O'Fallon Auto Repair

As the colder months approach, many drivers begin to notice that their vehicle’s heater isn’t working quite as efficiently as it used to. The chill in the air is more than just an inconvenience; it could be a signal that something’s wrong under the hood. Among the most crucial components in your car’s heating system is the heater core—a small yet vital part that keeps you warm and your engine running smoothly in winter weather. But how does coolant play a role in all this, and what happens when something goes wrong with your heater core? Let’s dive in. How Coolant Works in Winter Weather Coolant (also known as antifreeze) is an essential fluid that circulates through your vehicle's engine, regulating its temperature to prevent overheating. During the winter months, coolant does much more than prevent the engine from freezing. It also helps ensure the heater operates effectively, which is crucial for both comfort and safety. I ... read more

As winter sets in, the risks of driving in snowy and icy conditions are high. Whether you live in a region prone to heavy snowfall or encounter occasional winter weather, the importance of ensuring that your vehicle is prepared for such conditions cannot be overstated. A key factor in safe winter driving is the quality of your tires. Tires, often overlooked until they fail, are the critical point of contact between your vehicle and the road. In winter, they become even more crucial for safety, and the right tires can mean the difference between staying on the road or sliding into a ditch.   Recent Snowfall and the Thanksgiving Weekend Debacle This year, many drivers got a rude awakening over the Thanksgiving holiday when a clipper snowstorm hit the I-70 corridor. What should have been a routine trip turned into a series of harrowing accidents, with lots of drivers finding themselves stuck or stranded after sliding off the road. The snowfall was minimum, but it wa ... read more

When it comes to your vehicle’s engine, there are a few components that are more vital than others. The heart of your car, after all, depends on all its parts functioning in harmony. One of the most critical but often overlooked components is the head gasket. While you may not hear about it much, this small but mighty piece plays an essential role in the overall performance and safety of your engine. At Hillside Auto Repair, we believe that understanding your vehicle’s parts, like the head gasket, is crucial for keeping your car running smoothly. Whether you’re gearing up for a long drive or simply maintaining your vehicle, it’s essential to know the role a head gasket plays and how to recognize when it’s failing. So let’s dive into what a head gasket is, what it does, and why a blown head gasket can spell trouble for your engine. What is a Head Gasket? The head gasket is a critical component in an internal combustion engine, lo ... read more

When it comes to your vehicle, many components work in the background to ensure that your car operates smoothly. Among the most crucial of these are the various belts that power different systems under the hood. Though often overlooked, these belts are essential for keeping your vehicle running efficiently and safely. Whether it's the serpentine belt that drives multiple components at once, or the fan belt that cools the engine, each one plays a pivotal role. At Hillside Auto Repair, we understand the importance of maintaining your vehicle’s belts, especially before long trips like Thanksgiving travel. The last thing you want is to get stranded on the side of the road due to a broken or worn-out belt. In this post, we’ll take a closer look at the types of belts in your vehicle, the symptoms of wear and tear, and how regular inspections can keep you on the road and out of trouble. Serpentine Belt The serpentine belt is one of the most important belts i ... read more

As the holidays approach, many of us are gearing up for that long-awaited Thanksgiving road trip. Whether you're heading to a relative's house, exploring new destinations, or simply escaping for a peaceful getaway, one thing is for sure: the journey should be as safe and smooth as the meal you're about to enjoy. When it comes to vehicle safety, there are few things more important than the condition of your brakes. Brakes are your car’s most critical safety feature, and ensuring they’re in top shape is essential before venturing out on the road, especially during cooler weather when conditions can change quickly. At Hillside Auto Repair, we understand the importance of brake maintenance. That’s why we offer professional brake services and brake fluid flushes to make sure your vehicle is ready for the Thanksgiving season. Let’s take a closer look at why brake care is so important, especially before a long road trip, and how regular maintenance can ... read more