Willow Glen Auto Repair

Few things are as frustrating as getting in your car, turning the key, and hearing nothing but silence. If your car battery keeps dying, this is a common issue that many drivers face. But why does it happen? What’s causing your battery to lose power repeatedly? The truth is, there are several potential reasons why your car battery might be draining, and identifying the root cause can save you from constantly needing a jump start or a new battery. Leaving Lights or Electronics On One of the most common reasons for a dead car battery is leaving lights or electronics on after the engine is turned off. This can happen with interior lights, headlights, or even electronic accessories like phone chargers. Many newer cars are designed to automatically shut these off to prevent battery drain, but it’s still easy to accidentally leave something on, especially if your car doesn’t have this feature. Before leaving your vehicle, it’s a good idea to double ... read more

When it comes to vehicle safety, the brake system plays a critical role, and one of the essential components is the brake rotors. If you've ever felt a pulsating sensation when you press the brake pedal, chances are you might be dealing with warped brake rotors. But what exactly causes this issue? And more importantly, how can you avoid it? Brake rotor warping isn’t as straightforward as the metal physically bending out of shape. Instead, it's a result of uneven wear on the rotor’s surface, caused by excessive heat, uneven pressure, or other factors. Understanding these causes can help you take steps to maintain your vehicle's performance and ensure your brakes are always functioning at their best. Excessive Heat One of the most common reasons for warped brake rotors is excessive heat. Every time you apply your brakes, the friction between the brake pads and the rotor generates heat. If this heat isn't adequately dispersed, the rotor can ... read more

Pickup trucks are more than just vehicles—they're reliable workhorses that endure daily wear and tear from hauling heavy loads, navigating rough terrains, and enduring harsh weather conditions. Proper maintenance and care are crucial to ensure your pickup truck remains dependable and efficient for years to come. So, how can you extend the lifespan of your pickup truck? Let's explore the essential steps to keep your truck in prime condition. Regular Maintenance Just like any other vehicle, regular maintenance is the backbone of a long-lasting pickup truck. But what does regular maintenance entail? It includes routine oil changes, tire rotations, brake inspections, and fluid checks. Oil changes, typically every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, are essential for lubricating the engine and reducing wear on its components.  Tire rotations every 6,000 to 8,000 miles ensure even tire wear and better handling ... read more

Teenagers finally getting their driver's license often experience a sense of newfound freedom and independence. However, this exciting milestone comes with significant responsibility. New drivers, especially teenagers, are more susceptible to certain dangerous driving habits that can lead to accidents and serious injuries. Let's tackle the five most hazardous habits teenage drivers must avoid to stay safe on the road. 1. Distracted DrivingWhy It's Dangerous Distracted driving is the leading cause of accidents among teenagers. Whether texting, eating, fiddling with the radio, or talking to passengers, taking your eyes off the road, even for a few seconds, can be catastrophic. Statistics show that teens are more likely to engage in distracting activities than older drivers. How to Avoid It Develop a habit of putting your phone in "Do Not Disturb" mode before starting the car. If you need to use your phone for na ... read more

Ever wondered what makes your car move down the road? It's all thanks to the drivetrain, a complex system that works behind the scenes to transfer power from your engine to the wheels. Understanding what a car's drivetrain includes can help you appreciate its role in your vehicle's performance and keep it running efficiently. Let's take a closer look at the key components that make up this essential part of your car. The Engine The drivetrain's journey begins with the engine, it burns fuel to create mechanical energy, which is then converted into motion. Think of the engine as the heart, pumping power through the rest of the drivetrain. Maintaining a healthy engine is crucial because, without it, your car wouldn't move at all. Regular oil changes, tune-ups, and inspections are vital to keep this component in top shape. The Transmission Next up is the transmission, which can be considered the gearbox wizard. It takes the ener ... read more