Posted on 8/5/2024
Our vehicles today have several different types of filters. Each filter typically has its own maintenance schedule for being replaced. While many replacement schedules for changing filters is in your manual, here are some helpful tips from our NAPA friends: OIL FILTER– gets changed during a regular oil change; remember the type of driving you do may change the frequency of your oil changes AIR FILTER— works with the oil filter to keep the engine clean, usually made out of paper or some other thin material TRANSMISSION FILTER— this filter catches any dirt that may be in the fluids inside your vehicle’s transmission. CABIN AIR FILTER— prevents pollen and dust from going through the heating and cooling system into where you sit. If the heater or air conditioning smells when you turn it on; the cabin air filter probably needs to be replaced. A quick look at the filter each season is helpful to avoid smelly air! FUEL FILTER— Obviously it filters your ... read more
Posted on 8/1/2024
What is a serpentine belt? How do I know if it needs to be replaced? A serpentine belt is a very important part of the engine. This belt's primary job is to transfer power to parts like the power steering pump, the alternator or air conditioning compressor. Without the serpentine belt all these parts would stop working. And you would be totally stranded wherever you are! How do you know if your serpentine belt needs to be replaced? These belts typically need to be replaced around 100,000 miles. Older serpentine belts, made of regular rubber, will start to crack over time. Newer belts, made of neoprene-- a specialized type of rubber, will not crack but will show signs of wear. It's common for the serpentine belt to start squealing or start making a chirping sound as they start to wear out. Your engine's serpentine belt is most definitely something you need to keep on top of. Here at Bob's Auto, we inspect your vehicle's serpentine belt at each oil change.  
Posted on 7/29/2024
Have you recently had your vehicle serviced at Bob's Auto? We would LOVE to hear how your experience was. Simply click on the Google review link below to let us know how we did. Thanks!! https://g.page/r/CTZ28e6cojwJEAI/review
Posted on 7/18/2024
Is it getting hard to steer your vehicle? Have you found yourself needing to add power steering fluid at times? As power steering fluid gets old it starts to break down. Your steering becomes sluggish and less responsive. In this case a power steering fluid flush is needed to get the old fluid and contaminants out and new fluid in. If you find yourself adding power steering fluid, then of course, you have a leak somewhere. Minimally you would want to get the leak fixed and top off the fluid. But at Bob's Auto we most likely would recommend a power steering fluid flush. Particularly if any components or parts were needed as part of the repair. This flush is an important maintenance service that will save you money in the long run. And, you don't have to wait until you have a steering issue or leak! On average, manufacturers recommend this fluid flush every 40,000-80,000 miles. Check your owner's manual for your specific vehicle.  
Posted on 7/17/2024
I think my gas gauge is broken. The gauge was reading half full and then my car died in my work parking lot. Oh no! Well, the good thing is that you were not left on the side of the road. The issue could be a broken gas gauge but most likely something else is going on. One simple test is to get under your vehicle and tap on the gas tank. If you hear a hollow sound the tank is probably empty, and a broken gas gauge is not the answer. If you hear a sloshing sound or thud, then you know you have plenty of gas. So, if you have plenty of gas, why did it die on you? Before calling Bob's Auto to make an appointment, check the instrument panel fuse location in owner's manual. This will help you locate what fuse to inspect for cracks. If the fuse seems to be fine, give us a call!