Automotive Industry News & Information - Rhodes Engines

You’ve noticed an issue with your transmission, or you simply want to make sure the fluid is still at the correct level and looking good. But, you can’t seem to find the dipstick anywhere…what’s the deal? Rhodes Engines in St Charles is here to help!

While fleet trucks and vehicles tend to persist as some of the more simplistic vehicles on the road, the modernization and computerization of the automotive world has not left them untouched. These days, everything is equipped with computer systems, sensors, modules, and more. At Rhodes Engines in St Charles, MO, our professional technicians have the knowledge, equipment, and ability necessary to provide the accurate and vital diagnostics required to keep your fleet on the road.

When you think about diesel engines, you probably think about large trucks and machinery, and maybe a few oddball cars over the years. So how long has diesel really been around, and why is it used the way it is today? More specifically, why should you choose a diesel engine for your needs? Here at Rhodes Engines in St Charles, MO, we discuss this with customers often based on their unique needs along with the history of the diesel engine.

You don’t have to buy a new, fuel-efficient car to get great fuel efficiency. No one wants to trade a fuel bill for a car payment, so take a look at our top 5 ways to save on fuel and you may just be able to pocket a little extra money at the end of the month.

1. Change Your Driving Style - If you’re the kind of person who enjoys the rush of hard acceleration, typically runs 10 mph over the speed limit and brakes abruptly, we’ve got bad news: you’re hurting your vehicle’s fuel economy, and your wallet, in a big way. Depending on the kind of vehicle you drive and just how extreme you are with the throttle and brake, tempering your driving style can up your vehicle’s fuel economy by more than 5 mpg. That’s a serious bump. Scaling back the speed by just 5 mph means you’ll also see an increase in fuel economy.

At Rhodes Engines in St Charles, cars are our passion, so naturally, we like to keep up with new technology on the market. At the moment, surprisingly the current trend is moving towards a goal you may not expect; self-driving vehicles. You’ve probably heard about self-driving cars a little bit here and there on the news, but it likely still seems somewhere in the realm of science fiction to you. However, the reality is that self-driving cars are on the way and maybe here sooner than you think. Already, almost all major automobile manufacturers are dumping billions of dollars into research and development for self-driving cars, and even companies like Uber are jumping on board.

If you’ve ever been in an emergency braking situation, you’re probably all too aware that the brakes are the most important safety system on your vehicle. And like many other systems in a vehicle, the brakes need regular upkeep to continue functioning properly. One way to preserve the integrity of the braking system is through brake bleeding, and while it may not be as well known as certain services like oil changes, it is a key maintenance item for a vehicle.

Whether it’s a result of maintenance, mileage, or some other factor, it seems that every fleet or commercial diesel leaks a little bit of something. Oil, transmission fluid, gear oil, or coolant seem to find a way to pool overnight on the ground after a long day on the road. At Rhodes Engines in St Charles, MO, we can take care of that for you.

Fleet trucks, different models van and semi

While most fleet vehicles are chosen for their reliability, low maintenance, and durability, sometimes maintaining several of them at a time can become overwhelming. Let Rhodes Engines in St Charles, MO put your mind at ease, with our fleet maintenance programs for any and all fleet vehicles.