Sarasota Auto Repair

One of the best features of a modern car is that it can directly communicate with its drivers. You'll know something is wrong via the warning lights shown on your vehicle's dashboard. Read further to know what these lights mean. Check Engine What Does it Look Like? Watch for an engine block image on the dashboard. What Does it Mean? While it could just be a simple problem, it could also indicate a serious problem with your car's engine. What to Do? A flashing light could mean an issue with the emissions systems. If it's a solid light, we suggest taking it to a dealership. Tire Pressure Warning Light What Does it Look Like? It's usually a variation of a tire-like image. What Does it Mean? The tire is not correctly inflated. Failure to correct the problem could lead to issues with braking and more money on wasted gas. What to Do? We suggest you thoroughl ... read more

The tread patterns on different tires are something you've certainly noticed when looking for new tires for your car. Some may have crosshatching, while others are mainly composed of single, straight lines. Even though they only give your automobile a uniform appearance, these detailed designs improve the performance of your vehicle. The various tire tread patterns and what they represent for your vehicle's performance; Directional pattern These tires with v-shaped grooves may have caught your eye. A tire can become saturated if it is not properly drained. The arrows on the sidewall of this sort of tire make it clear which way the tire is spinning. The precise installation of directional tires on a vehicle is critical. In wet weather, the situation can be quite hazardous if they are not fitted correctly. As a result, hydroplaning becomes more frequent since water is concentrated in the center of the tire. Symmetrical pattern It is most typical to see asymmetrical tread pat ... read more

Windshield wipers are an important part of a car. Not only do they wipe away rain and water, they also wipe away dirt. You'll find lots of varying answers on the internet, but here are the straightforward answers you've been looking for. How do I know if windshield wipers need to be replaced? The windshield wipers need to be replaced when it's not clearing as much as it used to. You should be able to see the road clearly when the wipers do its job. If there's still a smear or it seems it's not doing its job, it's time to replace them. You should also lookout for the following symptoms of a bad windshield wiper: Squeaking Noise Vibrating Noises Wet spots How long do windshield wipers last? Windshield wipers last an average of 6 to 12 months. It's pretty easy to forget about changing them because, as car owners, we don't really think about changing them. We only change them if it has any bad symptoms. But if you're ahead of the game, you'll ... read more

As much as we all love the springtime here in Florida, there is one drawback: pollen. Everything outside may turn yellow in color, and everyone we know seems to be sneezing. As a responsible driver, it's imperative not to neglect the effects of pollen on your car.    Why are air filters so important?  When referring to air quality and the effects of pollen on your car, it is impossible to ignore your car's air filters. Not is your vehicle's body protective against wind and rain, but it protects you from pollen and other air contaminants too. Over time, this filter will get dirty. As a result, your air quality and vehicle's performance and efficiency can suffer.   Now that the pollen-filled season is here, it would be wise to check on your vehicle's filters at this time and have them replaced as a preventative effort. Here are the two important air filters in your car: Cabin air filters – This filter protects and cleans the air that fl ... read more

Having the right set of tires on your automobile is crucial, especially if you live don't live in an area with harsh climates. You may need tires to combat the dry, hot, sunny weather and the wet, flooding seasons for those who live in Florida. Your safety is vital while you drive on the Sarasota roads, and our tire experts are always here to help you with your tire needs.    A suitable set of tires for the typical Floridian should be rated for hot temperatures while offering terrific traction in wet weather conditions. The last thing you want to happen is a hydroplaning incident.    Below are some of the typical recommendations for cars, SUVs, and trucks in Florida: Passenger Tires - These tires are decent for those on a budget, but keep in mind they are not ideal for scorching climates. Touring Tires - These tires have a lower profile and broader tread and are slightly more expensive than passenger tires. Performance tires - These tires have excellent t ... read more

All vehicles have a thermostat as a part of their cooling system. The thermostat plays a vital role in regulating the flow between the coolant, radiator, and engine. Although it is small in size, the job it performs is absolutely necessary to your car's overall performance.   How Does It Work? As you probably know, coolant will flow through the engine to drive away the engine's excess heat. The thermostat sits between the engine and radiator. When the coolant is too hot, it will move the heat through the radiator. If the coolant is not too hot, the valve will stay sealed, and the coolant will continue to circulate to the block.   What Are Common Causes of a Faulty Thermostat? Some common explanations for a malfunctioning thermostat include: Coolant leaks Vehicle overheating or underheating Engine temperatures that fluctuate too rapidly Poor engine performances Cooling System Repairs in Sarasota, FL Because the thermostat plays such a vital role in your car ... read more

When was the last time you checked your oil using the dipstick? If your answer is unrecallable (or never), then you most likely are overdue for an oil change. Engine oil is the number one item you need for a well-running engine. What entails a healthy engine? Here's are 5 reasons why you should never skip out on an oil change: It Lubricates Your Engine Many of your engine's parts, like pistons and valves, are constantly moving as you drive. To avoid the parts from bumping against each other, they need to be sufficiently lubricated. Oil provides this necessary barrier between the components. Over time, the intense heat under the hood can break the grease down, making it more difficult for each part to carry out its function. Keep Your Engine Cool Oil also plays a vital role in temperature regulation. The engine's moving parts create friction, which is why it gets so hot. Engine oil is the key to solving the problem by minimizing friction and preventing your engine from o ... read more

Every car, older and latest models included, requires regular auto tune-up services after a certain period of use. The definition of an auto tune-up, however, differs from one car owner or driver to another. Some people, for instance, make a tune-up part of the regular car maintenance services. These services involve comprehensive car inspections to ensure that all underlying issues are repaired, making every component work perfectly.   For other car owners, tune-up services involve replacing a series of components and engine care to improve auto performance. Whichever the car type, the goal of tune-up services is to ensure the exemplary performance of all parts to enhance the smooth and healthy running of the car.   Telltale Signs It's Time For Tune-Up Services Several signs indicate the need for auto tune-up solutions, and they include: Car Ignition Problems Problems when starting a car are a common challenge that drivers face every day. It may i ... read more

Whether you're a fan of the Jaguars, Dolphins, or Buccaneers, it's officially tailgating season! Tailgates nowadays have become a very elaborate pre-game party for friends, family, and other fans alike to partake in. Some people go as far as setting TV and a lounge area in their parking spot. First and foremost, you'll need a reliable car or truck for a fun tailgating experience. Next, you'll need to pack your vehicle with the essentials!   What Should You Pack? Foldable Chairs and Tables: Foldable, portable chairs and tables are easy to lug around and easily fit in your trunk. Bluetooth Speakers: Speakers are a must if you want to set the vibes with good music. You can get speakers that connect directly to your vehicle or a portable one. Chargers and Power Supply: Make sure you don't forget to pack your chargers for your phone, speaker, and other electronics. You may also need an external power source to power the big electronics like the grill. Portable ... read more

With so many car parts, it's hard for the average person to keep track of all the names. One of the most common confusions we see at our shop is between the vehicle belts. There is the serpentine belt and timing belt, and they both have very different roles in your vehicle.   The timing belt can be found inside the engine and keeps the crankshaft and camshaft in sync. The timing belt ensures that the engine intake and exhaust valves open and close in time with the pistons to run smoothly. On the other hand, the serpentine belt is what keeps the engine accessories operating smoothly and efficiently. The serpentine belt connects the engine crankshaft on the outside of the motor to all of its accessories.   You can immediately tell the distinction between the two belts when you look at the ribs on the belt. A timing belt has horizontal "teeth" that are made to fit both the crankshaft and camshaft. In contrast, a serpentine belt has multiple V-shaped grooves tha ... read more