Seaside Auto Repair

Why Does My Car Rattle When I Drive? Are you hearing rattling noises coming from your car while you drive? Don't ignore them! At Wayside Garage in Seaside, CA, we understand that these rattles can be concerning, and we're here to help diagnose the issue and get you back on the road with confidence.   Loose Exhaust System: A common cause of rattling noises is a loose or damaged exhaust system. Over time, the metal components of the exhaust system can wear down or become loose, leading to rattling sounds as you drive. If you suspect an issue with your exhaust system, it's important to have it inspected and repaired quickly to prevent further damage and ensure your safety on the road.   Worn Suspension Components: Another potential culprit for rattling noises is worn suspension components. Components like struts, shocks, or control arms can wear down over time, leading to rattling or clunking sounds as you dr ... 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 ... read more

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. 2. Under-Inflation:    Tires that aren’t inflated to the proper pressure can also lead to abnormal wear patterns. Under-inflated tires often have more pressure on their outer edges during turns, which accelerates wear on those areas. Always keep your tires inflated to the manufacturer's recommended levels. 3. Worn Suspension Componen ... 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

When Do I Need Brakes Replaced?  Let's start by tackling a question that's essential for keeping your ride safe and sound: brake replacement frequency. At Wayside Garage, 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 ... read more