Homepage-FAQs

Is this repair necessary right now, or can it wait?

If repairs become overwhelming, we can help you prioritize. In general, repairs fall into a few categories: Safety Critical: this is usually problems with brakes (not just pads), tires, steering, suspension, or lights often require immediate attention. Delaying these is risky. Preventative Maintenance: Things like fluid changes/flushes or timing belt replacements prevent much larger, more expensive problems down the road. Delaying slightly might be okay, but ignoring them leads to more serious issues. Something like a timing belt replacement can be a low-cost replacement, but if this is neglected it [...]

2025-04-17T13:43:24-05:00April 17, 2025||

When do I need new tires or tire rotation?

Your tires can need replacement for a few reasons: Tread depth - if your tread depth is less than 2/32 of an inch, you should replace them. You can use the penny test – put a penny in your tread and if you see all of Lincoln's head, it's time to replace them. Uneven wear - this may also require an alignment, as this typically means your tires are rotating in a way that's not perfectly circular. Cracks or bulges - this indicates a broken bead, which can happen if [...]

2025-04-17T13:38:20-05:00April 17, 2025||

When do my brakes need service (pads/rotors)?

Brake wear depends heavily on your driving style and road conditions. If you daily drive into the city where there is a lot of stop-and-go traffic, you will need to replace your brakes more frequently. Generally speaking, pads might last anywhere from 25,000 to 70,000 miles. Key warning signs your brakes need attention include: Squealing, screeching, or grinding noises when braking. Vibration or pulsing felt in the brake pedal or steering wheel. A soft or spongy feeling brake pedal. The car taking longer to stop. The brake warning light illuminating [...]

2025-04-17T13:28:25-05:00April 17, 2025||

How much will this repair cost? and why do some repairs cost a lot?

This answer is complicated - it really varies based on what you need repaired and what type of vehicle you own. Some vehicles require parts to be imported from around the world, and require significant disassembly just to get to the part, so while a part may be inexpensive, the installation may be very labor-intensive. For bigger jobs like this, we understand the challenge and try to explain the reason for the cost or offer you a bulk rate instead of charging you per hour. We always use OEM parts [...]

2025-04-17T13:24:09-05:00April 17, 2025||

How often should I change my oil, and what type should I use?

If your vehicle is older, the golden rule of "every 3,000 miles" is often used, but nowadays most cars can go much longer. Many vehicles now recommend oil changes between 5,000 and 10,000 miles, or even more, using synthetic oil. Your car owner's manual is the best source for your specific car's recommended interval and oil type (conventional, synthetic blend, or full synthetic). Synthetic oils generally offer better protection and last longer, but cost more. Factors like driving habits (frequent short trips, towing, extreme temperatures) might change how frequently you [...]

2025-04-17T13:21:14-05:00April 17, 2025||

Why is my “Check Engine” light on?

This light means your car's onboard computer system (OBD1 or OBD2) has detected a problem with the engine, transmission, or emission system. It could be something simple like a loose gas cap (check this first!), or it could indicate a more significant issue like a failing oxygen sensor, catalytic converter, spark plugs/wires, or mass airflow sensor. If your check engine light stays on, that usually means to get it checked soon, and if your check engine light is flashing - that indicates a serious problem that requires immediate attention to [...]

2025-04-17T13:19:04-05:00April 17, 2025||
Go to Top