Gab's Auto Repair Blog

While an illuminated check engine light doesn’t always mean a major repair is needed, it should never be ignored. This warning light is part of your vehicle’s onboard diagnostic system and can indicate a wide range of issues, from minor malfunctions to serious engine trouble. At Gab’s Auto Repair, we provide expert check engine light diagnostics and repair in the greater Phoenix area. Here are five common reasons the check engine light may turn on. Malfunctioning Mass Airflow Sensor The mass airflow (MAF) sensor measures the amount of air entering the engine and helps ensure the proper air-to-fuel ratio for combustion. A malfunctioning MAF sensor can lead to poor acceleration, rough idling, and decreased fuel-efficiency. Replacing a faulty MAF sensor is a relatively straightforward repair that can improve overall performance. Failing Ignition Coils or Spark Plugs Spark plugs and ignition coils play a crucial role in igniting the air-fuel mixture. When they start to fail, the engine may misfire, hesitate during acceleration, or run roughly. Regular maintenance, including replacing spark plugs at the recommended intervals, can help prevent this issue from triggering the check engine light. Catalytic Converter Problems The catalytic converter is responsible for reducing harmful emissions by converting pollutants into less harmful gases. If it has a problem, the check engine light will likely illuminate. A failing catalytic converter can lead to poor engine performance, reduced fuel-economy, and increased emissions. Faulty Oxygen Sensor The oxygen sensor monitors the level of unburned oxygen in the exhaust system and helps regulate the air-fuel mixture. If the sensor becomes faulty, it can cause the engine to run inefficiently, leading to reduced fuel-economy and increased emissions. If left unaddressed, it can lead to issues with the catalytic converter. Loose or Faulty Gas Cap Something as simple as a loose or damaged gas cap can trigger the check engine light. The gas cap seals the fuel system, and if it’s not tightly secured, fuel might evaporate before your engine gets the chance to put it to use. Check Engine Light Diagnostics & Repair in Phoenix, AZ When you need auto repair in Phoenix and the surrounding area, contact Gab’s Auto Repair at  (602) 780-3118  . Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

Keeping your vehicle's transmission healthy is essential for ensuring smooth performance and avoiding costly repairs. The transmission is one of the most critical components of your car, and with proper care, it can operate efficiently for years. At Gab’s Auto Repair, we provide transmission service in Phoenix that’ll help to keep your vehicle shifting smoothly. Here are five tips for maintaining a healthy transmission. Check Transmission Fluid Regularly Transmission fluid is essential for lubricating and cooling the internal components of your transmission. Low or dirty fluid can lead to overheating and excessive wear. Make it a habit to check your transmission fluid regularly, ensuring it's at the correct level and has a clean, reddish color. If you notice a burnt smell or darkened fluid, it’s likely time for a fluid change. Avoid Aggressive Driving Rapid acceleration, abrupt stops, and frequently shifting gears can put unnecessary stress on your transmission. Smooth driving habits help reduce wear and tear on your transmission system. Also, avoid towing heavy loads if your vehicle isn’t designed for it. Service Your Transmission Periodically Regular maintenance is crucial for a healthy transmission. Follow your manufacturer's recommended service schedule, which typically includes fluid changes, filter replacements, and inspections. Routine service helps identify potential issues early and reduces the risk of costly breakdowns. Use the Right Transmission Fluid Not all transmission fluids are the same, and using the wrong type can result in significant damage. Always refer to your vehicle’s manual to ensure you're using the correct fluid. If you're unsure, consult the mechanic to avoid costly mistakes. Address Issues Promptly Strange noises, slipping gears, and delayed shifting are signs of a transmission problem. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to more severe damage and expensive repairs. If you notice any irregularities, have your transmission inspected by the mechanic as soon as possible. Transmission Service in Phoenix When you need auto repair in Phoenix and the surrounding area, contact Gab’s Auto Repair at  (602) 780-3118  . Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment. And be sure to check out our current special offers !

Your vehicle's brakes are one of its most critical safety features, ensuring you can stop quickly and safely. However, like any part of your car, brakes can wear out and suffer damage. Ignoring early signs of brake trouble can lead to dangerous driving conditions and more expensive repairs. At Gab’s Auto Repair, we provide expert brake repair in the greater Phoenix area. Here are six common signs of brake trouble. Squealing or Squeaking Noises If you hear a high-pitched squealing sound when you apply the brakes, it’s likely the brake pads are wearing thin. Many brake pads come with built-in wear indicators that emit this noise to alert you it’s time for replacement. Ignoring this sound can lead to rotor damage. Grinding Sound A grinding noise often indicates that your brake pads have completely worn down, and the metal backing is now making contact with the brake rotor. This reduces braking efficiency and can also damage the rotors, leading to costly repairs. If you hear grinding, have your brakes inspected immediately. Vibrations When Braking If you notice vibrations when you apply the brakes, it could be a sign of warped brake rotors. Rotors can warp due to excessive heat. Warped rotors reduce the contact surface between the brake pad and rotor, affecting stopping power and vehicle stability. Soft or Spongy Brake Pedal When your brake pedal feels soft or spongy, it’s a sign that there could be air in the brake lines or a problem with the brake fluid. This could also indicate a brake fluid leak. Since brake fluid is essential for creating the hydraulic pressure needed to stop your car, this issue requires immediate attention. With leaking brake fluid, you should get towed to the shop. Veering If your car veers to one side when you brake, it could mean a caliper is seizing up, possibly because of corrosion. This creates an immediate safety hazard and needs to be resolved ASAP. Brake Warning Light Modern vehicles come equipped with a brake warning light on the dashboard. If this light illuminates, it could indicate issues such as low brake fluid or faulty wheel speed sensors. This light should be brought to the mechanic’s attention promptly. Brake Repair in Phoenix, AZ When you need auto repair in Phoenix and the surrounding area, contact Gab’s Auto Repair at  (602) 780-3118  . At our local auto shop, we can expertly complete your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment! And be sure to check out our current special offers !

Your vehicle’s alternator is essential to its electrical system, responsible for keeping the battery charged and powering various components. When an alternator starts to fail, it can lead to a host of problems. At Gab’s Auto Repair, we provide expert alternator replacement and auto electric repair in the greater Phoenix area. Here are five warning signs of alternator trouble. Battery Warning Light on the Dashboard Vehicles commonly have a battery warning light that may illuminate if there’s an issue with the electrical system, often tied to the alternator. Although this light is typically associated with battery problems, it can also signify an alternator issue. If this light comes on, it’s best to visit the shop for diagnostics. Dim or Flickering Lights Dim or flickering headlights and interior lights are often an early sign of alternator failure. When the alternator isn’t supplying enough power, it affects the brightness of these lights, especially when you’re running multiple electrical components. If you notice your lights dimming or flickering, it’s wise to get the alternator checked before the problem worsens. Electrical Accessory Malfunctions A failing alternator may cause your vehicle’s electrical systems to behave unpredictably. You might experience issues with power windows, radio, air conditioning, or dashboard indicators. Modern cars are packed with electronics, so if you start seeing odd behavior in any of these systems, it could indicate that the alternator isn’t providing adequate power, causing them to act erratically. Frequent Battery Problems A failing alternator can make it seem like the battery itself is the issue, as it’s unable to keep the battery properly charged. If you find yourself needing frequent jump-starts, or if a relatively new battery keeps dying, the alternator could be the true culprit. Strange Noises Unusual sounds coming from under the hood, such as grinding or whining noises, can also indicate alternator trouble. These sounds might occur due to an alternator bearing or belt issue. If you hear these noises, don’t ignore them—have the alternator inspected to prevent the issue from escalating. Alternator Replacement & Auto Electric Repair in Phoenix When you need auto repair in Phoenix and the surrounding area, contact Gab’s Auto Repair at  (602) 780-3118  . At our nearby auto shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment! And be sure to check out our current special offers !

When your engine starts to act up, addressing the issue quickly can help prevent more expensive repairs. Ignoring early signs of engine trouble could lead to catastrophic failure and leave you stranded on the road. At Gab’s Auto Repair, we provide expert engine repair in the greater Phoenix area. Here are five common signs of an engine problem. Check Engine Light Turns On The check engine light is often the first warning sign that something is wrong under the hood. While this light can indicate a wide range of issues—from a loose gas cap to a more serious engine problem—it's crucial not to ignore it. It’s important to bring your vehicle to the shop ASAP for diagnostics. Strange Noises An engine should generally run smoothly, without any unusual sounds. If you start to hear knocking, tapping, or grinding noises, it could signal problems with internal engine components. Knocking sounds, in particular, often point to worn-out bearings, which could eventually lead to engine failure if not addressed promptly. If you hear any unfamiliar noise, have the mechanic investigate right away. Discolored/Excessive Exhaust Smoke Your car's exhaust can tell you a lot about the health of your engine. If you notice excessive smoke coming from the tailpipe, it could be a sign of a serious issue. Different colors of smoke indicate different problems. Blue smoke usually means oil is burning, which could signal worn valve seals. White smoke could indicate a coolant leak, which may be a sign of a blown head gasket. Black smoke is often a sign that the engine is burning too much fuel. Decreased Performance There’s cause for concern if your engine feels sluggish, or you notice a significant drop in power, acceleration, or fuel-efficiency. Several issues could cause decreased engine performance, such as a clogged air filter, fuel delivery problems, or a faulty sensor. Don’t ignore these symptoms, as they could worsen and potentially leave you with a more costly repair. Unusual Smells Odd smells coming from your engine compartment are never a good sign. If you detect a burning odor, it could mean that oil is leaking onto hot engine parts. A sweet smell often indicates a coolant leak, while a gasoline smell could mean there's a fuel leak. Any strong, unusual smell coming from your car should be taken seriously, and you should have your engine checked as soon as possible. Engine Repair in Phoenix, AZ When you need auto repair in Phoenix and the surrounding area, contact Gab’s Auto Repair at  (602) 780-3118  . Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment! And be sure to check out our current special offers !