Houston Auto Repair

Every car owner has experienced getting into their car and turning the ignition, but the car won't start. When a car does not start, it is a battery or alternator issue. The alternator and the battery are equally important to the car's charging system as none can function without the other. It helps to know the difference between the two parts: Definition A battery is a device that produces electricity by transforming chemical energy into electrical energy. An alternator refers to a machine that converts mechanical energy into electrical energy. Though both produce electrical energy, there are some differences between them. A battery produces DC power while an alternator produces AC power which means the battery will be used for DC loads and the alternator for AC loads. A battery uses chemical reactions, while an alternator does not. Moreover, an alternator has moving parts, whereas a battery does not. A significant difference between an alternator and a battery is that the l ... read more

What is a Head Gasket Leak? Few things are as stressful as car problems. A head gasket is a key component of your car. The engine has two sections, the cylinder block (pistons, cylinders, spark plugs, camshaft, and valves between these two parts lies the head gasket. What does a Head Gasket do? Your car needs a head gasket to catch and contain stress emitted when the cylinder's fire. The head gasket stops oil and refrigerant from leaking into delicate parts of the automobile engine. Consequently, the head gasket has to tolerate all the cylinder's pressure caused by expansion, contraction, rubbing, and lots of other rough contact. What Causes a Head Gasket Leak? A vehicle's engine produces high heat levels. An engine overheats and the tension placed on the head gasket can be more than it can handle causing a blown head gasket. The intense heat forces the engine block and cylinder head to rapidly swell and the head gasket is broken. Another potential cause of a head gas ... read more

A shock absorber's function in your vehicle is to absorb and distribute shock when the vehicle hits bumps and portholes. It is responsible for keeping you and your passengers comfortable throughout the ride. That's not all; every time you apply emergency brakes, the shock absorbers go to work, reducing the amount of shock passengers experience. Because of their central role in vehicle functioning, they do not come cheap but don't worry because you most likely won't have to replace them for four to five years. They also do not have a set expiry date. So how can you tell that your shock absorbers need to be replaced?   How to Tell if My Shock Absorbers Need to Get Replaced   If your shock absorbers are worn out, you may experience issues bringing your car to a complete halt. You may also find it uncomfortable to go over bumps and other road obstacles as they leave you all shaken up. Sometimes you may find your vehicle diving headfirst each time you step on t ... read more

A car's brakes are composed of several components, each of which needs to be inspected and maintained regularly to ensure the vehicle can stop safely in case of an emergency. These parts include brake lines, brake pads, rotors, and calipers. Common signs you need to replace brake pads and rotors Grinding Sound When Braking Anytime you apply pressure to the brake pedal, a grinding noise will sound, which means your brake pads need to be changed ASAP. Some brake pads come with metal wear indicators that emit a loud noise to alert you that they need replacement. You expose yourself to more damage and higher repair costs if you leave the brake pads to grind. Vibrations During Braking Your vehicle's braking system likely needs professional service if you hear a vibration when you apply the brakes. Your rotors are possibly warped and will have unevenly worn brake pads. Slower stopping If you're unable to apply the brakes with any force, this is another sign that your brake ... read more