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

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

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

How to Check Your Tire Pressure Ensuring your tires are properly inflated is essential for safe driving, better fuel efficiency, and extending the life of your tires. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you check your tire pressure effectively: 1. Gather What You Need Start with a tire pressure gauge. You’ll find digital, dial, or stick gauges at auto supply stores. Digital gauges are user-friendly, while dial and stick gauges are classic options. Brands like Accutire and Milton are known for reliable gauges. 2. Find the Recommended Pressure Locate the recommended PSI (pounds per square inch) for your vehicle. Check your owner’s manual or look for a label inside the driver’s side door jamb. 3. Check Tire Pressure When Cold For an accurate reading, check your tire pressure when the tires are cold. This means waiting at least three hours after driving or checking first thing in the morning. 4. Remove the Valve Cap Unscrew the valve cap fr ... read more