Thom's Four Wheel Drive and Auto Service, Inc.

Products And Services

• GENERAL AUTO REPAIR

  Everyone at Thom's Four Wheel understands the importance of having an auto repair facility you can trust. We are staffed with the best trained ASE Certified Mechanics in Chicago. Your safety (and that of your family) is often dependent on the mechanical condition of your vehicle. When you bring your car to Thom's Four Wheel, we recognize the enormous trust you are placing in us and everyone on our staff takes this very seriously. We service most cars foreign and domestic. We reserve the right to limit the servicing of vehicles older than 1995 if we feel our technicians are not adequately experienced in a particular vehicle.

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• RADIATOR LEAKS/COOLANT LEAKS/OVERHEATING

  RADIATOR LEAKS/COOLANT LEAKS/OVERHEATING After driving thousands upon thousands of miles of roads, your car’s cooling system can corrode and develop leaks. Parts in the radiator core or the external hoses can deteriorate and lead to a breakdown and need for repair. If you see a bright, neon-green, red or orange liquid pooling beneath your car, it is a pretty good sign that your cooling system has a leak and coolant is escaping. Low coolant levels can cause additional damage in your vehicle’s engine and cause your engine to overheat, and thus it is important to fix leaks promptly. Just as importantly, however, is that the coolant (ethylene glycol and polypropylene) are highly toxic and are not a substance you want lying on the floor of your garage. If you suspect a leak in your radiator, call the expert service technicians at Thom’s Four Wheel Drive. We will find the root of the problem and determine the appropriate fix to get you back on the road in no time.

  Link: RADIATOR LEAKS/COOLANT LEAKS/OVERHEATING

• BRAKE REPAIR AND SERVICE

  Have you heard a squeaking or squealing when coming to a stop? Does your steering wheel vibrate when you apply your brakes? Maybe your vehicle doesn’t quite stop like it used to? If so, all of these are flags that your brakes need attention! If you’re experiencing any of these unusual changes in your car’s brake performance, the friendly and knowledgeable staff at Thom’s Four Wheel Drive would love to help you fix your brakes! At Thom’s Four Wheel Drive Chicago, Il, we’re passionate about our community and the safety of our customers - that’s why we wouldn’t want anyone driving with bad brakes. It’s a danger to you and others on the road! Let our ASE certified mechanics perform a full braking system inspection before a possibly minimal problem turns into a costly one. While your vehicle is with us, our ASE certified technicians will also provide your vehicle with a complimentary Safety inspection to ensure all aspects of your car are in safe working order. If we discover any problems, we will always explain what needs to be replaced and why. We’ll even help you figure out how long you can wait to repair certain parts of your vehicle so that you can budget for them. Over the last 40 years, our team has earned the trust of our community because of our deep love for our customers, true care for Chicago community, eco-friendly practices, free estimates, and commitment to never making repairs without your approval. Plus, our shop takes the worry out of the process - all of our brake repair services, and all of our other services and repairs are backed by our unheard of 36 month / 36k mile warranty! Whether you’re in Chicago, NYC, San Diego, or anywhere in between, if something goes wrong with your vehicle because of our work or parts, Thom’s Four Wheel Drive will take care of getting it fixed for you! We offer excellence in customer service and look forward to being your stress-free auto repair partner for life. Stick with Thom’s Four Wheel Drive, and we’ll treat you and your car like family. We’ll even keep historical records so you can relax knowing that experts are getting to know your vehicle inside and out. Call Thom’s Four Wheel Drive today for your brake inspection or repair!

  Link: BRAKE REPAIR AND SERVICE

• VEHICLE INSPECTION AND PRE-PURCHASE INSPECTION IN CHICAGO, IL

  Think you might've found the car of your dreams? Are you afraid of getting scammed or buying a vehicle with problems under the hood? You're not alone! That’s why we offer a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection. Put your mind at ease and have out ASE certified mechanics objectively inspect your vehicle and give you a full rundown of its health. At Thom’s Four Wheel Drive, we care for all our customers like they are our family and we’d never want you to make an uninformed decision you’ll regret. It’s how our customers all over Chicago and the surrounding areas have avoided used-car-buying-remorse for over four decades! Come on down to Thom’s Four Wheel Drive, just a block and half north of Irving Park on Pulaski Rd. and let our trusted auto specialists take the mystery out of used car buying. With our complete bumper-to-bumper vehicle inspection, you can be confident in your purchase. We’ll report everything we find – good or bad – to provide you with the information you need to make a stress-free buying decision. Our buyer’s inspection includes things like: 55-point inspection Comprehensive test drive Review of the vehicle's current value based on its condition and mileage Check for any factory recommended maintenance A detailed estimate of any repairs or maintenance needed to allow for your knowledgeable negotiating Check for any signs of collision damage Our inspections aren’t just for those buying a new car, we also offer a pre-trip vehicle inspection! Are you planning a family road trip this season? You wouldn’t leave without double checking the packing list and itinerary - but have you checked your vehicle’s readiness? The safety of our Chicago community is a top priority at Thom’s Four Wheel Drive, so before you leave for your adventure, let our team ensure the safety of your family vehicle with our pre-trip inspection. Our ASE Certified mechanics will thoroughly inspect your car, truck or SUV uncovering any threat to road performance – before you hit the road. Call to schedule your vehicle inspection today!

  Link: VEHICLE INSPECTION AND PRE-PURCHASE INSPECTION IN CHICAGO, IL

• VEHICLE DIAGNOSTICS IN CHICAGO, IL.

  We know that dreaded feeling you get when your driving around Chicago and your check engine light pops on your dash. You’re wondering if this is going to be an extensive or costly repair. You might even be thinking “I don’t have time for this!” Before you let the mystery of that little light stress you out, give us a call! A check engine light could have many different causes, ranging from a faulty spark plug to a catalytic converter failure. At Thom’s Four Wheel Drive, our ASE certified technicians will quickly figure out why your vehicle’s check engine light is on and explain it to you in clear terms. We’ll review all possible solutions with you, keeping your budget in mind so that you can make the best decision for your family, your vehicle, and your driving needs. Your vehicle is a significant investment. To help you protect your investment (i.e. your vehicle), we encourage you to bring your car to us, a trusted repair shop in Chicago, as soon as the check engine light appears. Our top priority is keeping you and your investment safely on the road for longer. While you’re here, we’ll even provide a complimentary 35-point “vehicle health” inspection so you can have peace of mind knowing the state of your vehicle. Thom’s Four Wheel Drive has been a trusted “green garage” in the Chicago community since 1979. Our repair shop has been a staple in Chicago because we never sell people services they don't really need, and we never service vehicles without consulting our customers first. From the moment your car enters our shop, we work hard to earn and keep your trust. That’s why all our services and repairs are backed by a three year/ 36k mile nationwide warranty. We also want to make the “check engine light” process as easy on you as possible! That’s why we offer an unheard-of concierge service. We’ll come to you - whether at home or work - to pick up your car and bring it back to you once we’ve taken care of it. If you need to stay mobile while your vehicle is in the shop, we also offer reduced Enterprise rentals or shuttle services. Our convenient 24/7 key drop box is another option if that works for people on the go. It’s really about you and making sure your life isn’t put on hold for vehicle repairs or maintenance. Don't wait to address your vehicle's check engine light! Call Thom’s Four Wheel Drive in Chicago, IL today! Our customers become regulars, returning time and again because they know that we really care, and we genuinely want what's best for you and your vehicle.

  Link: VEHICLE DIAGNOSTICS IN CHICAGO, IL.

• TRANSMISSION REPAIR AND SERVICE IN CHICAGO, IL

  Why is Thom’s Four Wheel Drive the “go to” repair shop for transmission repair in Chicago? It’s because Thom’s Four Wheel Drive, which is located right off Irving Park and Pulaski in Chicago, IL, has provided top quality transmission repairs, routine maintenance, and other services since 1979! Plus, we truly love our customers and community, and it shows. Thom Paker, owner and Greg, his Service manager, and the rest of our caring team know your life can’t go on hold when your vehicle has problems. That’s why our client oriented business does everything we can to enable you to get from point a to point b while we service your transmission. Are you having transmission issues? Here are some things to look out for that might be ways your car is telling you your transmission needs attention: Slow responsiveness to changing from park to drive and/or shifting gears Rough gear shift Weird humming, clunking, buzzing, whining sounds from your transmission Leaks under your vehicle Transmission light on your dashboard A smell like something is burning Car shaking If you are experiencing any of these issues, bring your vehicle into Thom’s Four Wheel Drive! When your vehicle is with us, you can trust our ASE certified technicians will do everything they can to quickly diagnose and accurately repair your transmission. In fact, our team is trained to find the most cost-effective repair for your transmission so you can get your family back on the road as quickly and affordably as possible. The Chicago community has trusted us for the past 40 years with their transmission repairs, and you can too! Why can you trust your vehicle in our hands? You can trust us because our highly trained and honest team of technicians will always provide you with a 100% transparent analysis of your car and will never make any repairs to your vehicle without your consent. We’ll also send text messages with pictures of anything that we find during our complimentary vehicle inspection so you can feel confident making an informed decision about your vehicle. Every customer and vehicle are treated like family at our shop, and that’s why we even keep historical records so you can relax knowing that real experts know your car inside and out. We honestly put our customers and their needs first, and that's why we make the experience truly easy for you! How does Thom’s Four Wheel Drive make auto repair in Chicago stress-free? By providing unheard of complementary benefits to all our customers! We offer free vehicle pick-up and delivery services. We will seriously come to wherever you are in 5-mile radius of the shop area, get your car, and bring it back to you when it's done! Do you know any other shop in the Chicago area that would drive to pick up your car? We will sanitize both interior and exterior contact surfaces before and after service to insure all Covid-19 recommendations are followed! We offer complimentary shuttle rides to/from anywhere in the Chicago area, so you’re never stuck at the shop waiting on your vehicle. If you do prefer to come on down and wait on your vehicle, we have a beautiful customer waiting area that is comfortable and has its own secure free Wi-Fi. We also have a 24/7 drop box so you can drop your car off at any time- day or night. As you can see, we always do our best to give our community unmatched customer service. Call us if you have specific questions or contact us to schedule an appointment today. We look forward to working with you on your next vehicle service.

  Link: TRANSMISSION REPAIR AND SERVICE IN CHICAGO, IL

• TIMING BELT, BELTS AND HOSES

  Most people opt not to replace their vehicle’s various belts and hoses until they fail. Unfortunately, that means you could be driving in the middle of nowhere when an old, faulty belt ultimately snaps or a hose bursts, rendering your car useless. That’s why it is important to have an expert perform regular inspection of your vehicle’s belts and hoses. Thom’s Four Wheel Drive will always take a look under your hood for signs of belt/hose wear and tear, and should any need replacing, we will make the appropriate recommendations. Timing belts typically last from 60,000 to 105,000 miles depending on the engine. Other belts, such as V-belts and serpentine belts, require more frequent replacement. Thom’s Four Wheel Drive can perform the necessary maintenance, whether recommending replacement or making appropriate adjustments to alignment and tension of belts. Rubber hoses, such as coolant hoses, fuel hoses, emission hoses, and vacuum hoses can deteriorate over time and can ultimately crack or split, allowing fluid or air to leak. Not only is the leaking fluid a hazard, but it also means vital mechanisms in your engine are not getting the proper fluid or air they need. Like belts, all your vehicle’s hoses eventually need replacement. Coolant hoses, for instance, typically require replacement every four or five years. Thom’s Four Wheel Drive will closely inspect all hoses and their clamps and will educate you on any necessary replacement. Call us today to check out your car if you suspect a problem with belts and/or hoses, or to schedule routine maintenance.

  Link: TIMING BELT, BELTS AND HOSES

• SUSPENSIONS

  This is where the rubber meets the road! Life can be a bumpy ride, but it doesn’t always have to be so rough. While driving along the road of life, if your car, truck or SUV starts to drift, shake or shimmy your suspension system may be to blame. Your vehicle’s suspension keeps you grounded as you drive around curves, over railroad tracks and through rough terrain. All four tires should always have a firm grip on the road to ensure a safe and steady ride. Suspensions Click the image to watch a video about the suspension system Over time, certain components may wear out, break or become damaged. Our ASE Certified technicians will check for fluid leaks, evaluate the entire vehicle suspension system and perform a road test to determine the overall condition of your vehicle’s shocks and struts. If your car dives forward when you stop or if it bottoms out every time you hit a bump it may be time to install a new suspension system. We provide quality care for your vehicle’s undercarriage including shocks and struts replacement and ball joint replacement. You can rely on Thom’s Four Wheel Drive to keep your car, truck or SUV running at peak performance while ensuring your safety on the road. Call to schedule an appointment and take advantage of our free local shuttle service.

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• CLUTCH REPAIR AND SERVICE IN CHICAGO, IL

  Manual transmission and standard transmission car owners both experience clutch issues. While manual transmission car owners know that feeling of dropping the clutch at that perfect moment by using the clutch, both may experience the pedal not engaging like it used to after driving for a long time. That’s because over time clutches wear out, making driving less enjoyable and less safe. In fact, they may wear out even faster with some everyday habits, such as “riding the clutch.” If you think your clutch is going out, don’t be afraid - it might be a much less expensive issue, such as a hydraulic issue. Either way, call Thom’s Four Wheel Drive – Chicago’s trusted "green garage" located right off Irving Park and Pulaski Road, and we can give you the right diagnosis of your vehicle and let you decide how you’d like to move forward. Our extensively trained ASE certified technicians have serviced manual transmissions in the Chicago community for over four decades! While you’re with us, our experienced team will quickly address any of your car’s clutch issues and perform a complimentary 35-point vehicle health inspection to keep your vehicle at top performance. If you’re worried, you’ll end up with a list of expensive repairs or maintenance, please know we never ever recommend a repair or service that is unnecessary! We treat everyone like family because we truly care about our customers. If we find a problem with your vehicle during our inspections, we’ll let you know the severity and help you plan out how long you can wait to get certain repairs. We understand that money can be tight, and we want to help you budget for the repairs you need. If there is a repair you need soon, we do have same as cash financing options, too, so that you never have to compromise your safety. We also guarantee all repairs and services with a three year/36,000-mile nationwide warranty! With our expertise, you can rest assured knowing all our auto repairs are the highest quality and that our repairs will help you make it safely to your destination, wherever the road may take you. Our worry-free repairs and services are hassle-free too! We love our customers and want to help them not just drive a safe car, but to live a life of freedom. That’s why we pride ourselves in saving our customers time by providing our convenient, free vehicle pick-up and delivery services, free shuttle services. You don’t have to stop just because your car is parked in our eco-friendly repair shop! However, if you'd prefer to spend time with the team in person, you can relax in our beautiful waiting room with free Wi-Fi. We look forward to working with you on all your manual transmission needs. Give us a call at (773) 577-5701 today!

  Link: CLUTCH REPAIR AND SERVICE IN CHICAGO, IL

• DRIVELINE REPAIR

  The driveline on your vehicle is responsible for turning your axles (which, in turn, turn your wheels). The driveline connects to the transmission and differential through a set of joints. If your vehicle shudders when accelerating or makes a loud clunking noise during shifting, it could be the result of a loose U-joint or defective center bearing. Other noises or squeaks at low speeds may also be a sign of driveline trouble. Whether the problem is your driveline or not, the experts at Thom’s Four Wheel Drive can identify the problem and determine the best solution. Your driveline should be part of a routine maintenance plan. The Universal and Constant Velocity (CV) joints’ protective housing (called boots) should be regularly inspected for cracks or leaks, which could result in severe damage to your vehicle. Count on Thom’s Four Wheel Drive to ensure your driveline and its components are in perfect working order, and if not, we will advise on the best option for repair.

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• DRIVE SHAFT/AXLES/U-JOINT REPLACEMENT

  If your car is making a clicking noise when turning the ignition, producing a vibration upon acceleration, or shaking at higher speeds when turning, it may indicate a problem with your driveshaft, axles, or their U-joints. Another indicator of such a problem is an abundance of grease inside your fenders or on your tires, which could be a result of a damaged Constant Velocity (CV) boot. Thom’s Four Wheel Drive can determine where the actual problem lies and determine a course of action. Our expert service technicians have the know-how to inspect your drive shaft, axles, and U-joints to determine if they can be repaired or if they need replacement. We will always explain what the problem is, and consult with you on the best repair option, getting your approval before conducting any work. Thom’s Four Wheel Drive wants to be your auto mechanic for life, and you can count on us to properly diagnose the problem and fix it promptly and effectively without breaking your budget.

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• FUEL PUMP REPAIR

  Your car’s fuel pump is the heart of the fuel injection system, and is the mechanism that pushes fuel from the tank to the injectors and creates the necessary pressure to allow the injectors to deliver the correct amount of fuel under all operating conditions. If not working properly, it could negatively affect your engine’s performance, economy, and emissions. If your car is sputtering, losing acceleration, making unusual noise during idle, or performing poorly in fuel economy, it could indicate a faulty fuel pump. Thom’s Four Wheel Drive can determine if the fuel pump is the root of your car’s problem and educate you on the best course of action to fix the problem. Fuel Pump Repair Click the image to watch a video about the fuel system After many years of service, fuel pumps naturally deteriorate and begin to wear in the armature bushings, brushes, and communicator. If contaminants find their way into the pump, it could cause the motor to jam, overheat, and fail. The pump’s vanes, rollers, and gears can also wear, which can cause a gradual loss of pressure and flow. If your car runs out of gas on occasion, it can also have a negative effect on the fuel pump, since the pump relies on fuel to serve as a lubricant and to keep it cool. If you suspect a problem with your fuel pump, count on Thom’s Four Wheel Drive for reliable service to get your car in working order once again.

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• FUEL INJECTOR CLEANING

  Fuel injector cleaning is a process that removes build-up from your vehicle’s fuel system. If your vehicle is hesitating or difficult to start, or if you notice that your gas mileage is not as efficient as it used to be, your car may be trying to tell you something. Fuel Injector Cleaning Click the image to watch a video about the fuel system The need to have your injectors cleaned depends on the condition of your vehicle. How is your driving? Do you regularly keep up with scheduled maintenance or has it been a while since your vehicle has been serviced? Do you fill your car with premium quality gasoline, or do you usually choose the cheapest fuel you can find at the pump? Our fuel injection service is designed to restore fuel efficiency and improve emissions. Upon completion, you should experience better gas mileage and improved drivability. Thom’s Four Wheel Drive is an ASE Blue Seal Shop. We use premium OEM quality products to ensure optimum performance. Our certified technicians have years of experience working on both domestic and import vehicles of all makes and models. We guarantee all of our work and know you’ll be happy with the outcome. Call today to schedule an appointment and take advantage of our free local shuttle service.

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• AUTO AIR CONDITIONING SERVICES

  Is your car’s air conditioning blowing out hot air as you drive around Chicago in the summer heat? Not cool. To beat the heat, rely on Thom’s Four Wheel Drive team of expert auto service and repair technicians. We’ll use the latest technology to take a closer look at what is causing your auto A/C to stop working when you need it most. We are now fully equipped with the latest technology to service the new R1234YF refrigerant systems found in 2018 and new vehicles. Cabin air filters are responsible for filtering fresh air that comes into your vehicle to provide cool airflow to your car’s A/C system. In Chicago, cottonwood seeds and other airborne debris may plug up the carbon air filters, resulting in a restricted airflow. If your A/C is not getting as cold as it should, you are hearing more noise from your A/C unit, or if you are not getting the airflow you expect from your vehicle’s air conditioning, come in and have one of our ASE Certified technicians take a look. Thom’s Four Wheel Drive provides a thorough inspection of the vital components that make up your vehicle’s cooling system to determine the best method for repair. Auto Air Conditioning Services Click the image to watch a video about the heating and air conditioning system Our auto air conditioning services include leak detection and repair, replacement of hoses and belts, A/C compressors and A/C system recharge. We use only the highest quality replacement parts and components when it comes to your car. You can rest assured your car, truck or SUV will be serviced correctly the first time around. If the warm breeze from those open windows just isn’t cutting it, come by our shop in Chicago to get an expert opinion on what we can do to fix your automobile’s A/C problems. Enjoy our air conditioning, and free Wi-Fi while you wait or take advantage of our free local shuttle service. For affordable prices and guaranteed workmanship, schedule an appointment by calling (773) 577-5701. You’ll be back on the road with a cool, comfortable ride in no time!

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• BATTERY SERVICE AND REPAIR

  The battery in your vehicle provides power in order to start your vehicle and keep it running. If your car’s battery is dead or dying, you may notice that your vehicle won’t start or that electrical components aren’t working properly. As soon as you start experiencing problems with your car’s battery, give the experts a call here at Thom’s Four Wheel Drive in Chicago, IL. Our ASE certified technicians are the trusted mechanics in the Chicago area and are experienced with all makes and models of vehicles. We have the latest tools and technology to properly diagnose the issue and get you back on the road quickly. The obvious sign of a dead battery is a car that won’t start. If you’ve already tried to jump start your vehicle with no luck, you may have a completely dead battery, or the problem could be with the starting or charging system or the alternator. A battery can also die unexpectedly if a light or other electrical component of your vehicle is left on for an extended period. If your car won’t start, our shop can help. We have towing options available and can help get your car into our shop to determine the exact cause of the issue. Signs of a battery problem include: Car starts up slow and makes a rapid clicking sound when you try to start vehicle Issues with electrical components, such as the vehicle’s radio, power windows, windshield wipers, dashboard lights, or headlights Check engine light or battery light turns on Strange smell when vehicle is running, similar to rotten eggs Our Chicago auto repair shop can assist with any of your car’s battery needs, from battery testing to replacement. A car battery typically lasts about 3-5 years. Luckily, a battery can be repaired quickly with factory recommended parts at our Chicago auto shop. If you suspect that your vehicle’s battery is old and may need to be replaced soon, we can test the battery for you and give you an estimate of how much life it has left. Thom’s Four Wheel Drive is a full service automotive center specializing in repairs and services for all makes and models of vehicles. We offer a local shuttle, towing, and free coffee and WI-FI in our waiting area. Our shop also offers an outstanding 3 year/36,000-mile warranty on our repairs. We have proudly provided the Chicago area with professional auto services for over 40 years and counting.

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• 4X4 FLUID SERVICES

  Regularly scheduled 4×4 fluid replacement is key to maintaining a high performing vehicle. SUVs and trucks are often equipped with off-road driving and towing capabilities; thus we rely more heavily on their transmission’s overall performance. Thom’s Four Wheel Drive specializes in SUV service and repair. You’ll be hard-pressed to find the same level of expertise that our auto technicians provide. We have over 40 years of experience working on both domestic and import vehicles of all makes and models. 4x4 Fluid Services Click the image to watch a video about the fluid maintenance Our 4×4 Fluid Services include: Transfer case fluid Front Differentials fluid Rear Differentials fluid Transmission fluid Our complete fluid service for your 4×4 or all-wheel drive vehicle includes checking the above fluids and if necessary, changing it out by draining the old fluid, replacing it with clean fluid to the proper level according to the owner’s manual, and re-installing the fill plug. Front and Rear Differential Service and Transfer Case Service will keep your vehicle in top working condition. Regularly changing out your four-wheel drive fluids can reduce wear and tear on your truck or SUV. You can rely on the expertise of our ASE Certified mechanics to provide you with a worry-free performance that will extend the overall life of your vehicle.

  Link: 4X4 FLUID SERVICES

• HEATING/HEATER CORES

  In Chicago, we get some chilly, snowy winter weather, and therefore it is important to have a working heater in your car. Unfortunately, car heating systems are susceptible to failing and when that happens, you need a mechanic’s attention. During the cold months, it is imperative to have an operable heater and defroster. At Thom’s Four Wheel Drive, our expert technicians can determine the cause of the problem and fix it quickly and cost-effectively to get you traveling in comfort once again. Your car’s climate control/heating system is driven by a heater core that works in conjunction with the engine’s cooling system. The system cools the engine by sending the heated antifreeze to the radiator, which allows outside air to blow across the radiator and cool the antifreeze. The antifreeze is then sent back to the engine. Hot antifreeze circulates throughout the cooling system via the radiator and heater hoses. When the car’s climate control heater is turned on, a diverter door opens to the heater core in the dashboard, and the A/C fan or blower directs air through the heater core, through the ducts, and into the interior of your car. However, corrosion can build up in the system due to lack of cooling system flushes. In addition to serving as a temperature control substance, antifreeze also is a lubricant and rust inhibitor. If not flushed and replaced periodically, corrosion can develop. If antifreeze is dirty, it is a usually a sign of a coolant leak in the cooling system that has allowed air to enter the system. It could also be a leaky radiator/hose, water pump, or heater core. But no matter the problem, it must be remedied quickly to not only keep your car’s cabin comfortable, but also to prevent other underlying issues from turning into bigger problems. Count on Thom’s Four Wheel Drive for your heating/heater core service.

  Link: HEATING/HEATER CORES

• TUNE-UP

  A tune-up is an essential component of preventative maintenance for your car, truck or SUV. Not only will a properly scheduled tune-up help prevent performance issues; it will also maximize the efficiency of your engine, extending the life of your vehicle. Sometimes it’s hard to recognize that your engine is losing performance. It usually happens gradually. You don’t notice that your vehicle is not performing optimally until the check engine light is on. By the time your dashboard displays the warning light, your car is already running poorly and there could be more serious issues. When is it time for a tune-up? In the past, all cars required an annual tune-up that usually involved changing the spark plugs, caps and rotors. Newer models are now computerized, so you may not need to change these things out as often. It is always best to refer to the owner’s manual to determine the proper intervals recommended for your specific vehicle. Our Tune-up Service includes: Replacement of fuel and air filters Change spark plugs PCV valve Check fluids Fuel induction service In order to keep your vehicle in top condition, you should de-carbon the engine every couple of years. Engines are now being built with tighter tolerances. There is not a lot of room for buildup and just a little will affect its performance. Our fuel air induction service cleans off any carbon, making your vehicle run better. Thom’s Four Wheel Drive uses only the highest quality replacement parts, filters, oils and components when it comes to your car. Waiting until your vehicle’s performance has decreased to bring it in for a tune-up is not recommended. Our ASE Certified technicians will help you keep your vehicle on a maintenance schedule that will keep your car’s engine in good working condition. As Chicago’s trusted source for auto maintenance and repair, we invite you to come experience our unmatched level of customer service at a price you can afford. Please call to schedule an appointment. We guarantee a thorough job each and every time you visit.

• ENGINE REPAIR

  When you’ve got a problem with your vehicle’s engine, it could be any number of issues. At Thom’s Four Wheel Drive, our expert service technicians will determine the problem explain it to you in clear terms, offering solutions, and allowing you to make an informed decision on how best to proceed. We will never sell you a repair or part you do not need. Count on us as your partner in keeping your vehicle running optimally. Engine Repair Click the image to watch a video about engines The key to keeping your engine running well, however, is keeping on a routine maintenance plan so that we can conduct standard tune-ups (visual inspection of engine components, diagnostics, fuel pump, various filters, ignition module, emissions, engine sensors, distributor cap and rotor, and much more). We will advise you on replacing/installing any worn or aging parts such as spark plugs, and can set the timing and idle, replace air and fuel filters, change the oil, and clean the fuel system. Giving your engine regular attention and care will ensure it runs properly and efficiently and minimizes your chances for needing major repairs. Call Thom’s Four Wheel Drive today if you’d like to schedule an inspection of your engine, or if you’re in need of engine repair.

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• EXTERIOR BULB REPLACEMENT

  Over time your vehicle’s headlight, taillight, or brake light may become damaged or simply burn out. When this happens, your visibility may be impaired while driving at night, which poses a safety hazard for you and other vehicles on the road. In addition, since improperly lit vehicles are considered a violation of motor safety, you are at risk to be ticketed and fined by law enforcement. Therefore, it is best to have any necessary replacement performed as soon as possible. Our ASE Certified mechanics are well versed in all makes and models of both domestic and import vehicles. We check every car that comes in by inspecting them for any bulbs that need to be replaced. We will be able to find and properly install the right headlamp, bulb or lighting accessory to fit your vehicle. Several elements such as the sun, road debris and various cleaning products can make your headlamps appear cloudy, thus reducing the overall strength of lighting provided by your vehicle. Ask us about restoring the quality of your headlights to enhance your nighttime visibility for safer driving conditions. In the event your car, truck or SUV needs an exterior bulb replacement, our expert auto mechanics will inspect your vehicle, check fuses and determine if the bulbs need to be replaced. If a warning light on your dash indicates that you have a lamp out but all of your exterior bulbs are working, you may have the wrong type of bulb in place in one or more areas of your vehicle. Please call to schedule an appointment. While you are here, enjoy free Wi-Fi and coffee. We’ll have you back on the road safely and as quickly as possible.

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• TIRE ALIGNMENT AND WHEEL BALANCING

  Thom’s Four Wheel Drive has been repairing front and rear-end tire alignments on all types of vehicles and trailers for the past 40 years. If your vehicle is pulling to one side of the road when you let go of the steering wheel, then there is a good chance that you need your alignment fixed. Our technicians are fully certified to repair any vehicle that is out of alignment by performing the following checklist below. Tire Alignment and Wheel Balancing. Click the image to watch a video about the steering system STANDARD TIRE ALIGNMENT CHECK Perform Alignment Inspection Adjust camber, caster, and toe angles, if adjustable to manufacturer specifications Print out final tire alignment readings to verify alignment is within specifications Road Test Vehicle WHEEL BALANCING If your car vibrates when you hit higher speeds (i.e., when you get on the highway) your tires may need to be balanced. Our ASE Certified technicians will inspect your vehicle’s wheel assembly and re-balance the tires accordingly to give you a smoother driving experience. We suggest you have your tires balanced each time you have your tires rotated. If you take care of your tires and wheels through proper maintenance, they will take care of you by lasting longer and keeping you and your family safe on the road.

  Link: TIRE ALIGNMENT AND WHEEL BALANCING