Corpus Christi Auto Repair

Fresh oil does a lot of heavy lifting inside your engine. It reduces friction, carries away heat, suspends contaminants, and seals tiny clearances so parts move smoothly. As miles and months pass, that same oil slowly loses the qualities that make it protective. If it stays in service too long, wear starts to climb and small problems begin to stack up. Here is what really happens when oil ages past its useful life and how to keep your engine safe. Why Oil Breaks Down Over Time Every heat cycle changes oil at a molecular level. High temperatures thin it out, then cool downs thicken it again. Oxygen reacts with the base oil and starts oxidation. Fuel and moisture mix in during short trips. Detergents and dispersants get used up holding grit and soot. Eventually the oil cannot do its job as well as it did on day one. It still looks like oil, but its protective film is weaker and less stable under load. Viscosity Drift and Cold Start Wear Engines need ... read more

The alternator plays a bigger role in your vehicle than many drivers realize. While the battery gets your car started, the alternator supplies electricity once the engine is running. It recharges the battery and powers everything from the headlights to the fuel injectors. Without it, your vehicle can only run for as long as the battery has charge, which may be a matter of minutes. Recognizing the warning signs of alternator trouble can prevent unexpected breakdowns and expensive damage. Dim or Flickering Lights One of the most common indicators of alternator trouble is lighting that behaves strangely. If your headlights dim when you accelerate or your dashboard lights flicker at idle, the alternator may not be keeping up with demand. These symptoms often appear gradually and may come and go, which makes them easy to overlook. However, inconsistent voltage is usually the first sign of a charging system problem and should be checked immediately. Dashboard Warn ... read more

Many drivers eventually notice their car isn’t going as far on a tank of gas as it used to. A small dip in efficiency can happen naturally as a vehicle ages, but significant or sudden decreases usually mean something is wrong. Since fuel efficiency affects both your wallet and your vehicle’s performance, it’s essential to understand what could be causing the issue and take action before it worsens. Tire Pressure and Rolling Resistance One of the simplest causes of poor fuel economy is low tire pressure. Underinflated tires create extra resistance on the road, forcing your engine to work harder. Even being a few PSI under the recommended level can reduce gas mileage. Uneven wear or misaligned wheels can have a similar effect. Checking tire pressure monthly and keeping your wheels aligned is an easy way to maintain fuel efficiency. Engine Performance Issues If your car’s engine is struggling, it will burn more fuel to make up ... read more

If you hear a squeaking sound when turning the steering wheel, especially at low speeds or while parking, it’s a sign your vehicle may need attention. While not always serious, this type of noise often points to wear or strain within your steering or suspension system. Left unchecked, these squeaks can turn into more noticeable symptoms—and in some cases, affect handling or safety. Let’s take a closer look at the common reasons behind steering wheel squeaks, what other signs to watch for, and when to seek service. Common Causes of Steering Wheel Squeaks A squeaking sound during steering can come from several components, depending on the type of noise, where it’s coming from, and when it occurs. One of the most common sources is the steering column itself. Inside the column, there are moving parts like bushings and joints that can become dry or worn, especially over time. If these parts lack lubrication, they can squeak during movement. Anoth ... read more

Strange smells coming from under your hood are never something to ignore. Whether it’s a sweet scent, a burning odor, or something more alarming like rotten eggs, your nose can be an early warning system for problems under the hood. When it comes to your engine, certain smells often indicate very specific issues, and the sooner you identify the cause, the better chance you have of avoiding expensive repairs. Sweet Smell If you catch a sugary or syrupy smell while driving or after shutting off the engine, it’s often a sign that coolant is leaking. Coolant contains ethylene glycol, which has a distinctly sweet scent. Leaks might occur from a cracked hose, a worn-out radiator, or even a damaged water pump. This kind of leak doesn’t just make a mess; it’s dangerous for your engine. When coolant escapes, your engine is more likely to overheat. If the issue isn’t fixed quickly, it can lead to warped cylinder heads, blown head gaskets, and oth ... read more