Seaside Auto Repair

Why is my truck leaking? Hi, it's Stacey at Wayside Garage. Today, we're diving into an issue we found on a 2019 Ford Expedition with a 3.5-liter engine. The vehicle was brought in for an oil leak concern, but upon inspection, we discovered the real culprit was a leaking water pump. Identifying the Leak When our client noticed what they thought was an oil leak, it turned out to be coolant leaking from the water pump. Alan, our certified technician, found that the water pump bearing had failed, leading to the coolant leak. It's a common misconception to confuse coolant leaks with oil leaks, especially if the coolant hasn't been changed regularly. Over time, coolant can degrade, becoming acidic and changing color, which can easily be mistaken for oil. The Importance of Regular Coolant Maintenance Regular maintenance of your vehicle's cooling system is crucial. Coolant should be changed at intervals recommended by ... read more

Top Five Tips for a Safe Summer Road Trip!   Summer is the perfect time to hit the open road and explore new destinations. But before you embark on your adventure, it's crucial to ensure your vehicle is in top condition. Here are the top five tips for a safe and enjoyable summer road trip, with a special recommendation to visit Wayside Garage for all your pre-trip maintenance needs.   1. Check Your Engine Oil and Fluid Levels A well-lubricated engine runs smoothly and efficiently, making engine oil a critical component of your vehicle's health. Before heading out, make sure your engine oil is at the correct level and hasn't become too dirty or degraded. Additionally, check other essential fluids such as brake fluid, transmission fluid, and coolant. Low or contaminated fluids can lead to serious engine problems and potentially leave you stranded on the side of the road.   2. Inspect Your Tires Proper tire maintenance is essential for s ... read more

Why Should I Service My Transmission? Keeping your car in excellent condition is crucial, especially when it comes to the transmission. At Wayside Garage, we recently serviced a 2016 Toyota Highlander for its 70,000-mile checkup. Among the services performed, the transmission service was particularly vital. Here's why servicing your transmission should be a priority. Importance of Transmission Service Your car's transmission is a complex system that requires regular maintenance to function smoothly. Our ASE certified technicians, emphasized the importance of bringing your car in every six months for an inspection. During these checkups, we sample the transmission fluid and check for any potential issues, such as leaks or necessary updates. For the Highlander, we detected a minor pan gasket leak early on, which is a great example of how timely maintenance can prevent more significant problems. Regular transmission services typically include ... read more

Essential Maintenance Tips for Audi Owners in Seaside, CA Owning an Audi means experiencing luxury, performance, and style. To keep your Audi in top shape, regular maintenance is key. At Wayside Garage in Seaside, CA, we specialize in providing exceptional Audi services to ensure your vehicle runs smoothly and efficiently. Here's a comprehensive guide to essential maintenance for your Audi. Why is Regular Maintenance Crucial for Your Audi? Regular maintenance is crucial for the longevity and performance of your Audi. It helps prevent unexpected breakdowns, maintains the vehicle’s resale value, and ensures a safe driving experience. Let’s dive into the details of what your Audi needs to stay in peak condition. Keep Your Engine Purring: Oil and Filter Changes Every 5,000 Miles Imagine the smooth hum of a well-oiled engine as you cruise along Monterey’s scenic 17-Mile Drive. To keep that engine running smoothly ... read more

Why Is My Car Overheating? Common Causes and How to Prevent Them Hey everyone, it's Stacey from Wayside Garage! Today, we're tackling a question we often get: "Why is my car overheating?" Jonathan and I recently worked on a Ford Escape with this issue, and we found some interesting things that we want to share with you. Let's dive into the details and learn how to prevent overheating in your vehicle. Common Causes of Overheating:1. Broken Belts: In the case of the Ford Escape, we discovered a broken belt. The customer initially heard a belt noise but didn't think much of it. This belt drives crucial components like the water pump, which circulates coolant through the engine. When the belt broke, the water pump stopped working, leading to overheating.  2. Faulty Water Pump: The squealing noise the customer heard was actually the water pump starting to fail. A w ... read more