Seaside Auto Repair

Should You Get a Pre-Purchase Inspection for Your Next Used Car? Thinking about buying a used vehicle? It’s a smart way to save money while still getting a reliable car – if you do your due diligence. One essential step before signing anything is to have the vehicle inspected by a professional mechanic. This can save you from unexpected problems and help you make a well-informed purchase. At Wayside Garage, we specialize in pre-purchase inspections that give you a comprehensive look at the car’s condition. Here’s why a pre-purchase inspection is worth it and what you can expect when you bring your potential new vehicle to us. Why Have a Pre-Purchase Inspection Done? A used car can come with a history that isn’t immediately visible. Hidden issues can affect its performance, longevity, and safety. A thorough inspection reveals potential problems and shows if the vehicle was regularly maintained, letting you buy with confidence. And most ... read more

What Maintenance Does My Electric Vehicle Need? Electric vehicles (EVs) are the future of driving, offering a cleaner, quieter, and often more cost-effective alternative to traditional gasoline cars. However, like any vehicle, your EV needs regular maintenance to stay in top shape. Here's why keeping up with maintenance is crucial and what you should focus on to keep your EV running smoothly. Why EV Maintenance Is Important1. Safety First Safety is the top priority when it comes to vehicle maintenance. EVs are designed with advanced technology, including regenerative braking systems, high-voltage batteries, and electric drive systems. Regular maintenance ensures that these components work properly, reducing the risk of breakdowns or accidents. For example, inspecting the brakes and traction control annually ensures that your vehicle can stop effectively, even in emergency situations ... read more

Can a bad hose cause my car to overheat?Why Regular Hose and Belt Replacements Are Essential for Your Vehicle's Health When it comes to vehicle maintenance, many drivers overlook the importance of regularly replacing hoses and belts. However, as our recent experience with a 2001 Mazda Protégé demonstrates, neglecting these components can lead to serious issues, including coolant leaks, overheating, and charging system failures. Let’s dive into why keeping up with hose and belt maintenance is crucial for your vehicle's longevity and performance. The Hidden Dangers of Worn-Out Belts and Hoses Belts and hoses may not seem as critical as your engine or brakes, but they play a vital role in your vehicle's overall health. The alternator belt, for example, is responsible for powering essential components like the alternator and water pump. If this belt snaps, it c ... read more

What causes fuel leaks in cars?Why Regular Fuel System Inspections Are Essential for Your Vehicle's Safety When it comes to keeping your vehicle running safely and efficiently, the fuel system often doesn’t get the attention it deserves. But as recent cases here at Wayside Garage have shown, issues like fuel leaks can develop in critical areas, such as the fuel pump. We’ve recently serviced a 2015 Ford Transit and a 2006 Dodge Ram, both of which came in with dangerous fuel leaks due to seals on the fuel pump drying out and cracking. This issue can lead to hazardous conditions, including the risk of a fire if fuel drips onto hot exhaust components. Why Fuel Leaks Happen Fuel pumps are typically located inside the fuel tank, where they play a crucial role in delivering fuel to the engine. Over time, the seals and gaskets that keep the system airtight can deteriorate, especia ... read more

When should I replace spark plugs on my Honda? Keeping Your Honda CRV in Top Shape with Regular Maintenance Regular maintenance is key to ensuring your Honda CRV runs smoothly and efficiently for years to come. At Wayside Garage, we're dedicated to helping you get the most out of your vehicle. In this post, we'll cover some crucial maintenance tasks for your CRV, including spark plug replacement, engine air filter changes, and serpentine belt inspections. These steps are vital in preventing unexpected issues and keeping your car in excellent condition. Why Spark Plug Replacement Matters There's a common misconception that you only need to replace spark plugs when something goes wrong. However, spark plugs should be changed as part of routine maintenance to keep your engine running efficiently. For most vehicles, including the Honda CRV, it's recommended to replace spark plugs every 60,000 m ... read more