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San Luis Obispo Auto Repair

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Should I Change All Brake Pads at Once?

Should I Change All Brake Pads at Once?

You're cruising down the road when you notice that telltale squealing sound every time you hit the brakes. It's time for a brake pad replacement. Here's the dilemma - should you change all the brake pads or just the ones that seem worn out?  Assessing Wear and Tear Before deciding whether to replace all brake pads or just one pair, it's essential to assess the condition of your current brake pads. Inspect each pad carefully for signs of wear, such as uneven thickness or excessive damage. If one pair appears significantly more worn than the others, it may be tempting to replace only those pads to save money. However, this approach could compromise your braking performance and safety on the road. Maintaining Symmetry and Balance Brake systems are designed to operate with a certain level of symmetry and balance. Replacing only one pair of brake pads di ... read more

What Does ABS Mean? Is It Important?

What Does ABS Mean? Is It Important?

Have you ever wondered what keeps you safe during a sudden braking scenario on a slippery road? The answer lies in a vehicle's Anti-lock Braking System, commonly known as ABS. This system is more than just an automotive buzzword, as you will learn below. What Does ABS Mean ABS stands for Anti-lock Braking System. It's an advanced safety feature designed to help drivers maintain control of their vehicle during emergency braking situations. When you brake hard, the ABS prevents the wheels from locking up, which can lead to skidding.  This system uses speed sensors on each wheel and a control unit to modulate the braking pressure. It rapidly pulses the brakes, allowing the wheels to continue rotating and enabling the driver to maintain steering control. Components Of The ABS The Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) consists of the following components ... read more

Why Am I Hearing That Strange Sound When Braking?

Why Am I Hearing That Strange Sound When Braking?

We've all been there—cruising along the highway, only to be interrupted by a perplexing sound when pressing the brakes. It's as if your vehicle is trying to communicate, leaving you puzzled. Fear not, because today, we embark on a journey to uncover the reasons behind those mysterious braking sounds and how to restore good feel to your drive. Squeaking Sound A high-pitched squeak when braking can be disconcerting, but fear not, it's often a sign of a mild issue. Typically, it indicates that the brake pads might be due for replacement. The small metal indicator embedded in the pads creates this sound, acting as a gentle reminder that it's time for a brake pad refresh. Grinding Sound If your vehicle sounds like it's grinding its teeth when braking, it's not a sound to be ignored. This could be a signal that the brake pads have worn ... read more

Must-Know Maintenance & Care Tips For Your Tesla

Must-Know Maintenance & Care Tips For Your Tesla

Owning a Tesla isn't just a drive that is fully on electric power - it's an experience of innovation, efficiency, and a glimpse into the future of automotive technology. As you revel in the silent hum of your electric companion, it's crucial to remember that proper maintenance and care are the keys to ensuring its longevity and optimal performance. Battery Health Is Vital The battery is the engine, transmission, and alternator of your Tesla, and its health is paramount. Routinely check your battery's state of charge and be mindful of extreme temperature conditions, which can impact its efficiency. Charging your Tesla to around 80% for daily use and occasionally letting it reach full capacity for balancing can contribute to prolonged battery life. Embrace the charging habits that suit your driving needs while nurturing your Tesla's energy core. Software Updates - Stay Current, Stay Smart Tesla vehicles continually evolve with ove ... read more

A Step-By-Step Guide on Changing Belts in a Toyota Camry

A Step-By-Step Guide on Changing Belts in a Toyota Camry

You're cruising down the road in your trusty Toyota Camry, and suddenly, there's a screeching sound from under the hood - What happened? It's like a rock star hitting an off-key note in a concert. Don't worry; your car isn't staging a rebellion. Those screeches might just be a signal that it's time to replace your belts.  Today's hands-on blog will take you on a journey under the hood of your Camry and show you how to change its belts like a seasoned mechanic. What Are Belts and What Do They Do? Before we dive into the practical aspects of changing belts in your Toyota Camry, let's understand the importance of these unsung heroes. Your car's engine relies on a network of belts to power various components, such as the alternator, air conditionin ... read more