Longview Auto Repair

Winter’s unpredictable weather can wreak havoc on your car. But quitting driving until the end of winter isn’t an option. Instead, let’s take a look at four of the most common cold-weather problems and some simple solutions to help prevent unnecessary wear and tear on your vehicle. Low Tire Pressure If, after a bit of cold weather, your low tire pressure light blinks on or you notice your tires look deflated – that temperature drop is very likely the culprit. Don’t worry; your tire’s air isn’t escaping through a leak or faulty valve. It just means that the air inside the tire condenses when it’s cold, taking up less space. Tire pressure decreases about 1 PSI (pound per square inch) every 10 degrees the temperature falls. Signs of low tire pressure: The tire looks deflated or the sidewall is bulging The steering and tread feel off or uneven The car’s fuel economy reduces When the temperatures outside start dropping, check your ... read more

You’re driving your kids home from school while they talk and bubble with laughter in the backseat. Suddenly, a car whips out right in front of you. You slam on the brakes and skid to a halt, avoiding the car by mere inches. Whew! Everyone’s gone quiet, and you silently thank your lucky stars that you just got your brakes replaced last month. Many of us don’t think about our vehicle’s brakes often. It’s usually only after an incident like this, that we stop to consider how important it is to have brakes that are in top-notch condition. So how do you know if you’re due for a brake repair? Here are some typical warning signs that it’s time for a brake replacement. HIGH PITCHED SCREECHING SOUND The indicator – a small metal shim – is the component responsible for this sound. If you hear it, then you know your brake pads are due to be replaced. YOUR BRAKES DON'T SEEM AS RESPONSIVE AS THEY SHOULD BE. This is a definitely a red fla ... read more