Silicon Valley Auto Repair

Periodically checking your brakes is a vital part of routine maintenance. At a minimum this should be done at least once a year – plan a brake check at the same time you get your tires rotated. It's best to get them checked as you rotate your tires during every oil change. At the very least, you should get them looked at before going on a long trip. Signs of brake problems It is important to be alert to signs that you might be having problems with your brakes. Clues that something’s wrong with your brakes include: Your brake warning light comes on (including the ABS warning light) Unusual noise when you apply the brakes – especially grinding or squealing noises Your car’s response when you hit the brakes – such as if your car pulls in one direction or another, or shakes The feel of the brake pedal – such as if the brake pedal is too soft (goes to the floor when you press the pedal) or hard (hardly moves ... read more

Winter months can present many challenges for your vehicle. While modern vehicles are designed to handle inclement weather conditions, there are some basic steps every driver should take as the days get shorter and the temperature drops. Fluid Refill and Replacement Whether you take your car in for regular maintenance or you're a do-it-yourself home mechanic, the best way to winterize your car is to start by checking your fluid levels. Coolant—It is especially important to have the correct antifreeze/water mixture to prevent fluid from freezing in your radiator. Consult your vehicle's owner's manual for information on this mixture. Pick up a tester at an auto parts store and make sure the fluid is filled to the maximum line. Oil—Some mechanics recommend switching to a thinner oil if you live where temperatures drop below freezing. Your best bet is to consult your owner's manual or talk to your mechanic. More about oil change... Wiper fluid—Often overlooked ... read more

California safety agencies are promoting safe driving this holiday season with tips and added enforcement during December.the California Highway Patrol has teamed up with seven other state law enforcement agencies across the nation in the fourth annual “Interstate 40 Challenge: The Drive toward Zero Fatalities.” The enforcement campaign began Thanksgiving weekend and focuses on more than 2,500-mile stretch of Interstate 40, a stretch of raod that begins in North Carolina and ends in California.As part of the campaign, agencies are encouraged to assign officers for every 20 miles along the I-40 corridor during 12-hour periods of Wednesday and Sunday, which are the busiest travel days. Interstate 40 bisects through California, Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, Oklahoma, North Carolina, Arkansas and Tennessee.“Accepting the challenge and working with our law enforcement partners and the public has proven very successful in years past,” CHP Commissioner Joe Farrow said. “California did not exp ... read more