O'Fallon Auto Repair

Your car’s engine oil is like its lifeblood—without it, your engine would seize up, overheat, and fail catastrophically. Yet, despite its critical role, many drivers still wonder: How often should I really change my oil? The answer isn’t as simple as the old "every 3,000 miles" rule. Modern engines and advanced synthetic oils have changed the game. Let’s break it all down. The Vital Functions of Engine Oil Engine oil isn’t just there to keep things slippery—it performs several crucial jobs: Lubrication: Reduces friction between moving parts, preventing wear and tear. Cooling: Helps dissipate heat from the combustion process. Cleaning: Carries away dirt, metal particles, and sludge. Sealing: Helps piston rings maintain compression. Corrosion Protection: Coats components to prevent rust and oxidation ... read more

There’s a unique kind of panic that strikes when your car suddenly refuses to move in traffic—and it often starts with a dying clutch. Whether you're driving a spirited manual coupe or a trusty workhorse pickup, your clutch plays a crucial role in how power from the engine reaches the wheels. Like any other wear-and-tear part, the clutch doesn’t last forever. But how do you know it’s on its way out before it strands you at the worst possible time? At Hillside Auto Repair, we believe in keeping you one step ahead of unexpected breakdowns. Our experienced technicians work with dealership-grade tools and diagnostics to provide top-tier repairs and maintenance, including comprehensive clutch service. Let’s break down the tell-tale signs your clutch is waving the white flag—and what you should do next. 1. Slipping Gears While Accelerating If you're accelerating and notice the engine revs but the car doesn’t gain speed as e ... read more