Walnut Creek Auto Repair

When it comes to upgrading your vehicle, there are two main options: Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts and aftermarket parts. While OEM parts are designed and manufactured by the same company that made your vehicle, aftermarket parts are made by third-party manufacturers. In this article, we will focus on the pros and cons of aftermarket additions. Pros of Aftermarket Parts Cost-effective: One of the biggest advantages of aftermarket parts is that they are often cheaper than OEM parts. Aftermarket parts manufacturers don't have to follow the same rigorous standards as OEM manufacturers, allowing them to offer products at a lower cost. Availability: Aftermarket parts are widely available, and you can easily find them in your local auto parts store or online. This means you don't have to go through the hassle of ordering parts from the dealership and waiting for them to arrive. Variety: Aftermarket parts offer a wide variety of options, from performance parts to co ... read more

Brake fluid is an integral element of a vehicle's braking system, as it transfers the force of the brake pedal to the brakes. It's important to maintain the brake fluid to ensure that the braking system works properly and safely.  Over time, brake fluid can absorb moisture and "water down," leading to decreased brake effectiveness. Moisture can also cause corrosion of the brake lines, which can result in brake failure. Lastly, old or contaminated brake fluid can also cause problems with the ABS (anti-lock braking system). Signs of Brake Fluid Problems There are several signs that your vehicle's brake fluid needs attention. If you notice any of the following symptoms, it's best to have your brakes inspected by a professional: A spongy or soft brake pedal A brake warning light on the dashboard A grinding noise when you brake A burning smell coming from the brakes Brake Fluid Maintenance Tips Check the brake fluid level regularly. The brake fluid rese ... read more

A driveshaft is an important component in a vehicle's drivetrain that connects the transmission to the rear differential. It plays a pivotal role in transmitting power from the engine to the wheels, allowing the car to move. Here's what you need to know about driveshaft repairs: What Are the Symptoms of A Bad Driveshaft If your car is experiencing vibration or shaking while driving, it could be a sign of a failing driveshaft. Other symptoms include a loud clunking noise when shifting gears, difficulty steering, and uneven tire wear. What Are the Common Causes of Driveshaft Failure There are several reasons why a driveshaft might fail. One of the most common causes is worn universal joints, which can cause vibration and noise. Other causes include damage to the shaft itself, such as from a collision, or wear and tear from age and use. How to Prevent Driveshaft Failure To avoid driveshaft failure, it's important to have your car inspected regularly. A mechanic will be a ... read more

Every part of your car plays an important role. You might think that something like a cooling system is not as important until it begins to malfunction. How Does the Cooling System Function To appreciate how a well working cooling system can help you avoid problems, you must first learn how your cooling system operates. Excessive hot air trapped under the bonnet might cause serious difficulties for your vehicle. To assist mitigate this, your car's cooling system distributes excess heat onto the surrounding environment. When your conditioning system isn't working properly, it can't dissipate heat as well as it should, increasing the likelihood of engine failure. What is the Source of Vehicle Overheating? A spike in heat reported by your vehicle's dash digital thermometer warns you that your engine is overheating. A car frequently overheats because insufficient coolant is circulating between the engine and the radiator. This could occur in a vehicle that is ... read more

Battery problems are difficult to escape from. Like the batteries in our TV remote and cell phone, vehicle batteries don’t last forever. They weaken over time from wear and tear and exposure to extreme temperatures. How do you know when to replace it? Here are several key ways to tell: Sign #1: Battery Is Old When batteries are 3+ years old, they tend to have issues. Most vehicle batteries in cars, trucks, and SUVs don’t last longer than 5 years. If you aren’t sure how old your battery is, you can find it by looking up its special code online.  Sign #2: Slow Starts A battery doesn’t just die out of the blue unless it is experiencing a different problem. If your vehicle struggles to start your engine, you should take that as a sign to have your battery tested. Eventually, it will get worse. We recommend having it changed out soon. Sign #3: Clicking Sounds on Start-Up If you hear a clicking noise when you turn the key in the ignition, it indicates a slo ... read more