Seaside Auto Repair

Trick or Treat? Can I bring my own parts to a mechanic? Halloween brings the excitement of mystery and fun, but when it comes to auto repairs, mysteries are best left to haunted houses—not your car! Choosing to bring your own parts to the repair shop might seem like a treat for your wallet, but it can lead to some scary “tricks” down the road. This Halloween, let’s explore why relying on certified mechanics to supply the parts for your vehicle is the sweetest (and smartest) choice. 1. Beware the Trick: Liability Insurance Won’t Cover Customer-Supplied Parts Imagine stepping into a haunted house without any protection—it’s risky and unpredictable. That’s similar to bringing your own parts to an auto shop. When you bring in parts from outside, liability insurance that covers professional work at the shop often doesn’t apply. Why? Liability Risks: If a part you provided fails, liability insurance won ... read more

October is Brakes for Breasts Month at Wayside Garage! Your vehicle’s brakes are one of the most critical components when it comes to safety. Whether you're driving around town or hitting the highway, properly functioning brakes can be the difference between a close call and a serious accident. That’s why at Wayside Garage, we’re excited to support the Brakes for Breasts campaign this October. This month, you can get a free set of brake pads or brake shoes when you schedule a brake service, and we will donate 10% of all brake repair proceeds to help fund breast cancer vaccine research. Why Are Your Brakes So Important? Your brakes are what allow your car to stop quickly and safely. Over time, wear and tear from daily driving can cause brake pads to thin out, reducing their effectiveness. If left unchecked, worn brake pads can lead to further damage to your braking system, such as rotor wear or even brake failur ... read more

Why Does My Brake Pedal Feel Squishy? If you've ever pressed down on your brake pedal and felt it sink lower than usual or feel "squishy," it’s a sign that something is off with your braking system. While it can be unsettling, it's important to understand the possible reasons behind this sensation and how to address it to keep your vehicle safe. Common Causes of a Squishy Brake Pedal Air in the Brake Lines One of the most common causes of a soft brake pedal is air trapped in the brake lines. Your brakes rely on hydraulic pressure to work properly. If air gets into the system, it can cause inconsistent pressure, resulting in that squishy feeling when you press the pedal. This typically happens after a brake fluid change or due to a leak in the system. Low or Old Brake Fluid Over time, your brake fluid can absorb moisture, which reduces its effectiveness. Low fluid levels can also affect brake performance. Bra ... read more

How Often Should I Change My Brake Pads? Your vehicle's brake pads are one of the most critical components for your safety on the road, yet knowing when to change them can be tricky. So, how often should you change your brake pads? The answer depends on several factors like your driving habits, the type of vehicle, and even the quality of the brake pads themselves. General Guidelines for Brake Pad Replacement On average, most brake pads should be replaced every 30,000 to 70,000 miles, depending on their wear. However, it's essential to listen to your vehicle—literally! Squeaking or grinding noises when you brake are often tell-tale signs that your pads are worn out and need immediate attention. At Wayside Garage, we recommend having your brakes inspected every time you bring your vehicle in for service. Regular brake checks help catch potential issues early, saving you money in the long run and ensuring your car is al ... read more

Wayside Garage Partners with Brakes for Breasts: 8th Year of Making a Difference October is here, and it's time to gear up for a cause that's near and dear to our hearts! For the 8th consecutive year, Wayside Garage is proud to partner with Brakes for Breasts, a campaign that raises funds for breast cancer research. Throughout October, we’ll be offering free brake pads with every brake service, and 10% of the proceeds from these services will go directly to breast cancer research. What Is Brakes for Breasts? Brakes for Breasts is an inspiring initiative that unites independent auto repair shops across the nation in the fight against breast cancer. The funds raised through this campaign are dedicated to developing a breast cancer vaccine, providing hope for millions affected by this disease. How You Can Help Supporting the cause is simple. When you bring your car to Wayside Garage for a brake service this October, you’ll receive free bra ... read more