Seaside Auto Repair

Why Is My Car Making a Squealing Noise When I Drive? That high-pitched squeal coming from your car can stop you in your tracks—literally and emotionally. Whether it happens when you start driving, hit the brakes, or just roll through a parking lot, it's not a sound you want to ignore. At Wayside Garage, we help drivers every day who ask the same question: “What’s that squealing noise, and do I need to worry?” Let’s break down what could be causing it—and what you should do next. 🔍 What Causes a Squealing Noise While Driving? There are a few key areas to check when you hear that sharp, squeaky sound: 1. Worn Brake Pads 🛑 This is by far the most common cause. Brake pads are designed with a wear indicator ... read more

Why Are My Brakes Grinding? Brake Repair in Seaside, Monterey & Pacific Grove Hearing a grinding noise when braking? That awful sound is a warning sign you shouldn’t ignore! Whether you’re driving through Monterey, Seaside, Pacific Grove, or Carmel, CA, worn-out brake pads or damaged rotors could be putting your safety at risk. At Wayside Garage in Seaside, CA, we specialize in brake repair to keep you safe on the road. Here’s what might be causing your grinding brakes and what to do about it. 1. Worn-Out Brake Pads (Most Common Cause!) The #1 reason for grinding brakes is worn-out brake pads. Over time, the friction materia ... read more

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

wheel shake wayside garage by Stacey Diaz Why Is My Steering Wheel Shaking When I Brake? If you've ever felt your steering wheel shake when braking, you know it can be alarming. Not only is it uncomfortable, but it's also a sign that something might be wrong with your vehicle. At Wayside Garage, we’re here to help you understand why this happens and what you can do about it. Why Does My Steering Wheel Shake? When your steering wheel vibrates during braking, it’s often due to issues in your brake or suspension system. Here are some common reasons this happens: 1. Warped Brake Rotors Your brake rotors are the discs that your brake pads clamp down on to stop your vehicle. Over time, these rotors can warp due to heat, wear, or uneven press ... read more

How Often Should I Change My Brake Pads? Your vehicle's brake pads are one of the most critical components for your safety on the road, yet knowing when to change them can be tricky. So, how often should you change your brake pads? The answer depends on several factors like your driving habits, the type of vehicle, and even the quality of the brake pads themselves. General Guidelines for Brake Pad Replacement On average, most brake pads should be replaced every 30,000 to 70,000 miles, depending on their wear. However, it's essential to listen to your vehicle—literally! Squeaking or grinding noises when you brake are often tell-tale signs that your pads are worn out and need immediate attention. At Wayside Garage, we recommend having your brakes inspected every time you bring your vehicle in for service. Regular brake checks help catch potential issues early, saving you money in the long run and ensuring your car is al ... read more