O'Fallon Auto Repair

If you operate a vehicle lacking air conditioning, you are likely to endure a journey that is both unpleasant and perspiration-inducing. Equipping your vehicle with a functioning air conditioning system can provide a more optimal and enjoyable temperature setting for yourself and fellow passengers throughout the duration of the journey. The A/C Is Making Noise When your car's A/C system starts making loud and unusual noises, it's a sign that something is wrong. If you hear grinding or screeching sounds, it could mean that your A/C system is on the verge of failing. If the noise is so loud that you can't even hear conversations in the car, it's time to get it checked out. The noise could be coming from the compressor, fan motor, or another part of the system. Over time, wear and tear can cause the A/C system to stop working altogether. Don't ignore the noise - take your car in for service or repair. The Air Isn’t Cold If yo ... read more

Your car's exhaust system is like a superhero that helps keep you safe and your car running smoothly. It's responsible for getting rid of harmful fumes from the engine and making sure they don't sneak into the inside of your car. The exhaust system is made up of several components, including the exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, muffler, and tailpipe. As the engine burns fuel to power your car, it produces harmful gases like carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, and nitrogen oxides. These gases are channeled through the exhaust manifold and into the catalytic converter, where they are converted into less harmful emissions through a series of chemical reactions. The muffler then helps to reduce noise levels by dampening the sound of the engine. Finally, the tailpipe releases the now cleaner emissions out of the back of your car. Overall, the exhaust system plays a crucial role in maintaining both the performance of your car and the quality of the air we breathe. ... read more

The Role of Hydraulic Fluid in Your Braking System Your car's ability to stop safely relies on hydraulic fluid to help amplify the pressure you apply to the brake pedal. This fluid is essential for stopping a heavy, fast-moving vehicle with ease, which is why it's important to regularly maintain it for optimal performance.   Why Brake Fluid Flushes are Necessary During a brake fluid flush, old fluid is removed and replaced with fresh fluid to maintain the smooth operation of your braking system and prevent issues from arising. There are three main issues that can arise in your braking system, making regular brake fluid flushes crucial: Breakdown from Heat - The heat generated during braking can cause the brake fluid to break down over time. Rust Formation - Moisture residue left behind can lead to rust forming within the brakes. Contamination - Debris, rubber, and metal particles can contaminate th ... read more

The Problem with Transmission Failure Every year in the United States, over 13 million automatic transmissions fail, and that's a big issue. Research shows that almost 90% of these failures happen because the transmission overheats and the fluid gets contaminated. The main reason for this is the Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) getting oxidized, which makes it lose its protective abilities. Heat is a major factor in this oxidation process. Why Transmissions Fail Modern engines are smaller and faster, and with more stop-and-go driving, the ATF is exposed to higher temperatures, causing it to break down faster. The transmission is like the heart of the engine, providing power to the vehicle. With 800 parts, it takes an expert to fix any problems that arise. The Importance of Maintenance When small particles like metal shavings get into the transmission fluid, they can cause clogs and wear on the transmission components as they ... read more

While navigating the roads in the O'Fallon area, drivers may find themselves in a situation where the dashboard of their vehicle displays various warning lights, including the check engine light. This can be a moment of tension for any driver, but worry not! This detailed guide is crafted to offer you valuable insights into the check engine light, equipping you to effectively identify common issues and make educated decisions regarding your vehicle's maintenance. Understanding the Check Engine Light: The check engine light serves as a crucial indicator that modern vehicles utilize to notify drivers of potential problems within the onboard diagnostics system. Common triggers for the activation of this light include a loose gas cap, a malfunctioning oxygen sensor, or issues within the ignition system. Recognizing these common causes can aid in determining the seriousness of the issue. For instance, a loose gas cap typically presents a minor problem that can be e ... read more