O'Fallon Auto Repair

In the realm of automotive essentials, few components are as critical yet often overlooked as the car battery. Serving as the heart of your vehicle’s electrical system, the battery plays a pivotal role in powering everything from ignition to interior electronics. This blog post aims to demystify the workings of a car battery, explain why regular testing is crucial, outline symptoms of a failing battery, and provide a step-by-step guide on how to jump-start it when needed. How a Car Battery Works A typical car battery is a rechargeable energy storage device that supplies electrical current to the starter motor, ignition system, and other essential electrical components. Most vehicles use lead-acid batteries due to their reliability and cost-effectiveness. Inside the battery, there are six cells, each containing a series of lead plates immersed in a solution of sulfuric acid (electrolyte). When the battery is charged, a chemical reaction occurs between the lead pl ... read more

In the scorching heat of summer or the biting cold of winter, the advent of car air conditioning (A/C) has revolutionized our comfort while driving. Let's delve into the fascinating history, mechanics, components, symptoms of malfunction, and recent innovations in automotive A/C systems. History of Car Air Conditioning The story of car A/C begins in the early 1930s when Packard introduced the first commercially available A/C system in automobiles. However, these early systems were bulky, inefficient, and prone to leaking harmful gases like ammonia. Over the decades, advancements in technology, materials, and refrigerants have transformed A/C systems into the compact, efficient units we rely on today. How Car A/C Works Car A/C systems operate on the principles of thermodynamics, specifically the transfer of heat from one place to another. Here's a simplified overview of the process: Compression: The A/C compressor pressurizes refrigerant gas ... read more

Many of us are enjoying the hot summer weather and hitting the open road for adventures and vacations. However, ensuring our vehicles are in optimal condition is essential for a smooth journey. One critical component that often goes unnoticed until it fails is the ignition system. In this blog post, we'll delve into how your car's ignition system works, signs that it may be faulty or failing, and why choosing a reliable repair service like Hillside Auto Repair can make all the difference for your peace of mind. How Does the Ignition System Work? The ignition system in a car is responsible for igniting the air-fuel mixture in the engine's cylinders, which in turn powers the vehicle. Modern ignition systems typically consist of several components:   Battery: Provides the initial electrical power to start the engine. Ignition Switch: Activates the electrical system and starter motor Ignition Coil: Converts low voltage from the battery into high volta ... read more

Owning a car is often seen as a necessity, providing convenience and mobility. However, the financial implications of car ownership extend far beyond the initial purchase price. From maintenance and insurance to hidden fees and depreciation, understanding the true cost of owning a vehicle is crucial for making informed financial decisions. Initial Cost vs. Long-term Value When considering buying a car, whether new or used, the initial cost is just the beginning. New cars depreciate significantly the moment they are driven off the lot, losing about 20% of their value in the first year alone. This rapid depreciation means that a brand-new car may not hold its value as well as a used vehicle, making it a less cost-effective investment in the long run. On the other hand, maintaining a paid-off vehicle can be significantly more cost-efficient. Once you've paid off your car loan, your monthly expenses are reduced to insurance, maintenance, and occasional repairs. This ... read more

Car windows, whether manually operated or electronically controlled, play a vital role in providing comfort and convenience in vehicles. They facilitate fresh air circulation, serve as emergency exits, and contribute to the overall aesthetic appeal of a vehicle. However, encountering a situation where the car window glass becomes stuck in the door can present a significant inconvenience and potentially compromise safety. Understanding the reasons behind this issue and how to resolve it effectively can help save time, money, and frustration.  At Hillside Auto Repair, we offer comprehensive solutions for stuck car windows, supported by a 3-year/36,000-mile warranty on both parts and labor, to ensure our customers' peace of mind. Common Reasons for Stuck Car Windows: - Normal Wear and Tear: Mechanical components in manual windows, such as the window crank and gears, can wear out over time, resulting in operational difficulties. - Accumulation of Dirt and Debris ... read more