J & R Auto Service, Inc.

09/01/2026

Labor Day 2026 Travel Predictions: Traffic & Costs
Labor Day 2026 is expected to bring record-high gas prices, heavy congestion, and higher travel costs — with the worst traffic on Thursday and Friday.

Traffic Congestion Outlook
According to AAA and INRIX, Thursday, Sept. 3, and Friday, Sept. 4 will be the busiest travel days of the weekend, as holiday travelers mix with regular commuters

Worst travel times are forecasted as:

Thu, Sept. 3: 2 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Fri, Sept. 4: Noon – 8 p.m.
Sat, Sept. 5: 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Mon, Sept. 7 (return trips): 2 p.m. – 5 p.m.

AAA advises leaving early, mapping alternate routes, and avoiding afternoon departures to reduce delays

Travel Costs
Gas prices: For the first time in history, the national average could exceed $4 per gallon on Labor Day, up from $3.19 last year

Flights: Domestic airfare is up about 2% year-over-year, averaging $750 roundtrip, with top destinations nearly 20% higher

Hotels: Domestic hotel prices are up 9%, and international bookings are 12% higher

Travel Tips to Avoid Delays
Depart early to beat peak congestion windows

Check traffic apps and consider alternate routes.

Fill up before hitting major corridors where prices may spike

Book accommodations and rentals in advance to secure better rates and availability

Inspect your vehicle (tires, battery, fluids) before departure

Summary
If you’re traveling for Labor Day 2026, expect higher costs and heavier traffic, especially in the afternoon on Thursday and Friday. Planning ahead, leaving early, and monitoring fuel and lodging prices will help you make the most of your getaway.

08/08/2026

It's a beautiful day for a Wheel Chair Wash! Come on down to J&R Auto at 629 N Main Street, and get your wheel chairs and scooters clean and shiny! The Wheel Chair Wash goes from 10:00 to Noon today, sponsored by the Aging and Disability Resource Center of Winnebago County.

07/23/2026

In the summertime, it is not uncommon for an engine to overheat. When that happens, what do you? Here are some suggestions on what to do if you are traveling and your car overheats...

If your car overheats, follow these steps:

Pull over safely: Turn on your hazard lights and slow down to a safe spot away from traffic
AAA
Turn off the engine: Let the engine cool down before attempting to open the hood
motorplandirect.co.za
Check under the hood: Once it's safe, pop the hood to allow heat to escape, but be cautious as the engine may still be hot
motorplandirect.co.za
Avoid opening the radiator cap: Wait until the engine has cooled down to prevent burns from steam or hot coolant
Firestone Complete Auto Care
Seek professional help: If the problem persists, contact a mechanic to diagnose and fix the issue
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These steps can help prevent further damage to your vehicle and ensure your safety.

07/20/2026

Thank you Oshkosh, for once again voting us into the top 3 Best of Winnebago Community Choice Awards for Best Auto Repair Shop. Without our Customers, it wouldn't be possible to keep our streak alive since 2018! We appreciate you all !

07/13/2026

With another heat wave coming this week, here are some tips for keeping your car cool!

Preventing car overheating in summer involves proper coolant maintenance, radiator care, inspecting hoses and belts, and adopting smart driving habits.

Coolant Maintenance
Coolant, also called antifreeze, is essential for regulating engine temperature. Check the coolant level before summer and ensure it is between the minimum and maximum marks on the reservoir. Inspect the coolant for discoloration or debris, and replace old coolant according to the manufacturer’s schedule. Using the correct 50/50 mix of antifreeze and distilled water is recommended for most vehicles. Never remove the radiator cap while the engine is hot, as the system is pressurized
carsandwrenches.com
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Radiator and Cooling System Care
The radiator dissipates heat from the engine. Keep it clean and free of debris such as leaves, dirt, or bugs, which can block airflow. Inspect hoses and belts for cracks, leaks, or wear, and replace any damaged components. A malfunctioning thermostat or water pump can also cause overheating, so ensure these parts are functioning properly
carsandwrenches.com
carsandwrenches.com
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Driving Habits
Avoid prolonged idling, especially in traffic jams, as slow airflow reduces cooling efficiency. Use air conditioning sparingly in stop-and-go traffic to reduce engine load. Park in shaded areas whenever possible to help maintain engine temperature. Monitor the temperature gauge and pull over immediately if it rises too high

safeautocare.com
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Warning Signs and Emergency Steps
Watch for steam from the hood, unusual noises, or a rising temperature gauge. If overheating occurs, safely pull over, turn off the engine, and allow it to cool before checking coolant levels. Address minor leaks or low coolant promptly to prevent severe engine damage such as warped cylinder heads or blown head gaskets
carsandwrenches.com
carsandwrenches.com
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By following these steps—maintaining coolant, cleaning the radiator, inspecting hoses and belts, and driving smartly—you can significantly reduce the risk of your car overheating during hot summer months and ensure safer, more reliable driving
carsandwrenches.com
carsandwrenches.com
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07/02/2026

We hope everyone has a safe and happy holiday! Stay cool!

05/05/2026

The voting is now open, you can vote daily for the next two weeks. Look under Vehicles Dealers & Services for J&R Auto Service. http://thenorthwestern.gannettcontests.com/2026-Best-of-Winnebago-Communitys-Choice-Awards/ #/referrals/ace3d208-336c-4abb-8690-8f5727437b36.
Thank you for taking the time to vote. Let's win this in 2026!!!

03/06/2026

J&R Auto Service would appreciate you taking the time to nominate us for the 2026 Community Choice Awards. Feel free to nominate us daily!!!!
This nomination period goes thru March 23, 2026.
Brad and the entire team Thank you in advance.

12/31/2025