O'Fallon Auto Repair

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

When it comes to the intricate workings of your vehicle’s transmission, few components are as critical—or as misunderstood—as the torque converter. This part plays a vital role in ensuring your car shifts smoothly, accelerates efficiently, and delivers power from the engine to the wheels. But what exactly is a torque converter, how does it work, and what happens when it starts to fail? In this blog post, we’ll dive deep into the world of torque converters, explore the symptoms of failure, and explain how Hillside Auto Repair can help keep your transmission running like new. What Is a Torque Converter? A torque converter is a type of fluid coupling that connects the engine to the transmission in automatic vehicles. Its primary function is to transfer the engine’s rotational force (torque) to the transmission, which then sends power to the wheels. Unlike a manual clutch in a stick-shift car, a torque converter uses hydraulic fluid to smooth ... read more

When it comes to innovative automotive technology, Volkswagen has long been a pioneer. One of their standout contributions to the world of driving is the Direct-Shift Gearbox, or DSG transmission. This advanced transmission system has redefined the driving experience, offering a blend of performance, efficiency, and precision that sets it apart from traditional automatic and manual transmissions. But what exactly is a DSG transmission, how does it work, and what makes it unique? More importantly, how do you maintain it, and what are the signs that it might be failing? At Hillside Auto Repair, we’re here to answer all your questions and provide expert care for your Volkswagen’s DSG transmission. What is a DSG Transmission and How Does It Work? A DSG transmission is a type of dual-clutch automatic transmission that combines the best of both manual and automatic systems. Unlike a conventional automatic transmission, which uses a torque converter, or a manual ... read more