Texas Auto Repair

We've all experienced the frustration of driving in a car that won't go any faster than 3 miles/hour, so your car shakes as you plow through the potholes. Eventually, after years of dents, scratches, and broken bits, you buy a new set of tires. Your tire tread tells how your car tires are holding up. If you notice that your tire wears on the edges, center, or outer sides, you should somehow correct them. You should inspect your tires frequently to see any problems and establish whether they require service. Here is a quick guide on the most common types of tire wear patterns to assist you in interpreting your tire tread. 1. Side Wear The sides of your tires look like they've been dragged on a cement floor. When you're driving, you may experience side-to-side vibration of your vehicle or hear squealing sounds while driving at high speeds. Cause: Consistently under-inflated tires or improper alignment can cause side wear. This problem is usually caused by the steerin ... read more

With many of you going on road trips this summer, it is important that you pack an emergency kit with you for the ride. Breakdowns and accidents can sometimes be preventable, but some can’t. Here are some items to have on hand if you are in an inconvenient predicament: First Aid Kit A first aid kit is essential to keep in your car at all times. From antibiotics, ointment, band-aids, to blood stopper compress and painkillers, you should keep a mini medicine cabinet in your car for emergencies. A first aid kit can help minor to moderate pain go away. Jumper Cables or Jump Pack A dead battery can surprise you at any moment. When you have an electrical problem, jumper cables can come in handy to get your engine up and running again. Multipurpose Utility Tool A multipurpose tool is exactly what it sounds like – you can use it in many ways. When you have a small repair or adjustment to make, this tool will be there to help. Spare Tire, Jack, and Wheel Wrench Flat tires ar ... read more

The cabin air filters in our cars have many names: air conditioning filter, dust filter, and pollen filter. While it has many names, some drivers don’t even know of its existence. Fortunately, we’re here to tell you all about it and why it is important to change it out.   Cabin filters are responsible for filtering out pollutants, dust, and other contaminants from entering the heating, ventilating, and air conditioning system. It keeps that nasty stuff out of your car so that you and your passengers can breathe clean air. It is especially important for people who are sensitive to allergies or have asthma.   When an auto technician makes the recommendation to replace this filter, it means you really need it. You can also refer to your owner’s manual for suggestions on when you need to replace the cabin air filter. Typically, automakers suggest you do it every 15,000-25,000 miles or once a year. Below are other signs that suggest it’s time to change ... read more

Summer's just around the corner, and with it come high temperatures and good times. You might be planning a family vacation, a beach day, or a barbecue – the sky's the limit. Any change in weather can affect your car's performance, and there's nothing worse than being stranded on summer vacation. Follow these five guidelines to prepare your car for safe summer fun. Check Your Oil (and Everything Else!) Preparing for a trip is a great reason to get your oil changed, especially if it's been a bit longer than the recommended 3,000 miles or 6 months. While you're there, though, consider getting your other fluids, such as transmission and power steering, checked – but especially your coolant, to prevent overheating. All of these are affected by seasonal temperature changes and should be monitored periodically. Check your Tires (and Alignment!) Sudden changes in temperature drastically alter the air pressure in tires. In hot weather, the pressure can r ... read more

The catalytic converter is the part in gas-powered vehicles responsible for changing toxic engine emissions into safer, breathable gasses. While this strong, metal piece is intended to last a very long time, there are other problems that can arise. A common issue with this part is that it is often stolen by thieves.   Catalytic converters have been targeted by thieves for as long as ever, and you may wonder why. Firstly, catalytic converters are made of expensive precious metals (including platinum, rhodium, palladium, etc.) that can be sold for money. Unfortunately, this part of your car is also easy for thieves to get to and cut off.    The best way to prevent others from stealing your catalytic converter is to install a protective covering, like a Cat shield. Otherwise, you should have some form of security and surveillance when it comes to parking and storing your vehicle.    If your catalytic converter isn't stolen, it can sometimes fail after ma ... read more