Silicon Valley Auto Repair

When it comes to the performance of your vehicle's engine, there's a small but mighty component that plays a crucial role: the spark plug. Responsible for igniting the air-fuel mixture in the combustion chamber, spark plugs are indispensable for your engine. After many, many miles, spark plugs are doomed to wear out and become less effective. As a result, you may face issues such as misfires, reduced fuel efficiency, and sluggish acceleration. That's why we believe everyone should know when and how to replace their car's spark plugs.  Signs of Worn Spark Plugs While spark plugs are relatively small and hidden within the engine, there are several signs that can indicate they need replacement.  Rough idling Difficulty starting the engine Decreased fuel efficiency Decrease in acceleration Additionally, if your vehicle has reached the manufacturer's recommended mileage interval for spark plug replacement, please consider having them serviced to maintain ... read more

Check the Tires One of the most important components of spring car maintenance is checking the tires. This includes checking the air pressure, tread depth, and overall condition. It is important to make sure your tires are properly inflated and have enough tread to provide traction in wet conditions. Additionally, any signs of damage, uneven wear, or bulges should be inspected by a professional. Change the Oil and Oil Filter To change the oil and the oil filter on your vehicle, you'll need to: Warm up the engine by driving for about 10 minutes. Park the car on level ground and allow the engine to cool for about 15 minutes. Locate the oil filler cap and remove it, usually located near the top of the engine. Place a drain pan under the oil drain plug and unscrew the plug using an adjustable wrench. Once the oil has completely drained, clean the plug and the surrounding area with a rag or paper towel. Replace the oil drain plug and tighten it with the adjustable wrench. Alter ... read more

Most days, you're probably familiar with the sounds your car makes and the way it feels when you're driving. However, one aspect that's often overlooked is the smell of your car. While some vehicle odors are harmless, others can indicate a problem from within your car that requires immediate attention. Here are some of the different smells that your car can make to signal trouble and what they might mean. Rotten Eggs If you smell a strong odor of rotten eggs or sulfur, it could indicate a problem with your catalytic converter or your fuel system. The foul smell is caused by hydrogen sulfide, which is a byproduct of the fuel combustion process. If you notice this smell, it's vital to get your car inspected by a professional mechanic ASAP. Burning A burning smell can come from a variety of sources, such as overheated brakes, a malfunctioning clutch, or a transmission problem.  Sweet A sweet smell inside your car ... read more