Walnut Creek Auto Repair

Oil changes are frequent yet straightforward services that are vital to your vehicle's performance. While most drivers look at the number of miles they've driven since their last oil change to determine when to change the oil, it's always best to inspect the oil itself firsthand. Sometimes, your motor oil can run low or deteriorate unexpectedly. If you neglect to service your vehicle on time, your engine can struggle in performance and even overheat. Below are five signs that your motor is in need of an oil change: #1: CONTAMINATED OIL  Fresh, effective motor oil should be an amber color, and the oil will darken over time. Sometimes, darkness can be natural. However, your oil should be free of any contaminants. If you start to see debris and gunk, like metal chunks, in your oil or if it's an unusual color, please take it to our shop immediately.  #2: LOUD ENGINE NOISES Your engine oil is responsible for lubricating the engine parts. When your oil is no lon ... read more

No matter what kind of car you drive and what kind of driver you are, the check engine light is probably every driver's worst nightmare. It gives no details about what's at fault, and the list of potential reasons for it goes on and on. Check engine lights can be as minor as a loose gas cap or severe enough to completely break the engine. Below we've listed the three most popular reasons behind a check engine light: Oxygen Sensor - The oxygen sensors in your vehicle helps decide how much fuel you burn. Consequently, a faulty oxygen sensor will negatively affect your fuel economy. Even though oxygen sensors are more straightforward and less expensive to replace, failing to restore them on time can eventually spread damage to your catalytic converter. Loose Gas Cap - It may sound silly that something as small as a gas cap can trigger your warning light, but the gas cap keeps gasoline from evaporating. It also plays a role in keeping your emissions down. To avoid triggering ... read more