Hansen CARS

128 Sumner Ave. Ames, Iowa 50010 | (515) 232-4241

General / Misc

Getting Off to a Running Start (Starter Replacement)

Getting Off to a Running Start (Starter Replacement)

When you start your vehicle’s engine, there’s another motor that makes that whole process possible.  It’s called the starter, and it’s a small electric motor that gets you...
Published on: Aug 23, 2026
Distracted Driving

Distracted Driving

When asked, most people think they are good at multi-tasking.  Scientific studies, however, reveal that only around 2% of the population can truly demonstrate the capacity to effectively multi-ta...
Published on: Jul 12, 2026
Don't Blow a Gasket! (Valve Cover Gasket Replacement)

Don't Blow a Gasket! (Valve Cover Gasket Replacement)

When you head out to your vehicle after it's been parked and notice oil leaking underneath it, that's something to have looked at right away.  Oil leaks mean your oil level is probably low, and r...
Published on: Jun 07, 2026
Steamed Up (Vapor Coming Out of Vents)

Steamed Up (Vapor Coming Out of Vents)

Sometimes you may notice a little steam or vapor coming out of your vehicle's vents when running the air conditioning or heater.  Is this something about which you need to worry? The answer is i...
Published on: May 10, 2026
The Foggiest Idea (Fogged Windows in Cold Weather)

The Foggiest Idea (Fogged Windows in Cold Weather)

In cold weather, you may notice your windows fogging up. Then you can't see where you're going, and suddenly you and those around you are in danger. So, what causes your windows to fog up in cold weat...
Published on: Mar 22, 2026
Prevent Costly Repairs

Prevent Costly Repairs

You’ve probably seen auto parts delivery trucks in Ames making their rounds. Every part has a story behind it. Unfortunately, some of the stories are tales of repairs that could have been preven...
Published on: Nov 30, 2025
The Pros of Pros (Let Us Do It For You)

The Pros of Pros (Let Us Do It For You)

Modern vehicles usually have four wheels, a steering wheel, and an engine, just as they have for decades.  But an awful lot has changed since the days of carburetors and drum brakes.  The ad...
Published on: Nov 16, 2025
Cold Facts about Heaters

Cold Facts about Heaters

Brrrr.  It's cold outside.  And if your vehicle's heater isn't working, then it's cold inside too.  No fun – and potentially dangerous: heat is needed to defrost your windshield.&...
Published on: May 11, 2025