Houston Auto Repair

Fuel economy usually stays fairly steady unless something changes. So when you notice you're visiting the gas station more often than usual, and your driving routine hasn’t changed, that’s a sign your car might need attention. A sudden drop in MPG is more than just a budget concern. It’s often your car’s way of letting you know something’s not working as it should. Let’s take a closer look at what could be behind that fuel efficiency loss and what you can do about it. When MPG Starts Dropping Without Warning Sometimes the first clue is just a feeling. The tank doesn’t seem to last as long. The fuel gauge dips faster. If your vehicle has a trip computer, you might notice that the average MPG number has dropped by several points. Here are some other signs that often come along with it: Engine feels sluggish or rough Fuel smell near the vehicle after shutting it off Engine light is on Acceleration takes more effort Ro ... read more

Getting stuck in stop-and-go traffic is frustrating enough. But if your temperature gauge starts rising or steam appears from under the hood, things can quickly turn stressful. In a city like Houston, where traffic is common and heat lingers for much of the year, an overheating engine isn't unusual. What matters most is how you respond. Knowing what to do in the moment and what to check afterward will help you avoid long-term damage and expensive repairs. How to Tell When Your Car Is Overheating Some warning signs are subtle, like a temperature needle creeping toward the red. Others are more dramatic, including visible steam, strange smells, or warning lights on the dashboard. You might even notice the air conditioning suddenly stops blowing cold. When any of these signs appear, take them seriously. Continuing to drive while the engine is overheating can lead to warped cylinder heads, blown gaskets, or complete engine failure. What to Do When It Happen ... read more

When you first learn to drive, instructors emphasize keeping both hands on the wheel. This habit isn’t just about passing a test. It’s about maximizing control of your vehicle. Driving with one hand may feel casual or convenient, but it compromises stability and increases the likelihood of delayed reactions in the event of an unexpected occurrence. The Dangers of One-Handed Driving With only one hand on the wheel, you limit your ability to make precise adjustments. A quick swerve to avoid a pothole or sudden movement from another driver is harder to manage when your grip and leverage are reduced. In emergencies, those few seconds of slower reaction can be the difference between a close call and a collision. One-handed driving also tends to encourage distractions, like resting your arm on the console or holding a phone, which only adds to the risks. Proper Hand Positions for Maximum Control Most safety experts recommend the 9 and 3 o&rsq ... read more

Brakes are one of the most important safety systems in your car. While most drivers consider changing their oil or rotating their tires, brake inspections are often overlooked until a problem makes them impossible to ignore. But waiting until your brakes start squeaking, grinding, or feeling weak can put you and others at risk on the road. Routine brake inspections can detect small issues before they develop into serious problems, ensuring your vehicle maintains its full stopping power in every situation. Whether you’re navigating stop-and-go traffic or cruising down the highway, your brakes need to be in peak condition at all times. Why Brake Inspections Are Important Your braking system is made up of several components that work together to slow and stop your vehicle. These include brake pads, rotors, calipers, brake fluid, and sometimes drums and shoes, depending on the ... read more

Seeing the check engine light come on is always a little unsettling, but when it starts flashing? That’s a much more urgent signal. Unlike a steady check engine light that typically indicates a non-critical issue, a flashing one often means your engine is experiencing a severe problem that can’t wait. If your check engine light flashes intermittently (turning on and off while you drive), it’s your vehicle warning you that something needs immediate attention. Ignoring it could lead to costly engine damage or even complete failure. Understanding what causes this flashing behavior is the first step toward protecting your vehicle. Why the Light Flashes Instead of Staying Steady The engine control module (ECM) is designed to monitor your car’s performance in real time. A steady light is usually related to emissions problems or non-urgent malfunctions. Still, when the system detects a misfire that could harm the catalytic converter, it switches to ... read more