AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE BLOG
Maintaining your vehicle at home is a satisfying way to keep your motoring costs down. With the right knowledge and products even someone who isn't very mechanically inclined can take care of many of the smaller issues in everyday driving. Sometimes, however, car issues can be too specialized or complex for the average motorist to take care of by themselves and it becomes time to take your car to the pros. Below you'll find three major warning signs that you need to get to a mechanic ASAP, as well as some of the potential causes behind them.
Engine and Drivetrain Problems
Let's start at the beginning. If your car won't even turn over and start up, then the rest of the problems on this list won't come into play. The simplest cause of this issue is a dead battery, which you can remedy with jumper cables, and the instructions that come printed on their packaging. If jumping the car doesn't work, you may have a larger problem with your ignition system. It's advisable to take your car into the shop at this point because finding the root of the problem will likely involve removing a few parts from your engine. Whether it's dead spark plugs or electrical problems, it's better to have it dealt with by a professional. Likewise, engine surging where the revs rise and fall can mean a problem with your fuel injectors, which are fairly deep within your motor. It's unwise to drive around with a surging engine, as this burns more gas and can cause unintended acceleration. Drivetrain issues are another major issue requiring professional attention. Everybody fears the dreaded transmission repairs, so if certain gears won't engage or they shift at the wrong times you should definitely take your car to the qualified mechanics here at Long Hill Auto Service.Vibration While Driving
This issue can be caused by damaged drivetrain components, but can also stem from misaligned wheels or unbalanced or flat tires. If you feel any vibration or shuddering as you drive along, you should get to a mechanic as soon as you can. At its worst, this issue can lessen your control over the car, potentially causing accidents. This will also wear out your tires more quickly than if everything was straight and true. Unwanted vibrations put stress on important (and costly) components like suspension and brakes while decreasing gas mileage, so it's smart to take your car in as soon as these issues develop.Poor Braking Performance
Your brakes are vital to keeping you safe on the road and should definitely be cared for by a professional, unless you're absolutely sure you know what you're doing. Common signs of issues with your car's braking system include squeaking or squealing when the brakes are applied, or the brakes feeling spongy and failing to slow your vehicle properly. Squealing brakes are caused by the brake pads wearing through the pad surface to the metal underneath. At this point the metal behind your brake pad is coming into contact with the brake rotor. This can be disastrous and produce unwanted heat, reduced stopping power, and cause you to have to buy new rotors as well as the relatively cheap pads. Spongey and weak brakes can mean there's a problem with your master cylinder, which converts the mechanical pressure of you pressing the pedal into hydraulic pressure to apply the brakes. In either case, it's best to have your brakes seen to by the professional mechanics here at Long Hill Auto Service.There are instances where car maintenance is simple and easy, but if you notice any of these issues developing, it's best to take your car in for a qualified mechanic's checkup so the problems can be remedied before they turn into much more serious issues. Long Hill Auto Service has the tools and expertise to have you safely back on the road in no time at all.
Reviews
I was driving to see my dad for Father’s Day yesterday. Got on 78 and my car started jerking and loosing steam. It was 4:15pm about 45 mins before the shop closed, they took a look at my car and were able to fix it by 6pm so I was able to drive my car back home that day- it was amazing! So thankful they were able to help me out or else I would have to miss work Monday as no shops are open Sunday’s. Thanks again!! Bailey Malnak, 06/15/2025 |
If you are you looking for an honest, reputable, and knowledgeable place to take your vehicle that you can feel confident in, look no further. Long Hill Auto is by far the premier automotive service center in the area. Bob and his technicians truly care about your vehicle and treat it as their own. The exceptional service you receive here is next to none. Long Hill Auto is the place to go for all your automotive needs. Matthew Gerecht, 06/07/2025 |
We have been using Long Hill Auto Service for over 20 years and Bob the owner and his staff are the best in the business. Not only are his mechanics superior if you need a loaner care Bob will have one for you. Any time I've called I don't think the phone rang more then twice before someone picked up the phone ready to help. I usually will keep a car for a good 10 years and that's because the mechanics there do the job right the first time and I have peace of mind knowing my cars are in good hands Don Marvel, 05/07/2025 |