O'Fallon Auto Repair

As the first signs of spring emerge, it’s the ideal time to give your vehicle some much-needed attention. After months of navigating icy roads, potholes, and unpredictable weather, your tires have likely taken a beating. Spring is not just a season of renewal for nature—it’s also the perfect time to renew your commitment to tire health. Proper tire maintenance ensures safety, improves fuel efficiency, and extends the life of your tires. In this blog post, we’ll dive into why spring is the best time to check your tire health, how to perform basic tire maintenance, and why Hillside Auto Repair is your go-to destination for all things tires. Why Spring? Winter is notoriously harsh on tires. Cold temperatures can cause tire pressure to drop, while snow, ice, and salt can accelerate wear and tear. As the weather warms up, it’s crucial to assess the condition of your tires to ensure they’re ready for the months ahead. Spring is also a g ... read more

Spring is here, and while many of us are busy cleaning out closets, planting gardens, and enjoying the warmer weather, there’s one task that should be at the top of your to-do list: checking your car’s alignment and suspension. After a long, grueling winter season, your vehicle’s alignment and suspension systems may have taken a serious hit. Potholes, icy roads, and uneven terrain can wreak havoc on these critical components, leading to uneven tire wear, poor handling, and a less comfortable ride. Skipping these checks could cost you more in the long run—both in terms of safety and your wallet. In this blog post, we’ll explore why spring is the perfect time to inspect your alignment and suspension, how these systems impact your driving experience, and why Hillside Auto Repair is your trusted partner for keeping your vehicle in top shape. The Toll of Winter on Your Alignment and Suspension Winter is tough on cars. The combination of free ... read more

Tax season is here, and for many of us, that means a welcome influx of cash in the form of a tax refund. While it’s tempting to dream about shiny new toys and the allure of "new car scent", the smarter financial move might be to invest that refund into your current vehicle. In today’s post-Covid economy, older cars are holding their value remarkably well, and the costs associated with buying a new vehicle—like higher insurance premiums and depreciation—can quickly drain your bank account. Instead, consider using your tax refund to address repairs and maintenance you’ve been putting off. Not only will this extend the life of your car, but it can also save you money in the long run. Let’s dive into why fixing your current car is the wiser choice and how Hillside Auto Repair can help you make the most of your tax refund. Older Cars Are Holding Their Value Like Never Before The automotive market has changed dramatically since ... read more

The combustion engine is one of the most ambitious inventions in human history, powering everything from cars and trucks to airplanes and industrial machinery. Over the centuries, this remarkable piece of engineering has undergone significant advancements, evolving from rudimentary designs to the highly efficient, technologically advanced systems we rely on today. In this blog post, we’ll explore the key components of a combustion engine, delve into its fascinating history, and highlight how technological breakthroughs have shaped its development. Plus, we’ll share why Hillside Auto Repair is your go-to expert for engine diagnostics and repairs—because we stand behind our work with pride and precision. The Key Parts of a Combustion Engine At its core, a combustion engine converts fuel into mechanical energy through controlled explosions (combustion) within its cylinders. Here are the essential components that make this process possible: Cylinder Blo ... read more

When it comes to off-road adventures, towing heavy loads, or navigating challenging terrain, the transfer case is an elite part of your vehicle's drivetrain. This critical component is the backbone of four-wheel-drive (4WD) and all-wheel-drive (AWD) systems, ensuring power is distributed efficiently to all four wheels. At Hillside Auto Repair, we’re passionate about helping you understand the role of transfer cases, their history, and how to recognize signs of failure. With our team of expert technicians and a 3-year/36,000-mile warranty on all parts and labor, we’re here to keep your vehicle performing at its best—no matter where the road takes you. What Does a Transfer Case Do? The transfer case is a specialized gearbox found in 4WD and AWD vehicles. Its primary function is to split power from the transmission and send it to both the front and rear axles. This allows all four wheels to receive torque simultaneously, providing better traction an ... read more