O'Fallon Auto Repair

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

As winter approaches, colder temperatures can have a significant impact on the health and performance of your vehicle’s battery. While most people are aware of how extreme heat can affect a battery, the frigid chill of winter presents its own set of challenges. In fact, cold weather can be harder on your battery than the summer heat, especially if your battery is already showing signs of wear. Fortunately, with the right knowledge and proactive maintenance, you can ensure your car starts reliably throughout the colder months. In this post, we’ll cover the essential points on battery care during winter, the symptoms of a failing battery, the significance of cold cranking amps (CCA), and how Hillside Auto Repair can help with battery checks, replacement, and winterization services. Why Cold Weather is Tough on Your Car Battery In colder weather, the chemical reaction inside a car battery slows down, which reduces its ability to produce charge. As the tempe ... read more

When winter sets in, we often find ourselves bundled up in layers of clothing and warming our homes with cozy heaters. But have you ever stopped to think about the cold weather's impact on your car? Just like us, vehicles need to stay properly insulated to perform their best in low temperatures. That’s where coolant (or antifreeze) comes into play. Whether it's winter or summer, coolant is an essential part of your vehicle’s engine, helping it run smoothly in a variety of weather conditions. However, the role of coolant becomes especially critical during the colder months, as improper care can lead to significant damage to your car. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the purpose of coolant, the proper mix for both cold and hot weather, symptoms of a coolant leak, the dangers of driving with the wrong coolant mixture, and how Hillside Auto Repair can help ensure your vehicle is ready for whatever the season throws its way. What is Coolant, and W ... read more

When it comes to keeping your vehicle running smoothly and safely, many car owners focus on obvious tasks like changing the oil or checking tire pressure. However, one crucial component that often gets overlooked is brake fluid. Brake fluid plays an essential role in the operation of your vehicle’s braking system, and keeping it in top condition can mean the difference between a safe driving experience and an accident waiting to happen. In this blog, we’ll dive into the importance of brake fluid, why it breaks down over time, how to recognize the symptoms of a potential issue, and how Hillside Auto Repair can help ensure your braking system is always in tip-top shape. Why Brake Fluid is So Important Your vehicle’s braking system relies on hydraulic pressure to bring the car to a stop. When you press the brake pedal, it activates a series of pistons that apply pressure to the brake pads, slowing the wheels. The key to this operation is the brake flui ... read more