COVINA AUTO REPAIR

Maintaining proper tire care extends far beyond simply inflating them to the correct pressure. Two essential but often misunderstood services are wheel alignment and wheel balancing. They significantly influence your vehicle’s handling, tire longevity, and ride comfort.. Although they sound similar, alignment and balancing serve distinctly different purposes, and understanding the difference can help you identify problems early and keep your vehicle running safely. We'll explain what each service involves and why both are critical for your car’s performance and comfort. What Is Wheel Alignment Wheel alignment refers to adjusting the angles of your wheels so they are perfectly parallel to each other and perpendicular to the road. The manufacturer precisely sets these angles (camber, caster, and toe) to ensure optimal tire contact and even weight distribution across all four tires. When your wheels are properly aligned, your car drives straight, your ... read more

Driving your car should feel easy, but if your steering wheel pulls to one side or your tires wear unevenly, it might be time to consider a wheel alignment. While it’s not a task that demands constant attention, neglecting alignment can lead to significant problems for your vehicle. So, how often should you schedule this service? We’ll explain what wheel alignment does for your car and how to determine the right timing for it. What Exactly Is Wheel Alignment Wheel alignment ensures that your vehicle’s wheels are properly angled in relation to the road and one another. This isn’t about simply pointing the tires straight—it’s a precise adjustment of your car’s suspension system. When your wheels are aligned correctly, your car handles better, your tires last longer, and your fuel efficiency improves. Driving habits and road conditions can throw your alignment out of balance. Potholes, curbs, and even everyday wear and tear can ... read more

Oil changes are one of the most common services your vehicle needs, but how often should you really be doing them? For years, the rule of thumb was every 3,000 miles, but modern vehicles and improved oil technology have shifted that number significantly. Understanding when to change your oil depends on your driving habits, your vehicle’s age, and the type of oil you use. Ignoring oil change intervals can lead to major engine problems down the road. On the other hand, changing your oil too often wastes time and money. Let’s take a closer look at how to strike the right balance for your car. Why Oil Changes Are So Important Motor oil lubricates your engine’s moving parts, helping them run smoothly while reducing heat and friction. It also carries away contaminants, carbon buildup, and metal particles produced by engine wear. Over time, oil breaks down and becomes less effective at performing these tasks. Dirty or degraded oil leads to poor engine pe ... read more

Your car’s dashboard is like its communication center, alerting you when something needs your attention. But with so many different icons and lights, it’s not always easy to know what they mean—or how serious they are. Some lights signal minor issues, while others warn you to pull over immediately. Knowing these key dashboard warning lights can help you react appropriately and avoid bigger problems down the road. 1. Check Engine Light The check engine light is one of the most common alerts, but it can mean many things. It might indicate a loose gas cap, a failing sensor, or something more serious like a misfire or catalytic converter issue. A solid light usually suggests a non-urgent problem, while a flashing light calls for immediate attention. 2. Oil Pressure Warning This light looks like an old-fashioned oil can and signals low oil pressure. Without proper oil pressure, your engine could suffer severe damage quickly. If this l ... read more

California’s relentless summer heat can take a serious toll on your vehicle, and your engine’s cooling system is its first line of defense. While most drivers keep up with oil changes and tire rotations, coolant maintenance is often overlooked—until it’s too late. Low or degraded coolant can lead to overheating, decreased fuel efficiency, and even major engine damage. If you drive in extreme temperatures, are you sure your cooling system is ready to handle the heat? What Does Engine Coolant Do Coolant, also known as antifreeze, is a liquid that circulates through your engine to absorb excess heat and regulate temperature. It prevents overheating in the summer and protects against freezing in the winter. In California’s hot climate, its primary function is to keep your engine from reaching dangerously high temperatures. Here’s how the coolant system works: The coolant absorbs heat from the engine. It travels to the radiator, wher ... read more