Did you know that Brahler offers important services with new tires! With any purchase of 2 or 4 new tires at Brahler, you'll receive:
- Free tire rotation and wheel balance for the life of the tire (service available at sixth street location)
- Free flat repairs for the life of the tire
- Mileage warranty
- Road Hazard free with select tires (additional cost on other tires)
Remember - You never need an appointment to have your tires serviced at Brahler. Just stop on by!
We also offer preventive maintenance and most repairs to help keep your vehicle on the road!
The technicians at Brahler receive no commission or bonus for the work they perform. You can be sure that we only recommend service work that your vehicle really needs - ordering the work is completely up to you!
Shuttle service available to and from your destination!
Select any of the services listed below for details:
New Tires (Huge Inventory - if we don’t have what you want in stock, we’ll get it for you!)
Used Tires (100’s in stock)
Brakes
Front End Parts
Shocks/Struts
Radiators
Alternators
Water Pumps
Starters
Tune-Up
Engine Diagnostic/Engine Drivability
Exhaust
Batteries
A/C Repair
Alignments
Radiator Flush and Fill
Transmission Fluid Service
Belt/Hose Replacement
Tire Rotation/Wheel Balance
Flat Repairs
TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System)
Headlights/Light Bulbs
Don’t see the service you need on our list - just give us a call and we will be happy to speak with you!
New Tires
As your tires wear down, they lose their ability to grip the road properly. It’s extremely important to check the wear of your tires regularly and have them replaced before the tread reaches 2/32.”
Brahler has a huge inventory of quality new tires to suit your vehicle. If we don’t have a specific tire in stock we typically can get it for you in one day!
And remember, if you purchase 2 or 4 new tires at Brahler, you'll receive no charge balance and rotations plus we’ll also repair your flat tires at no charge!
Just stop on by - there’s never an appointment needed for new tires!
Used Tires
Reusing gently worn tires saves you money and keeps the environment from being overburdened by waste.
Brahler offers hundreds of quality used tires at discount prices. We’re very selective about which tires may be resold, so you can feel confident in the quality and reliability of our used tires.
Brakes
For most unexpected dangers on the road, nothing will matter more to you than the effectiveness of your brakes. Reliable brakes are essential to protecting you and your family while driving.
The Brahler technicians can service any part of your braking system, from pedal to brake master cylinder. Preventative servicing is best, but if you notice any of these symptoms, your brakes need to be serviced immediately:
Continually grinding or squeaking brakes
Brake pedal is too hard or too spongy
Brake service light comes on and stays on
Car pulls to one side while braking
Vehicle vibrates while braking
Let Brahler inspect your brakes, it’s a precaution your safety depends on!
Front End Parts
The front end, or steering system, is a complex system of parts that depends on each piece to work properly. The technicians at Brahler know this system inside and out, and can help you get control of your vehicle back in no time!
Shocks / Struts
Ever notice your vehicle bottoming out with a "thump" as you go over a bump? It's a telltale sign that your shocks/struts need service. They are vital to the suspension system, which absorbs shock between your tires and your vehicle. Worn out shocks/struts can accelerate the wear of your tires and suspension and cause other expensive damages to your car.
Brahler's technicians have the experience and expertise to diagnose any problems with your suspension. Come in for an inspection today!
Radiators
A properly working radiator cools engine parts that are heated during combustion. If the radiator doesn’t do its job properly, the engine would eventually overheat and give out. Since a new engine costs astronomically more than a serviced or replaced radiator, you should ask a Brahler technician how you can properly maintain this vital system.
Alternators
The alternator works with the battery to generate power for your vehicle's lights, instrument panel, and other electrical components. Alternators gradually wear out due to dirt and stress from heat and cold. A failing alternator is given away by the battery light on your instrument panel, slowing of turn signal blinking, dimming lights or grinding noises from the engine. It's important to have a malfunctioning alternator repaired or replaced as soon as you notice these symptoms to avoid losing your battery power and getting stuck with a dead car.
Water Pumps
The water pump shoots coolant through your car's cooling system. Sometimes, it can leak engine coolant, which can lead to engine overheating and total failure if left unchecked. You can trust Brahler professionals to replace your water pump and keep your car from requiring more expensive damages.
Starters
Back in the day, people used to start their cars with a hand crank. Today, we have starters to crank the engine. If the starter fails, the engine will not start. To determine if the starter is at fault, a Brahler technician can test it to determine if it is faulty. If you need a replacement, we would be happy to install a new starter for you!
Tune-Up
Remember how well your car ran when you first bought it?
Old spark plugs add to fuel consumption and rob your vehicle of power. Brahler Tire & Auto Center can restore that power with a vehicle tune-up. Your car will thank you for it!
Engine Diagnostic / Engine Drivability
Could that engine light be on because of a loose gas cap, or is it a more serious issue? Our trained technicians can decipher what the real problem is and get your car back in running condition!
Exhaust
Not all of the emissions from your vehicle are released into the environment, thanks to your exhaust system. A properly functioning exhaust and muffler system reduces noise and air pollution. Brahler takes pride in providing high-quality exhaust components for any vehicle. If you want your car to run smoother and quieter while emitting less pollutants, give us a call and we can get started!
Batteries
It's happened to all of us; the dreaded dead battery. Brahler can help you figure out why your battery died and if it needs replaced. We can get the perfect battery for your vehicle and our trained technicians will replace it for you!
A/C Repair
The last thing you want to go wrong on a hot day is your car's air conditioning. Unfortunately, sometimes a blown fuse, leaking component, clogged component, or low refrigerant charge can cause your A/C system to malfunction. To avoid that unpleasant surprise, have a technician inspect your air conditioning system before the temperature goes up every summer. If a problem is detected, they can repair or replace any defective parts. If the air conditioning does go bad, the auto experts at Brahler can provide complete air conditioning service and get you cool in no time.
Alignments
Ever wonder why your car drifts to one side when you let the steering wheel go straight? When your tires are misaligned with each other or your steering wheel, you may find your vehicle wanting to go its own direction. Tire misalignment can lead to lower fuel efficiency and is a major cause of premature tire wear. We recommend checking the front end alignment every year or whenever you purchase a new set of tires.
Radiator Flush & Fill
Coolant in your vehicle is like the circulation in your body; over time, deposits form in the system that can block the natural flow and make the "heart" work harder to circulate. For your car, that means the engine is running hotter and can eventually be damaged. That's why Brahler offers the Radiator Flush and Fill, which flushes the old coolant and solid buildups out and then replaces the system with fresh, clean coolant. The result is a cooler running engine and a longer lasting radiator
Belt / Hose Replacement
Often overlooked in the realm of routine maintenance, your car's belts and hoses need checked just as badly as your oil level. Over time, they crack and fray, and often don't get considered until after they fail completely and the engine overheats. Who wants their car to be broken down in the middle of nowhere? Avoid this too-common mistake by having a Brahler technician inspect your belts and hoses and, if needed, replace the worn ones at our Tire & Auto Center. As they say, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure!
Tire Rotation / Wheel Balance
Not all tires are treated equally: in a front-drive car, the front tires could carry most of your car's weight and be responsible for nearly all of the braking. That's why Brahler recommends that you have them rotated at least every 6,000 to 8,000 miles or every other oil change, so certain tires that are under more stress can have a break and all tires will wear more evenly. By rotating your tires as recommended, you can extend the life of your tires by 8,000 to 10,000 miles!
Wheel balancing is important as well, because out-of-balance wheels will cause a car to vibrate at certain speeds. Wheels become unbalanced when a section of the tire becomes heavier than other parts, and is fixed by attaching a lead weight on the opposite side. Stop by Brahler Tire & Auto Center today--your wheels will thank you!
Flat Repairs
Not all flat tires are ruined beyond repair. Sometimes a tire might have a nail or other metal object lodged in it, causing a leak. Brahler technicians have equipment to locate leaks and can even patch small holes. Before throwing out that flat tire, check with Brahler--as long as the wound is located in the tread, we can fix the majority of all flats.
And remember, if you purchase 2 or 4 new tires at Brahler, your flat repairs are always performed at no charge to you!
TPMS
Short for Tire Pressure Monitoring System, TPMS is an electronic system that monitors the air pressure inside the tires of your vehicle. The sensors provide real-time data about your tire pressure, warning you when the pressure gets too low. As of the 2008 model year, all new passenger vehicles in the United States are required to feature the TPMS. In addition to helping maintain safety, a low pressure warning also helps drivers avoid wasting gas and wearing tires down too quickly
Headlights / Light Bulbs
Did you know that Illinois Law requires motor vehicles to have two functioning headlights and 2 functioning taillights? And for good reason--your car is too valuable an asset to be wrecked simply because another vehicle didn’t see you (or you didn’t see something)! The folks at Brahler can replace your broken lights to ensure you are on the right side of the law...and the road!
Select any of the services listed below for details:
Oil Change
Transmission Fluid Change
Serpentine Belt Replacement
Radiator Flush and Fill
A/C Recharge
Tire Rotations
Air Filters
Cabin Filters
Wiper Blades
Headlights/Light Bulbs
Radiator Caps
Wheel balancing is available at our Jefferson, N. Dirksen, and Wabash locations
Oil Change
You’ve heard the old "every 3 months or 3,000 miles" phrase when it comes to oil change, but have you ever wondered why it’s so important?
Over time, the oil that lubricates the moving parts of your engine breaks down due to heat. When it breaks down, the moving parts rub against each other, and the “dirty” oil causes the interior of your engine to corrode. Since it’s much less expensive to replace your oil than your entire engine, it’s highly recommended that you get your oil changed on schedule. In addition to saving your engine, a car that has its oil properly maintained delivers better gas mileage and retains a higher resale value.
Brahler’s technicians will provide a full service oil change that includes:
Replacing the oil
Changing the oil filter
Lubricating the entire chassis
Topping off any fluids - (excludes antifreeze)
We check the condition of your vehicle's:
Air filter
Cabin filter
Belts/Hoses - Brahler Lube Centers can replace most belts while you wait (See store manager for details. )
Tires
Wiper blades
We also:
Properly inflate tires
Vacuum interior
Wash the exterior windows
Provide a convenient reminder sticker
Transmission Fluid Service
Automatic transmission fluid cools, cleans, and lubricates internal elements of the transmission. It requires regular service to function properly. Brahler can perform the necessary preventative maintenance to ensure smooth shifting for your vehicle. There are three types of transmission services:
Pan drop and filter change
T-Tech transmission flush, which will remove 95% of contaminants
A combination of a pan drop/filter change and T-Tech transmission flush
Please check your owner's manual for recommended transmission service, or ask one of our friendly store managers.
Serpentine Belt Replacement
The Serpentine belt is the single, continuous belt used to drive several devices in your car, including the alternator, water pump, and more. Over time, regular wear can cause the belt to fray and even break. It is best to have the belt checked regularly so it doesn’t break while you’re on the road, because driving with a broken belt could cause your engine to overheat and eventually fail altogether. Whether it is broken or about to break, Brahler has the materials and expertise to replace your old belt and prevent much larger problems down the road!
Radiator Flush and Fill
Coolant in your vehicle is like the circulation in your body; over time, deposits form in the system that can block the natural flow and make the "heart" work harder to circulate. For your car, that means the engine is running hotter and can eventually be damaged. That’s why Brahler offers the Radiator Flush and Fill, which drains the old coolant and solid buildups and then fills up the system with fresh, clean coolant. The result is a cooler running engine and a longer lasting radiator.
A/C Recharge
When you hit the Air Conditioning button in your car, the resulting cold that blows through is due to freon, a substance in your car's air conditioning system that cools air. Sometimes, a small hole forms that slowly leaks freon. If the leak is slow enough, it can be more economical to "recharge," or add more freon, than to replace the entire unit. If your air isn’t blowing as cold as it used to, check with a Brahler technician to see if an A/C recharge could be all your vehicle needs.
Tire Rotation
Not all tires are treated equally: in a front-drive car, the front tires could carry most of your car's weight and be responsible for nearly all of the braking. That's why Brahler recommends that you have them rotated at least every 6,000 to 8,000 miles or every other oil change, so certain tires that are under more stress can have a break and all tires will wear more evenly. By rotating your tires as recommended, you can extend the life of your tires by 8,000 to 10,000 miles!
Air Filters
In order for your engine to run properly, a certain ratio of air needs to be taken in through a filter and added to the gas. When your air filter is clogged, that ratio gets knocked out of balance and your engine gets robbed of power while you get robbed of fuel efficiency. Air filters normally last about a year or 12,000 miles, so if yours hasn’t been checked or changed lately, call Brahler today and find out if this inexpensive fix could help your car run better.
Cabin Filters
We all know that air quality isn’t always great on the road, especially when you are surrounded with other vehicles. The cabin air filter is designed to reduce the amount of contaminants like dust, soot, and pollen that enter your vehicle. Like all filters, the cabin filter needs to be replaced periodically with a fresh one. To help you breathe easier, head to Brahler and ask about their Air Filtration services.
Wiper Blades
The annoying screech and lack of effectiveness makes over-worn wiper blades one of the easiest auto problems to detect. Faulty blades can seriously impede your ability to see during bad weather, so replacements are necessary as soon as possible. The technicians at Brahler can help you select the best blade type for your vehicle and fit them to your wipers. You'll be thankful the next time it rains!
Headlights / Light Bulbs
Did you know that Illinois Law requires motor vehicles to have two functioning headlights and 2 functioning taillights? And for good reason--your car is too valuable an asset to be wrecked simply because another vehicle didn’t see you (or you didn’t see something)! The folks at Brahler can replace your broken lights to ensure you are on the right side of the law...and the road!
Radiator Caps
Radiator caps control pressure in the engine cooling system. When the cap malfunctions, the entire system malfunctions--in fact, the most common cooling system problem is a bad radiator cap. To catch problems early, you should have your radiator cap checked by a Brahler technician about every two years. If left unchecked, a bad cap can cause more expensive system failures down the road.
Wheel Balancing
Wheel balancing is important because out-of-balance wheels will cause a car to vibrate at certain speeds. Wheels become unbalanced when a section of the tire becomes heavier than other parts, and is fixed by attaching a lead weight on the opposite side. Stop by Brahler Tire & Auto Center today--your wheels will thank you!
The Brahler Lube Center on South Dirksen is temporarily closed for renovations as we expand our products
and services to better serve our family of customers. During this time, please visit our Lube Center at
1950 North Dirksen Parkway, or any of our other five great locations.
Please feel free to contact us with any questions!
The Brahler Lube Center on South Dirksen is temporarily closed for renovations as we expand our products
and services to better serve our family of customers. During this time, please visit our Lube Center at
1950 North Dirksen Parkway, or any of our other five great locations.
Please feel free to contact us with any questions!
In 1971, Jim Brahler converted an old Marathon station at the corner of 6th and Laurel into a tire center,
selling car and small truck tires.
He had two employees and three bays to work from.
By 1974, he had expanded to large truck tires, retreading and service.
He also added three bays to the existing location.
In 1979, he bought property at the corner of 6th and Spruce and began specializing in heavy-duty truck tires
and opened what would be the first of six Oil & Lube Centers in Springfield.
In 1992, the Brahler family purchased the property on 6th Street for their Main Office Department.
This property linked the Tire & Auto Center with the location's Lube Center,
adding much more parking area and combined both facilities with a home office location.
Brahler grew from a small tire store to a full-service automotive facility and the Brahler name is now known throughout central Illinois.
How often should I change my oil? We recommend an oil and filter change every 3 months or 3,000 miles, whichever comes first.
( Read more...)
Keep in mind that severe driving conditions will require oil and filter changes sooner than normal driving conditions. Some severe driving conditions include city driving, towing a trailer, or frequent start and stop trips. Also, if Brahler Lube Center services your vehicle, we will top off any fluids, excluding antifreeze, free of charge. (offer good between our recommended 3 month / 3,000 mile service changes)
How do I know if my tires are inflated properly?
Improper tire inflation causes untimely wear on your tires and reduces fuel economy.
( Read more...)
Brahler’s will check this often overlooked problem at any of their oil & lube centers. Between servicing, you should check your tires regularly:
When is it necessary to rotate my tires? Tire rotation can easily extend the life of your car's tires.
( Read more...)
We recommend that you have them rotated at least every 6,000 to 8,000 miles or every other oil change. Tire rotations are done at both our tire center and our oil and lube centers. By rotating your tires as recommended, you can extend the life of your tires by 8,000 to 10,000 miles!
How do I prepare my car for the winter?
Preparing your car for winter weather can make a big difference in reaching your destination.
( Read more...)
Day to day driving is sometimes tough enough; winter weather makes it tougher. Store a bag of kitty litter in your trunk for added traction in slick road conditions. Have your engine coolant checked. Also, while we don't recommend driving and talking on the phone, make sure you take a cell phone in case of emergencies. Make sure your wiper fluid is topped off, since windshields tend to get dirtier in slushy driving conditions. We also recommend rotating tires before the snow flies. This will ensure the maximum traction you need to get where you're going this winter. Another winter tip: keep your ice scraper in the house if snow is predicted. This will save you from having to dig your car out by hand to get to the scraper!
How should I prepare my car for the summer? Give your car a thorough wash, including the undercarriage, to rid it of harmful winter road salts and grime.
(Read more...)
Be sure that the air conditioning is checked before heat becomes unbearable by letting it run for several minutes and ensuring that it produces plenty of cold air. Have a technician check your hoses and replace ones that are cracked or soft, as heat can be especially hard on them. As always, check all fluid levels, especially the coolant level and age. Old coolant is a dark muddy brown or black and it can damage the radiator. If this is the case, have it flushed. Take these steps in addition to regular scheduled maintenance to ensure that you car is ready to welcome the warm summer months!
One of the lights on my car is broken. How soon do I have to replace it? Broken lights should be replaced immediately to ensure no laws are being broken and to keep you and other drivers safe.
(Read more...)
Keeping all lights in good working order is vital to your safety.
Brahler can help improve your night vision impaired by a burnt out or broken headlight. Vehicles are expensive. Why risk your entire investment to poor visibility? We can help you see the light again.
How do I avoid pricey Transmission problems? Most transmission problems can be avoided through regular inspection and maintenance.
(Read more...)
Transmission problems account for the second most expensive repair on average, due to the fact that transmissions are often overlooked until a problem occurs.Brahler can perform the necessary preventative maintenance to ensure smooth shifting for your vehicle. There are three types of transmission services:
Pan drop and filter change
T-Tech transmission flush, which will remove 95% of contaminants
A combination of a pan drop/filter change and T-Tech transmission flush
Please check your owner's manual for recommended transmission service, or ask one of our friendly store managers.
My car doesn't run as well as it used to. Can I do anything about this?
Old spark plugs add to fuel consumption and rob your vehicle of power. ( Read more...)
Brahler Tire & Auto Center can restore that power with state-of-the art engine diagnostic and drivability equipment that helps our technicians locate hard-to-find issues with your vehicle. Let us help return your car to a better-running condition today!
Why does my car pull to the left or the right?
Typically, this is an indication that your wheel alignment is off.
( Read more...)
This happens from normal wear and stress, but it should not be overlooked because improper alignment is a major cause of early tire wear. Over the years, a properly aligned vehicle can add thousands of miles to tire life. We recommend a front end alignment every year or whenever you purchase a new set of tires.
How far can I drive after the gas light comes on?
It varies based on the specifications of your vehicle.
( Read more...)
We recommend that you fill up as soon as the light comes on, but in the event that you cannot, it's good to know how many miles you have. Here is an easy way to prepare for that situation: In the owner's manual, look up the exact amount of fuel your tank can hold. Next time your gas light comes on, fill up your tank all the way. Then, subtract the amount you filled from the maximum amount it can hold. For example, a tank that can hold 16 gallons takes 14 gallons to fill up once the gas light comes on. That means that your tank had 2 gallons in it when the gas light came on. Once you know the amount of gas your car has in it when the gas light illuminates, simply multiply that by the average miles-per-gallon your car gets (usually found in the owner’s manual). If your car gets 30 miles per gallon average, and holds 2 gallons when the gas light goes on, then you have approximately 60 miles left. However, that number can change depending on driving conditions (highway vs. city, etc.) so we advise that you fill up as soon as you can to avoid running out of gas.
What does the writing on my tire sidewall mean?
Ever notice a ton of words on the side of your tire and wonder what they mean?
( Read more...)
Here's the information your tire is telling you:
Pothole season?
Obviously, paying close attention to the road and avoiding potholes is the best route.
( Read more...)
However, sometimes potholes are unavoidable. If you notice a pothole that you cannot safely steer clear from, here's how to minimize the damage: slow down as much as safely possible, then take your foot off the brake as your tires hit the hole. This allows your tire to rotate while going through the pothole, minimizing impact on any one area. It's always a good idea to have your tires checked by a professional after hitting an object like a pothole or curb because such collisions can cause damage inside the tire that you cannot see. It's best to avoid the chance of getting a flat tire some miles down the road by having them inspected as soon as possible after hitting a pothole.
What should I do if my car gets stuck?
If you encounter a situation where your tires are jammed in snow or mud, there are a few steps you can take to try and get out before calling the tow truck.
( Read more...)
First, assess whether any tires are off the ground. If any are, do not try "spinning" or pressing down on your accelerator; having all of the engine's power going to one free wheel could cause the tire to explode. Once you've assessed which tires are stuck, try shoveling them out of whatever they are stuck in. If you can, add gravel or sand to help aid traction. Once you have taken these steps, very gently push on the accelerator to move your vehicle forward. If your owner's manual doesn’t tell you otherwise, it is usually safe to "rock" the vehicle by slowly moving the tires forward, then backward, and then repeating this action.
Should I treat my spare tire differently than my normal tires?
Often, spare tires are different from the tires you drive on regularly.
( Read more...)
If the tire is inflatable, check the sidewall or ask a technician to see how much the tire pressure should be; as with normal tires, spares lose air over time and need to be refilled. If you end up driving on a spare, never drive over 50 miles per hour with it, and follow any other guidelines that the sidewall may have (how long the tire can be used, etc.). Have the spare replaced as soon as possible with a proper tire.
Can the way I drive affect my fuel economy?
Absolutely; rapid starts and stops, for instance, waste gas and lower overall fuel efficiency.
( Read more...)
All vehicles operate best at certain speeds, but gas mileage typically decreases rapidly at speeds above 60 miles per hour, so speeding can be detrimental to more than your driving record. If you are on a highway where higher speeds are acceptable, use cruise control to maintain a constant speed and save gas. Finally, avoid idling when not necessary--since it gets zero miles to the gallon, it's a total gas waster.
Brahler philosophy:
"At Brahler, we don't bonus our staff on what they sell because we do not want something sold to our customers that they don't need."
Mile after mile, the Brahler Tire & Auto Center has been keeping families safely on the road for over 30 years.
Our goals remain simple.
We want customers to leave our stores having had a pleasant experience, pleased with the service they received and with the intention of returning.
Certified Female Friendly ™
Such longevity in a competitive business does not come without hard work and commitment. Brahler says the company motto has always been "A family serving the community." We provide a positive atmosphere for employees and clients, charge a fair price and perform professional work. That is why AskPatty.com has certified Brahler's as "Female Friendly".
Dave Brahler believes the key to his family’s business success is as simple as taking care of customer vehicle needs.
"We professionally diagnose the problem, install or correct the problem at the agreed price and back it up with a good warranty.
We take a family approach to business.
Our customers are literally our neighbors and community members.
I think that philosophy comes through in our quality product and competent staff who serve the customers to complete satisfaction."
Success built on repeat business
Whether you are looking for tire service, oil change or a service check, depend on Brahler to keep you on the road.
As a progressive leader in the automotive service industry, Brahler knows that expert service and product go hand in hand.
The cornerstone of our business is a satisfied customer who returns based on great experience, with excellent service and durable, quality products.
We staff our Tire & Auto Center with ASE certified technicians who believe that both you and your vehicle's safety are in their care.
Our managers have been with Brahler for over 30 years, so you can be rest assured that the people you trust for tires,
also are there for quality vehicle repairs should you need them.
Free shuttle service
As an added convenience, Brahler Tire and Auto Center provides free shuttle service if you drop off your vehicle in the morning and need a ride to work, school, or home.
We will also pick you up once your vehicle is ready.
It is that higher degree of service that sets Brahler Tire and Auto Center apart from "chain store" auto departments.
At Brahler, we are committed to providing you and your vehicle with unexcelled products and friendly, hometown service.
Consumer purchasers of automotive filters are sometimes told by an automobile dealer's service writer or mechanic that a brand of replacement filter cannot be used in the consumer’s vehicle during the warranty period. The claim is made that use of the brand will "void the warranty", with the statement or implication that only the original equipment brand of filters may be used. This, of course, tends to cast doubt on the quality of the replacement filter.
That claim is simply not true. If the consumer asks for the statement in writing, he will not receive it. Nevertheless, the consumer may feel uneasy about using replacement filters that are not original equipment. With the large number of do-it-yourselfers who prefer to install their own filters, this misleading claim should be corrected.
Under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, 15 U.S.C. SS 2301-2312 (1982), and general principles of the Federal Trade Commission Act, a manufacturer may not require the use of any brand of filter (or any other article) unless the manufacturer provides the item free of charge under the terms of the warranty.
So if the consumer is told that only the original equipment filter will not void the warranty, he should request that the OE filter be supplied free of charge. If he is charged for the filter, the manufacturer will be violating the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act or other applicable law.
By providing this information to consumers, the Filter Manufacturers Council can help to combat the erroneous claim that a brand of replacement filter other than original equipment will "void the warranty".
It should be noted that the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act is a federal law that applies to consumer products. The Federal Trade Commission has authority to enforce the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, including obtaining injunctions and orders containing affirmative relief. In addition, a consumer can bring suit under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act.
Have an automotive question or problem? We are always happy to help out. Call or stop by one of our 7 locations, or submit your questions and comments via email using the handy form below. If you email us a question, someone will get back to you within one business day.
 
If you want to challenge and grow your skills in the auto maintenance field, we would like to talk to you! Whether your passion is helping car owners, working hands-on with vehicles, or managing a staff of dedicated workers, we have opportunities for you at Brahler. Stop by any of our locations to see how you can join a leading team of automotive professionals today!
The Brahler Lube Center on South Dirksen is temporarily closed for renovations as we expand our products
and services to better serve our family of customers. During this time, please visit our Lube Center at
1950 North Dirksen Parkway, or any of our other five great locations.
Please feel free to contact us with any questions!
Terms of Use/Privacy Statement
Terms of Use
AGREEMENT BETWEEN USER AND BRAHLER AUTO CENTERS
The Brahler Web Site is comprised of various Web pages operated by Brahler Auto Centers.
The Brahler Web Site is offered to you conditioned on your acceptance without modification of the terms, conditions, and notices contained herein. Your use of the Brahler Web Site constitutes your agreement to all such terms, conditions, and notices.
MODIFICATION OF THESE TERMS OF USE
Brahler reserves the right to change the terms, conditions, and notices under which the Brahler Web Site is offered, including but not limited to the charges associated with the use of the Brahler Web Site.
LINKS TO THIRD PARTY SITES
The Brahler Web Site may contain links to other Web Sites ("Linked Sites"). The Linked Sites are not under the control of Brahler and Brahler is not responsible for the contents of any Linked Site, including without limitation any link contained in a Linked Site, or any changes or updates to a Linked Site. Brahler is not responsible for webcasting or any other form of transmission received from any Linked Site. Brahler is providing these links to you only as a convenience, and the inclusion of any link does not imply endorsement by Brahler of the site or any association with its operators.
NO UNLAWFUL OR PROHIBITED USE
As a condition of your use of the Brahler Web Site, you warrant to Brahler that you will not use the Brahler Web Site for any purpose that is unlawful or prohibited by these terms, conditions, and notices. You may not use the Brahler Web Site in any manner which could damage, disable, overburden, or impair the Brahler Web Site or interfere with any other party's use and enjoyment of the Brahler Web Site. You may not obtain or attempt to obtain any materials or information through any means not intentionally made available or provided for through the Brahler Web Site.
LIABILITY DISCLAIMER
THE INFORMATION, SOFTWARE, PRODUCTS, AND SERVICES INCLUDED IN OR AVAILABLE THROUGH THE BRAHLER WEB SITE MAY INCLUDE INACCURACIES OR TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS. CHANGES ARE PERIODICALLY ADDED TO THE INFORMATION HEREIN. BRAHLER AND/OR ITS SUPPLIERS MAY MAKE IMPROVEMENTS AND/OR CHANGES IN THE BRAHLER WEB SITE AT ANY TIME. ADVICE RECEIVED VIA THE BRAHLER WEB SITE SHOULD NOT BE RELIED UPON FOR PERSONAL, MEDICAL, LEGAL OR FINANCIAL DECISIONS AND YOU SHOULD CONSULT AN APPROPRIATE PROFESSIONAL FOR SPECIFIC ADVICE TAILORED TO YOUR SITUATION.
BRAHLER AND/OR ITS SUPPLIERS MAKE NO REPRESENTATIONS ABOUT THE SUITABILITY, RELIABILITY, AVAILABILITY, TIMELINESS, AND ACCURACY OF THE INFORMATION, SOFTWARE, PRODUCTS, SERVICES AND RELATED GRAPHICS CONTAINED ON THE BRAHLER WEB SITE FOR ANY PURPOSE. TO THE MAXIMUM EXTENT PERMITTED BY APPLICABLE LAW, ALL SUCH INFORMATION, SOFTWARE, PRODUCTS, SERVICES AND RELATED GRAPHICS ARE PROVIDED "AS IS" WITHOUT WARRANTY OR CONDITION OF ANY KIND. BRAHLER AND/OR ITS SUPPLIERS HEREBY DISCLAIM ALL WARRANTIES AND CONDITIONS WITH REGARD TO THIS INFORMATION, SOFTWARE, PRODUCTS, SERVICES AND RELATED GRAPHICS, INCLUDING ALL IMPLIED WARRANTIES OR CONDITIONS OF MERCHANTABILITY, FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, TITLE AND NON-INFRINGEMENT.
TO THE MAXIMUM EXTENT PERMITTED BY APPLICABLE LAW, IN NO EVENT SHALL BRAHLER AND/OR ITS SUPPLIERS BE LIABLE FOR ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT, PUNITIVE, INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL, CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES OR ANY DAMAGES WHATSOEVER INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, DAMAGES FOR LOSS OF USE, DATA OR PROFITS, ARISING OUT OF OR IN ANY WAY CONNECTED WITH THE USE OR PERFORMANCE OF THE BRAHLER WEB SITE, WITH THE DELAY OR INABILITY TO USE THE BRAHLER WEB SITE OR RELATED SERVICES, THE PROVISION OF OR FAILURE TO PROVIDE SERVICES, OR FOR ANY INFORMATION, SOFTWARE, PRODUCTS, SERVICES AND RELATED GRAPHICS OBTAINED THROUGH THE BRAHLER WEB SITE, OR OTHERWISE ARISING OUT OF THE USE OF THE BRAHLER WEB SITE, WHETHER BASED ON CONTRACT, TORT, NEGLIGENCE, STRICT LIABILITY OR OTHERWISE, EVEN IF BRAHLER OR ANY OF ITS SUPPLIERS HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF DAMAGES. BECAUSE SOME STATES/JURISDICTIONS DO NOT ALLOW THE EXCLUSION OR LIMITATION OF LIABILITY FOR CONSEQUENTIAL OR INCIDENTAL DAMAGES, THE ABOVE LIMITATION MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU. IF YOU ARE DISSATISFIED WITH ANY PORTION OF THE BRAHLER WEB SITE, OR WITH ANY OF THESE TERMS OF USE, YOUR SOLE AND EXCLUSIVE REMEDY IS TO DISCONTINUE USING THE BRAHLER WEB SITE.
Brahler reserves the right, in its sole discretion, to terminate your access to the Brahler Web Site and the related services or any portion thereof at any time, without notice. GENERAL to the maximum extent permitted by law, this agreement is governed by the laws of the State of Illinois, U.S.A. and you hereby consent to the exclusive jurisdiction and venue of courts in Sangamon County, Illinois, U.S.A. in all disputes arising out of or relating to the use of the Brahler Web Site. Use of the Brahler Web Site is unauthorized in any jurisdiction that does not give effect to all provisions of these terms and conditions, including without limitation this paragraph. You agree that no joint venture, partnership, employment, or agency relationship exists between you and Brahler as a result of this agreement or use of the Brahler Web Site. Brahler's performance of this agreement is subject to existing laws and legal process, and nothing contained in this agreement is in derogation of Brahler's right to comply with governmental, court and law enforcement requests or requirements relating to your use of the Brahler Web Site or information provided to or gathered by Brahler with respect to such use. If any part of this agreement is determined to be invalid or unenforceable pursuant to applicable law including, but not limited to, the warranty disclaimers and liability limitations set forth above, then the invalid or unenforceable provision will be deemed superseded by a valid, enforceable provision that most closely matches the intent of the original provision and the remainder of the agreement shall continue in effect. Unless otherwise specified herein, this agreement constitutes the entire agreement between the user and Brahler with respect to the Brahler Web Site and it supersedes all prior or contemporaneous communications and proposals, whether electronic, oral or written, between the user and Brahler with respect to the Brahler Web Site. A printed version of this agreement and of any notice given in electronic form shall be admissible in judicial or administrative proceedings based upon or relating to this agreement to the same extent and subject to the same conditions as other business documents and records originally generated and maintained in printed form. It is the express wish to the parties that this agreement and all related documents be drawn up in English.
COPYRIGHT AND TRADEMARK NOTICES:
All contents of the Brahler Web Site are: Copyright 2010 by Brahler and/or its suppliers. All rights reserved.
TRADEMARKS
The names of actual companies and products mentioned herein may be the trademarks of their respective owners.
The example companies, organizations, products, people and events depicted herein are fictitious. No association with any real company, organization, product, person, or event is intended or should be inferred.
Any rights not expressly granted herein are reserved.
NOTICES AND PROCEDURE FOR MAKING CLAIMS OF COPYRIGHT INFRINGEMENT
Pursuant to Title 17, United States Code, Section 512(c)(2), notifications of claimed copyright infringement under United States copyright law should be sent to Service Provider's Designated Agent. ALL INQUIRIES NOT RELEVANT TO THE FOLLOWING PROCEDURE WILL RECEIVE NO RESPONSE. See Notice and Procedure for Making Claims of Copyright Infringement.
Privacy Statement
Brahler is committed to protecting your privacy and developing technology that gives you the most powerful and safe online experience. This Statement of Privacy applies to the Brahler Web site and governs data collection and usage. By using the Brahler website, you consent to the data practices described in this statement.
Use of Cookies
The Brahler Web site uses "cookies" to help you personalize your online experience. A cookie is a text file that is placed on your hard disk by a Web page server. Cookies cannot be used to run programs or deliver viruses to your computer. Cookies are uniquely assigned to you, and can only be read by a web server in the domain that issued the cookie to you.
One of the primary purposes of cookies is to provide a convenience feature to save you time. The purpose of a cookie is to tell the Web server that you have returned to a specific page. For example, if you personalize Brahler pages, or register with the Brahler site or services, a cookie helps Brahler to recall your specific information on subsequent visits. This simplifies the process of recording your personal information, such as billing addresses, shipping addresses, and so on. When you return to the same Brahler Web site, the information you previously provided can be retrieved, so you can easily use the Brahler features that you customized.
You have the ability to accept or decline cookies. Most Web browsers automatically accept cookies, but you can usually modify your browser setting to decline cookies if you prefer. If you choose to decline cookies, you may not be able to fully experience the interactive features of the Brahler services or Web sites you visit.
Changes to this Statement
Brahler will occasionally update this Statement of Privacy to reflect company and customer feedback. Brahler encourages you to periodically review this Statement to be informed of how Brahler is protecting your information.
Contact Information
Brahler welcomes your comments regarding this Statement of Privacy. If you believe that Brahler has not adhered to this Statement, please contact Brahler at davegbrahler@gmail.com. We will use commercially reasonable efforts to promptly determine and remedy the problem.