Seaside Auto Repair

Why are my tires wearing on the outside? When your tires show more wear on the outside, it usually indicates a few potential issues with your vehicle’s alignment, suspension, or driving habits. Let’s break down the common causes: 1. Improper Wheel Alignment: Wheel alignment is crucial for even tire wear. If your alignment is off, particularly if the wheels are angled outward at the front, it can cause the outer edges of your tires to wear down faster than the middle or inner parts. Getting regular alignments can help prevent this uneven wear. Understanding Wheel Alignment To fully grasp how alignment affects tire wear, it's important to understand the key components involved: Wheelbase The wheelbase refers to the distance between the front and rear axles, measured from the center of the hub. An unequal wheelbase on either side of your vehicle might indicate issues with suspension components, such as being worn, be ... read more

Why does my steering wheel shake? Have you ever noticed your steering wheel shaking while you drive? It’s not just annoying; it could be a sign of something that needs your attention. Let’s dive into some common causes and how we can help smooth out your ride. 1. Wheel Balance: First up, a common culprit could be unbalanced wheels. Imagine trying to roll a wobbly cart; it’s the same idea with your car. If the weight isn't evenly distributed around your wheels, it can cause your steering wheel to shake. It’s an easy fix, and we’re here to balance things out for you. 2. Brake Check: Does the shaking get worse when you hit the brakes? It might be time to check your brake components. Worn rotors or pads can make your steering wheel vibrate, and that’s your car’s way of saying, “Help!” Remember, effective brakes are key to your safety on the road, so let’s get them checked o ... read more

If your car has overheated, it's crucial to address the issue promptly to prevent further damage. Here's what you can do: 1. Pull Over Safely: As soon as you notice the temperature gauge rising or steam coming from under the hood, safely pull over to the side of the road or into a parking lot. Turn off the engine immediately to prevent further overheating. 2. Allow Engine to Cool: Do not attempt to open the hood right away, as it can be extremely hot and dangerous. Allow the engine to cool down for at least 30 minutes before attempting to open the hood. 3. Check Coolant Level: Once the engine has cooled, carefully open the hood and check the coolant reservoir. If it's low, add coolant to the appropriate level. Be cautious, as the radiator and coolant can still be hot. 4. Inspect for Leaks: Look for any signs of coolant leaks under the car or around the engine. Leaks can indicate a damaged hose, radi ... read more

What does my car need for spring break from Wayside Garage As the flowers bloom and the weather warms up, it's time to give your car some extra love and care. Here are some simple tips to keep your vehicle running smoothly this spring: - Check Your Tires: Make sure your tires are properly inflated and have good tread depth. You can use a tire gauge to check the pressure and a penny to check the tread depth.    - Inspect Your Wipers: Winter weather can be tough on windshield wipers. Check for any signs of wear or damage, and replace them if necessary. Don't forget to top up your windshield washer fluid, too! - Change Your Oil: Remember, engine oil should be replaced every 6 months or 5,000 miles, whichever comes first. Schedule an oil change if you're due for one. - Test Your Battery: Cold weather can take a toll on your car battery. Test it to make sure it's still holding a charge, and replace it if it's weak or old. - Clean Your Car: Even though we d ... read more

At Wayside Garage in Seaside, California, we're all about keeping your car running well and for a long time. One essential way to do that is by getting your oil changed every 5 to 6 months or every 5,000 miles. You might wonder, "Why bother, I don't drive that much?" Let's get into the reasons.  Here are a few reasons why getting your oil changed is a must:     - Keeps Your Engine Happy: Think of your car's engine as its heart. Just like you need to keep your heart healthy, your car's engine needs clean oil to stay in tip-top shape.     - Improves Performance: Fresh oil lubricates the engine's parts, helping them move more freely. This means better performance for your car and smoother rides for you!     - Prevents Engine Wear: Over time, oil can get dirty and break down, causing friction and wear on engine parts. Regularly scheduled oil changes help prevent ... read more