Corpus Christi Auto Repair

Most drivers don’t spend much time thinking about engine or transmission mounts—until something feels off. These mounts are essential, helping secure the engine and transmission while dampening vibration. When they start to wear out, you will notice strange noises, rougher rides, or even shifting issues. We’ll walk through the signs that your mounts may need attention and why it’s important not to ignore them. What Engine and Transmission Mounts Do Mounts are small but vital components that secure the engine and transmission to the vehicle’s frame. They’re usually made of rubber and metal, designed to absorb vibrations and keep movement to a minimum. Without healthy mounts, the engine and transmission would shift excessively, leading to extra wear and potentially serious mechanical issues. Most vehicles have several mounts strategically placed to balance and stabilize the powertrain. Common Symptoms of Worn or Broken Moun ... read more

You engage the parking brake, shift into gear, and instead of staying put, the car inches forward. It’s a small movement, but enough to make you question whether the brake is doing its job. The parking brake is designed to hold your vehicle in place—if it doesn’t, there’s likely a problem. This kind of issue tends to show up in older cars or ones that haven’t had the brake system serviced in a while. Knowing what’s causing it can help you avoid more serious (and expensive) trouble down the line. How the Parking Brake Is Supposed to Work The parking brake is a separate system from your regular hydraulic brakes. It’s usually cable-operated (in traditional setups) or electronic in newer vehicles, and it engages the rear brakes to prevent your car from rolling when parked. When you pull the lever or press the brake button, the system tightens those rear brakes mechanically. It’s not designed to stop your car while moving b ... read more

Your transmission is what keeps your car moving, shifting gears, and delivering power to the wheels. When it starts to fail, performance issues can quickly follow, making driving unsafe and leading to expensive repairs. Catching the warning signs early can help you avoid a complete transmission failure and keep your car running reliably. Here’s what to watch for. 1. Slipping Gears If your car unexpectedly slips out of gear or struggles to stay in gear, it’s a clear sign of a transmission issue. Slipping gears often feel like a sudden loss of power, where the engine revs, but the car doesn’t accelerate as expected. This can happen while driving, especially under acceleration or when going uphill. Low transmission fluid, worn-out clutch components, or internal wear and tear can cause gear slipping. This issue can make your car unpredictable on the road, which is why it should be checked immediately to prevent further damage. 2. Delayed or Ro ... read more

The catalytic converter plays an important role in your vehicle’s emissions system, helping to reduce harmful pollutants before they exit the exhaust. Over time, however, it can become clogged due to carbon buildup, contamination, or general wear and tear. When this happens, it can negatively impact your car’s performance, fuel efficiency, and overall drivability. Recognizing the warning signs of a failing catalytic converter can save you from costly repairs and help maintain your car’s health. Loss of Engine Power One of the first symptoms of a clogged catalytic converter is a noticeable drop in engine power. If your car struggles to accelerate, especially when going uphill or merging onto the highway, it could be due to restricted exhaust flow. A clogged converter creates excessive back pressure, preventing the engine from breathing properly. This lack of proper airflow forces your engine to work harder, leading to sluggish acceleration and reduce ... read more

Your car’s brake system is the most critical safety feature. Every time you hit the brakes, a series of components work together to bring your vehicle to a stop. But have you ever wondered how all these parts function in harmony? Understanding the basics can help you recognize when something isn’t working properly and when to seek professional help. How Do Brakes Work Before looking into the components, let’s touch on how brakes operate. When you press the brake pedal, a force is transmitted through a hydraulic system that activates the brakes at each wheel. This system transforms your physical input into the stopping power needed to slow or halt the vehicle, ensuring control and safety on the road. The Core Components of a Brake System A car’s brake system is made up of several interconnected parts, each playing a crucial role. Here are ... read more