Seaside Auto Repair

How Much Is an Oil Change on My Car? That's a great question and one we get all the time! The cost of an oil change can vary based on several factors, including the type of oil your car requires, the oil filter, and any additional services bundled with the oil change. Here's a breakdown of what to consider when getting an oil change. Different Levels of Oil Change Packages Some shops offer basic oil changes that include just the engine oil and filter. Others, like Wayside Garage, provide more comprehensive packages. At Wayside Garage, we offer: - Basic Oil Change: Includes high-quality motor oil and a new oil filter. - Standard Oil Change: Adds a tire rotation and a complimentary inspection. - Premium Oil Change: Includes the above services plus engine performance restoration cleaner, motor oil additive, and a fuel system cleaner. Importance of Regular Oil Changes Oil ch ... read more

If you own a Honda Odyssey and have noticed oil spots under your vehicle, you're not alone. Oil leaks are a common issue, especially as vehicles age. Let's dive into why your Honda Odyssey might be leaking oil and how Wayside Garage can help keep your vehicle in top shape. Common Causes of Oil Leaks One of the most common causes of oil leaks in a 2006 Honda Odyssey is a faulty oil filter housing seal. Over time, the rubber seals can dry out and crack due to exposure to engine heat and pressure, leading to leaks. The oil filter housing mounts to the engine block and houses the oil filter, making it a crucial component in maintaining proper oil pressure and cleanliness. Symptoms of a Faulty Oil Filter Housing Seal Oil spots: Noticing oil spots under your car is a clear sign of a leak. Oil residue: Finding oil around the engine block or oil filter housing indicates a possible seal failure. Oil level: A dropping oil level on the dipstick is a ... read more

Do I Really Need Testing? At Wayside Garage, we often get asked why there’s a cost associated with testing. It's a great question and here's an example that explains why testing is crucial for accurate and effective repairs. Real-Life Example We had a client with a Ford Fusion experiencing airflow issues. Our technician conducted a series of tests and discovered that the actuator behind the glove box was defective. The client was initially unhappy, unaware that his vehicle has three actuators, each varying significantly in replacement cost depending on their location and function. Our technician used a scanner to check for trouble codes but found none. He then tested the HVAC circuit, traced the wiring, and tested the electrical connections for each actuator. This thorough testing pinpointed the defective actuator, leading to its precise replacement. Why Testing Matters Testing is essential for several reasons: 1. Proper Diagnosis ... read more

Why Do I Need to Pay for a Brake Inspection? When you call a shop asking for a price on brakes, there's a lot more we need to know before we can give you an accurate quote. As a shop, our main goal is to ensure your safety and provide the best service possible. This often starts with asking a few questions to understand your situation better: 1. Front or Rear Brakes? - Different cars and issues require different parts and labor. 2. Pads, Rotors, Calipers? - Knowing what parts you might need helps us prepare and provide an accurate quote. 3. What Are You Experiencing? - Strange noises, vibrations, or poor braking performance can indicate different problems. Here is a Real-Life Example Recently, a European vehicle came to us for a second opinion after another shop inspected it. The customer had asked for a price over the phone, but without seeing the car, we couldn't provide an accurate quote.  When we ... read more

Why Is My Car's Air Conditioning Not Working? Understanding Your Car's AC System When the air conditioning in your car stops working, it can be a real discomfort, especially during hot summer days. At Wayside Garage, we frequently see vehicles with AC issues, ranging from low Freon levels to leaking components. Today, we’ll take a closer look at one of the most common culprits: the evaporator core. What is the Evaporator Core? The evaporator core is an essential part of your car's air conditioning system, located in the dashboard. It functions similarly to a small radiator and is crucial for cooling down the interior of your car. Here's how it works: 1. Heat Absorption: The evaporator core absorbs heat from the air inside your car. 2. Cooling Process: It cools the air by removing the heat, making the inside of the car feel cold. 3. Refrigerant Cycle: Hot air flows through the core, causing the refrigerant to boil and turn into a gas, which th ... read more