Why is my check engine light on? Here are 5 common triggers

Your vehicle’s braking system is one of its most critical safety features. When your brakes are functioning properly, they help you maintain control and avoid collisions. But like any part of your car, brake components can wear down over time and develop problems that shouldn’t be ignored. Recognizing early warning signs of brake trouble can help you avoid dangerous situations and more expensive repairs. At Novato Auto Service, we provide expert brake repair in the greater Novato, CA area. If you notice any of the following signs, it’s time to have a professional inspect your braking system right away. Squealing or Grinding Noises One of the most common signs of brake trouble is an unusual noise when you apply the brakes. A high-pitched squealing sound often indicates that the brake pads are worn and need to be replaced. Many brake pads have wear indicators that make noise when it’s time for maintenance. If you hear a grinding sound, it could mean that the pads are completely worn down and the metal components of the brakes are contacting each other. This can cause significant damage to your rotors and should be addressed immediately. Vibrations While Braking If you feel vibrations when you apply the brakes, it’s often a sign of warped rotors. Brake rotors can become uneven over time due to heat and wear, and this can reduce your braking effectiveness. This issue not only impacts your comfort while driving, but also compromises your ability to stop safely. Soft Brake Pedal When your brake pedal feels soft or sinks to the floor when you press it, you may have a problem with the brake fluid or air in the brake lines. A soft brake pedal reduces your ability to apply the brakes with full force, which is extremely dangerous. This condition can be caused by a fluid leak, in which case you should get towed to the shop to avoid accident risks. Pulling to One Side While Braking If your vehicle pulls to one side when you brake, it could indicate a stuck caliper. Uneven brake pressure causes the car to veer, which affects your ability to maintain control. This issue needs to be addressed ASAP so you don’t put yourself or other drivers in harm’s way. Dashboard Warning Light If the brake warning light illuminates on your dashboard, don’t ignore it. This light could be triggered by low brake fluid, a sensor malfunction, or another issue with your braking system. Have it checked promptly to ensure your vehicle remains safe to drive. Brake Repair in Novato For expert auto repair in Novato and the surrounding area, contact Novato Auto Service at  415-598-1488  . Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

Planning a road trip is exciting, but few things can ruin your plans faster than unexpected car trouble. Before hitting the open road, it’s smart to schedule a thorough inspection with a trusted mechanic. A professional checkup ensures that your vehicle is ready for the adventure and can help you avoid stressful breakdowns. At Novato Auto Service, our local mechanics can properly prepare your vehicle for your journey. Here are four advantages of having your car inspected by a mechanic before you head out on your road trip. Helps Prevent Breakdowns in Unfamiliar Areas One of the most important reasons to get a pre-trip inspection is to catch potential issues before they lead to a breakdown. Mechanics can spot early signs of trouble in critical systems like the engine, transmission, and brakes. Addressing these problems ahead of time can save you from being stranded in an unfamiliar area or needing emergency repairs that could disrupt your travel schedule. Prevention is always more convenient than dealing with car trouble on the highway. Improves Fuel-Efficiency Long trips can put a strain on your wallet if your car isn’t running efficiently. The mechanic can inspect components such as the air filter, spark plugs, and oxygen sensors to ensure your engine is operating at peak performance. A well-tuned car burns fuel more efficiently, helping you save money on gas during your trip. Helps Ensure Tire Safety Healthy tires are one of the most essential components for safe driving, especially during long trips that involve high speeds and long distances. The mechanic can check the tread depth, air pressure, and alignment to ensure your tires are in good shape. They can also detect uneven wear or damage that could lead to a blowout. Properly maintained tires not only provide better handling and fuel-efficiency, but also reduce the risk of accidents on the road. Provides Peace of Mind for the Journey Knowing that a professional has checked over your car before you leave brings valuable peace of mind. You won’t be worrying about potential mechanical failures while you’re trying to enjoy your trip. Instead, you can focus on the scenery and your destination, confident that your vehicle is in road-ready condition and unlikely to surprise you with any major problems. Auto Maintenance in Novato, CA For auto maintenance in Novato and the surrounding area before your road trip, contact Novato Auto Service at  415-598-1488  . We also provide expert RV service in Novato . Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment !

Routine oil changes are a cornerstone of proper vehicle maintenance. While it may seem like a minor task, regularly replacing your engine oil is essential for keeping your car running smoothly and efficiently. Neglecting this basic service can lead to major mechanical issues and expensive repairs. At Novato Auto Service, our local mechanics provide full-service oil changes in the greater Novato, CA area. Here are five important reasons to always stay current with your oil changes. Lubricates Engine Components Your engine is made up of many moving parts that generate heat and friction as they operate. Engine oil provides crucial lubrication to reduce this friction and ensure the parts move freely without excessive wear. Over time, oil breaks down and loses its ability to protect these components. Staying current with oil changes helps ensure your engine stays properly lubricated, preventing premature damage. Removes Harmful Contaminants As oil circulates through your engine, it picks up dirt, debris, and microscopic metal particles. If not changed regularly, the oil can become dirty and abrasive, which can harm the engine instead of protecting it. Clean oil helps flush these contaminants out of the system, reducing buildup. Improves-Fuel Efficiency Old, degraded oil makes your engine work harder than necessary, which can reduce fuel-efficiency. When oil becomes sludgy, it can create more resistance inside the engine. Fresh oil helps everything run more smoothly and efficiently, which in turn can improve your gas mileage and save money at the pump. Reduces Engine Heat Friction between engine parts creates heat, and oil plays a critical role in helping to dissipate that heat. If the oil is old or dirty, it loses its cooling properties and allows engine temperatures to rise. This can result in overheating and significant engine damage. Regular oil changes help prevent heat-related issues. Prevents Expensive Repairs Delaying oil changes may not seem like a big deal at first, but it can lead to severe engine problems down the road. Without proper lubrication and cooling, essential engine components can wear out or fail entirely. Repairs for these types of issues are often very costly. Regular oil changes are a simple and inexpensive way to help avoid major mechanical failures. Oil Change in Novato, CA For auto maintenance in Novato and the surrounding area, contact Novato Auto Service at  415-598-1488  . Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!

Few things are more frustrating than getting in your car, turning the key, and being met with either a sluggish engine start or complete silence. Hard-start and no-start issues can happen unexpectedly and are often symptoms of underlying problems that need immediate attention. At Novato Auto Service, our local mechanics are experts at diagnosing and fixing problems that cause no-start. Here are four common reasons your car might struggle to start—or fail to start altogether. Weak or Dead Battery A weak or dead battery is one of the most common causes of starting trouble. If the battery doesn’t have enough charge, it won’t be able to power the starter motor or ignition system. In some cases, you might hear a clicking noise when you try to start the car. Batteries naturally lose power over time, and extreme temperatures can accelerate the process. Corroded battery terminals or loose connections can also interfere with proper electrical flow, leading to starting problems. Failing Starter Motor The starter motor is responsible for cranking the engine when you turn the key. If it fails, the engine won’t turn over. A bad starter may produce a single click or no sound at all. Over time, the internal components of the starter motor can wear out. If your battery is fully charged but your car still won’t start, the starter motor could be to blame. Ignition Switch Problems The ignition switch sends power from the battery to various components, including the starter and fuel systems. When the ignition switch fails, your vehicle may not respond when you try to fire it up. A faulty ignition switch might also cause intermittent starting issues, making it more difficult to diagnose right away. Fuel Delivery Issues Your car needs the right amount of fuel to start and run properly. Problems with the fuel pump, fuel filter, or fuel injectors can prevent fuel from properly reaching the engine, resulting in a hard-start or no-start condition. A clogged fuel filter can restrict fuel flow, while a failing fuel pump may not supply enough pressure to start the engine. Auto Repair in Novato, CA For auto repair in Novato and the surrounding area, contact Novato Auto Service at  415-598-1488  . At our nearby auto shop, we can expertly handle your car’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!