O'Fallon Auto Repair

The $2,000 Chokehold: What's Killing Your Catalytic Converter? There are few repair bills that can induce a cold sweat quite like the words, "You need a new catalytic converter." It’s a phrase synonymous with a four-figure expense, and for many drivers in O'Fallon, it feels like it comes out of nowhere. But what is this mysterious component, and why does it fail so spectacularly? More importantly, why is it so expensive? At Hillside Auto Repair, we believe an informed driver is an empowered one. Let’s demystify the catalytic converter and uncover the real reasons they fail. What in the World Does a Catalytic Converter Actually Do? Think of your catalytic converter (or "cat") as your car's environmental conscience. It’s a metal canister located in your exhaust system, between the engine and the muffler. Inside, it contains a honeycomb structure coated with precious metals like platinum, palladium, and r ... read more

How Long Do Brake Pads Really Last? You see it all the time—that little reminder on your service invoice: "Brake pads at 50%." It’s a piece of data without a clear expiration date. So, how long do you really have? If you’re looking for a single, universal number, you’re going to be disappointed. The truth is, the lifespan of your brake pads is a direct reflection of your right foot and your daily drive through O'Fallon. At Hillside Auto Repair, we see brakes that are shot at 20,000 miles and others that are still going strong at 60,000. The difference isn't magic; it's driving style. Let's break down how your habits behind the wheel dictate your pad's destiny. The Goldilocks Zone: What's the "Average" Lifespan? Let's get the baseline out of the way. For a driver with a moderate, mixed-style of city and highway driving, think a commute down Highway K with some stops at t ... read more