News

7000 Redwood Blvd. Novato, CA 94945  | Mon-Fri 8am-5pm | REQUEST APPOINTMENT | Call 415-598-1488
Novato Auto Service Blog and Information
By Novato Auto Service 26 Mar, 2024
It’s always best to get your car to the shop when you first notice that it’s not starting up as easily as it typically does. By being proactive, you’ll have the best chance to prevent your car from failing to start altogether and leaving you stranded. At Novato Auto Service, our local mechanics are highly experienced with diagnosing and fixing problems that cause no-start. Here are five common reasons that cars fail to start. Dead Battery One of the most common causes of a car not starting is a dead battery. As they get old, batteries wear out and lose their ability to hold a charge. Extreme temperatures, leaving lights on, or simply old age can all contribute to a battery’s demise. When you turn the key and hear a clicking noise, it's often a sign that the battery is the issue. Faulty Starter If your battery seems to be in good condition but your car still won't start, the starter motor might be to blame. A worn-out starter motor may struggle to engage or turn over the engine, resulting in a no-start situation. Listen for a grinding noise when you turn the key, which could indicate a problem with the starter. Fuel Delivery Issues Another common reason for a car's failure to start is fuel delivery issues. If your fuel pump fails or if there's a clog or blockage in the fuel line, your engine may not receive the necessary fuel to ignite. Symptoms of fuel delivery problems include the engine cranking but failing to start, or stalling shortly after starting. Ignition System Problems: Problems within the ignition system—such as a faulty ignition switch, ignition coil, or distributor— can prevent your car from starting. Symptoms of ignition system issues may include difficulty turning the key in the ignition, intermittent starting problems, or the engine sputtering and failing to start altogether. Faulty Alternator While the alternator's primary role is to charge the battery while the engine is running, a failing alternator can also prevent a car from starting. If the alternator fails to charge the battery, the battery may become depleted, leading to a no-start condition. Signs of alternator trouble include dimming headlights and dashboard warning lights indicating charging system problems. Auto Repair in Novato, CA For auto repair in Novato and the surrounding area, contact Novato Auto Service at  415-598-1488  . At our local auto shop, we can expertly handle your car’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call today to schedule an appointment!
By Novato Auto Service 23 Feb, 2024
At Novato Auto Service, it’s our mission to outperform our customers’ expectations by providing top-quality repairs at reasonable rates. Day in and day out, our local mechanics work diligently to earn our customers’ trust and respect. And we appreciate it when our customers offer feedback about the work that we did for them. Here’s a look at some of our recent customer reviews. “This shop was excellent! I was able to drop my car off Sunday night, they checked and did everything I asked. I got a text with link to a quote of the work they were suggesting and I was easily able to approve it. They were timely and professional. I will definitely take this car back and other cars to them! Special thanks to Scott, who talked me through the issues I was having and listened intently to my description. Car runs great now!” — Roshelle V. “This is the best place to service one's car! Owner Scott is a very talented auto mechanic. He also has employees that are also most talented.” — Bob R. “It's about trust: that the diagnostics are accurate, the work done to a high standard, the price reasonable, and the whole process open and transparent. Over the past decade, I've come to trust Novato Auto and Scott Kaplan for all levels of work, major and minor, on our two cars. Highly recommended.” — George J. “I always feel confident that my car will be taken care of and I will not be overcharged or charged for unnecessary repairs.” — Lisa N. “My whole family trusts Novato Auto Service. Scott, his son and his team know what they are doing, they have a lot of experience and their prices are reasonable. I highly recommend them, thank you Novato Auto Service.” — Maria O. “Fast efficient service. Very knowledgeable and friendly. I’ll continue using them for all my auto service needs.” — Raymond H. Auto Repair in Novato, CA When you need auto repair in Novato, CA and the surrounding area, contact Novato Auto Service at  415-598-1488  . Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!
By Novato Auto Service 29 Jan, 2024
When transmission issues develop, they can escalate quickly and become quite costly to address. But by taking some simple precautions, you can help to keep your transmission in great shape for a long time to come. At Novato Auto Service, we provide top-quality transmission service that contributes to a healthy transmission. Here’s a look at four tips for keeping your transmission in strong condition. Regular Fluid Checks and Changes One of the most basic aspects of transmission maintenance is keeping an eye on the transmission fluid. This fluid lubricates moving parts, reduces friction, and dissipates heat. As the miles add up, transmission fluid can become contaminated or break down, leading to poor performance and potential damage. Regularly check the fluid level and color. If it's becoming concerningly low or discolored, it’s wise to alert the mechanic. Consult your vehicle's owner's manual for recommended transmission fluid change intervals. Avoid Overloading and Overheating Overloading your vehicle or towing beyond its capacity can lead to increased stress on the transmission, causing it to overheat. Overheating accelerates the wear and tear of internal components and can lead to premature failure. When towing, make sure to stay within your vehicle's recommended towing capacity, and avoid pushing it to its limits. Practice Smooth Driving Habits Your driving habits can significantly impact the health of your transmission. Abrupt starts and stops, aggressive driving, and sudden gear shifts can put unnecessary strain on the transmission system. Practice smooth acceleration and deceleration, and allow your vehicle to come to a complete stop before shifting between drive, reverse, and park. By driving with care, you can reduce the wear on your transmission and improve its overall lifespan. Promptly Address any Signs of Trouble Delaying repairs or ignoring warning signs can lead to more severe transmission problems and increased repair costs. If you notice fluid leaks, slipping gears, delayed or rough shifting, or any other transmission-related issues, you’ll want to have the mechanic diagnose and address the problem before it worsens. Transmission Service in Novato When you need transmission service in Novato and the surrounding area, contact Novato Auto Service at  415-598-1488  . At our local auto shop, we can expertly take care of your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call today to schedule an appointment!
By Novato Auto Service 22 Dec, 2023
It might be tempting to ignore the check engine light, but doing so could lead to potential break-downs and costly repairs. By promptly getting to the shop for diagnostics, you’ll have the best chance to identify and address the underlying issue before it escalates. At Novato Auto Service, we provide expert check engine light diagnostics and repair in the greater Novato, CA area. Here are five common causes of an illuminated check engine light. Catalytic Converter Problems The catalytic converter plays a crucial role in reducing harmful emissions by converting toxic gasses into less harmful substances. If the check engine light is on, it may indicate issues with the catalytic converter. A faulty catalytic converter can cause poor acceleration and a sulfurous smell. Ignition System Issues Problems within the ignition system—such as malfunctioning spark plugs, ignition coils, or the spark plug wires—can trigger the check engine light. A misfiring engine can lead to reduced fuel-efficiency and rough idling. Regular maintenance of the ignition system is crucial to prevent these issues. Faulty Oxygen Sensor One of the more common causes of an illuminated check engine light is a malfunctioning oxygen sensor. These sensors monitor the level of oxygen in the exhaust gasses and help regulate fuel injection. A faulty oxygen sensor can lead to decreased gas mileage and increased emissions. Failing Mass Airflow Sensor The mass airflow sensor (MAF) measures the amount of air entering the engine and ensures the proper air-fuel mixture for combustion. When the MAF sensor malfunctions, it can lead to rough idling and reduced engine performance. Loose or Damaged Gas Cap A loose or damaged gas cap is a rather common trigger for the check engine light. The gas cap plays a crucial role in maintaining the pressure in the fuel system. If it's not properly sealed, it can lead to a loss of pressure, triggering the check engine light. Check Engine Light Repair in Novato, CA For auto repair in Novato and the surrounding area, contact Novato Auto Service at  415-598-1488  . Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!
By Novato Auto Service 22 Nov, 2023
A healthy suspension system plays a critical role in ensuring a smooth and safe ride. It not only contributes to your comfort but also plays a crucial role in maintaining control and stability. This makes it important to get to the shop when you first suspect that a suspension issue is developing. At Novato Auto Service, we provide expert suspension repair in the greater Novato, CA area. Here are five warning signs of suspension trouble. Excessive Bouncing/Dipping A healthy suspension system absorbs shocks and provides a smooth ride. If you experience excessive bouncing or dipping, it could be a sign that your shocks or struts are worn out. Worn suspension components can compromise your ability to maintain control of the vehicle, especially during sudden stops or turns. Uneven Tire Wear If you notice that the tread on your tires is wearing unevenly, it may be a sign that your suspension system is not functioning properly. Misaligned wheels or worn-out suspension components can cause the tires to wear down unevenly, which can affect your vehicle's handling. Knocking or Clunking Noises If you hear knocking, clunking, or creaking sounds when driving over bumps or making turns, it could be a sign of worn-out suspension components such as bushings, ball joints, or struts. Ignoring these noises can lead to more severe damage and increased safety risks. Visible Fluid Leaks Suspension components, namely shocks and struts, are filled with hydraulic fluid. If you notice visible fluid leaks around these components, it's a clear sign of a problem. Leaking fluid can cause reduced performance and may lead to suspension failure. Vehicle Pulling to One Side If your car pulls to one side while driving, it could be a sign of suspension problems or misalignment. Because this issue poses a potential safety concern, it's crucial to address it promptly to avoid further damage and help ensure your safety on the road. Suspension Repair in Novato, CA For auto repair in Novato and the surrounding area, contact Novato Auto Service at  415-598-1488  . At our local auto shop, we can expertly handle your car’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call today to schedule an appointment!
Show More
By Novato Auto Service 26 Mar, 2024
It’s always best to get your car to the shop when you first notice that it’s not starting up as easily as it typically does. By being proactive, you’ll have the best chance to prevent your car from failing to start altogether and leaving you stranded. At Novato Auto Service, our local mechanics are highly experienced with diagnosing and fixing problems that cause no-start. Here are five common reasons that cars fail to start. Dead Battery One of the most common causes of a car not starting is a dead battery. As they get old, batteries wear out and lose their ability to hold a charge. Extreme temperatures, leaving lights on, or simply old age can all contribute to a battery’s demise. When you turn the key and hear a clicking noise, it's often a sign that the battery is the issue. Faulty Starter If your battery seems to be in good condition but your car still won't start, the starter motor might be to blame. A worn-out starter motor may struggle to engage or turn over the engine, resulting in a no-start situation. Listen for a grinding noise when you turn the key, which could indicate a problem with the starter. Fuel Delivery Issues Another common reason for a car's failure to start is fuel delivery issues. If your fuel pump fails or if there's a clog or blockage in the fuel line, your engine may not receive the necessary fuel to ignite. Symptoms of fuel delivery problems include the engine cranking but failing to start, or stalling shortly after starting. Ignition System Problems: Problems within the ignition system—such as a faulty ignition switch, ignition coil, or distributor— can prevent your car from starting. Symptoms of ignition system issues may include difficulty turning the key in the ignition, intermittent starting problems, or the engine sputtering and failing to start altogether. Faulty Alternator While the alternator's primary role is to charge the battery while the engine is running, a failing alternator can also prevent a car from starting. If the alternator fails to charge the battery, the battery may become depleted, leading to a no-start condition. Signs of alternator trouble include dimming headlights and dashboard warning lights indicating charging system problems. Auto Repair in Novato, CA For auto repair in Novato and the surrounding area, contact Novato Auto Service at  415-598-1488  . At our local auto shop, we can expertly handle your car’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call today to schedule an appointment!
By Novato Auto Service 23 Feb, 2024
At Novato Auto Service, it’s our mission to outperform our customers’ expectations by providing top-quality repairs at reasonable rates. Day in and day out, our local mechanics work diligently to earn our customers’ trust and respect. And we appreciate it when our customers offer feedback about the work that we did for them. Here’s a look at some of our recent customer reviews. “This shop was excellent! I was able to drop my car off Sunday night, they checked and did everything I asked. I got a text with link to a quote of the work they were suggesting and I was easily able to approve it. They were timely and professional. I will definitely take this car back and other cars to them! Special thanks to Scott, who talked me through the issues I was having and listened intently to my description. Car runs great now!” — Roshelle V. “This is the best place to service one's car! Owner Scott is a very talented auto mechanic. He also has employees that are also most talented.” — Bob R. “It's about trust: that the diagnostics are accurate, the work done to a high standard, the price reasonable, and the whole process open and transparent. Over the past decade, I've come to trust Novato Auto and Scott Kaplan for all levels of work, major and minor, on our two cars. Highly recommended.” — George J. “I always feel confident that my car will be taken care of and I will not be overcharged or charged for unnecessary repairs.” — Lisa N. “My whole family trusts Novato Auto Service. Scott, his son and his team know what they are doing, they have a lot of experience and their prices are reasonable. I highly recommend them, thank you Novato Auto Service.” — Maria O. “Fast efficient service. Very knowledgeable and friendly. I’ll continue using them for all my auto service needs.” — Raymond H. Auto Repair in Novato, CA When you need auto repair in Novato, CA and the surrounding area, contact Novato Auto Service at  415-598-1488  . Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!
By Novato Auto Service 29 Jan, 2024
When transmission issues develop, they can escalate quickly and become quite costly to address. But by taking some simple precautions, you can help to keep your transmission in great shape for a long time to come. At Novato Auto Service, we provide top-quality transmission service that contributes to a healthy transmission. Here’s a look at four tips for keeping your transmission in strong condition. Regular Fluid Checks and Changes One of the most basic aspects of transmission maintenance is keeping an eye on the transmission fluid. This fluid lubricates moving parts, reduces friction, and dissipates heat. As the miles add up, transmission fluid can become contaminated or break down, leading to poor performance and potential damage. Regularly check the fluid level and color. If it's becoming concerningly low or discolored, it’s wise to alert the mechanic. Consult your vehicle's owner's manual for recommended transmission fluid change intervals. Avoid Overloading and Overheating Overloading your vehicle or towing beyond its capacity can lead to increased stress on the transmission, causing it to overheat. Overheating accelerates the wear and tear of internal components and can lead to premature failure. When towing, make sure to stay within your vehicle's recommended towing capacity, and avoid pushing it to its limits. Practice Smooth Driving Habits Your driving habits can significantly impact the health of your transmission. Abrupt starts and stops, aggressive driving, and sudden gear shifts can put unnecessary strain on the transmission system. Practice smooth acceleration and deceleration, and allow your vehicle to come to a complete stop before shifting between drive, reverse, and park. By driving with care, you can reduce the wear on your transmission and improve its overall lifespan. Promptly Address any Signs of Trouble Delaying repairs or ignoring warning signs can lead to more severe transmission problems and increased repair costs. If you notice fluid leaks, slipping gears, delayed or rough shifting, or any other transmission-related issues, you’ll want to have the mechanic diagnose and address the problem before it worsens. Transmission Service in Novato When you need transmission service in Novato and the surrounding area, contact Novato Auto Service at  415-598-1488  . At our local auto shop, we can expertly take care of your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call today to schedule an appointment!
By Novato Auto Service 22 Dec, 2023
It might be tempting to ignore the check engine light, but doing so could lead to potential break-downs and costly repairs. By promptly getting to the shop for diagnostics, you’ll have the best chance to identify and address the underlying issue before it escalates. At Novato Auto Service, we provide expert check engine light diagnostics and repair in the greater Novato, CA area. Here are five common causes of an illuminated check engine light. Catalytic Converter Problems The catalytic converter plays a crucial role in reducing harmful emissions by converting toxic gasses into less harmful substances. If the check engine light is on, it may indicate issues with the catalytic converter. A faulty catalytic converter can cause poor acceleration and a sulfurous smell. Ignition System Issues Problems within the ignition system—such as malfunctioning spark plugs, ignition coils, or the spark plug wires—can trigger the check engine light. A misfiring engine can lead to reduced fuel-efficiency and rough idling. Regular maintenance of the ignition system is crucial to prevent these issues. Faulty Oxygen Sensor One of the more common causes of an illuminated check engine light is a malfunctioning oxygen sensor. These sensors monitor the level of oxygen in the exhaust gasses and help regulate fuel injection. A faulty oxygen sensor can lead to decreased gas mileage and increased emissions. Failing Mass Airflow Sensor The mass airflow sensor (MAF) measures the amount of air entering the engine and ensures the proper air-fuel mixture for combustion. When the MAF sensor malfunctions, it can lead to rough idling and reduced engine performance. Loose or Damaged Gas Cap A loose or damaged gas cap is a rather common trigger for the check engine light. The gas cap plays a crucial role in maintaining the pressure in the fuel system. If it's not properly sealed, it can lead to a loss of pressure, triggering the check engine light. Check Engine Light Repair in Novato, CA For auto repair in Novato and the surrounding area, contact Novato Auto Service at  415-598-1488  . Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!
By Novato Auto Service 22 Nov, 2023
A healthy suspension system plays a critical role in ensuring a smooth and safe ride. It not only contributes to your comfort but also plays a crucial role in maintaining control and stability. This makes it important to get to the shop when you first suspect that a suspension issue is developing. At Novato Auto Service, we provide expert suspension repair in the greater Novato, CA area. Here are five warning signs of suspension trouble. Excessive Bouncing/Dipping A healthy suspension system absorbs shocks and provides a smooth ride. If you experience excessive bouncing or dipping, it could be a sign that your shocks or struts are worn out. Worn suspension components can compromise your ability to maintain control of the vehicle, especially during sudden stops or turns. Uneven Tire Wear If you notice that the tread on your tires is wearing unevenly, it may be a sign that your suspension system is not functioning properly. Misaligned wheels or worn-out suspension components can cause the tires to wear down unevenly, which can affect your vehicle's handling. Knocking or Clunking Noises If you hear knocking, clunking, or creaking sounds when driving over bumps or making turns, it could be a sign of worn-out suspension components such as bushings, ball joints, or struts. Ignoring these noises can lead to more severe damage and increased safety risks. Visible Fluid Leaks Suspension components, namely shocks and struts, are filled with hydraulic fluid. If you notice visible fluid leaks around these components, it's a clear sign of a problem. Leaking fluid can cause reduced performance and may lead to suspension failure. Vehicle Pulling to One Side If your car pulls to one side while driving, it could be a sign of suspension problems or misalignment. Because this issue poses a potential safety concern, it's crucial to address it promptly to avoid further damage and help ensure your safety on the road. Suspension Repair in Novato, CA For auto repair in Novato and the surrounding area, contact Novato Auto Service at  415-598-1488  . At our local auto shop, we can expertly handle your car’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call today to schedule an appointment!
By Novato Auto Service 26 Oct, 2023
At the first indication of an engine problem, you’ll want to be proactive about getting to the shop. Otherwise, the problem could soon escalate and cost a lot more to fix. At Novato Auto Service, we provide expert engine repair in the greater Novato, CA area. Here are five common signs of engine trouble. Check Engine Light If your check engine light flashes on, it doesn’t automatically mean that disaster is imminent. But you should still get to the shop for diagnostics so the issue can be identified and resolved before it gets worse. Common check engine light triggers include issues with catalytic converters, O2 sensors, MAF sensors, and spark plugs. Strange Noises Unusual noises coming from your engine should never be ignored. Common engine-related noises include knocking, tapping, hissing, and rattling. A knocking noise could indicate issues with the engine's connecting rods, while a hissing sound might be a sign of a vacuum leak. If you hear any unfamiliar sounds coming from under the hood, it's best to get it checked out ASAP. Decreased Power/Performance Power loss can be caused by serious issues such as piston or head gasket trouble. Decreased performance may arise due to issues such as fuel system problems, clogged air filters, or worn-out spark plugs. Regular maintenance can help prevent these issues. Overheating Overheating can lead to severe engine damage, so it should be addressed promptly. Common causes of engine overheating include coolant leaks, a malfunctioning thermostat, or a failing water pump. If you see your temperature gauge climbing into the red zone, find a safe place to park. Then, turn off the engine and seek assistance. Rough Idling A healthy engine should run smoothly even at idle. If you experience a rough or shaky idle, it may be due to problems with the spark plugs, fuel injectors, or air intake system. Engine Repair in Novato, CA When you need 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 today to schedule an appointment!
By Novato Auto Service 21 Sep, 2023
You just never know when a reckless driver will come flying your way. When danger emerges, it’s critical that your brakes work perfectly. If you notice a symptom of brake failure, you should get to the shop ASAP so the mechanic can conduct a thorough inspection. At Novato Auto Service, we provide top-quality brake repair in the greater Novato, CA area. Common Symptoms of Brake Trouble An illuminated ABS warning light suggests that something is wrong with your braking system, meaning you should get to the shop. This light can get triggered by issues such as a faulty ABS module, failing wheel speed sensors, and low brake fluid. If your car has a brake fluid leak, then you’ve got a major safety concern. With leaking brake fluid, your safety is immediately compromised and you shouldn’t drive your vehicle. Another symptom of brake trouble that poses a serious safety hazard is that your car drifts off to one side when the brakes are engaged, which could happen due to a corroded caliper seizing. Because this puts you and other drivers at major risk of an accident, you shouldn’t drive your car if it has this problem. Instead, you should get towed to the shop so the necessary brake repairs can be done. Issues related to brake pads often cause symptoms of brake trouble. A loud squeaking noise is a sign that the little piece of metal attached to the brake pad has started to rub against the rotor. When brake pads are shot, grinding may occur. This could then result in rotor damage. Brake pads often need to be changed out by 30,000 miles. However, how soon you need to replace your brake pads will hinge largely on how aggressively/gently you use your brakes. You’ll also want to get to the shop if you notice vibrating. If there’s a degraded area on your rotor, then the pad may transfer unevenly to it, causing vibrations. Brake Repair in Novato, CA When you need auto repair in Novato and the surrounding area, contact Novato Auto Service at  415-598-1488  . At our nearby auto shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call today to schedule an appointment!
By Novato Auto Service 23 Aug, 2023
If your alternator is malfunctioning, then your battery’s power reserve may become depleted to the point that your vehicle won’t fire up and you end up stranded. So as soon as you suspect that an alternator problem is present, it’s important to bring it to the mechanic’s attention. At Novato Auto Service, our local mechanics provide expert alternator replacement and auto electric repair in the greater Novato, CA area. Warning Signs of Alternator Trouble A dead battery is one of the more well-known signs of alternator failure. However, if your battery suddenly dies, it doesn’t necessarily mean that your alternator is to blame. There are numerous other reasons why car batteries die, such as corroded/loose connections, reaching the end of their life expectancy, parasitic draws, and forgetting to turn off your headlights. But if you’re sure that none of these problems are at play, then there’s a greater chance that your alternator is at fault. Another common sign of an alternator problem is that a dashboard warning light flashes on. Commonly, this light reads ALT or GEN or illuminates as a little battery-shaped icon. Anytime a warning light gets triggered, it’s important to identify the underlying issue before it escalates and causes bigger problems. A faulty alternator can also cause issues with electrical accessories. Today’s vehicles are commonly equipped with computers that can determine which electrical accessories should have their power diminished when the alternator isn’t working right. This preserves a greater amount of power for the car’s most essential electrical functions. However, this can then lead to issues with accessories such as power seats, power windows, and the radio. Also, a malfunctioning alternator can cause headlights to start dimming/flickering, which can create a safety hazard. Alternator Replacement & Auto Electric Repair in Novato, CA When you need auto repair in Novato and the surrounding area, contact Novato Auto Service at  415-598-1488  . At our local auto shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call today to schedule an appointment!
By Novato Auto Service 20 Jul, 2023
At Novato Auto Service, we’re proud members of the local small business community. We aim to consistently exceed our customers’ expectations by providing accurate diagnostics, fair pricing, attentive service, and flawless auto repairs. And we’re truly thankful when our customers take the time to offer feedback about their experiences with us. Here are some of our latest customer reviews. “Scott did his usual great job and kept me informed on progress and quickly got me back on the road.” — Michael B. “Excellent service, clearly explained the problem, done in a timely manner. Scott's awesome, so is this place.” — Roni S. “Great service! I’m glad I found this place and Scott. His team ordered parts and repaired my axle/struts same day. This will be my go to spot indefinitely if I’m in the area! Family business... son Kyle was so nice, he explained the repair in detail which I appreciated.” — Gigi O. “Great place to service my class C RV!” — Kevin H. “Very pleasant experience. Scott got my car in and diagnosed quickly and kept me up to date on service needed. Repairs were done quick as well. Would highly recommend to all my friends and family.” — Amy H. “Always done right and on time. Happy to recommend this business.” — Matthew O. “Great fast service. Scott knows his stuff. Courteous, knowledgeable and fast! My go-to mechanic for my classic Jag.” — Sadudee H. “Always great honest service without price gouging.” — Diane A. “This place saved the day for me…great work , great honest people and fast turn around on repairs…highly recommend talking to Scott and Kyle.” — Reiber M. “Great service, diagnosed an electronic issue two other garages could not. Trusted their service so much had them fix several other issues. Great, honest, service. Definitely recommend.” — Randy W. Auto Repair in Novato, CA When you need 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 vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!
By Novato Auto Service 15 Jun, 2023
Transmission problems are notorious for worsening fast, so you’ll want to get to the shop when you first suspect that transmission trouble is brewing. At Novato Auto Service, we provide expert transmission service in the greater Novato, CA area. Our local mechanics will make sure that your car shifts smoothly. Common Symptoms of Transmission Trouble If you’re driving along and your vehicle suddenly jumps out of gear, then you’ve got a clear-cut sign of a transmission problem. This could happen if contaminants in your transmission fluid are obstructing the fluid’s flow. As a result, fluid pressure drops to the extent that your car won’t reliably remain in gear. You should also have the mechanic take a look if you notice rough shifting or delayed shifting. Transmission fluid leaks are another common problem, and so it’s important to be aware of signs that this important fluid is leaking from your car. One such sign is that there’s reddish-colored fluid on the pavement beneath your vehicle. Further evidence that the leaking fluid is indeed transmission fluid is that it has a somewhat sweet scent. You might also have a leak if you check your transmission fluid and the dipstick shows a concerningly low reading. Transmission fluid provides fluid pressure, cooling, lubrication, and rust prevention. This makes it very important that any leaks are addressed as soon as possible. With manual transmissions, it’s important to be aware of symptoms of clutch trouble. Warning signs of a clutch problem often become apparent due to issues with the clutch pedal. The mechanic should conduct an inspection if your clutch pedal has become sticky, spongy, or noisy. Other common symptoms of clutch trouble include grinding, as well as burning smells. Transmission Repair in Novato, CA When you need auto repair in Novato and the surrounding area, contact Novato Auto Service at  415-598-1488  . At our local auto shop, we can expertly handle any type of repair or maintenance that your vehicle needs. Feel free to give us a call today to schedule an appointment!
Share by: