Tires…How Old Are Yours? Here’s What to Look For (It’s Not Just About the Tread)

When people think about needing new tires, they usually picture bald tread, exposed cords, or something dramatic like a highway blowout. Those are clear signs your tires are shot, but waiting that long can be risky. Many tires need to be replaced well before they reach that point. Let’s talk about how to check the true age of your tires, why that matters even if you don’t drive much, and some overlooked warning signs that could mean it's time for…

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Fall Car Care 101: Essential Tips to Get Your Vehicle Winter-Ready

Fall in northern Illinois is more than just apple orchards and hoodie weather. It’s your last real chance to prep your vehicle before winter shows up with snow, ice, and single-digit mornings. While you’re switching to hot cider (or a pumpkin spice latte), your car could use a seasonal checkup too. At Bockman’s Auto, Truck & Tire, we believe in prevention over panic. Taking care of the small things now helps you avoid big, stressful breakdowns later, especially when it’s…

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Fall Rain Is Coming: Are Your Brakes Ready?

Here in DeKalb County, we know the fall forecast all too well. Dropping leaves, cooler temps, and wet, slick roads are just around the corner. As the rainy season creeps in, your brakes need to be in top shape, not just "good enough." At Bockman’s Auto, Truck & Tire, we’ve been helping local families stay safe on the road for over 60 years. Around here, fall brake maintenance isn’t a nice-to-have. It’s essential. So let’s talk about what to look…

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The Unsung Hero Under Your Car: More Than Just a Muffler

Let’s be honest. Most people don’t think much about their exhaust system. You turn the key, the engine starts (maybe with a growl or a quiet purr), and off you go. But underneath your vehicle is a part that quietly puts in the work every time you drive: the catalytic converter. It doesn’t ask for attention, but when it’s gone or stops working, you’ll feel it fast. So What Exactly Does a Catalytic Converter Do? Picture it as a high-tech…

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The Best Automotive Service You Probably Never Heard Of: Pre-Owned Vehicle Inspections

Let’s play a quick game: What does dating, buying a house, and buying a used car all have in common? Answer: If you skip the background check, you’re asking for heartbreak. Yet every single day, people buy pre-owned vehicles with no inspection, no second opinion, no mechanic’s eye, no idea what's really going on under the hood. It's the automotive equivalent of marrying someone after the third date just because they seemed “nice.” This is where Pre-Owned Vehicle Inspections come…

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Keep Your Fleet on the Road and Your Profits Rolling: A Business Owner’s Guide to Fleet Maintenance with Bockman’s Auto, Truck & Tire

Running a fleet goes far beyond just keeping vehicles on the road - it’s about ensuring they’re safe, compliant, and ultimately profitable. Every mile a vehicle spends out of commission is lost time and money for your business. What if there were a way to minimize downtime, extend vehicle life, and manage fuel costs? That's where we come in. At Bockman’s Auto, Truck & Tire, we’re your go-to fleet maintenance partner in Illinois. Here’s a guide on the essentials and…

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How to know when you need to have your brake fluid changed

How to know when you need to have your brake fluid changed

Brake fluid can become an "out of sight, out of mind" vehicle component—we often do not think of it until something goes wrong. However, your brake fluid is working hard every day to keep you safe on the road. Over time, it can become burnt out, depleted, or contaminated, which will prevent proper brake functioning. Be on the lookout for these 5 signs you are due for a brake fluid flush.

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