Warning Smells From Your Car

There can be many warning signs that your car is in need of repair, from the sounds of something clanking to the sight of something not working. One of the most obvious signs, though, is when your car smells. There can be many different smells your car may experience, so today we want to talk about the some of the bad ones so you can know exactly what to do if you find yourself in this situation.

Disclaimer: This is not a DIY post, we recommend if you notice anything wrong with your vehicle that you bring it to the best automotive center at the Lake of the Ozarks. If it isn't able to start, you can call the best tow company at the Lake of the Ozarks as well.

6 Warning Smells From Your Vehicle

1. Burnt Rubber

From slipping drive belts to misplaced loose hoses - this smell is something to be aware of. It could be something rubbing against rotating accessory drive pulleys. Sometimes it could even be a sign of an oil leak. If you notice this smell, it's important to get your vehicle to a service station and have them inspect.

2. Hot Oil

Do you notice the smell of hot oil coming from your vehicle? It could mean that oil is leaking onto the exhaust system. You can verify that there is a leak by looking for oil on the pavement or smoke coming from the engine of your car. If you notice this happening, turn off the engine before checking for a leak.

3. Gasoline

If you smell gasoline, it could be as simple as having some on your hands from when you filled up. It could also be a sign of a gas leak. One common place you'll experiences this is possibly a fuel injector line or the fuel tank. Take caution when you smell fuel. Any time you smell gasoline your car can be a possible fire hazard, so you should call someone immediately to come out and take a look.

4. Syrup

Have you ever smelled a sweet syrupy smell coming from your car? This could be a sin that your car is leaking engine coolant from a component related to the car's cooling system. If you notice this smell, do not open the radiator cap when it is hot.

5. Burning Carpet

This smell could be the sign of brake trouble. You'll want to have your brakes checked immediately, especially if you notice the smell during normal driving conditions. Brake trouble is a driving safety hazard, and you'll want to contact your automotive center in Camdenton, MO to have it checked out.

6. Rotten Eggs

This unmistakeable smell could mean the catalytic converter is not converting hydrogen sulfide in the exhaust to sulfur dioxide properly. A poorly running engine can cause the catalytic converter to become overloaded and fail because of a meltdown. It's important to keep your vehicle in good working condition.

Caring For Your Vehicle

At Bledsoe's Towing, we know how important it is to have your car working properly. Whether you need to run errands or rely on it to get you to work - a car maintenance issue can cause some serious setbacks. Trust the best mechanics at the Lake of the Ozarks to keep your car in great working condition - which will keep you out on the road longer.

Serving the Lake of the Ozarks with all towing at automotive 

needs - big or small!

www.BledsoesTowing.com

322 South Business Route 5

Camdenton, Missouri 65020

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Common Car Maintenance You May Forget About

If you've ever looked under the hood of your car, you know that there are many details, and most are pretty complicated. All of those details need a fair amount of maintenance in order to continue working, thankfully, at Bledsoe's Towing, we can help you stay on top of all maintenance that your car needs in order to continue working properly. Here are a few maintenance procedures that should be done on a regular basis that you may have forgotten about.

Oil Change

If you forget about this important detail, you could find your vehicle in worse shape than you expected. A survey by Car Care actually found that 25% of vehicles actually have issues with their engine oil. What would your car do without oil? It would be like you running around without blood. The car oil coats the metal and keeps it from pressing too hard against each other.

Air Filter

Did you know that your car had an air filter? This little - but important piece - plays a huge role in your vehicle, and when it's dirty, it won't run to it's fullest potential. The same survey by Car Care actually found that 18% of vehicles on the road had problems with their air filter. It's important to bring this into the best car maintenance shop at the Lake of the Ozarks to get it taken care of.

Brake Fluid

This is important, for pretty obvious reasons! 13% of cars on the road had issues with their brake fluid, and we think that it's too high. Your brakes are part of what keeps you out of the ditch, and it's vitally important that you stay on the road where you belong.

Coolant Levels

Don't be one of the 17% of cars with low coolant levels. Engine coolant protects the aluminum engine parts, keeps the engine from overheating, and also keeps it from freezing. You don't just need enough coolant (also known as antifreeze) in the summer, it's just as vitally important in the winter.

Wiper Fluid

You only realize that you don't have it when you need it. This can go unnoticed because you only use your wiper fluid when your windshield is dirty. 16% of cars don't have the appropriate amount of fluid, and this can impact your visual abilities, which can affect the safety of you and your passengers.

Belts

There are many vehicles that need their belts changed after so many miles have been put on the engine. When these belts aren't changed enough, they don't just break, and you go on. They can actually cause serious problems, that can cost a lot of money to repair. Are you one of the 17% that needs new belts? Don't be in the category. Come out to Bledsoe's Towing to get your car belt changed at the Lake of the Ozarks.

Vehicle Service at the Lake of the Ozarks

Don't be one of the 84% of vehicles on the road that need service or repair! That number is way higher than we'd like to see it, which is why we make it our priority to care for your vehicle with expert care. Come visit our shop, give us a call or drop in, and we'd be glad to get your car looked at, and even answer your questions. Sometimes it's as simple as tightening your gas cap, other times, it needs full repair - and we can take care of this.

Serving the Lake of the Ozark with all towing at automotive 

needs - big or small!

www.BledsoesTowing.com

322 South Business Route 5

Camdenton, Missouri 65020

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7 Steps to Detailing Your Own Car

If we looked at your car, would we tell that it's been a long fun summer of activities, road trips, vacations and sports games for the kids? Now that it's time to get back into the school spirit, maybe you will want to give your wagon a good washing. At Bledsoe's Towing, we believe in helping you take care of your car from the inside out, and while it could include getting a tire rotation at the Lake of the Ozarks, it also means grabbing the cleaning products and showing your car some love. Here are some great hacks to help you get your car squeaky clean.

Dusting

This will be the first step to getting your car clean, because as the dust falls to the ground, you can vacuum it up. You can use a cheap foam paintbrush to dust those hard to reach places on your AC vents, and you can follow the brush with the vacuum hose to catch all of the dust!

Toss the Trash

Make your way through your car either with two trash bags or baskets. One is for actual trash, while the other is for items that don't belong in your car anymore. Extra pens, business cards, cups, water bottles, Tupperware containers, sometimes even a whole wardrobe! You never know what can get lost in such a small area like your car, but they do, so start by clearing away all of these items, as well as the trash that accumulates as well. Don't forget to take the rugs out too, you wouldn't believe what could sneak its way under those!

Wipe the Spills

You can use soapy pail of water and a rag or a magic eraser to get in and clean those spills and messy things from your vinyl and leather seats. You can also use your rag to start wiping down the dash, doors, steering wheel, and more. If you find that dirt has embedded itself into the textures of your vinyl you can use an old toothbrush to get in those small spaces. Just be sure that whatever you use to clean, it's not too abrasive and you don't scrub too hard.

Rescue Those Rugs

If you have unsightly slushy stains and cracker crumbs ground into your rugs, we can help you rescue them and have them looking as good as new! You can spray your dirty floor mats with a stain remover and then throw them in the washing machine, or you can just scrub them really good with an upholstery cleaner. If you have something random ground into them like wax from a crayon that sat in the car on a 100° day and then melted into a puddle, you can fix that easily! Use a paper towel and an iron to remove melted wax, or you can wait for an equally hot day and just keep dabbing it with new paper towels to clean it.

Scrub the Seats

Do you have dog hair embedded in your seats? You can try a vacuum first to get it off, and if that doesn't work, you can spray the seat with water and then squeegee it to make piles of hair and then vacuum those off. If you have dirt and crumbs in the fine seams of the seat cushions, you can use a fine-bristled brush to get them out. If you want to give your leather seats extra special treatment, use olive oil to polish the leather and even your dashboard!

The Smell of Clean

Now that you've cleaned the inside of your car from top to bottom, get an air freshener in there and sit to enjoy the freshness. If you want to make a homemade freshener, you can make one from a dryer sheet and some scent beads from your favorite laundry soap company. Put the beads on the dryer sheet and tie it up with a twist tie! Throw these puppies under the seats of your car and you'll have it smelling fresh in no time. If your car still has a strange odor that you can't place, your cab's air filter may need to be replaced. Bring it out to the best car mechanics at the Lake of the Ozarks and we'll get it taken care of!

Best Mechanic at the Lake of the Ozarks

While you worry about the inside of your car, let us take care of the outside stuff, like your tires, engine and more. From flat tires to hearing strange sounds in your vehicle, we can help with all of those and more. Bring your car to the best auto care company at the Lake of the Ozarks and we'll help you keep your newly cleaned car on the road for longer.

Serving the Lake of the Ozark with all towing at automotive 

needs - big or small!

www.BledsoesTowing.com

322 South Business Route 5

Camdenton, Missouri 65020

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4 Things To Know When Choosing A Mechanic

Choosing a mechanic shop doesn't have to be complicated, and we certainly expect that you'll come away with a wonderful experience. There are many who don't, and that's why we've provided the best auto mechanic shop at the Lake of the Ozarks, so you can trust that there is a company out there who cares about your experience even more than you do.

Ask Around

One of the best things you can do to find the best auto shop at the Lake of the Ozarks is to ask the people around you. You can ask co-workers, parents of your kid's friends, or friends on social media. When someone has had a great experience they love to share it.

Shop Before An Emergency

One of the best things you can do is find the auto shop before you actually need them. If you ask around and determine that you want to go to Bledsoe's Towing before you have a flat tire, go into the ditch, your car starts smoking, or you've locked your keys in your car, then you won't have to worry about who to call. Do yourself a favor right now by grabbing your phone, opening up your contacts, and creating a new one. Put the name Bledsoe's Towing, and then add our phone number, (573) 346-7050. Now you have the peace of mind of knowing that if you ever have an auto emergency, you can call the towing company that operates 24/7.

Don't Choose Your Mechanic Based On Price

While price can be a very strong factor in who you choose, it shouldn't be the top reason you choose an auto company. What you really want is quality, a service that gives you exactly what you need at the level of experience that keeps it working longer. Our mechanics are all well trained in their field and you can be certain that you and your car are in good hands. Our company has been providing quality service since 1964, and you can trust that when you bring your car to Bledsoe's Towing, you're bringing it to a family-friendly company that has been based at the Lake for over 50 years.

Check Online Reviews

While it's always better to get information right from the source, like your friends, sometimes online reviews can help you know whether to trust a company. Keep in mind, though, that while they can be a good depiction of the company, sometimes they are just a place for throwing tomatoes. If you have had a great experience with Bledsoe's Towing, we invite you to head over to our Facebook page and leave us a shining review! If you have questions or concerns about your experience, please, give us a call. We would love to address them personally and make the situation better!

Auto Shop at the Lake of the Ozarks

Are you looking for the best car mechanic at the Lake of the Ozarks? We would like to invite you to give us a call and let us help you get back on the road. From minor maintenance needs to major incidents like needing a tow, we're here for you. Don't forget to follow our social media channels for great information on taking care of your vehicle and more!

Serving the Lake of the Ozark with all towing at automotive 

needs - big or small!

www.BledsoesTowing.com

322 South Business Route 5

Camdenton, Missouri 65020

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Protecting Your Car From Summer Heat

With temperatures rising higher and higher as we get into the summer season, your car needs just as much protection as you do from those hot rays. At Bledsoe's Towing, we want to help you care for your car in every way possible, so from protecting it from the heat to providing the best vehicle maintenance at the Lake of the Ozarks, we care for it all. The harsh ultraviolet rays can be hard on the surface of your car because pain oxidizes in the sun, and interior surfaces can crack and deteriorate over time. If you take the right steps to care for your car, you can get better use out of it for longer periods of time, and maybe even keep from having to jump into a burning sauna every day after work!

Beware the Battery

Extreme heat and cold can both drain the life out of your battery. By testing your battery regularly and keeping the top clean you can help add more life to your battery and keep it running well.

Wash Your Wagon

As the summer gets hotter and rain becomes less common, you'll find that the dirt and dust become even heavier. When dirt and debris rest on the surface of your car if can scrape and scratch the top coat. When it does rain, that rain is often mixed with dust and can leave water spots on your car's paint. By washing it regularly you can potentially prevent damage to that protective top coat.

Wax On. Wax Off.

Adding a coat of wax to your vehicle can prevent the sun and other elements from damaging your paint. Wax can also help repel the dirt and debris, prevent water spots and keep the surface looking shiny.

Stay in the Shade

When at all possible, park in a shady spot. It obviously keeps the harsh rays from beating down on your car with can help protect the finish. It also keeps your leather or vinyl seats from heating up to extreme temperatures and keeps the general temperature of the interior from getting too hot.

Cover Your Car

If there is no option for parking in the shade at your home or work you can always invest in a fitted car cover. Think of it like SPF for your vehicle! This may not be as effective as a garage or carport, but it will help keep the sun from beating down too harshly, and protect the interior of your car from being burnt by the sun.

Pop Up Protection

You can pop up those convenient windshield sun shades to help protect your dashboard from overheating. This can also help the overall temperature of your car a little bit. While it's always better to find a shady spot, this does at least repel the sun from the front of your car where you sit.

Wind Down the Windows

Before leaving your car sit for too long, crack all of the windows just a bit so that there is some extra circulation. Venting the hot air out can keep the temperature down, which protects the interior surfaces and keeps them looking nicer longer.

Car Protection In Every Way

At Bledsoe's Towing, we know how important your vehicle is to you. It helps you get from point A to point B. Because of this, we don't want to see you kept off of the road because of minor car issues and repairs. If something does happen, though, we want to help you get it fixed fast and have you back on the road in no time. Call the best automotive company at the Lake of the Ozarks for all of your car needs, and don't forget that we offer Lake of the Ozarks towing as well! Stay cool through these hot summer days, and count on the company who keeps you on the road longer.

Serving the Lake of the Ozark with all towing at automotive 

needs - big or small!

www.BledsoesTowing.com

322 South Business Route 5

Camdenton, Missouri 65020

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What's Under My Car Hood?

Have you ever needed to get under the hood of your car and been completely confused as to what you were looking at? It's important to know the individual details that make up your car engine so you can correctly explain to one of our Lake of the Ozarks car mechanics where the sound or smoke was coming from. We know that there is a lot happening under the hood of your car, so here at Bledsoe's we aim to make it easier on you!

Here are a few of the key things you'll want to be able to recognize and point out under your hood so that you and your car can work together in harmony. Of course, if you don't know what something is, we always recommend coming into our shop and letting one of our experts take a look at it.

What's Under My Hood?

1. Engine

This is what runs your car, literally. Most of the time it's the largest thing under the hood, and everything revolves around it. Your engine is full of spark plugs, valves, rods and moving pieces. There's a camshaft, timing chain or belt, pistons and connecting rods. All of these pieces need to be cared for appropriately, but this is something you should leave up to the car experts at the Lake of the Ozarks.

2. Radiator

This is a large piece that is found at the front of your car right behind the grill. It has a large fan and is used to cool the engine. There is often a small hose that is attached to a plastic overflow container, you can refer to number three to locate this particular piece.

3. Engine Coolant 

This is where you coolant fluid goes. Though we do recommend that you refer to your owners manual, or your Lake of the Ozarks car mechanic before putting anything in here. When your car overheats, one cause can be because you are out of coolant, and you have to put a special mixture of fluids into this reservoir.

4. Battery

The plastic box with two knobs on top is your battery. Generally, one knob is black and one is red, and this shows you which cable goes on which knob when you have to jump your car, or someone else's. It's important to always use caution when working with your battery because it can cause sparks.

5. Wiper Fluid Reservoir

Do NOT confuse this with your radiator coolant container! Your windshield wiper fluid reservoir should have a logo on it that looks like your wiper blades. If you run out of wiper fluid, you can replace this yourself, but we recommend referring to your owner's manual. You can also ask us to take care of topping it off when you come in for your next oil change at the Lake of the Ozarks!

6. Oil Dipstick

This is not the same type of "dipstick" as the idiot at work...but this is in fact, where you check to see if your oil is low. Before you start your car and heat it up, pull out the dipstick and wipe it off with a clean rag, put the stick back in the pipe, and pull it back out again. You can now look at the film of oil on the end of the stick and if it's between the full and low lines, you should be good to go! Place the dipstick back in the pipe and be on your merry way.

The Best Car Maintenance at the Lake of the Ozarks

Use this guide to help you know what and where things are under the hood of your car! Always remember that every car is different, though, and before messing with anything under your hood, you should ALWAYS refer to your owner's manual, or better yet, bring it into Bledsoe's! We have over fifty years of experience when it comes to maintaining your vehicle, and we want nothing more than to keep it on the road for years to come. If you notice weird sounds, smells or smoke coming from underneath your hood, give us a call and we can fix it!

Serving the Lake of the Ozark with all towing at automotive 

needs - big or small!

www.BledsoesTowing.com

322 South Business Route 5

Camdenton, Missouri 65020

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5 Car Maintenance Tips You Don't Want to Forget

We rely on our car for many things, from getting to work, taking our kids to school, toting groceries home, and visiting our family across the country. Our cars rely on us for only one thing - proper maintenance. A car that has received the appropriate maintenance can you last you longer, and give you fewer headaches than a vehicle that hasn't. At Bledsoe's Towing, we provide you with expert car maintenance services at the Lake of the Ozarks to help keep you and your family on the road for longer. Here are a few things you need to regularly check up on to keep your car in tip-top shape.

Change the Oil

Your car is made up of many moving parts, and these parts need oil to keep them moving smoothly. You should change the oil every 3,000 miles to keep your car running smoothly. Another thing to remember when you get your oil changed is that your oil filter needs to be changed every time the oil is changed to help remove dirt, debris, and other particles.

Flush the Cooling System

Your cooling system removes excess heat that goes through your radiator. It's important to keep it clean so that it can continue to do it's job. Bledsoe's Towing can help your cooling system continue to run correctly, which can help your car to last longer.

Maintain the Transmission

Your transmission can be responsible for operated the clutches, providing cooling and lubrication, and even driving the vehicle. The most important things to keep in check on your transmission is proper fluid operating levels. If you suspect that there is a problem with your transmission, it's important to follow up immediately and bring all issues to a trustworthy car mechanic at the Lake of the Ozarks.

Keep Things Clean

There are many reasons you will want to keep  your engine clean. Whether you want to sell it and keep it looking clean and clear, or if you just don't want to cringe every time you open the hood of your car, all are valid reasons to invest in having your engine clean. It can also help keep good connections between your battery and other mechanical operations.

Grease It Up

Your engine has many mechanical details that are continually moving. To keep these parts moving correctly, you'll want to keep all gears properly greased. At Bledsoe's Towing, we can help keep your car in proper working order through appropriate care, including making sure everything is moving properly with enough lubrication.

Best Mechanic at the Lake of the Ozarks

Bledsoe's Towing has been providing the best car service at the Lake of the Ozarks since 1964. We care about your vehicle and making sure that it runs appropriately, getting you where you need to go. Aside from mechanical updates and maintenance, we also offer the best towing at the Lake of the Ozarks. When you're in an accident you want to call the team who places priority on you and your situation and helps you get out of the ditch fast. Contact us today to see how we can help your drive be smoother.

Serving the Lake of the Ozark with all towing at automotive 

needs - big or small!

www.BledsoesTowing.com

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Caring For Your Car Through the Winter

There have been many signs that spring is around the corner, but winter is still threatening us with chilly temperatures and vague hints of snow. If you haven't taken precautionary methods to protecting your car from the cold elements, now is the time to do so. The harsh weather and chemicals used to clean up snow and ice can take a toll on your vehicle. Use these easy tips to keep your car in great condition, and ready to cruise in the spring!

Conserve Your Battery

Your battery will take a hard hit through the winter months, and the cold air will cause it to reduce it's cranking power. In fact, a battery at 0° has only half the cranking power of a battery in 80° weather. It's important to check the levels of your battery, and if this isn't something you know how to do, bring it out to Bledsoe's Towing & Automotive. A few things to keep in mind as you are considering whether to get a new battery or not, is if it's more than five years old, and start to show signs of weakness, it's time to get a new car battery at the Lake of the Ozarks.

Care For Your Windshield Wipers

Winter can be especially hard on your windshield wipers. From the ice, snow, rain, and freezing temperatures, there are many reasons to replace them. In fact, you may need to replace your windshield wipers more than you ever thought. They recommend that you replace them at least 2 times per year, and if you see streaking or unclear spots on your window, that's a sure sign that you need new blades.  We can help you with this, and show you which blades will be the best for your vehicle.

Clear Your Windows

If you keep your car outside, it's always a good practice to either scrape your windows off in the morning or go out ten minutes early and turn the defrost on. You never want to run your blades over an ice or frost covered windshield. Some cars don't have heaters in the side mirrors, so you may also need to remember to scrape those off as well.

Check the Oil

Cold weather can cause motor oil to thicken, which can put a strain on your engine. It's important to bring your car out to Bledsoe's and get the oil checked. While your car is in the shop, you can also ask us to check out your radiator and heater hoses for cracks, leaks or contamination.

Consider New Tires

Sliding across snow and ending up in a ditch isn't the best way to find out that your tires are worn out and you need new ones. Bring your car over and we can take a look at them to find out if they are still good to go for more miles, or if it's time to retire them and get new ones.

Best Automotive at the Lake of the Ozarks

Since 1964, Bledsoe's Automotive and Towing has been providing quality auto service to the Lake of the Ozarks. We can care for your vehicle in our shop, helping you maintain it, and keep it in working order. We can also come out and give you a tow or even get your keys out of your car! Give us a call today at 573-346-7050 for ALL of your automotive needs!

 

Serving the Lake of the Ozark with all towing at automotive 

needs - big or small!

www.BledsoesTowing.com

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Welcome to Our NEW Blog!

When you need a tow, or your oil needs to be changed, come to the one-stop shop who can help you with it all. Bledsoe's Towing & Automotive has been serving the Lake of the Ozarks since 1964, and we've become a very integral part of the community. If you aren't familiar with our company, here are a few things we offer, and how we will use this blog to keep you informed on everything you need to know about your Lake of the Ozarks car repair.

Auto Services at the Lake of the Ozarks

• Complete automotive maintenance services
• Tires
• Tires balanced and rotated
• Oil changes
• Transmission fluid service
• Belts and hoses
• Brake rotors/drums and pads
• Front end alignments
• Fuel and air filters
• Muffler and exhaust systems
• Windshield replacement
• Towing/accident recovery
• Fuel Sales: Regular unleaded, premium unleaded, diesel, off-road diesel, kerosene

Our History

Starting with the original grand opening of the Camden Shell Service station in 1964, Bledsoe's has been the center of activity and a long-standing community business. Folks of this small hometown lake community can tell you stories of spending their time after school working on their vehicles with the use of tools and the lifts at Bledsoe's. Their descriptions of fondly remembered activities are centered around this community hub and bring you to the belief that there are businesses that still truly care. Some residences will tell you stories of how Bledsoe's was there when they needed a tow in their time of need. Whatever the story, they all have described more than just a service station.

Topics You'll Find on Our NEW Blog

• Car maintenance tips
• Drivers safety information
• What to do in case of an accident.
• How to know when you should change your oil
• Local events in the Lake of the Ozarks
• Odd towing jobs that we can help with
• Testimonials from YOU!

Call the Best Towing Company at the Lake of the Ozarks

When you're in a bind, call the company who can help with any of your towing needs. We care about our community, and we love to help out, whether it's getting a car out of the ditch, or changing your tires. Give us a call today and learn how we can help you with all of your Lake of the Ozarks automotive needs!

 Serving the Lake of the Ozark with all towing at automotive 

needs - big or small!

www.BledsoesTowing.com

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