O'Fallon Auto Repair

In the quest for greater fuel efficiency and reduced emissions, the automotive industry has introduced a variety of innovative technologies. One such advancement is the start-stop system, a feature designed to save fuel and minimize environmental impact. While this system has become increasingly common in modern vehicles, it’s not without its challenges. In this blog post, we’ll dive into what the start-stop system is, how it works, common symptoms of failure, and how Hillside Auto Repair can help keep your vehicle running smoothly. Plus, we’ll wrap it all up with a witty remark to leave you smiling. What is a Start-Stop System? The start-stop system, also known as idle-stop or micro-hybrid technology, is an automated feature that temporarily shuts off the engine when the vehicle comes to a complete stop (e.g., at a traffic light or in heavy traffic) and restarts it when the driver releases the brake or engages the clutch. The primary goal of this sy ... read more

In the ever-evolving world of automotive technology, dual clutch transmissions (DCTs) have emerged as a game-changer, offering drivers a seamless blend of performance, efficiency, and precision. Whether you're a car enthusiast or simply someone who appreciates a smooth ride, understanding how dual clutch transmissions work—and how to spot potential issues—can help you get the most out of your vehicle. At Hillside Auto Repair, we’re here to break it all down for you and ensure your transmission stays in top shape. What is a Dual Clutch Transmission? A dual clutch transmission is a type of automated manual transmission that uses two separate clutches for odd and even gear sets. This innovative design allows for lightning-fast gear changes without interrupting power delivery to the wheels. Here’s how it works: Two Clutches, One Mission: Unlike traditional automatic or manual transmissions, a DCT has two clutches, as its name ... read more

In the age of smart technology, vehicles have become more than just a means of transportation—they are now equipped with advanced systems designed to make driving safer, more efficient, and more convenient. One such innovation is the smart parking assistance sensor, a feature that has revolutionized the way drivers navigate tight parking spaces. However, like any technology, these sensors are not immune to problems. In this blog post, we’ll dive into what smart parking assistance sensors do, how the system works, common symptoms of failure, and why Hillside Auto Repair is your go-to expert for diagnosing and repairing these sophisticated systems. What Does a Smart Parking Assistance Sensor Do? Smart parking assistance sensors, often referred to as parking sensors, are small devices embedded in the bumpers or body of a vehicle. Their primary function is to detect obstacles—such as walls, curbs, or other vehicles—when the car is in reverse or mov ... read more

In the intricate world of automotive engineering, the Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) valve plays a crucial role in ensuring your vehicle runs efficiently and cleanly. Despite its small size, the EGR valve is a vital component of your car's emissions control system. At Hillside Auto Repair, we understand the importance of this often-overlooked part and are here to help you understand its function, recognize symptoms of failure, and provide expert repair services backed by our industry-leading 3-year/36,000-mile warranty on parts and labor. What Does an EGR Valve Do? The EGR valve is a key player in reducing your vehicle's emissions, particularly nitrogen oxides (NOx), which are harmful pollutants. It works by recirculating a portion of the exhaust gases back into the engine's combustion chambers. This process lowers the combustion temperature, as the recirculated gases are inert and do not burn. By reducing the temperature, the formation of NOx is minimize ... read more

In today’s world of advanced automotive technology, driving has become safer, more convenient, and more comfortable. One such innovation that plays a pivotal role in this safety revolution is the Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) system. This system allows a vehicle to maintain a set speed while also adjusting the speed automatically based on traffic conditions, providing the driver with both convenience and safety. But like any high-tech system in your car, the Adaptive Cruise Control sensor plays an integral role in ensuring it operates correctly. Unfortunately, sensor failure can lead to significant problems—both for the system itself and for your overall driving experience. What is Adaptive Cruise Control and How Does It Work? Adaptive Cruise Control is an intelligent version of the traditional cruise control system. Unlike regular cruise control, which maintains a constant speed regardless of surrounding traffic, ACC uses sensors to monitor the road ahea ... read more