Muskego Auto Repair Tech Says It's Still Time to Get Ready for Winter

Ken Gummo is what the industry calls an automotive technician, but he laughs at the new title bestowed on the people who fix cars.

"I'm a mechanic, and I'm still old school," he said, even though he too bears automotive service excellence (ASE) certification.

He runs on Gemini Drive in the Muskego Business Park, and was able to share with us what car owners can do to make sure winter doesn't do their cars in.

"When someone brings their car in for seasonal maintenance, I'm taking a close look at the battery, the condition of the tires, the fuel filter, the wipers and just an overall tune-up to make sure the engine is in great running condition," he explained.

He said that the number one problem with cars entering winter is the condition of their tires, which can have deadly consequences. "People are trying to save money, but if they have a blow out, or hit a pothole and are left on the side of the road, and have to call for a tow truck, there's your cost for a new set of tires."

Gummo admits that many people are watching their money, but he points out that good maintenance always pays for itself, which is probably the only thing involved with vehicles that will do so. (Most vehicles depreciate $2,000 the moment they're driven off the lot.)

While the cost of maintenance can vary depending on the vehicle, $1,000 investment in repair can cover a lot, and when you consider what the cost of a new auto loan, or the purchase price of a vehicle itself is, that's a bargain. Avoiding worse repairs and prolonging your vehicle's life keep more money in your pocket in the long run.

The type of service you receive as well can impact your pocketbook differently, as some places have auto techs, service writers and others who will hand you a bill when your car is ready. While the larger facilities may service a car quicker, the bottom line on the bill can also be a lot higher, and as Gummo points out, you rarely get to talk to the actual person who worked on your vehicle.

"I'd like to believe there's something to be said for a more personal touch," he said. "I'm the guy who's working on your vehicle and I'm also the guy going over the bill when you come to pick it up."

(A recent run in with replacement of the power steering on a vehicle was priced at approximately $2,000 at one facility. Smaller shops estimated the same repairs at $1,400.)

Gummo said safe driving habits, while common sense, aren't also followed, in particular safe distances between vehicles. He also said people are in too much of a hurry in the morning to properly warm up their cars and clear their windows.

"Clear visibility is key, and especially when the temps get below freezing, you've got to let the car warm up," he said. "My rule of thumb is that when you're windows are clear and you have heat in the car, you're good to go."

Basic items should also be thrown into the trunk: jumper cables, a blanket, boots, kitty litter or sand should you get stuck, and a small shovel.  Gummo said water generally would be a good idea to stay hydrated for the motorist, but it's generally a block of ice if it's kept in your car overnight. Best to carry a fresh bottle with you when you leave the house.

Check out ASE's full list of tips, some of which you can do yourself, to maintain your vehicle.