Seaside Auto Repair

When Should I Replace My Brakes? Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore Your brakes are one of the most important safety features of your car. But how do you know when it’s time to replace them? Ignoring brake problems can lead to expensive repairs—or worse, a dangerous situation on the road. Here are the top warning signs that it’s time for a brake inspection at Wayside Garage. How Do You Know If Your Brakes Need Replacing?Your Car Pulls to One Side When Braking If your vehicle drifts left or right when you press the brake pedal, it could mean uneven brake pad wear or an issue with your brake calipers. A Soft or Spongy Brake Pedal Does your brake pedal feel soft or take longer ... read more

Mouse vs. Car: Protecting Your Vehicle from Rodent Damage It’s that time of year again—the Season of the Mouse! 🐭🚗 Every year, we see a surprising number of vehicles come into the shop with signs of rodent nests or damage. This year is no exception! In fact, some cases have been so severe that we’ve had to involve the vehicle owner's insurance to cover repairs. Yes, if you have comprehensive coverage, your insurance may cover rodent damage—but wouldn’t it be better to prevent it altogether? Let’s go over some effective deterrents to help keep those pesky mice out of your car. Even trying ... read more

Can I Bring My Own Parts to a Mechanic? Here's What You Need to Know In today’s world, we can find almost anything online with just a few clicks—including car parts. It’s tempting to buy a part yourself, especially when big-name websites spend millions on advertising to convince drivers they’ll save money by ordering direct. But is it really a good idea? Many auto shops, including Wayside Garage, are often asked if we can install customer-supplied parts. While we understand the appeal, there’s one major reason why this isn’t in your best interest: warranty protection.What Happens When a Part Fails? Let’s look at a real-life example to illustrate why purchasing your own parts can lead to unexpected headaches. A few weeks ago, a Jeep came into the shop with a clutch problem. The repair requir ... read more

This Valentine’s Day, Fall in Love with Your Car All Over Again ❤️🚗 Valentine’s Day is the perfect reminder to appreciate the things we love—our partners, friends, family, and yes, even our cars! Your vehicle is there for you through the highs and lows, whether it’s that epic road trip or a last-minute grocery run. This February, let’s shift gears and talk about why loving your car isn’t just sweet—it’s smart. With proper care, you can keep your car running smoothly while saving money on costly repairs. Here’s how you can reignite the love for your car with Wayside Garage by your side. Don’t Let Neglected Fluids Break Your Car’s Heart 💔 Think of your car’s fluids as its lifeblood. Without clean and properly filled fluids, your vehicle can’t perform at its best. Low or dirty fluids can cause overheating, braking issues, and transmission problems. But don’t worry&mda ... read more

How to Protect Your Car During Winter’s Final Chill ❄️🚗 February may be the shortest month, but it can be one of the harshest when it comes to winter weather. Even if spring is right around the corner, cold temperatures, road salt, and icy conditions can take a toll on your car. The good news? A little extra love and care this month can help protect your vehicle from winter’s wear and tear. Here’s what you can do to keep your car in great shape as winter winds down. 1. Wash Away the Winter Grime Salt and dirt build up on your car’s exterior during winter and can cause rust, especially on the undercarriage. Rust isn’t just an eyesore—it can damage your vehicle’s frame and critical components if left unchecked. 💡 Tip: Wash your car regularly during the winter, especially after snowstorms or when driving on salted roads. Don’t forget to spray down the undercarriage and apply a protecti ... read more