Seaside Auto Repair

What’s Causing That Clunking Sound When I Go Over Bumps? You’re cruising along, hit a speed bump, and clunk!—your car makes a sound that definitely wasn’t there before. It might feel like something shifted, knocked, or even bounced under the car. At Wayside Garage, we hear this concern a lot, and the good news is: you’re not imagining things. That clunk is trying to tell you something. 🚗 Is a Clunk Over Bumps a Big Deal? It might be. While not every noise is an emergency, clunking when you hit bumps often means there’s something loose, worn out, or broken in your suspension system—the parts that help keep your ride smooth and your tires on the road. And when suspension parts start to fail, it doesn’t just make your car noisy—it can mes ... read more

Why Is My Car Making a Humming Noise? Ever been driving along, minding your own business, when suddenly you notice this low, steady humming noise coming from your car? It's kind of like a quiet growl that gets louder as you speed up. At first, you might brush it off—maybe it's the road, right? But if it keeps happening, it’s definitely worth checking out. At Wayside Garage, we see this issue all the time. And while humming noises can be caused by a few different things, they’re often a sign that something’s starting to wear out. Let’s break it down together. 🚘 Is a Humming Noise Something to Worry About? Short answer: Yes—usually. Your car isn’t supposed to hum (at least not loudly). If the ... read more

Why Are My Brakes Grinding? Brake Repair in Seaside, Monterey & Pacific Grove Hearing a grinding noise when braking? That awful sound is a warning sign you shouldn’t ignore! Whether you’re driving through Monterey, Seaside, Pacific Grove, or Carmel, CA, worn-out brake pads or damaged rotors could be putting your safety at risk. At Wayside Garage in Seaside, CA, we specialize in brake repair to keep you safe on the road. Here’s what might be causing your grinding brakes and what to do about it. 1. Worn-Out Brake Pads (Most Common Cause!) The #1 reason for grinding brakes is worn-out brake pads. Over time, the friction materia ... read more

How to Check Tires for Uneven Wear Keeping your tires in peak condition is essential for their lifespan and safety. Here's how to effectively check for uneven wear: Park on a Level Surface: Begin by finding a flat surface to park your vehicle. This ensures stability while you inspect all four tires. Visual Inspection of Tread: Look closely at the tread of each tire. Examine the surface for any sections that appear more worn down than others. Use a Tread Depth Gauge: For more accuracy, you can use a tread depth gauge. If you don’t have one, a quarter can be an alternative tool—insert it into the tread grooves to measure depth. Compare Tire Sides: Inspect both the inner and outer edges of each tire. Look for any significant differences in wear patterns or signs of feathering. Check for Damage: Scan for visible damage like cracks or bulges, which can be indicators of more serious iss ... read more

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