Seaside Auto Repair

How Worn Control Arm Bushings Impact Tire Wear Worn control arm bushings can quietly but significantly impact your vehicle’s suspension, ultimately leading to premature tire wear. Control arm bushings work similarly to cartilage in human joints, providing a flexible cushion between various suspension components. When these bushings wear out, however, they lose their ability to stabilize and align the control arm correctly. This misalignment can create issues that cause uneven and accelerated tire wear, often resulting in costly repairs down the line. Effects on Tire Wear Misaligned Wheels Worn bushings allow the control arm to shift, throwing off the wheel’s alignment. This can result in uneven tire wear, most commonly observed on the outer edges of the tire. Premature Tire Degradation Misaligned wheels place additional stress on tires, leading to faster wear. Drivers may find themselves needing tire replacements more ... read more

  My Car Is Shaking When I Drive When your car shakes while driving, it could be caused by a few different issues. Here's a breakdown of the most common reasons: 1. Tire ProblemsUnbalanced or Misaligned Tires: If your tires are unbalanced or misaligned, it can cause the car to shake, especially at higher speeds. Tire Wear: Worn-out tires can create uneven vibrations. Check for uneven tread wear. Solution: A wheel alignment or tire balancing service could resolve this. Wheel alignment is recommended every 10K miles, according to Wayside Garage’s maintenance plan​. 2. Brake IssuesWarped Brake Rotors: If your car shakes when you brake, the problem may be warped brake rotors. This can happen over time due to heat and pressure from braking. Solution: A brake system inspection can id ... read more

How to Keep Your Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon in Top Shape Owning a Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon is all about adventure and rugged performance. But to keep that performance in top shape, especially if your Jeep is lifted, regular maintenance is key. One critical step is ensuring that your steering system and suspension are checked twice a year. The Importance of Tight Steering If there's one thing every Jeep owner should know, it's the importance of tight steering. Whether you're cruising down the highway or tackling off-road trails, precise steering is crucial for safety and control. Recently, during an inspection of a 2007 Jeep Wrangler, we found that the right front sway bar link was loose, while the left front was tight. This imbalance can lead to steering issues, making your ride less stable and safe. Why It Matters: Loose steering components, like sway bar links, can cause uneven handling and increase wear o ... read more

Why Do I Need an Alignment?Importance of Wheel Alignment If you've recently installed new tires, an alignment is crucial to ensure your vehicle handles properly. New tires with fresh tread can significantly impact how your vehicle sits and handles. If you notice your car pulling to the left or right while driving straight, it’s a clear indication that you need an alignment.  When to Get an Alignment 1. New Tires: Fresh tread changes the vehicle's handling. 2. Vehicle Modifications: Installing a lift or lowering kit necessitates an alignment to prevent uneven tire wear. 3. Driving Issues: If your car pulls to one side, it could be due to misalignment. 4. Wear and Tear: Uneven tire wear can result from hitting potholes, curbs, or worn-out steering and suspension parts. Benefits of Regular Alignment Checks Regular alignment check ... read more

Why does my car make a clunking noise? If you've been hearing a clunking noise when turning your car, it might be time to check your sway bar links. At Wayside Garage, we often see this issue, especially in older cars like a 2005 Honda Accord Hybrid. But what exactly are sway bar links, and why are they important? What Are Sway Bar Links? Sway bar links, also known as stabilizer links, are crucial components of your car's suspension system. They help stabilize your vehicle when you turn, reducing body roll and improving handling. When these links are worn out or damaged, you might hear clunking noises, especially when making turns. This noise can be mistaken for axle issues, but it's often the sway bar links causing the problem. Signs Your Sway Bar Links Need Attention 1. Clunking Noise: A common sign is a clunking or clicking noise when turning. 2. Increased Body Roll: If your car feels like it's leaning more than ... read more