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 ... 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

At Wayside Garage in Seaside, California, we're all about keeping your car running well and for a long time. One essential way to do that is by getting your oil changed every 5 to 6 months or every 5,000 miles. You might wonder, "Why bother, I don't drive that much?" Let's get into the reasons.  Here are a few reasons why getting your oil changed is a must:     - Keeps Your Engine Happy: Think of your car's engine as its heart. Just like you need to keep your heart healthy, your car's engine needs clean oil to stay in tip-top shape.     - Improves Performance: Fresh oil lubricates the engine's parts, helping them move more freely. This means better performance for your car and smoother rides for you!     - Prevents Engine Wear: Over time, oil can get dirty and break down, causing friction and wear on engine parts. Regularly scheduled oil changes help prevent ... read more