O'Fallon Auto Repair

Hello, road warriors and wheel enthusiasts! When it comes to keeping your vehicle in tip-top shape, two terms that often get tossed around are "tire balancing" and "wheel alignment." At first glance, they might seem like they serve the same purpose – after all, they both involve wheels, right? But before you let your eyes glaze over at the thought of yet another car care jargon lesson, let me break it down for you with a touch of humor. Tire Balancing: The Smooth Operator Picture your tires as a finely tuned orchestra. Tire balancing is like ensuring each musician is in perfect harmony. When we balance your tires, we’re adding small weights to the rim of each wheel to ensure that they rotate evenly. This is crucial because even the slightest imbalance can lead to uneven tire wear and a bumpy ride. Symptoms of Poorly Balanced Tires: Vibration in the steering wheel or seat (not the dance party you had in mind). Uneven ... read more

As the vibrant colors of fall start to paint the landscape and the temperatures begin to drop, many drivers find themselves preparing for the changes that come with the colder months. One essential maintenance task that should be on your autumn checklist is a wheel alignment. At Hillside Auto Repair, we emphasize the importance of getting a wheel alignment done in the fall, and in this blog post, we’ll explain why this is crucial and how our services, backed by a 3-year/36k mile warranty on parts and labor, can help ensure your vehicle remains in top condition throughout the colder season. Understanding Wheel Alignment Before diving into why fall is the ideal time for a wheel alignment, let’s first understand what wheel alignment is and why it’s important. Wheel alignment involves adjusting the angles of your vehicle's wheels to the manufacturer’s specifications. Proper alignment ensures that your wheels are positioned correctly in relatio ... read more

When it comes to your vehicle's comfort, especially during colder months, the heater core plays a pivotal role. This essential component is responsible for providing warm air to the cabin, ensuring a comfortable driving experience. However, a blocked heater core can cause significant issues. Here’s what you need to know about the symptoms of a blocked heater core, its function, and essential maintenance tips. What is a Heater Core? The heater core is a small radiator-like component located within your vehicle’s dashboard. It functions by transferring heat from the engine’s coolant to the air blown into the cabin by the heater fan. Essentially, it acts as a mini radiator that warms the air you breathe inside the car. Symptoms of a Blocked Heater Core Reduced Heating Efficiency: One of the first signs of a blocked heater core is a noticeable decrease in the effectiveness of your vehicle’s heating system. If you notice that ... read more

In the evolving landscape of automotive fuels, ethanol has become a significant component. But what exactly is ethanol, why is it added to fuel, and what does its presence mean for your vehicle? Let’s dive into the details. What is Ethanol? Ethanol is an alcohol-based fuel additive derived primarily from corn or other plant materials. It’s often blended with gasoline to create what’s known as "gasohol." In the U.S., common blends include E10 (10% ethanol) and E85 (85% ethanol). The primary reasons for adding ethanol are to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, enhance octane levels, and provide a renewable alternative to purely fossil fuels. Why Add Ethanol? Ethanol helps to lower the overall carbon footprint of gasoline, as it's produced from renewable resources. Additionally, ethanol raises the octane rating of fuel, which can improve engine performance and efficiency. This blend also supports domestic agriculture and r ... read more

As the leaves turn golden and the air takes on a crisp bite, it's not just your wardrobe that needs a seasonal update—your car does too! Here at Hillside Auto Repair, we’re here to make sure your ride is just as ready for autumn as you are.  So, buckle up (pun intended) and let’s dive into the essentials of fall automotive maintenance. Trust us, you don’t want to let this season sneak up on you like an unexpected pumpkin spice latte.  Why Fall Maintenance? Autumn isn’t just a picturesque season; it’s a time when your vehicle faces some unique challenges. From chilly mornings to unpredictable weather patterns, your car’s performance can take a hit if you’re not prepared. Here’s why you should give your car a little extra TLC before winter hits: Temperature Twists: As temperatures drop, so does your car’s ability to perform at its peak. Fluids thicken, tires lose their grip, and batteries can s ... read more