. Once all clear, gently apply the gas to move forward.
  
  If you’ve completely lost control of your vehicle, keep your foot on the brake and turn your hazards on (if able) while doing your best to avoid obstacles. Aim for the side of the road away from other vehicles. Ending up in a snow-filled embankment is preferable to being an obstacle for other motorists to avoid.
• Navigating Steep Driveways Some people have long, steep driveways. If you drive a front-wheel drive vehicle and can’t make it to the top, you might have better luck going up in reverse. Gravity is putting more weight on the drive wheels this way, which in some circumstances gives you more traction. This works pretty well on snow but less so on ice.

Get Ready for Holiday Travels at the Borgman Service Center in Grand Rapids

If you’re planning a holiday trip across West Michigan, make your first step an appointment at the Borgman Service Center. Our highly-trained and friendly staff will make sure your vehicle is ready to brave the cold weather. We service all makes and models and are dedicated to keeping you moving.

To get started, simply use our easy Online Scheduler to make your appointment, then check out our latest Service Coupons for big savings. If you have any questions, feel free to Contact Us or give us a call. Come see why we’re still the Best in the West after over 60 years!

Posted in News, Service | No Comments »

West Michigan saw its first snowfall this month. Even though they were just morning flurries, more snow is certainly on the way. If you need new tires before the West Michigan winter weather arrives, don’t delay: nationwide supply chain interruptions are going to make them more and more difficult to get.

When shopping for tires this season, you have two viable options: All-Season Tires or Winter Tires. Both have their advantages and drawbacks, and what works for one person might not be worth it to another. To learn about their differences take a look below, or contact the Borgman Service Center to schedule an appointment!

What Are The Advantages and Disadvantages of Winter Tires?

Winter tires are specially-formulated to perform optimally at temperatures below freezing. Their special blend of rubber compounds keep them pliable and therefore “grippy” where normal tires would become stiff and even crack. The name of the game is creating friction, and to do that tires need to conform to as much of the road as possible, and to do that they need to be able to flex.

Some winter tires have added silica and special tread patterns too. Silica crystal added to the rubber give these tires even more grip, like tiny cleats digging into the ice. Also, clever tread patterns trap snow on the middle of the tire and whisk away moisture from the sides. Snow sticks to snow, so by harnessing this you can get even more traction.

However, driving on snow tires above a certain temperature will damage them, as they deform too much and can get bent out of shape. Therefore you will need to change them out for a “summer set” when the weather starts to warm up. You’ll also need to store your winter and summer tires when they’re not in use.

What Are The Advantages and Disadvantages of All-Season Tires?

All-season tires are the most common type you’ll see out on the roads. These tires seek a compromise between warm and cold weather performance, utilizing specialized tread patterns and specific rubber compounds. A big advantage of all-season tires is the “fix it and forget it” property of them: you have them installed and only need to think about them when it’s time to have them rotated. There’s no storing another set in a shop or in your basement, and no worrying about damaging them if we get a random few days of warm weather.

However, you know the old saying, “Jack of all trades; master of none.” If you live on an icy hill or have a difficult driveway, you’ll likely see the limit of their capability. You may also see them act a little “stickier” on really hot summer days.

Which Of These Tires Are Right For Me?

The Borgman Service Center has a wide selection of tires that will suit the vast majority of drivers in West Michigan. As to which tire is best for you, we can only recommend you look at the literature and weigh the strengths and weaknesses of each, also bearing in mind your budget. Of course, if you need help choosing your new tires, the friendly and courteous staff at the Borgman Service Center will be happy to oblige. We’ll put together a brief list of tires that we feel will suit you, and answer any questions you may have.

Get in touch with us or use our easy Online Scheduler to plan your visit. Be sure to check out our latest Service Coupons as well. Come see why even after 60 years, we’re still the Best in the West!

Posted in News, Service | No Comments »

What Is A Catalytic Converter And Why Are People Stealing Them?

During the pandemic, catalytic converter theft has unfortunately been on the rise. What makes them a prime target for these ne’er-do-wells are the precious metals inside, as well as their easy-to-access location on a vehicle. Catalytic converters are a part of the exhaust system, and their job is to convert harmful gasses into more inert gasses. We’ll explain this more below.

While Michigan does not enforce emissions testing like California and Texas do, the catalytic converter plays an important role in keeping West Michigan beautiful. If that doesn’t convince you, driving without one is a noisy experience!

Catalytic converter replacement is usually an expensive repair because they contain precious metals like platinum, rhodium, or palladium. The good news is if you have comprehensive auto insurance, catalytic converter theft is usually covered, minus your deductible. If you turned on your vehicle and it sounds like a motorcycle, the Borgman Service Team is here to help.

How Do Catalytic Converters Work?

Catalytic converters are essentially a tube filled with a ceramic “honeycomb.” Exhaust from the engine enters at one end, passes through these chambers, and exits at the other end to the muffler. This honeycomb lattice is designed to expose the exhaust gasses to as much surface area as possible. This is because the ceramic is coated with two different catalysts (these are the metals that make this part so valuable.) The first catalyst strips oxygen off of harmful nitrogen oxides, creating harmless nitrogen and oxygen gasses. The second catalyst adds oxygen to carbon monoxide creating carbon dioxide.

While catalytic converters are pretty good at their job, they don’t remove everything and only work efficiently when they’re hot. That’s why it’s important not to touch them after using your vehicle.

If They’re Easy To Remove, Why Are Catalytic Converters Such An Expensive Repair?

It’s mostly the part itself that drives the cost up. The metals we mentioned above are expensive even as raw materials, not to even mention the machinery and processes that go into making them into catalytic converters.

With theft on the rise and supply chain interruptions, basic supply and demand drives this cost up further as more and more people need replacements. The inflated cost then makes them an even juicer target for thieves.

The other reason this could be expensive is that thieves favor speed. Instead of carefully breaking welds or unbolting the part they’re after, they often use electric saws to cut the part out. This leaves behind extensive damage to your exhaust system. Depending on how much was removed, you may need all new piping from the exhaust manifold down to the muffler, one or both oxygen sensors plus their wiring, and more.

If Michigan Doesn’t Have Emissions Testing, Why Do I Need A Catalytic Converter?

Some states like California and Texas have mandatory emissions testing in an effort to reduce smog and pollution. Michigan does not have these requirements, however, every new vehicle sold here is compliant and that helps the whole country stay cleaner.

As climate change worsens, catalytic converters have both been deemed essential and controversial. Transforming dangerous gasses like nitrogen oxides into their harmless ingredients is a function they perform well, but in older models, small amounts of nitrogen dioxide gas (NO2) slip through. This is an even more potent greenhouse gas than carbon dioxide. Catalytic converters also make a vehicle produce their carbon dioxide all at once, rather than letting carbon monoxide pick up its extra atom slowly in nature.

This being said, the gasses that catalytic converters remove are far worse for the environment and our air quality than the gasses they produce. They’re an important part of every internal combustion engine and you should not use your vehicle without one. If that doesn’t convince you, a missing catalytic converter makes your exhaust loud and all of those gasses seep into the cabin. This makes driving a noisy and smelly experience with serious health risks. If you’re concerned about emissions, Borgman has a growing lineup of all-electric vehicles including the exciting Ford Mustang Mach-E! You can reserve yours here.

Do You Have Any Tips For Preventing Catalytic Converter Theft?

The unfortunate reality is that this is a crime of opportunity, and there are limited things you can do to prevent theft. SUV, Pickups, and Hybrids are especially vulnerable: trucks and SUVs because they’re easy to crawl under and hybrids because of the higher concentrations of the valuable metals inside. Skilled thieves can remove a catalytic converter in mere minutes.

Parking in well-lit areas can be helpful, as suspicious activity around your vehicle will be more visible. Another tip we’ve seen is to spray your catalytic converter with day-glow high-temperature paint (like the kind for barbecues and engines) and then scratching your VIN into the paint. The theory is that it makes your catalytic converter traceable and therefore less desirable. Most scrap yards document their incoming high-value parts and who brought them, but an unscrupulous scrap dealer likely won’t. If you have concerns about catalytic converter theft, please feel free to Contact Our Service Department and we’ll give you the best help and support we can.

Noisy Exhaust? Trust The Experts at the Borgman Service Center

Whether it happened gradually or suddenly, driving a noisy car can be an embarrassing and even smelly experience. If you suspect something is wrong with your muffler, catalytic converter, oxygen sensors, or anything else with your vehicle, Schedule An Appointment with us and we’d be happy to help. Be sure to check out the latest Service Coupons before your visit. Come see why we’re the Best in the West!

Posted in News, Parts, Service | No Comments »

With Labor Day bringing about the unofficial end of summer, it’s worth thinking about your vehicle’s performance in wetter weather and even ice. A key component for keeping you safe in slippery conditions is your Anti-Lock Braking System, or ABS for short. If yours hasn’t been checked in a while or worse, your ABS light has been on for months, beat the pre-winter crowd and visit Borgman Service today!

As anyone who drove during the 70s will tell you, ABS was a miraculous invention. Instead of “pumping the brakes” during a skid, you simply hold the pedal down and a complex system of pressurized fluid does the rest. When it was first introduced, the goal was to mimic what a skilled driver would do when the wheels lock up under heavy braking. Now, the system performs all sorts of functions, including altering the front/rear brake bias, improving handling, improving vehicle stability, traction control, electronic brake-force distribution, and even emergency brake assist.

In this article, we’ll briefly describe how this system works, how often it needs service, and what to look out for if the system starts to fail.

How Anti-Lock Braking Systems Work

As Anti-Lock Braking Systems became more widespread and sophisticated, automakers found that they outperform even professional drivers. In brief, here’s the problem that ABS solves:

If the road is slippery and/or the wheel overcomes the friction of the road and starts spinning freely, you not only lose the ability to easily stop but your steering is impacted as well. In its most basic form, ABS course-corrects for both of these issues.

Here’s how it works. Within the ABS system, there are four main components: speed sensors, a pump, a controller, and a series of valves. As a wheel starts to “lock up,” the speed sensors send a signal to the controller. This is the computer that orchestrates the ABS process. Then, the valves spring into action, allowing or restricting the flow of brake fluid to the four calipers. If pressure is let off but is again needed, the pump will pressurize the fluid. The computer will take in the variables from the speed sensors and use the valves and pump to return the four signals to the same value, meaning that the wheels are all spinning at the same speed.

When the ABS is on, you’ll feel a pulsing through the brake pedal. This comes from the valve’s opening and closing action and just means that the ABS is doing its job. This is why it’s important NOT to pump the brakes in slippery conditions, as the controller has to start over every time you release the pedal.

What Happens If The ABS System Starts To Fail?

If you notice screeching or grinding when you bring the vehicle to a stop, or you notice reduced brake performance or “shaking” when you slow down, your brake pads and rotors are likely the culprits. You’ll still need to make an appointment at the Borgman Service Center, but your ABS system likely will not need service.

If your ABS light comes on, this usually means that the controller has detected a faulty speed sensor, a fault within one of the valves, the pump, or a software issue within the controller itself. If it is blinking, that means that the system isn’t functioning and needs service immediately. Hopefully, this is what alerts you to an issue, because the main symptom would be the wheels locking under heavy braking. This comes with limited steering and can be a dangerous situation if you’re not expecting the fault.

If you don’t have leaks in your brake fluid lines, an ABS light usually comes on if you have a faulty speed sensor, which is not a difficult repair. Even if you have no problems, we recommend having the system looked over periodically to make sure there are no slow leaks or fraying wiring. Our certified technicians will also be able to detect any anomalies by looking at your vehicle’s onboard diagnostics.

Resolve ABS Issues at the Borgman Service Center in Grand Rapids, MI

If you’re seeing an ABS light come on, even periodically, or have other concerns about your vehicle’s braking system, trust the experts at the Borgman Service Center to keep you moving. Our team has been helping West Michigan for decades, and we pride ourselves on outstanding customer service.

During your appointment, our friendly and knowledgeable team will ensure that all of your questions are answered and that the work being done to your vehicle is explained in plain speech. To get started, use our Easy Online Scheduler to make your appointment, and don’t forget to check out the latest Service Coupons. Come see why we’re the Best in the West!

Posted in News, Service | No Comments »

Five Exciting Road Trip Destinations Across Michigan

So you’ve had your oil changed, tires checked and rotated, battery tested, fluids topped off, and everything looked over on your vehicle. Now all that’s left is to decide where to go. If you’re chomping at the bit to get out of town for a weekend we’ve put together a list of some exciting destinations to go visit this summer.

Whether you’re traveling with a camper, a roof rack, mountain bikes, or just what will fit in the trunk, there’s a place you’ll enjoy. The best part is all the scenery along the way too. If having your vehicle checked by experts is still on your to-do list, Borgman is here to make sure you and your traveling companions get there safely. Use our easy Online Scheduler to make an appointment, then check out these fun destinations all over Michigan. Planning a long weekend? String some of these together for the ultimate Michigan road trip!

Kirk Park: 40 Minute Drive from Grand Rapids

Though 40 minutes down Lake Michigan Drive might not meet everyone’s criteria for a road trip, we’re including it anyway as it’s a great spot to enjoy the big lake without trekking across the whole state. Located in West Olive near Hiawatha Forest, you’re never far from civilization in case you forget the sunblock. Stretch out on the beach, take a dip in the lake, or explore woodland trails. Best of all, this is a great place for your dog to enjoy the beach too! The shorter travel time and dedicated off-leash areas ensure your furry pal will have lots of fun on this summer trip.

Pere Marquette River: 75 Minute Drive from Grand Rapids

Looking to just spend a day on a river? Head up north to the Pere Marquette River, flowing from the Baldwin, MI area all the way to the big lake at Ludington. Enjoy the views of the Huron Manistee National Forest as you float down on tubes or paddling a canoe. You can bring your own watercraft too like kayaks or rafts, but you will need to get a (very affordable) permit from Baldwin Canoe first. They’ll even move your car for you so it’s waiting downriver when you’re done for the day! If you want to make your day trip an overnight affair, there are plenty of dedicated campgrounds along the river.

Silver Lake Sand Dunes: 90 Minute Drive from Grand Rapids

A relatively short distance from Grand Rapids, the Silver Lake Sand Dunes has plenty to do whether you plan to stay the day or stay the night. This 2,000-acre expanse of dunes separates Lake Michigan from Sand Lake, and the views are incredible. Hike the dunes on foot, or go on a buggy tour. You can rent an ORV to tackle the dunes yourself, or bring your own – the perfect playground for the Ford Bronco!

If you’re planning on staying the night, the campgrounds here offer plenty of amenities like power, public restrooms, and RV hookups, but if that’s not your speed you can always stay at one of the lakeside hotels. Renting an RV for the weekend is an option too. Silver Lake offers a great balance of enjoying the great outdoors and keeping some comforts of home, making it ideal for family camping trips.

Tahquamenon Falls: 5 Hour Drive from Grand Rapids

Dwarfed only by Niagara Falls, Tahquamenon Falls are the second-largest falls east of the Mississippi River, with an average flow of 7,000 gallons per second up to 40,000 during peak season. The locals call them “Root Beer Falls,” referring to the mesmerizing copper color of the water and the white foam as they come crashing down.

Situated in the Northern Upper Peninsula, Tahquamenon Falls is one of Michigan’s most beautiful natural destinations. Just a little west of Paradise, MI, the drive here is roughly 5 hours from Grand Rapids. Once here, there’s ample parking at both the upper and lower falls. We recommend starting at the Upper Falls as this is where you’ll find food, drinks, ice cream, gifts, and occasionally live music. Don’t skip the lower falls though, here you’ll find areas to wade into the water, take a boat tour, rent your own canoe, and more!

For adventurous types, you can hike the scenic 9.6 mile out-and-back trail along the river to the upper falls, but be aware: this is a moderately difficult trail and we recommend bringing plenty of water and a first aid kit just in case. Consult with the staff here if you have any questions – they’ll know best. If you’re up for it, the hike is well worth the experience.

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore: 6 Hour Drive from Grand Rapids

For true Michigan adventurers, the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is more than likely on their radar. An expansive stretch of rugged trails, cozy campgrounds, hidden beaches, and picturesque sandstone cliffs, this lakeshore is a hiker’s dream. Lake Superior’s raw power has shaped this stretch of coastline into a gorgeous work of art, and though it’s along the northern edge of the U.P., it’s not as long of a drive out here as you might think.

If you have a roof rack, bring the kayaks along and take in the sights along the coastline or go on one of the boat tours, then stay the night at one of the many campgrounds throughout. The famous Au Sable Lighthouse lies at the northeastern end of the region too! However, camping here is a little spartan, so you may want to make arrangements if you need RV hookups or don’t have experience treating your own drinking water. Don’t let that deter you from experiencing some of Michigan’s most breathtaking views, all it takes is a little planning!

Get Your Vehicle Ready for Summer Fun in Michigan

Staying up to date on your vehicle’s maintenance is key to enjoying your summer trips without delays, so make sure your vehicle is ready for adventure at the Borgman Service Center! Our highly experienced team will go over every inch of your vehicle to make sure you spend your road trip enjoying the scenery and that everyone arrives safely.

Use our Online Scheduler to make an appointment, then head over to our Specials Page for the latest service coupons. If you have questions about our services or about your vehicle, please feel free to Contact Us. Come see why Borgman is still the Best in the West after 60 years!

Posted in News, Service | No Comments »

Why Order With Borgman to Stay Ahead of the Curve

We’ve kept West Michigan moving for more than 60 years now, and we’re here to keep YOU moving despite the aftermath of the global pandemic and supply chain interruptions.

If you want a new ride in 2021, our team of professionals will do everything in our power to get you exactly what you want, and exactly how you want it. We just need to work ahead on the “when.”

This article will update you on the shortage and give you tips for staying ahead of the curve by ordering the Ford you want and enlisting the help of our sales professionals to make the process easy. The BONUS is we’ll give you an extra $1,000*! We’ll also explain how our “love it” guarantee will allow you to skip the deal if you change your mind and decide to settle for something in stock. No strings – fully refundable deposits. What’s not to love?

Our Kingdom for a Chip!

If you haven’t been following the news, the automotive industry – including Ford – is suffering from inventory shipment delays largely due to a computer chip shortage that began earlier this year. Foundry companies that make computer chips had, while automotive sector demand was down, taken the sudden “excess capacity” on their chip lines and turned it elsewhere. Without the dedicated resources formerly available, automotive manufacturers found that they faced a supply chain shortage as demand began to surge. In Ford’s case, this shortage is behind the temporary shuttering of the two F-150 and Bronco production lines.

What Are My Options?

We want to help you find your perfect vehicle as fast as possible, so there are a few options.

• Custom Order your vehicle. This is the best strategy because we’ll help make sure you’re staying ahead of the curve by covering you with our Love It Guarantee – releasing you from your order if you change your mind in favor of an in-stock vehicle that arrives in the meantime. We’ll give you an extra $1,000 incentive*. All deposits are 100% refundable!
• Explore our selection of Late Model Pre-Owned Fords. We have grown our 12 acres of vehicles to become one of the largest pre-owned vehicle centers in Grand Rapids. Check out the hundreds of late-model options ready to roll!

Advantages of Custom Ordering

By custom ordering with Borgman, you get the chance to put all of our sales team’s knowledge at your disposal to select the best, and most cost-effective, features on your vehicle. We’ll work with you to help you specify your perfect trim level and options package. During the inventory shortage, we’re also offering an extra $1,000* for all customers who custom order their vehicle.

While we can’t guarantee the arrival date of your new ride due to current manufacturing conditions, we figure the extra $1,000 will help you enjoy your wait time with some fine dining, Michigan Adventures, or other summer fun!

Here are a few additional tips on custom ordering your next vehicle:

• Decide what you really want: The whole point of custom ordering a new car is to revel in a sense of personalization, so you need to figure out not only what color and trim level your vehicle will be but how you want it equipped. If you’re shopping for Ford F-150, for example, there is a laundry list of options and trim levels to consider. Come to the lot for a tour of different features and options and test-drive similar vehicles to help develop your sense of priorities. Talk to our pros who know not only which options and trims are the most popular, but which ones retain their resale value!

Once you’ve ordered your new ride:

Our sales consultants will keep you up to date on the progress of your build.

Have questions? Talk to us!

*Excludes orders on Ford F-Series Super Duty Trucks, Ford Bronco Models, and Ford Transit Models.

Posted in New Inventory, News | No Comments »

Summer officially arrives later this month, but that hasn’t stopped West Michiganders from hitting the road and enjoying the warm weather. Before you set out though, there are some things you should make sure are in good working order first.

Today, we’ve decided to dive past obvious things you should check like your tires, air filters, and motor oil, favoring oft-overlooked systems that you may not necessarily think to inspect unless there’s a problem. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, after all.

Battery

Auto batteries can “wilt” in the summer heat if they’re getting on in years, but not usually all of a sudden. If you’re having trouble getting your car started and it’s been 4-5 years since you last replaced it, it’s time for a new battery. If your battery is newer, it might just be corrosion on the terminals – an easy fix for the Borgman Service Team or even you if you’re careful and handy with a wrench.

Alternator

Your battery provides the electricity to start your engine, and your alternator keeps it running. It does this by using power the engine’s serpentine belt to turn a small generator, which produces electricity for the spark plugs. If there’s no spark, your engine won’t run. If your engine stalled and then you found that the battery was dead when you tried to restart it, this is the likely culprit. A worn-out alternator can leave you stranded, so it’s worth having it checked every now and then.

Spark Plugs & Wires

Spark plugs and their wires are essential to engine operation. These are durable components, but they can wear out. Depending on your vehicle, they need to be replaced around every 60,000 miles or so – some varieties can live longer, others will need to be replaced more often. If you have an issue with your vehicle “running rich,” which means that too much fuel is being injected into the cylinders, your plugs will be the first part to go when the issues start to compound.

Air Conditioning System

If your vehicle’s air conditioner isn’t blowing freezing cold air when it’s all the way up, it may be time to have it serviced. This could be as simple as replacing the cabin air filter, it could also mean your compressor is on its way out or you have a refrigerant leak. Refrigerant leaks are an environmental hazard, so don’t wait if you notice a drop in efficiency.

Transmission Fluid

Though manufacturers vary wildly on this number, Borgman has found that transmission fluid needs to be changed around every 30,000 miles for optimal vehicle health. Your automatic transmission is a very complex and sensitive piece of machinery, so any contaminants or improper level of fluid inside can lead to overheating issues or permanent damage. This is something you especially want to keep an eye on if you’re going to be towing things like boats or campers all summer.

Fuel Filter

Sometimes dirt or contaminants get into the gasoline you buy. Luckily, all vehicles are equipped with a fuel filter to keep these things out of your lines. As is the case with all filters, they eventually will need replacing. We recommend having it changed every 60,000 miles or so, but a clogged filter could be the culprit (and easy fix) if you have problems getting your vehicle started, rough idle, struggling at low speeds, or stalling out.

Complete Vehicle Maintenance & Repair at the Borgman Service Center in Grand Rapids, MI

If you’re planning all sorts of adventures this summer, it’s worth having your vehicle looked over at Borgman before you set out. Catching worn components or aging fluids before heading out ensures that your weekend is full of fun. Our experts will go over your ride top to bottom and bring any relevant issues to your attention. We’ll make sure you understand what the issue is so you can make an educated decision about your vehicle.

Need to schedule an appointment? It’s easy! Simply use our Online Scheduler Here, then head over to our Service Specials for coupons – saving you money on services you need. Come see why we’re the Best in the West!

Posted in News, Service | No Comments »