O'Fallon Auto Repair

As an automotive shop, we've heard it all when it comes to parking brakes (also known as emergency brakes or e-brakes). Some drivers swear by them, while others forget they even exist—until the day they really need them and find out they’re stuck. If you’re part of the “I never use my parking brake” club, listen up: ignoring it can lead to costly repairs and even safety risks. Let’s dive into why you should use your parking brake regularly, common issues that arise from neglect, and how to keep it in top shape. Why You Should Use Your Parking Brake—Even on Flat Ground Many drivers assume the parking brake is only for steep hills or emergencies. But here’s the truth: your parking brake is designed to be used every time you park—whether you’re on an incline or a perfectly level driveway. Here’s why: Prevents Transmission Strain (Automatics Too!)– When you park, your car’s weight rests ... read more

As automotive enthusiasts, we often focus on the flashy parts of our vehicles—the turbochargers, the exhaust notes, the horsepower figures. But some of the most critical components are the unsung heroes working behind the scenes. One such part is the charcoal canister, a small but vital piece of your car's emissions system. Today, we’re diving into what a charcoal canister does, why you should never"top off" your fuel tank at the pump, and how to tell if yours is failing. Plus, if you suspect an issue, Hillside Auto Repair can diagnose it—and with our nationwide 3-year/36,000-mile warranty on parts and labor, you can rest easy knowing your ride is in good hands. What Is a Charcoal Canister? The charcoal canister (officially known as the EVAP canister) is a key part of your vehicle’s Evaporative Emission Control System (EVAP). Its job? To prevent harmful fuel vapors from escaping into the atmosphere. Here’s how it works ... read more

When it comes to automotive mechanics, few components are as crucial—yet as misunderstood—as the differential. Whether you're a car enthusiast or just a daily driver, understanding what a differential does, how to maintain it, and what can go wrong can save you from costly repairs down the road. At Hillside Auto Repair, we see our fair share of differential-related issues, and we’re here to break it all down for you. So buckle up, because we’re diving deep into the world of differentials! What is a Differential? The differential is a gearbox located between the drive wheels of your vehicle (or at the center in all-wheel-drive systems). Its primary job? To allow the wheels to rotate at different speeds while delivering power from the engine. Why Do Wheels Need to Rotate at Different Speeds? Imagine taking a turn in your car: - The outer wheel travels a longer distance than the inner wheel. - If both wheels were force ... read more

When it comes to your vehicle’s engine, there are plenty of flashy components that steal the spotlight—turbochargers, high-performance pistons, and sleek exhaust systems often dominate the conversation. But hidden within your engine lies a set of small yet critical components that keep everything running smoothly: engine valves. These tiny but mighty parts play a crucial role in your engine’s combustion process, ensuring optimal performance, fuel efficiency, and power delivery. In this post, we’ll explore what engine valves do, how they work, the different types available, their relationship with the camshaft, and how to keep them in top shape. And if you suspect your valves are acting up, Hillside Auto Repair has you covered—our engine experts can diagnose any valve-related issues, and all our services come with a comprehensive 3-year/36,000-mile warranty on parts and labor. What Do Engine Valves Do? Engine valves are essentially the ... read more

In today’s automotive landscape, cars are more advanced than ever before. What used to be simple machines with basic mechanical components have evolved into highly sophisticated computers on wheels, packed with sensors, modules, and complex electronic systems. Because of this, diagnosing automotive issues has become a precise science—one that requires expertise, cutting-edge tools, and methodical problem-solving. At Hillside Auto Repair, we don’t just guess—we diagnose. And in this blog post, we’ll explain why professional diagnostic testing is absolutely essential for accurate, efficient, and cost-effective auto repairs. Modern Car Diagnostics: Like Lab Work for Your Vehicle Imagine going to the doctor with a mysterious illness. Would you want them to guess your condition based on vague symptoms, or would you expect them to run tests—bloodwork, imaging, or other diagnostics—to pinpoint the exact problem? Your car is no ... read more