O'Fallon Auto Repair

As the temperature drops and winter settles in, it’s a common sight to see drivers start their cars and let them idle for several minutes before driving off. It’s almost instinctual for many of us—especially those who have been driving for years—to believe that warming up the engine is a necessary part of preparing our vehicles for the cold weather. However, the question arises: is this really necessary anymore, or is it an outdated habit? At Hillside Auto Repair, we’re here to shed light on the facts, dispel any misconceptions, and provide accurate information to help you make informed decisions about your car’s winter care. Why Was Warming Up the Car Important for Older Vehicles? In the past, warming up your car in winter was more than just a comfort thing—it was actually a necessity for older vehicles. Let’s take a step back in time to understand why this practice was so prevalent. Carburetors and Cold Weath ... read more

When it comes to your vehicle's engine, efficiency and emissions control are two key aspects that work hand in hand. One unsung hero in this equation is the EGR valve, or Exhaust Gas Recirculation valve. While small, this component plays a big role in ensuring your engine runs smoothly while reducing harmful emissions. Let’s dive into what the EGR valve does, the common issues it faces, and how to spot symptoms of a blockage. And if you're dealing with EGR troubles, don’t worry—Hillside Auto Repair is here to help! What Does an EGR Valve Do? The EGR valve is part of your vehicle's emission control system. Its main job is to recirculate a portion of the exhaust gases back into the engine's combustion chambers. By doing this, the EGR valve helps reduce nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions, which are harmful pollutants that contribute to smog and air quality issues. Here’s how it works: During combustion, the engin ... read more

As winter approaches, most drivers begin to think about preparing their vehicles for colder temperatures. While you may focus on winter tires, antifreeze levels, or your heater’s performance, there's one vital system in your car that you should not overlook: your brakes. Cold weather and the temperature fluctuations that come with it can have a significant impact on the performance of your vehicle's braking system. From brake fluid to rotors and pads, keeping your brakes in top shape during winter is crucial to your safety on the road. How Cold Weather Affects Your Brakes Brakes are designed to function in a variety of conditions, but the colder months introduce unique challenges. The primary concern with cold weather is the impact temperature changes can have on brake components, including the brake fluid, rotors, and pads. Here’s how winter conditions can affect these critical parts: Brake Fluid Performance - Brake fluid is ... read more

When it comes to vehicle maintenance, the importance of regularly servicing your transmission cannot be overstated. A transmission is the heart of your vehicle’s drivetrain, ensuring smooth and efficient power transfer from the engine to the wheels. While many car owners are familiar with traditional automatic or manual transmissions, continuously variable transmissions (CVT) have been growing in popularity, especially in modern vehicles due to their fuel efficiency and smooth driving experience. However, CVTs come with unique care requirements, and neglecting to maintain your CVT can lead to severe damage. At Hillside Auto Repair, we specialize in transmission services, including CVT transmission repair and maintenance, alongside all other vehicle services. In this post, we will take a deeper dive into the specifics of CVT transmissions, what makes them different, why they require special attention, and how neglecting to service them can lead to expensive repairs. Wha ... read more

As winter approaches, it's not just your car's tires, battery, and fluid levels that need attention. The drivetrain components—specifically the differential and transfer case—are critical in ensuring your vehicle performs optimally in challenging winter conditions. Whether you drive a two-wheel drive (2WD), four-wheel drive (4WD), or all-wheel drive (AWD) vehicle, understanding the maintenance needs of these components is essential for safe winter driving. At Hillside Auto Repair, we specialize in comprehensive vehicle maintenance to help you prepare for winter and ensure your car runs smoothly year-round. Let’s dive into the importance of maintaining your drivetrain components before winter weather arrives. Understanding 2WD, 4WD, and AWD Drivetrains2-Wheel Drive (2WD) In a 2WD vehicle, only two wheels—either the front or rear—receive power from the engine. These vehicles are most common and are generally suffi ... read more