Seaside Auto Repair

Why Is My Check Engine Light On? Rodents Might Be to Blame! At Wayside Garage, we recently helped a client with a check engine light, traction control light, and poor engine performance. Our certified technician, Jonathan, found an unexpected culprit: rodents had chewed through the wiring! When the car was brought in, it wouldn’t stay running. After running diagnostics, Jonathan discovered a mass airflow sensor code. This sensor, which helps measure the air going into the engine, had been damaged, but that wasn't the only issue. Under the hood, we found clear signs of rodent activity—chewed wires and seeds near the sensor. Why Rodent Damage Happens Rodents like mice and rats are notorious for seeking shelter in warm engine compartments, especially during colder months. They can chew through wires, causing significant damage to your vehicle’s electrical system. In this case, th ... read more

Why Is My Car Leaking Fluid? If you've been putting off that transmission service, it might be time to reconsider. At Wayside Garage, we recently had a 2014 Ford C-Max come in with a fluid leak that seemed to be engine oil at first. Upon inspection, however, we discovered it was actually transmission fluid leaking from a worn transmission cooler line. This isn't uncommon, especially in older vehicles. Over time, seals can become brittle, allowing transmission fluid to leak and cause serious damage. What Causes Transmission Leaks? Transmission cooler lines are vital to regulating the temperature of your transmission. These lines transport fluid to the cooler, preventing the transmission from overheating. Unfortunately, the seals that connect the cooler lines to the transmission can become hard and brittle with age and mileage, allowing fluid to seep out. Once the fluid leaks, your transmission could ... read more

What Maintenance Does My Electric Vehicle Need? Electric vehicles (EVs) are the future of driving, offering a cleaner, quieter, and often more cost-effective alternative to traditional gasoline cars. However, like any vehicle, your EV needs regular maintenance to stay in top shape. Here's why keeping up with maintenance is crucial and what you should focus on to keep your EV running smoothly. Why EV Maintenance Is Important1. Safety First Safety is the top priority when it comes to vehicle maintenance. EVs are designed with advanced technology, including regenerative braking systems, high-voltage batteries, and electric drive systems. Regular maintenance ensures that these components work properly, reducing the risk of breakdowns or accidents. For example, inspecting the brakes and traction control annually ensures that your vehicle can stop effectively, even in emergency situations ... read more

How can I tell if my transmission needs servicing?Keep Your Mitsubishi Running Smoothly with Regular Maintenance At Wayside Garage, we recently had a Mitsubishi come in with a couple of issues that needed attention. The first was a faulty fan that wasn’t working properly. After performing some tests, we discovered that the blower motor was defective. Our ASE-certified technicians installed a new blower motor, and now the fan is running perfectly! But that wasn’t all. During our comprehensive digital inspection, we noticed that the transmission fluid was due for a service. Transmission fluid plays a crucial role in keeping your vehicle running smoothly by lubricating, cleaning, and cooling the internal components of the transmission. Over time, it can break down, leading to potential wear and tear. Why Regular Transmission Fluid Service is Essential We recommend doing a transm ... read more

Can a bad hose cause my car to overheat?Why Regular Hose and Belt Replacements Are Essential for Your Vehicle's Health When it comes to vehicle maintenance, many drivers overlook the importance of regularly replacing hoses and belts. However, as our recent experience with a 2001 Mazda Protégé demonstrates, neglecting these components can lead to serious issues, including coolant leaks, overheating, and charging system failures. Let’s dive into why keeping up with hose and belt maintenance is crucial for your vehicle's longevity and performance. The Hidden Dangers of Worn-Out Belts and Hoses Belts and hoses may not seem as critical as your engine or brakes, but they play a vital role in your vehicle's overall health. The alternator belt, for example, is responsible for powering essential components like the alternator and water pump. If this belt snaps, it c ... read more