Seaside Auto Repair

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

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

  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

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