Seaside Auto Repair

Why Are My Brakes Grinding?  Properly functioning brakes are essential for the safety of any vehicle. At Wayside Garage in Seaside, CA, we often handle cases where customers bring in vehicles with uneven brake wear. Let's delve into a recent example involving a GMC Denali to illustrate the importance of regular brake inspections and maintenance. The client was experiencing a grinding noise when the brakes were applied. Upon inspection, we discovered that the front brake pads of their GMC Denali were in poor condition. One pad was severely scuffed, and alarmingly, its counterpart was completely missing. This severe uneven wear was traced back to a seized brake caliper. This malfunction caused the brake pads to wear unevenly and ultimately led to a dangerous metal-on-metal grinding situation, necessitating immediate replacement of the front brakes. Brake calipers play a crucial role in your vehicle's braking system. They are responsible for applying press ... read more

Why Does My Car Squeak When I Drive?   Do you ever ask yourself, "Why does my car squeak when I drive?" It's a pretty common concern for drivers. There are several possible reasons behind those annoying squeaks. Fortunately, at Wayside Garage in Seaside, CA, we're here to shed some light on this issue and offer solutions to get you back on the road smoothly. 1. Worn Brake Pads: One of the most common reasons for squeaking while driving is worn brake pads. When brake pads wear down, a metal wear indicator can come into contact with the rotor, causing a squealing sound. If you notice this noise, it's important to have your brakes inspected and replaced if necessary to ensure safe driving. 2. Loose or Worn Belts: Another culprit for squeaking noises could be loose or worn belts in your engine. Over time, belts can become loose or develop cracks, leading to squeaks as they rub against pulleys or other compone ... read more

  Today, we're tackling a question that's essential for keeping your ride safe and sound: brake replacement frequency. At Wayside Garage, located in Seaside, CA, we often hear folks asking, "How often do I really need to replace my brakes?" Well, let's put the pedal to the metal and shed some light on this topic. On average, brakes typically need a refresh every 50,000 miles or so. But hold onto your steering wheel, because there's more to the story than just hitting that milestone. First off, let's talk about your driving style. Are you the type who coasts smoothly to a stop, or do you tend to slam on the brakes like you're auditioning for a NASCAR race? Your braking habits can greatly affect how quickly those brake pads wear down. Next, consider what you're driving. Are you behind the wheel of a hefty truck hauling heavy loads, or do you prefer zipping around in a sleek sedan? The size and weight of your vehicle can play a role in how oft ... read more

Our Wayside Garage team is proud to be a part of the Brakes for Breasts nationwide campaign. 100% of the funds donated help the doctors at The Cleveland Clinic as they work toward finding a cure for breast cancer.  Every October, we partner with our AWESOME vendors, Napa Auto Parts and O'Reilly Auto Parts, to provide our Seaside, Monterey, Pacific Grove, Carmel, and Marina clients in need of brake repairs with one free set of brake pads or shoes per car.  Our Wayside Garage team then donates 10% of all brake repairs completed during the month of October.  This year we were able to donate $2195.00 directly to The Cleveland Clinic. Let's put the brakes on breast cancer!  

As a true believer in preventative maintenance, I cannot stress enough the importance of taking care of your vehicle to ensure its longevity. Whether it's gas, diesel, hybrid, and even an electric vehicle, they all need proper maintenance. Below, I will discuss the top 10 car maintenance services that will keep your car running and on the road for up to 300,000 miles and beyond. Regular Oil Changes Regular oil changes are crucial in maintaining the health of your car's engine. Engine oil lubricates and cools the engine components, preventing them from overheating and reducing friction. It's suggested that you change your oil every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or every six months, whichever comes first. Tire Maintenance Tires are an essential part of your car's overall performance, and proper maintenance can help you maximize their lifespan. Regular tire rotations and alignments ensure even wear and tear, which can also extend their lifespan. Additionally, proper inflation can ... read more