Seaside Auto Repair

Choosing a Mechanic: A Relationship for Your Car's Health Picking the right mechanic is like choosing the right doctor for yourself. Just as you trust your doctor with your health, you should trust your mechanic with your car. At Wayside Garage, we believe that building a long-term relationship with a trusted mechanic is crucial for your vehicle’s longevity and performance. Here’s why: Why Consistency Matters Vehicles that frequently switch mechanics often face more issues. Our long-term clients benefit because our certified technicians are familiar with their vehicles' history and specific needs. This familiarity allows us to provide tailored maintenance plans and anticipate potential issues before they become major problems. The Value of a Maintenance Plan Regular maintenance is essential to keep your car running smoothly and efficiently. Cars are a significant investment, and maintaining them properly is mor ... read more

Why Are My Brakes Screeching? Hearing a screeching sound when you hit the brakes can be alarming. Not only is it unpleasant, but it can also indicate that something is wrong with your vehicle. Understanding the reasons behind this noise is crucial for maintaining your car’s safety and performance. Common Causes of Screeching Brakes Worn Brake Pads One of the most common reasons for screeching brakes is worn brake pads. Brake pads have a metal indicator that produces a screeching sound when they’re nearly worn out. This noise serves as a warning that it’s time to replace the pads. Ignoring this sound can lead to more serious damage and reduced braking efficiency. Dust and Debris Sometimes, dust and debris can get caught between the brake pads and the rotor, causing a screeching sound. This is often a temporary issue and can be resolved by cleaning the brakes. Regular maintenance and cleaning can prevent this proble ... read more

Why Are My Chevy Truck’s Brakes Failing? Maintaining your Chevy truck’s brakes is crucial for safety and performance. A common issue Chevy truck owners face is brake failure, often due to worn-out brake drums, shoes, and wheel cylinders. Let’s dive into why this happens and how to fix it. Understanding Brake Components 1. Brake Drums: These house the brake shoes and are crucial for stopping your vehicle. 2. Brake Shoes: These press against the drum to create the friction needed to stop. 3. Wheel Cylinders: These use hydraulic pressure to push the brake shoes against the drum. Signs of Brake Issues If your brakes are failing, you might notice: - A spongy brake pedal. - Brake fluid leaks. - Unusual noises when braking. Common Causes and Solutions Seized Wheel Cylinder: When a wheel cylinder seizes, it can cause brake fluid to leak, contaminating the brake shoes. This leads to reduced braking effi ... read more

Wayside Garage Toyota Dealer Alternative in Seaside, CA by Stacey Diaz Why Wayside Garage is Your Top Choice for Toyota Maintenance in Seaside, California When it comes to maintaining your Toyota, finding a reliable and trustworthy service provider is crucial. Look no further than Wayside Garage, your dependable alternative to the Toyota dealership. Located in the heart of Seaside, California, Wayside Garage has been a family-owned business since 1946, providing exceptional service and care for generations. Here’s why you should choose Wayside Garage for all your Toyota maintenance and repair needs. Family-Owned Since 1946 Wayside Garage isn’t just another auto repair shop; we’re a part of the Seaside community. As a third-generation, fami ... read more

Why Is My Check Engine Light On? The check engine light turning on can be a cause for concern, but it’s a common issue that many drivers face. Let's explore why this happens and how to address it. Understanding the Check Engine Light Your car's check engine light is a signal from the vehicle’s engine control unit (ECU) that something is wrong. Modern cars are equipped with multiple computer modules (anywhere from 30 to 50) that monitor various systems in your vehicle. When something goes amiss, the check engine light illuminates to alert you. Common Reasons for the Check Engine Light One often overlooked component that can trigger the check engine light is the oxygen sensor. This sensor plays a critical role in monitoring the exhaust gases and ensuring your engine runs efficiently. Over time, oxygen sensors can become faulty due to exposure to extreme temperatures and contaminants, causing the check engine light to come on. What Do Oxy ... read more