Novato Auto Service Blog

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!

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!

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!

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!

Your car's alternator is responsible for keeping the battery charged and powering the electrical accessories. When it starts to fail, it can cause a variety of problems that affect your vehicle's performance and reliability. At Novato Auto Service, we provide expert alternator replacement and auto electric repair in the greater Novato, CA area. Here’s a look at five indications of alternator trouble. Warning Light on the Dashboard Modern cars are equipped with warning lights that turn on when there's an issue with the alternator or charging system. If you see a battery-shaped light illuminate on your dashboard, it's an indication that something is wrong. Ignoring this warning light could result in a breakdown. Dimming or Flickering Lights One of the most common early signs of alternator trouble is dimming or flickering headlights, dashboard lights, or interior lights. As the alternator struggles to supply enough power, you may notice these lights becoming noticeably dimmer or inconsistently bright. Strange Noises A failing alternator can sometimes produce unusual noises. You might hear a grinding or whining sound coming from the engine bay, which typically indicates worn-out bearings inside the alternator or a belt issue. Ignoring these noises can lead to total alternator failure, so it’s important to address them as soon as possible. Difficulty Starting the Vehicle The alternator plays a crucial role in keeping the battery charged. If you find your car struggling or taking longer to start than usual, it could be a sign that the battery isn't receiving enough power due to an alternator problem. This symptom often worsens over time as the alternator deteriorates further. Malfunctioning Electrical Accessories As the alternator's output becomes inconsistent, you may experience other electrical malfunctions in your vehicle. These could include issues with power windows rolling up slowly, the radio cutting out, or the air conditioning system not working properly. Any unexplained electrical glitches should prompt a check of your alternator's health. 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 !

For optimal vehicle longevity and performance, regular maintenance is key. Among all the maintenance tasks, one of the most crucial is adhering to your oil change schedule. At Novato Auto Service, our local mechanics provide full-service oil changes in the greater Novato, CA area. Here’s a look at five benefits of staying current with oil changes. Prolong Engine Life Engine oil lubricates the moving parts of your engine, reducing friction and wear. As the miles add up, oil breaks down and becomes less effective. By following your oil change schedule, you help to ensure that your engine components are consistently well-lubricated, minimizing wear and tear and thereby prolonging the life of your engine. Neglecting oil changes can lead to severe engine damage and expensive repairs. Maintain Optimal Performance Clean oil helps to keep your engine running smoothly and efficiently. As oil ages, it becomes contaminated with dirt, debris, and sludge, which can impede engine performance. Regular oil changes promote better acceleration, smoother operation, and improved fuel-efficiency. Healthy Engine Temperature Engine oil not only lubricates but also helps dissipate heat generated by the engine. As it gets older, oil loses its ability to effectively absorb and transfer heat. Without regular oil changes, your engine is at a higher risk of overheating, which can cause serious damage. Keeping your oil fresh helps to ensure that your engine runs within its optimal temperature range. Improve Fuel-Efficiency Old, dirty oil can increase engine friction, making your engine work harder and consume more fuel. Fresh oil reduces this friction, allowing your engine to operate more efficiently. By following your oil change schedule, you can improve your vehicle’s fuel-economy, saving you money at the pump. Identify Emerging Problems During a full-service oil change, the mechanic will have the opportunity to look at your engine. This could lead to the identification of emerging issues that can then be addressed before they escalate and cost more to fix. 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 today to make an appointment!

Whether you're planning a cross-country journey or a weekend getaway, ensuring that your vehicle is in top condition is crucial for a smooth and safe trip. While there are some tasks you may be able to perform yourself, certain tasks are best left to the expertise of an experienced mechanic. At Novato Auto Service, our local mechanics can thoroughly prepare your vehicle for your adventure. Here’s a look at five important maintenance tasks before a road trip. Oil Change and Fluid Check Before a long road trip, it's advisable to get an oil change, ensuring that your engine is properly lubricated for the journey ahead. Also, have the mechanic check other vital fluids such as coolant, transmission fluid, brake fluid, and power steering fluid. Topping off or flushing these fluids as needed will help prevent potential problems during your trip. Brake Inspection Your brakes are your first line of defense on the road. Before embarking on a long journey, it’s smart to have the mechanic inspect your brake pads, rotors, and brake fluid. Worn brake pads or low brake fluid levels can compromise your braking efficiency and safety. A thorough inspection will identify any potential issues and allow for timely repairs, ensuring that your brakes are in optimal condition for your road trip. Tire Maintenance Proper tire maintenance is essential for a safe and comfortable expedition. Before you leave, it’s important that your tires are checked for signs of wear and tear, uneven tread wear, and proper inflation. Ensure that your tires are inflated to the recommended pressure levels and have sufficient tread depth for the journey ahead. Battery Check A dead battery can quickly put a damper on your road trip plans. Before leaving, have the mechanic perform a battery test to check its overall health and charge capacity. Consider replacing an old or weak battery to help avoid a breakdown during your trip. Lights and Wipers Optimal visibility is crucial for your safety during your journey. It’s important to check lights such as headlights, brake lights, and turn signals. Any faulty bulbs should be replaced. Also, before a road trip, aging wiper blades should be replaced so you have better visibility during storms. Auto Maintenance in Novato, CA For auto maintenance in Novato or the surrounding area before your road trip, contact Novato Auto Service at  415-598-1488  . We also provide top-quality RV service in Novato . Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!

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!

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!