O'Fallon Auto Repair

As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, many drivers may find themselves faced with an unexpected challenge: a failing car battery. Before winter settles in, it’s crucial to assess the health of your battery to ensure a smooth and reliable driving experience. At Hillside Auto Repair, we understand the importance of battery maintenance, especially as temperatures begin to drop. This post will delve into the signs of a failing battery, how often you should consider replacement, and how we can assist with battery testing and replacement. Signs of a Failing Battery Recognizing the signs of a failing battery can save you from being stranded on a chilly morning. Here are the key indicators to watch for: Slow Engine Crank: If your engine is slow to start or you hear a sluggish crank when turning the key, this is often a sign that your battery is losing its charge. Check Engine Light: A lit check engine light may indicate a battery issue. While it could be ... read more

When it comes to the smooth operation of your vehicle, few systems are as critical as the transmission. This complex assembly ensures that power from the engine is efficiently transmitted to the wheels, allowing for seamless acceleration and deceleration. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the intricacies of automatic transmissions, explore their components, discuss symptoms of a failing transmission, highlight the importance of transmission fluid maintenance, and explain how Hillside Auto Repair can help keep your transmission in top shape. Components of an Automatic Transmission An automatic transmission comprises several essential components that work together to facilitate smooth gear shifts. Here are the key parts: Torque Converter: This component transfers engine power to the transmission while allowing the vehicle to come to a stop without stalling. Planetary Gear Sets: These are responsible for providing different gear ratios. The arrangement of gears ... read more

In the world of automotive engineering, every component plays a crucial role in ensuring optimal vehicle performance. Among these components, cam phasers often go unnoticed, yet they are pivotal for engine efficiency and power delivery. In this blog post, we’ll delve into what cam phasers are, their functions in an automotive context, symptoms indicating they need replacement, and how Hillside Auto Repair can assist you with our comprehensive warranty. What Are Cam Phasers? Cam phasers are advanced engine components primarily used in variable valve timing (VVT) systems. They adjust the timing of the camshaft, which in turn regulates when the engine's intake and exhaust valves open and close. This adjustment is crucial for optimizing engine performance across various RPM ranges, improving fuel efficiency, and reducing emissions. In essence, cam phasers allow for real-time adjustments to the valve timing based on driving conditions. This adaptability means y ... read more

When it comes to the inner workings of an engine, the head gasket plays a crucial role that often goes unnoticed by the average car owner. However, understanding what a head gasket is, what it does, and the potential problems it can cause is essential for anyone who drives a vehicle. In this post, we’ll delve into the details of head gaskets, including their composition, functionality, symptoms of failure, and how Hillside Auto Repair can assist in diagnosing and addressing these issues. What is a Head Gasket? The head gasket is a vital component situated between the engine block and the cylinder head. This flat, durable piece of material acts as a seal that prevents the coolant and engine oil from mixing while also containing the pressure created during the combustion process. Essentially, it serves as the barrier that keeps everything running smoothly in your engine. Composition of Head Gaskets Head gaskets are typically made from materials t ... read more

Automotive brakes are critical components of vehicle safety, ensuring that drivers can stop effectively and avoid accidents. Understanding their composition, types, and the symptoms that indicate they may need replacing is essential for every vehicle owner. At Hillside Auto Repair, we pride ourselves on being brake experts, committed to keeping your vehicle safe and reliable. Composition of Automotive Brakes Brakes are made up of several key components, primarily including: Brake Pads: These are the friction materials that press against the rotor to slow down the vehicle. They are typically made from various materials, including organic, semi-metallic, and ceramic compounds, each offering different benefits in terms of performance, noise, and durability. Brake Rotors: Also known as discs, these are metal discs that the brake pads clamp down on. They are usually made from cast iron or carbon composite materials, designed to withstand high temperatures and provide eff ... read more