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5 Warning Signs of a Suspension Issue

Novato Auto Service • September 26, 2024
A car is being aligned on a lift in a garage.

Your car’s suspension system plays a crucial role in ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride by absorbing shocks and maintaining proper contact between the tires and the road. However, wear and tear can cause suspension issues, which can lead to unsafe driving conditions if not addressed promptly. At Novato Auto Service, we provide expert suspension repair in the greater Novato, CA area. Here are five common signs of suspension trouble.


Excessive Bouncing

If your car bounces excessively after hitting a bump, it’s a clear sign that your suspension may be worn out. Shocks and struts are designed to absorb the impact of road imperfections, but when they’re no longer functioning correctly, your vehicle will bounce or rock more than it should. This can make driving uncomfortable and reduce your control over the vehicle.


Uneven Tire Wear

Suspension problems can cause uneven tire wear. When the suspension system is misaligned or worn out, it can lead to improper tire contact with the road. This results in one side of the tire wearing down faster than the other, which can ultimately compromise traction and lead to tire replacements. 


Pulling to One Side

If your car drifts to one side while driving, this could indicate a suspension problem, particularly with the alignment. While pulling to one side can also be caused by brake problems, a suspension component like a worn control arm may be the culprit. Misalignment affects your vehicle’s ability to drive straight, increasing your risk of an accident.


Poor Handling and Steering Instability

If your vehicle feels like it's swaying, or is difficult to control when turning or changing lanes, it’s a sign that your suspension is failing. Poor handling can occur due to worn shocks, struts, or other suspension components that are no longer able to stabilize the car properly. 


Sagging or Uneven Ride Height

A sagging corner or noticeably uneven ride height is often caused by a broken or worn spring. The springs in your suspension system are responsible for supporting the weight of your vehicle, and when one fails, it can cause the car to lean or sag. Driving with a broken spring can make your vehicle unsafe.


Suspension 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 to make an appointment!

What are issues that commonly trigger the check engine light?

By Novato Auto Service • January 6, 2025
The check engine light is a sign that your vehicle’s onboard diagnostic system has detected an issue that needs attention. At Novato Auto Service, we provide expert check engine light diagnostics and repair in the greater Novato, CA area. Here’s a look at five common check engine light triggers. Faulty Oxygen Sensor The oxygen sensor plays a critical role in monitoring the balance of air and fuel in your engine. If the sensor becomes damaged or malfunctions, it can cause inaccurate readings, leading to reduced fuel-efficiency and increased emissions. A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most frequent triggers for the check engine light and should be replaced as soon as possible to maintain optimal engine performance. Loose or Damaged Gas Cap It may seem surprising, but a loose or damaged gas cap is a common reason the check engine light comes on. The gas cap seals the fuel system, and if it isn’t tightly secured, fuel may evaporate before your engine gets the chance to use it. Failing Catalytic Converter The catalytic converter helps reduce harmful emissions by converting pollutants into less harmful gases. A failing catalytic converter can also lead to poor performance and increased emissions, making immediate attention important. Malfunctioning Mass Airflow Sensor The mass airflow (MAF) sensor measures the amount of air entering the engine and helps regulate the air-to-fuel ratio. If the sensor fails, your engine may run too rich or too lean, leading to poor fuel-economy and potential engine stalling. Worn or Misfiring Spark Plugs Spark plugs are essential for igniting the fuel-air mixture in your engine’s cylinders. When spark plugs wear out or misfire, they can cause engine performance issues such as rough idling, reduced power, and poor fuel-efficiency. Worn spark plugs are a frequent reason for the check engine light and should be replaced as part of your vehicle’s regular maintenance. 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 to make an appointment!

4 Signs of a Transmission Fluid Leak that Mean You Should Visit the Mechanic

By Novato Auto Service • December 3, 2024
Transmission fluid plays a vital role by lubricating moving parts, reducing friction, and regulating temperature, while also providing the necessary pressure for smooth gear shifts. However, a transmission fluid leak can lead to severe damage if not addressed promptly. As soon as you suspect that your vehicle might be leaking transmission fluid, you’ll want to make it a priority to get to the shop. At Novato Auto Service, we provide expert transmission fluid leak repair in the greater Novato, CA area. Here are four common signs that your car may have a transmission fluid leak. Puddles of Red Fluid Under Your Vehicle Transmission fluid typically has a reddish or pinkish hue when new, though it can turn dark brown as it ages. If you notice puddles of red fluid forming under your car, it’s a warning sign of a leak. Prompt attention is crucial to prevent further damage. Low Transmission Fluid Levels Consistently low transmission fluid levels, despite regular refills, often signal a leak. Low levels can result in inadequate lubrication, leading to potential transmission failure. Common sources of leaks include faulty transmission pan gaskets and damaged transmission lines. Difficulty Shifting Gears A lack of transmission fluid can make it harder for your car to shift gears smoothly. If you experience delays when changing gears or feel a jerking sensation, it’s possible that the fluid has been leaking. If your car slips out of gear, it could be occurring because a leak is causing the fluid to drop to the point that there isn’t enough hydraulic pressure to properly keep the car in gear. Burning Smell If transmission fluid leaks onto hot engine components, it can produce a distinctive burning smell. Anytime there’s a burning odor coming from your vehicle, it’s crucial to get it checked out by the mechanic as soon as possible. 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 take care of your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!

4 Signs of a Coolant Leak that Mean You Should Visit the Mechanic ASAP

By Novato Auto Service • November 1, 2024
Your vehicle’s cooling system is essential for regulating engine temperature and preventing overheating, but when a coolant leak occurs, this system becomes compromised. If left unaddressed, a coolant leak can lead to severe engine damage, potentially resulting in expensive repairs. To avoid major issues, it’s important to recognize the signs of a coolant leak early on. At Novato Auto Service, we provide expert coolant leak repair in the greater Novato, CA area. Here are four warning signs that you may have a coolant leak. Low Coolant Levels The most straightforward sign of a coolant leak is consistently low coolant levels. If you find yourself frequently topping off your coolant, this is a strong indication that something is wrong. While small amounts of coolant may naturally evaporate over time, rapid or regular decreases in the fluid level usually signal a leak. Visible Coolant Puddle Coolant leaks often leave visible evidence underneath your car. A bright green, orange, or pink (your coolant might be a different color) puddle beneath your vehicle can indicate a coolant leak. Coolant is typically easy to identify by its distinctly bright color. If you notice such a puddle forming under your car after it has been parked for a while, it’s time to check for a coolant leak. Sweet Smell from the Engine Bay Coolant has a distinct, sweet smell due to its chemical composition, particularly the presence of ethylene glycol. If you detect a sweet odor coming from your engine bay, especially after driving, this could mean coolant is leaking onto a hot surface, causing it to evaporate and release the smell. Engine Overheating A properly functioning cooling system is vital for preventing engine overheating. If your vehicle’s temperature gauge regularly rises into the danger zone, or you notice your car overheating more frequently, this may be due to a lack of coolant caused by a leak. Driving an overheating car can cause significant engine damage, including a cracked block, so it’s important to address this issue immediately. Cooling System Repair in Novato, CA When you need 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!

See the Latest Customer Reviews for Novato Auto Service!

By Novato Auto Service • September 1, 2024
At Novato Auto Service, we aim to earn our customers’ satisfaction by providing top-quality repairs and maintenance at fair rates. No matter how big or small the job, our team will work meticulously to complete it to the highest standards. And we’re grateful when our customers provide feedback about their experiences with us. Here’s a look at some of our latest customer reviews. “Keeping a 28 year old vehicle on the road reliably takes great care. The team at Novato Auto Service makes that easier. They are knowledgeable, solutions oriented, competent, and priced fairly for what they do.” — Saul M. “Scott took great care of my Mazda 3 hatchback! He took the time to explain to me the issue so that I understood what was going on. He runs a professional, efficient auto shop, and I will return if I have any future car problems. I recommend his services 100%!” — Porsia T. “We have trusted Scott for over 20 years. Novato Auto is thorough and reasonably priced. He has taken good care of us and our cars.” — Douglas S. “We were greatly pleased to discover Novato Auto Service. We have been back a few times since our first visit. Prices are fair, workmanship and staff excellent. If you have a woman in your life that is scared to trust someone, send them here. They take care of you. Not advantage of you.” — James Y. “Super happy with my service! My key got stuck in the ignition and I was calling around to see who could take my car in. They were able to fit me in early and a couple hours later my car was ready. They also fixed my car door and now I can fully open it.” — Maribel G. “Great repair place all around. We were traveling and planned to be in this area for a few days. Needed to make sure our scheduled appointment was taken seriously which it was. We waited for the brake service to be completed and he started on it at our appointment time. Work was done without any additional difficulties added to make us feel we should get something else done. Friendly, clean and organized. Highly recommend.” — Kevin K. 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 to make an appointment!

Do my brakes need repair? Here are 5 warning signs

By Novato Auto Service • August 3, 2024
Ensuring that your brakes are in good working order is crucial for maintaining control of your vehicle and avoiding accidents. At the first sign of a brake problem, it’s important to alert the mechanic. At Novato Auto Service, we provide expert brake repair in the greater Novato, CA area. Here’s a look at five warning signs of brake trouble. Squealing or Grinding Noises One of the most obvious signs of brake trouble is an unusual noise when you apply the brakes. If you hear a high-pitched squealing sound, it often indicates that the brake pads are worn and need replacement. A grinding noise, on the other hand, is more serious. It typically means that the brake pads are completely worn down, which may lead to damage to your rotors and more expensive repairs. Vibrations If you feel vibrations or pulsations in the brake pedal when you apply pressure, it could indicate warped rotors. Warping can occur due to excessive heat. Vibrations can also be a sign of uneven wear on the brake pads. Either way, these vibrations can affect your ability to stop smoothly and should be checked by the mechanic. Reduced Responsiveness A spongy or soft brake pedal is a clear sign of brake trouble. This issue often points to air in the brake lines or a problem with the brake fluid. Brake fluid is essential for transmitting the force from your pedal to the brake components. If there's a leak or contamination, it can lead to a very dangerous situation. Pulling to One Side When you apply the brakes, your car should slow down evenly. If you notice that your vehicle pulls to one side, it could indicate a problem with the brake calipers. This pulling can be caused by a stuck caliper, creating a hazardous situation. Warning Light If your brake warning light comes on, it's a sign that something is wrong with your braking system. This light can indicate issues such as low brake fluid or faulty wheel speed sensors. You should never ignore a brake warning light, as it’s a clear sign that your brakes need attention. 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!
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