O'Fallon Auto Repair

  Engine Cooling Make sure to check the coolant fluid level and inspect the hoses and coolant reservoir for any leaks. Fix any issues right away to avoid expensive damage. Essential Fluids Regularly check the levels of oil, brake, power-steering, and windshield-washer fluids. If your brakes feel weird, you might need new pads. Our technicians can help you with this. Engine Belts Check the serpentine belt for cracks or missing pieces. Listen for strange noises while your car is running, as it could mean a belt problem.   Wipers Replace old wiper blades that leave streaks on your windshield. Keep your windshield clean inside and out for better visibility.   Sun Shade or Rear Window Tint Consider using a cover for your windshield to protect your dashboard from the sun. Shades for the rear and side windows can also help keep your car cool.   Air-Conditioning System ... read more

If you operate a vehicle lacking air conditioning, you are likely to endure a journey that is both unpleasant and perspiration-inducing. Equipping your vehicle with a functioning air conditioning system can provide a more optimal and enjoyable temperature setting for yourself and fellow passengers throughout the duration of the journey. The A/C Is Making Noise When your car's A/C system starts making loud and unusual noises, it's a sign that something is wrong. If you hear grinding or screeching sounds, it could mean that your A/C system is on the verge of failing. If the noise is so loud that you can't even hear conversations in the car, it's time to get it checked out. The noise could be coming from the compressor, fan motor, or another part of the system. Over time, wear and tear can cause the A/C system to stop working altogether. Don't ignore the noise - take your car in for service or repair. The Air Isn’t Cold If yo ... read more

Your car's exhaust system is like a superhero that helps keep you safe and your car running smoothly. It's responsible for getting rid of harmful fumes from the engine and making sure they don't sneak into the inside of your car. The exhaust system is made up of several components, including the exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, muffler, and tailpipe. As the engine burns fuel to power your car, it produces harmful gases like carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, and nitrogen oxides. These gases are channeled through the exhaust manifold and into the catalytic converter, where they are converted into less harmful emissions through a series of chemical reactions. The muffler then helps to reduce noise levels by dampening the sound of the engine. Finally, the tailpipe releases the now cleaner emissions out of the back of your car. Overall, the exhaust system plays a crucial role in maintaining both the performance of your car and the quality of the air we breathe. ... read more

The Role of Hydraulic Fluid in Your Braking System Your car's ability to stop safely relies on hydraulic fluid to help amplify the pressure you apply to the brake pedal. This fluid is essential for stopping a heavy, fast-moving vehicle with ease, which is why it's important to regularly maintain it for optimal performance.   Why Brake Fluid Flushes are Necessary During a brake fluid flush, old fluid is removed and replaced with fresh fluid to maintain the smooth operation of your braking system and prevent issues from arising. There are three main issues that can arise in your braking system, making regular brake fluid flushes crucial: Breakdown from Heat - The heat generated during braking can cause the brake fluid to break down over time. Rust Formation - Moisture residue left behind can lead to rust forming within the brakes. Contamination - Debris, rubber, and metal particles can contaminate th ... read more

The Problem with Transmission Failure Every year in the United States, over 13 million automatic transmissions fail, and that's a big issue. Research shows that almost 90% of these failures happen because the transmission overheats and the fluid gets contaminated. The main reason for this is the Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) getting oxidized, which makes it lose its protective abilities. Heat is a major factor in this oxidation process. Why Transmissions Fail Modern engines are smaller and faster, and with more stop-and-go driving, the ATF is exposed to higher temperatures, causing it to break down faster. The transmission is like the heart of the engine, providing power to the vehicle. With 800 parts, it takes an expert to fix any problems that arise. The Importance of Maintenance When small particles like metal shavings get into the transmission fluid, they can cause clogs and wear on the transmission components as they ... read more