Seaside Auto Repair

Should You Get a Pre-Purchase Inspection for Your Next Used Car? Thinking about buying a used vehicle? It’s a smart way to save money while still getting a reliable car – if you do your due diligence. One essential step before signing anything is to have the vehicle inspected by a professional mechanic. This can save you from unexpected problems and help you make a well-informed purchase. At Wayside Garage, we specialize in pre-purchase inspections that give you a comprehensive look at the car’s condition. Here’s why a pre-purchase inspection is worth it and what you can expect when you bring your potential new vehicle to us. Why Have a Pre-Purchase Inspection Done? A used car can come with a history that isn’t immediately visible. Hidden issues can affect its performance, longevity, and safety. A thorough inspection reveals potential problems and shows if the vehicle was regularly maintained, letting you buy with confidence. And most ... read more

What Should You Do When Your Check Engine Light Comes On? Seeing your check engine light come on can be nerve-wracking, but there’s no need to panic! Here’s a straightforward guide to help you handle the situation safely and with confidence. 1. Stay Calm & Check for Immediate Signs The check engine light can mean a variety of things, from a loose gas cap to engine issues. First, check if there’s any change in your car’s performance. If you hear strange noises, notice smoke, or feel the engine isn’t running smoothly, pull over safely and consider calling for help. 2. Tighten or Check the Gas Cap Believe it or not, a loose gas cap is one of the most common reasons for a check engine light. If the gas cap is loose or missing, your car’s fuel system won’t be able to seal properly, which triggers the light. Tighten it until you hear a click, and see if the light goes off after a few drives. 3. Observ ... read more

Trick or Treat? Can I bring my own parts to a mechanic? Halloween brings the excitement of mystery and fun, but when it comes to auto repairs, mysteries are best left to haunted houses—not your car! Choosing to bring your own parts to the repair shop might seem like a treat for your wallet, but it can lead to some scary “tricks” down the road. This Halloween, let’s explore why relying on certified mechanics to supply the parts for your vehicle is the sweetest (and smartest) choice. 1. Beware the Trick: Liability Insurance Won’t Cover Customer-Supplied Parts Imagine stepping into a haunted house without any protection—it’s risky and unpredictable. That’s similar to bringing your own parts to an auto shop. When you bring in parts from outside, liability insurance that covers professional work at the shop often doesn’t apply. Why? Liability Risks: If a part you provided fails, liability insurance won ... read more

Why Are My Brakes Squeaking? Squeaking brakes can be frustrating, but they also serve as an important warning that your brake system may need attention. At Wayside Garage, we believe it’s important to understand what causes your brakes to squeak and how to address the issue before it leads to bigger problems. Why Do My Brakes Squeak? Squeaking brakes are a common issue, and there are several possible reasons behind it: 1. Worn Brake Pads The most frequent cause of squeaking brakes is worn-out brake pads. Modern brake pads often come with a built-in metal wear indicator, which makes a high-pitched noise when the pads are getting too thin. This squeal is your car’s way of telling you it’s time for a replacement before more damage is done to the brake system​ 2. Moisture or Debris Sometimes, squeaking can occur due to moisture or debris, like dust or small rocks, getting stuck between the brake pads and rotors. Th ... read more