O'Fallon Auto Repair

If you're a car enthusiast in O'Fallon, Missouri, or just someone who loves a little extra power under the hood, you've probably heard the terms turbocharger and supercharger. Both are forced induction systems designed to boost engine performance, but they work in very different ways. At Hillside Auto Repair, we see plenty of vehicles with these systems, and we know how to keep them running at peak performance. What Is a Turbocharger? A turbocharger uses exhaust gases to spin a turbine, which then forces more air into the engine’s combustion chamber. More air means more fuel can be burned, resulting in increased horsepower. Key Components:Turbine & Compressor Wheels – Spins from exhaust gases to compress intake air. Intercooler – Cools compressed air for better efficiency. Wastegate – Controls boost pressure to prevent en ... read more

Electric vehicles (EVs) are seen all over O’Fallon’s roads—from the school drop-off line to the commute to St. Louis. But one question keeps popping up: "How long will my EV battery actually last?" Unlike gas engines that wear out over time, EV batteries degrade slowly—but they don’t just die overnight. Let’s break down how they work, what wears them out, and how you can maximize your battery’s life so you’re not left stranded on I-64. And when your EV needs expert care, Hillside Auto Repair has you covered with dealership-grade tools, certified technicians, and a 3-year/36,000-mile warranty on all services. How Do EV Batteries Work (And Why Do They Degrade?) EV batteries are lithium-ion powerhouses, storing energy to propel your car without a drop of gasoline. Unlike your phone battery (which might quit after two years), EV batteries are built to last—most a ... read more

The Lowdown on Serpentine Belt Replacement If your car were a person, the serpentine belt would be the unsung hero keeping everything running smoothly—like a personal trainer for your engine. No, it’s not a fashion accessory (despite the name), but when it fails, your car will throw a fit. Let’s unravel the mystery of serpentine belts—what they do, why they matter, and when it’s time for a replacement. What Does a Serpentine Belt Actually Do? This single, snaking belt powers almost every critical accessory in your engine: Alternator (keeps the battery charged) Power steering pump (so you don’t turn like a truck driver) Air conditioning compressor (because Missouri summers are brutal) Water pump (prevents your engine from melting into a puddle) If it snaps? Say goodbye to power steering, AC, and eventually, your engi ... read more

In today’s fast-paced world, convenience is king. Need groceries? Delivery. Need a ride? Uber. Need your car fixed? Enter the mobile mechanic—a seemingly easy solution to avoid the hassle of dropping your car off at a shop. But before you hand over your keys to a stranger in your driveway, let’s talk about the serious risks—especially for women—and why a reputable shop like Hillside Auto Repair in O'Fallon, MO, is the smarter, safer choice.   Safety First: The Stalker Factor & Unvetted Strangers   Here’s an uncomfortable truth: not all mobile mechanics are background-checked or traceable. Unlike established shops where employees are vetted, a random mechanic showing up at your home now knows:   - Where you live   - What car you drive   - Your daily schedule (if they’re observing when you’re home)   For women, this can be a legitimate safety concern ... read more

If you're like most drivers in O'Fallon, Missouri, you probably think of tire rotation as a simple "front-to-back" shuffle. But what if we told you that your full-size spare tire deserves a spot in the rotation too? That’s right—a 5-tire rotation ensures even wear across all five tires, extending their lifespan and keeping your ride smoother for longer.   Why Rotate All Five Tires? Most modern SUVs and trucks come with a full-size spare (meaning it matches your other four tires). If that spare just sits underneath your vehicle or in the trunk, it’s not doing much except collecting dust. Meanwhile, the other four tires are wearing down unevenly.   By including the spare in your rotation, you:   ✔ Extend tread life– All five tires wear evenly, so you get more miles before replacement.   ✔ Improve performance – Balanced wear means better handling and fuel efficiency ... read more