Services
Domestic General Repair
General repairs may include engine diagnostics and repairs, alignments, brakes, shocks, struts, front end and rear end diagnostic services and electronics service and repair. To have your domestic vehicle repaired and maintained, contact Merrill's Service Center today. At Merrill's Service Center, we have experts who can handle even the most challenging domestic vehicles.
Fleet Maintenance and Repair
We can manage your fleet repairs and maintenance. We make sure servicing is up to date and up to standards. We handle all aspects of fleet repairs and maintenance.
Import General Repair
Import vehicles can be an economical or stylish alternative to domestic cars. Obviously, they will require general repairs at some point. Additionally, maintenance and repair of these vehicles requires knowledge and tools auto shops and qualified mechanics. Contact or visit Merrill's Service Center today for professional import general repairs. We have the expertise required to get your vehicle running like new again.
1
Vehicle Maintenance
To keep your vehicle running at peak performance, we provide under car services that include:
Alignment
Wheel alignment involves adjusting the angles of the wheels so that they are set to the manufacturer's specifications. The main purpose is to let the suspension and the steering systems operate at their desired angles to reduce tire wear.
Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS)
Anti-lock brakes prevent wheel lock-up when rapidly decelerating by automatically modulating the brake pressure during an emergency stop. With this system, the wheels are able to maintain traction with the road while braking. Failure of the anti-lock brakes could lead to an increase in the risks of multiple vehicle crashes and run-off road crashes. To avoid this, have your anti-lock brake system checked and repaired by our experts. At Merrill's Service Center, we have anti-lock brake experts who will examine and repair your faulty ABS - keeping you safe.
Brakes
If your vehicle's brakes are having issues, it is important to have them inspected and repaired immediately. Brake experts at Merrill's Service Center can work on your car's brakes to ensure you have a safe drive.
Chassis
A chassis is the car's internal framework that supports the body and other parts like the wheels, engine, transmission, driveshaft, differential, and suspension. A weak or damaged chassis will translate to a weak car. To have a strong and properly working vehicle, have your car's chassis checked for defects. We have experienced under car service providers who can work on your chassis.
Exhaust
An exhaust system is a piping used to guide exhaust fumes away from the engine. A properly functioning exhaust system not only sounds better, it is better - for you, your car, and the environment. Merrill's Service Center has expert technicians to service your car's exhaust system.
Driveline
A driveline is a part of your motor vehicle that connects the engine and the transmission to the wheel axles. The driveline consists of the parts of the powertrain less the engine and transmission. Failure of the driveline means that the car would not move since energy cannot be transmitted from the engine to the wheel axles. Therefore, make sure that your car's driveline is regularly inspected and serviced. You can have the driveline serviced by experts at Merrill's.
Shocks
Shocks (or shock absorbers) are mechanical devices designed to smooth out rough roads. They do this by converting kinetic energy to another form of energy. Properly working shocks reduce the effect of traveling over rough ground, leading to improved ride quality and vehicle handling. When shocks develop problems, driving on poorly leveled roads becomes unpleasant, and your vehicle may sway when turning. Our technicians diagnose and repair shocks.
Tires Fix & Replacements
2
As tires get older, they lose traction and deteriorate from the inside out, increasing the likelihood of a tire bursting. This can cause a rapid loss of control of your vehicle. To have a better performing vehicle, you need to make sure the tires are in good condition. For all your tire needs, we can help!
3
Oil, Lube & Filter
To keep running smoothly, your car highly relies on oil, lube, and oil filters. Oil helps in lubricating, cooling, and cleaning the internal engine components. With time, motor oil becomes contaminated. Remember, your car needs an oil, lube, and filter change every three months (or 3,000 miles).
4
Engines
Our expert services are top notch whether you have a late model import or newer domestic vehicle. We guarantee the work we perform, so you can rest assured you are receiving the highest quality engine overhaul and replacement services.
Engine Maintenance
Preventative maintenance is critical to the lifespan of any car part. Like other auto parts, car engines aren't built to last forever. However, you can increase the engine's lifespan by performing regular preventive maintenance at Merrill's Service Center. The easiest way to maintain peak performance and fuel economy is to provide regular engine maintenance for your vehicle.
Engine Replacement
The engine converts energy into useful mechanical motion. This is what keeps your vehicle moving. Although generally reliable, a car engine is susceptible to damage and breakdown. If this happens to you, we are happy to assist you to get you on the road safely again.
Cylinder Head
A cylinder head is the closed end of a cylinder (located in a car's engine block). It sits above the cylinder block, closing the top of the cylinder and forming the combustion chamber. The cylinder head coordinates airflow in and out of the engine. Since the cylinder head's chief function is to seal the cylinders properly, insufficient compression results in the car being difficult to drive.
Timing Belt
A timing belt synchronizes the camshaft and the crankshaft rotation so that the engine valves open and close at the correct timings. Additionally, the belt prevents the piston from striking the valves in an interference engine. Timing belts should be checked regularly.
Cylinder Block
When the cylinder block fails, it results in a vehicle that won't start. Cracked blocks, porous blocks, core plug, or freeze plug failure are some of the problems facing cylinder blocks. We are happy to assist in diagnostics and repairs!
Authorized Jasper Dealer
Merrill's Service Center is an authorized Jasper dealer. Your trusted installer at Merrill's Service Center can drop in a completely remanufactured JASPER gas or diesel engine, transmission or differential and get you back on the road again quickly! Proudly remanufactured in the U.S.A.
Fuel Injection
Fuel injection is a system for admitting fuel into an engine. Since 1990, fuel injectors have completely replaced carburetors as the primary means of getting gasoline into the engine. A fuel injector atomizes the fuel by forcibly pumping it through a small nozzle (under high pressure). Failure of the fuel injection system means poor performance and ultimately destroys the engine. Make sure your vehicle's fuel injection system is maintained properly.
Ignition
An ignition system is a system for igniting (using an electric spark) a mixture of fuel and air in a gasoline engine. A properly working ignition system means a properly starting engine and high performance from your car. For all your ignition system maintenance and replacement needs, call or visit Merrill's Service Center today.
Ignition Wires & Cables
Ignition cables also known as spark plug wires are an important part of your car's ignition system. They transfer the spark from the ignition coil to spark plugs that ignite the mixture of fuel and air. The mixture starts the engine. Over time, ignition wires and cables get weak and break down. This makes it impossible for the spark to reach the engine cylinders. This results in the engine misfiring. The car will eventually fail to start. If it does start, it will run poorly. Common symptoms of faulty ignition cables and wires are: poor gas mileage, engine misfires, engine light is on, and engine may vibrate.
Spark Plugs
A spark plug delivers electric current to the combustion chamber from the ignition system.
Spark plugs that haven't been changed for a long time can cause ignition problems.
5
Auto Electrical Repair & Maintenance
Batteries
The battery supplies electric energy which powers the ignition system, the starter motor, and the lights of an automotive. If you need to jump-start your vehicle in the morning, your battery could be failing. When a battery starts deteriorating, it can either be replaced or repaired - this will depend on the severity of the damage. Cold Michigan winters take a toll on batteries that can leave you stranded. We provide a convenient battery testing and replacement service to get you back on the road. Battery replacement, charging, installation, testing, and recycling - we handle it all.
Starters
A starter is a motor (electric, hydraulic or pneumatic) that rotates the internal combustion engine to initiate the engine's operation. Starters are important parts of your car's engine and their failure would translate to your car's failure.
6
Transmissions
Automatic Transmission
Automatic Transmissions shift between gears automatically to optimize driving, and changes gears based on the driver's throttle pedal, vehicle speed, engine speed, and vehicle load. Typical automatic transmissions have 4-5 forward gear ratios, a Reverse, Park, and Neutral gear. Shifting gears occur automatically once the car is in Drive and there is no need for a clutch pedal or gear shift like there is in a Manual Transmission. Automatic transmission repair is complicated based on all the components that make it up, and you need to have any automatic transmission issues properly assessed by auto mechanics.
Clutches
There are clutches in both automatic and manual transmission cars, and different types of clutches. When shifting gears, the clutch engages and disengages from the flywheel and transfers the torque through the transmission. Clutches should help your vehicle start and shift gears smoothly. The clutch in your car receives a lot of wear and can eventually wear out.
Four-Wheel Drive Transmission
A four-wheel (4x4) drive vehicle has differential gears, both front and rear axles, and a transfer case attached to the transmission. Four-wheel drive vehicles demand maintenance on the transfer case, front differentials, rear differentials, and transmission fluids.
Front-Wheel Drive Transmission
If your vehicle has Front-wheel drive, the engine drives the front wheels only. The power is routed through the transmission to the final drive where it is split and sent to the two front wheels through the drive axles. The engine, transmission, and additional hardware is all located in the front of the car.
Manual Transmission
Driving a vehicle with a Manual Transmission requires using the clutch pedal and gear shift to manually shift gears based on the speed of the vehicle. Manual transmissions have been built with anywhere from two to eight gears. Front-wheel drive and rear-wheel drive are the two main configurations for manual transmissions. Typically, manual transmissions require less maintenance then automatic transmissions. At Merrill's Service Center, our auto mechanics can diagnose your vehicle and then recommend the transmission repair or transmission service you need to ensure safety and improve the lifetime of your vehicle.
Come by our shop to get an expert opinion on what we can do to fix your auto A/C or heating problems. We offer affordable prices and guaranteed workmanship.
A comprehensive evaluation of heating and A/C system includes:
-
Examining the internal controls and blower
-
Checking radiator coolant operating temperature, hoses, pressure radiator cap and thermostat
-
Inspecting the compressor belt
-
Inspecting system and seals for leaks or various other damages.
-
A cooling system pressure test
-
Verifying the A/C pressure meets manufacturer specifications
-
Measuring the interior vent air temperature
Air Conditioning
At Merrill's Service Center we have qualified service professionals who can fix your air conditioner. To have an air conditioning system serviced, repaired, or replaced by experts consider visiting Merrill's Service Center. You can also call us at 231-775-7571 with any questions relating to your vehicle's air conditioner.
Belts
A fan belt, also known as a drive belt, is a belt connecting your car's engine to the front mounted accessories. The fan belt rotates the water pump and engine fan, which maintains a cool environment for the engine and its components. Sooner or later, your vehicle's fan belts will dry out and crack. When you are ready for a replacement you can count on Merrill's Service Center for all your vehicle's repair needs.
You not only have to get the belts replaced with quality ones but you should have the work done by experts. To have the belts replaced by auto cooling and heating experts - and get your car driving right - visit Merrill's Service Center today. The mechanics at Merrill's Service Center will thoroughly inspect your car's belts; replace all worn belts; and adjust the installed belts.
Radiators
Radiators are heat exchangers for cooling your car's internal combustion engine. A radiator cools the engine by circulating an engine coolant through the engine block - it then loses the heat to the atmosphere through radiation. A radiator has a set of tubes through which the engine coolant flows. Fins surround these tubes. When the radiator fails, the excess heat produced by the engine could damage the engine components. To prevent this from happening, have your radiator serviced regularly. To have your radiator needs handled by experts, visit Merrill's Service Center today.
7
A/C Heating Services
8
Auto Electronics Repair
Don't neglect your vehicle's electronic systems - trust our experts to repair your vehicle properly the first time around! A poor driving experience can often be related to a malfunctioning computer or driving controls. Come to Merrill's Service Center to ensure your vehicle is in top driving condition.
Diagnostics
Qualified mechanics at Merrill's Service Center are able to diagnose all the electronic parts in your car.
Computer
Today, car manufacturers include at least one computer in motor vehicles. This computer's main function is to monitor and adjust engine and transmission operations. The computer receives input information from different sensors. The computer controls spark plugs, idle speed, and fuel injectors so as to get you the best possible car performance. Failure of the car computer will greatly affect the things it controls. To get the most out of your car's computer, have it evaluated regularly for updates and proper operation. If it is already failing, have it repaired or replaced.
Drivability
Drivability is the degree of smoothness and steadiness of your car's acceleration. Most modern cars are fitted with on-board computers that continuously check the readings from various sensors. In case of drivability problems, you will receive a warning message on your car's dashboard. To have your car diagnosed for drivability issues, visit Merrill's Service Center in Cadillac, MI 49601 today. At Merrill's Service Center, we have the necessary tools, training, and technology to diagnose and address your car's drivability issues.
Engine Controls
Basically, an engine control system is an on-board computer in your car. Like all computers, the engine controls are composed of hardware and software. Automotive engine control systems are responsible for regulating exhaust emissions, and providing increased fuel economy. To get the best out of your car's incredibly powerful technology, make sure engine controls are working properly. To check if your car's engine controls are working properly, call Merrill's Service Center today.
9
MISC.
Most Extended Warranties Accepted
An extended warranty (also known as a service contract) can provide peace of mind to most car buyers. The warranty (or service contract) kicks in after the usual manufacturer warranty has expired. An extended warranty covers major breakdowns and evens out the cost of repairs. Unfortunately, not all auto repair shops accept extended warranties. At Merrill's Service Center in Cadillac, MI 49601, we accept most extended warranties. We let you use the service contract to save on auto repair costs.
After-Hours Drop Off
Merrill's Service Center values customer convenience. With after-hours drop off services, you leave your car at our shop for repair even if we have closed. You simply fill out an envelope, put in your keys, and drop it in a drop box. The auto shop will only contact you when your car is ready or when they need additional information.
Free Local Pickup and Delivery with Repairs By Appointment
Merrill's Service Center picks up your vehicle at your work place or home, works on it, and delivers it after it is fully repaired and serviced. This saves you time and money. We offer free local pickup and delivery. We want to make the task of having your car repaired/serviced as stress free as possible. This service is by appointment only!
RV Repair
At Merrill's Service Center, we have qualified mechanics that have extensive experience repairing and servicing RVs.
Trailer Hitches, Wiring and Tires
Merrill's Service Center has qualified and experienced electricians who will handle your trailer maintenance.
On-Site Welding
Welding is the fabrication and sculptural process that joins metal parts.
Fuel Efficiency
The experts at Merrill's Service Center can inspect your vehicle and perform services that can help it operate at peak performance and help improve fuel efficiency and overall fuel economy. These inspections and services may include items such as:
-
Change engine oil, using the recommended grade of motor oil
-
Check and change your air filter
-
Inspect and, if necessary, replace a clogged fuel filter
-
Adjust tire pressure to manufacturer-recommended specs
-
Inspect/clean the intake system
-
Inspect/replace emissions components and/or a faulty oxygen sensor
-
Inspect brakes for proper adjustment
-
Inspect power steering system and perform a steering alignment, if necessary
-
Align front suspension
-
Clean or replace dirty or malfunctioning fuel injectors
-
Inspect/replace spark plugs and spark plug wires
-
Check exhaust for clogged catalytic converter
-
Examine the exhaust gas recirculation system
Pre-Purchase Inspections
Are you planning to buy a new car? Pre-purchase inspections involve examining the car's condition to ensure it is worth buying. Our mechanics will scrutinize any car, make, and model and allow you to make an informed decision. These inspections will definitely give you peace of mind when you buy your next used car.
Pre-Trip Inspection
This inspection aims at looking for possible defects and potential mechanical problems that could cause issues during travel. Before embarking on a trip you should make sure your car is fully inspected for safety. You can rely on the experts at Merrill's Service Center. Our technicians are able to conduct safety inspections on any car, make, and model to ensure a safe trip. Simply drop by or give us a call at 231-775-7571.
10
Towing
Towing to Our Shop
Auto breakdowns are often unavoidable - this is regardless of how new your car is or how carefully you drive. When your car breaks down, the best option is to have it towed to a professional auto repair shop for repairs. This way, you can be back on the road as quickly as possible. To have your broken down vehicle towed to us, contact Merrill's Service Center today.