Downey Auto Repair

Downey Auto Repair - Does My Transmission Fluid Need to Be Flushed?   Regular maintenance is crucial for keeping your vehicle running smoothly and prolonging its lifespan. When it comes to the transmission, the fluid plays a critical role in ensuring proper operation and preventing premature wear. Over time, transmission fluid can become contaminated and break down, affecting the performance of your vehicle's transmission. So, why is it important to perform regular transmission fluid maintenance, and what are some of the signs that indicate your transmission fluid may need attention?   The Importance of Transmission Fluid   Transmission fluid serves multiple essential functions in an automatic transmission. It acts as a lubricant to reduce friction and wear between moving parts, which helps maintain smooth gear shifts. Additionally, it facilitates the transfer of power from the engine to the wheels. Over time, transmission fluid can become contaminated with deb ... read more

Is Your Starter Dead – Downey Auto Repair   Imagine you're all set to head out somewhere and suddenly, your car refuses to start. You hear a clicking sound, but the engine won't turn over. This frustrating scenario is a common sign of a dead starter. The starter is a crucial component in your vehicle's ignition system, responsible for initiating the engine's combustion process. When it fails, your car becomes immobile, leaving you stranded. Here are some of the signs of a bad starter and what you should do about them.   No Response when Turning the Key   One of the primary signs of a dead starter is a lack of response when you turn the ignition key. You may hear a series of clicking sounds or nothing at all. This happens because the starter is not receiving the electrical power it needs to engage the engine. Before assuming the starter is at fault, make sure your car's battery is fully charged and the connections are clean and tight. A wea ... read more

Downey Auto Repair - Why Does My Exhaust Smell Like Sulfur   If you've noticed an unpleasant sulfur-like smell coming from your vehicle's exhaust, it's essential to pay attention to it. A foul-smelling exhaust is not only bothersome but can also be an indication of an underlying issue with your car. The presence of a sulfur smell is often associated with specific problems in the engine or emission control system.   Sulfur in the Fuel – One of the most common reasons for a sulfur-like smell in the exhaust is the presence of sulfur compounds in the fuel itself. Although modern gasoline and diesel fuels have low sulfur content due to stricter regulations, certain fuel blends or regional variations may still contain trace amounts of sulfur. When the fuel is burned in the engine, it produces sulfur dioxide, which is released through the exhaust system, resulting in the unpleasant smell. However, this reason is more common in ... read more

Downey Auto Repair – Are Your Tires Ready for Summer?   As summer approaches, it's essential to ensure that your vehicle's tires are in the best shape possible. The warmer weather and road conditions during summer demand proper tire maintenance for safety and performance. The following recommendations will help you get your tires ready for summer, so you can enjoy a smooth and worry-free driving experience for all your summer fun.   Tire Pressure   Start by inspecting your tire pressure regularly, as warmer temperatures can cause tire pressure to increase. Refer to the recommended pressure in your vehicle's manual or on the driver's side door jamb and use a quality tire pressure gauge to measure the pressure. Adjust the pressure as needed to maintain the recommended levels. Properly inflated tires promote better fuel efficiency, handling, and tire longevity.   Tread Depth   Next ... read more

Downey Auto Service - Explaining the Different Colors of Exhaust Smoke   If you drive a gas-powered engine, then your vehicle is going to emit some smoke from time to time. That’s part of owning a gas-powered vehicle. Smoke can come from your tailpipe for a variety of reasons and it’s usually nothing to worry about. Most of the time, it’s a light-colored white and not too noticeable. But if you see a more defined color, then you need to pay closer attention.   It’s usually a sign of trouble, if the smoke from your tailpipe is a different color than white. So, what should you be looking for? Exhaust can be black, blue, dark gray, or bright white. Each of these colors means something different. But if you notice any of them, you should get your entire exhaust system inspected by a professional Downey mechanic.   What the Different Colors of Exhaust Smoke Mean   White Smoke – you p ... read more