Call Us Today! (952) 426-4798 Monday-Friday 9am-5pm|Please call for estimates and appointments

Spark plug replacement and hybrid misfires

By |September 26th, 2014|

Routine maintenance improves the performance, fuel economy, and extends the life of your Toyota, Lexus or Scion. An oft neglected maintenance item is the spark plug.
Comments Off on Spark plug replacement and hybrid misfires

Prius 2004-2009 hybrid battery replacement

By |September 23rd, 2014|

CARspec had the opportunity to replace the high voltage traction battery on a 2005 Prius. We documented the process with some photos and explanations of what and why was going on.
Comments Off on Prius 2004-2009 hybrid battery replacement

Worn rear swaybar bushings

By |September 22nd, 2014|

One of the more common sources of noise from the rear of a guest's Toyota or Lexus is a failing rear swaybar bushing, particularly as the vehicle ages.
Comments Off on Worn rear swaybar bushings

The importance of OEM sealer for cooling systems

By |September 19th, 2014|

We here at CARspec can't stress enough the importance of following factory repair procedures and using original equipment parts and materials.
Comments Off on The importance of OEM sealer for cooling systems

Differential fluid/gear lube replacement

By |September 18th, 2014|

Owning an all wheel drive or four wheel drive Toyota is great for Minnesota winters, but with that advantage comes additional maintenance cost in the form of differential and transfer case fluid changes. Why do these fluids need to be changed, and what are the fluids being put into your vehicle?

Brake replacement on hybrids

By |September 18th, 2014|

A hybrid vehicle uses its friction brakes (brakes in the wheels) far less than a conventional vehicle - the hybrid system can use the electric motors to slow the vehicle. Less use means less wear, but less use can also mean more problems down the road. When, then, should you replace the friction brakes on your hybrid?
Comments Off on Brake replacement on hybrids

Replacing your Hybrid Battery – New vs. Rebuilt

By |September 8th, 2014|

As the population of hybrids ages, more people are experiencing hybrid battery (also known as the traction battery) failure due to cell variance, internal terminal corrosion, or as a result of overheating due to a clogged or failed fan.  Once the battery failure has been diagnosed the owner must decide what kind of replacement […]

Toyota/Lexus Severe Service maintenance: you (probably) don’t need it

By |June 27th, 2014|

Taking your car in for service can be daunting. What do you really need, and when do you really need it?
Comments Off on Toyota/Lexus Severe Service maintenance: you (probably) don’t need it

Water pump inspection and replacement explained

By |June 23rd, 2014|

Toyota issued a technical bulletin to explain why a pump may need replacement, what a leak looks like, and when coolant residue may be normal.
Comments Off on Water pump inspection and replacement explained

Prius, Prius Plug-in, Prius V engine rattle/misfire fix: no longer available?

By |June 22nd, 2014|

Owners can help prevent the issue by letting the vehicle warm up fully before shutdown, occasionally accelerate briskly (when safe), and have the intake manifold inspected for excessive oil and water buildup below the throttle body.