Posted on 2/27/2025

When Should I Replace My Brakes? Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore Your brakes are one of the most important safety features of your car. But how do you know when it’s time to replace them? Ignoring brake problems can lead to expensive repairs—or worse, a dangerous situation on the road. Here are the top warning signs that it’s time for a brake inspection at Wayside Garage. How Do You Know If Your Brakes Need Replacing?Your Car Pulls to One Side When Braking If your vehicle drifts left or right when you press the brake pedal, it could mean uneven brake pad wear or an issue with your brake calipers. A Soft or Spongy Brake Pedal Does your brake pedal feel soft or take longer ... read more
Posted on 2/19/2025
Can I Bring My Own Parts to a Mechanic? Here's What You Need to Know In today’s world, we can find almost anything online with just a few clicks—including car parts. It’s tempting to buy a part yourself, especially when big-name websites spend millions on advertising to convince drivers they’ll save money by ordering direct. But is it really a good idea? Many auto shops, including Wayside Garage, are often asked if we can install customer-supplied parts. While we understand the appeal, there’s one major reason why this isn’t in your best interest: warranty protection.What Happens When a Part Fails? Let’s look at a real-life example to illustrate why purchasing your own parts can lead to unexpected headaches. A few weeks ago, a Jeep came into the shop with a clutch problem. The repair requir ... read more
Posted on 1/10/2025

wheel shake wayside garage by Stacey Diaz Why Is My Steering Wheel Shaking When I Brake? If you've ever felt your steering wheel shake when braking, you know it can be alarming. Not only is it uncomfortable, but it's also a sign that something might be wrong with your vehicle. At Wayside Garage, we’re here to help you understand why this happens and what you can do about it. Why Does My Steering Wheel Shake? When your steering wheel vibrates during braking, it’s often due to issues in your brake or suspension system. Here are some common reasons this happens: 1. Warped Brake Rotors Your brake rotors are the discs that your brake pads clamp down on to stop your vehicle. Over time, these rotors can warp due to heat, wear, or uneven press ... read more
Posted on 11/6/2024
Discover the Perfect Car Care Plan for Your Vehicle at Wayside Garage In today's busy world, maintaining your vehicle shouldn't be a hassle or a surprise expense. That's why Wayside Garage offers a Car Care Membership Subscription Plan—it’s like a Netflix or gym subscription, but for your car’s health! With affordable monthly payments and convenient reminders, you can keep your car running smoothly all year without worrying about big repair bills. Let’s dive into the three levels of our membership plans and find the perfect one for your driving needs. Bronze Package: Essential Coverage for Everyday Drivers The Bronze Package is our most affordable option at just $26 per month. It's ideal for drivers who need standard maintenance throughout the year and covers essential services, including: Two Oil and Filter Services per Year: For the typical driver, two oil c ... read more
Posted on 11/5/2024
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