O'Fallon Auto Repair

What is Coolant? Coolant, also known as antifreeze, is a specially formulated liquid that circulates through your car's engine and cooling system to regulate its temperature. It's typically a mixture of water and ethylene glycol or propylene glycol, along with additives that enhance its performance and longevity. How Does Coolant Work? The primary function of coolant is to absorb heat generated by the engine and dissipate it through the radiator and into the surrounding air. As your engine burns fuel to power the car, it produces an immense amount of heat. Without proper cooling, this heat can build up rapidly, leading to engine overheating and potential damage. Coolant circulates through the engine block, absorbing heat, and then travels to the radiator where it releases that heat to the atmosphere. This process helps maintain the engine's optimal operating temperature, ensuring efficient combustion and overall performance of your vehi ... read more

The History of the Hood Latch The humble hood latch, often overlooked, plays a crucial role in vehicle safety and accessibility. Let's take a drive through history to understand how this small but vital component has evolved. Early Beginnings In the early days of automobiles, around the late 19th and early 20th centuries, hoods were simple coverings for the engine, held in place by leather straps or basic metal hooks. These primitive solutions were sufficient for the relatively slow speeds and simpler mechanics of early cars. The Rise of Modern Mechanisms As cars became faster and more complex, so did the need for secure and reliable hood latching systems. By the 1920s and 1930s, manufacturers began to introduce more sophisticated latch systems. These early mechanisms often involved simple levers and catches, allowing easier access to the engine while providing better security. Safety Innovations The mid-20th century saw sig ... read more

As summer temperatures rise, a functioning air conditioning (A/C) system in your car becomes crucial for comfort and safety. When your A/C starts blowing warm air, the natural inclination might be to simply add more Freon (refrigerant) to the system. However, this approach is often misguided and can lead to more significant problems down the road. Proper diagnosis and professional repair are essential for ensuring your car's A/C operates efficiently. At Hillside Auto Repair, we understand the intricacies of automotive A/C systems and are committed to providing top-notch maintenance and repair services backed by a 3-year/36,000-mile warranty on parts and labor. The Misconception: Just Add More Freon Freon, or refrigerant, is a critical component of your car's A/C system. It absorbs heat from the cabin and releases it outside, thus cooling the interior. When the A/C isn't working properly, it might seem like a low refrigerant level is the culprit. While thi ... read more

As responsible vehicle owners, staying attuned to the health of our cars is paramount. Among the critical components that demand our attention, the timing belt stands as a silent sentinel, orchestrating the synchronized movements of the engine's internal components. However, with time and wear, this essential part can deteriorate, potentially leading to catastrophic engine failure if not replaced promptly. In this comprehensive guide, we explore the warning signs of an aging timing belt, emphasizing the importance of proactive maintenance to avoid costly repairs and downtime. Understanding the Timing Belt's Role The timing belt, often overshadowed by more conspicuous parts like engines and brakes, plays a pivotal role in ensuring the smooth operation of your vehicle's engine. It synchronizes the rotation of the camshaft and crankshaft, ensuring that valves open and close at precisely the right times, coordinating with the pistons. This precise timing is c ... read more

Headlight bulbs are the unsung heroes of road safety, providing essential illumination during nighttime driving and adverse weather conditions. With advancements in automotive technology, consumers now have a variety of options to choose from, including traditional halogen bulbs, high-intensity discharge (HID) bulbs, and light-emitting diode (LED) bulbs. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the nuances of each type to help you make an informed decision about which headlight bulbs are best suited for your vehicle. Halogen Headlight Bulbs: Halogen bulbs have been the standard choice for automotive lighting for decades, prized for their affordability and reliability. They operate by passing electricity through a tungsten filament encased in a halogen gas-filled quartz capsule, producing a bright, white light. While halogen bulbs are cost-effective and easy to replace, they have some drawbacks compared to newer technologies. They tend to have a shorter lifesp ... read more