Auto Repair Specialist Blog

Planning a summer road trip from San Rafael? Before you hit the road, it’s smart to give your car a little extra attention. Hot weather and long drives can push your vehicle harder than usual, so doing some key maintenance now can save you from breakdowns later. For maintenance services in San Rafael, CA, don’t delay a visit to Auto Repair Specialist . Check Your Fluids Start with the basics: oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, and windshield washer fluid. These play vital roles in keeping your engine cool, your brakes responsive, and your visibility clear. If it’s been a while since your last oil change or coolant flush, now’s the time to handle it. San Rafael’s summer temperatures may not be extreme, but long drives can still cause engines to overheat if fluids are low or dirty. Inspect Tires and Tire Pressure Your tires are literally where the rubber meets the road, so give them a careful look. Uneven tread, cracking sidewalls, or low pressure can all be red flags. Hot pavement can increase tire pressure, so make sure they’re properly inflated; check your vehicle manual for the ideal PSI. Also, don’t forget to inspect your spare tire and ensure your jack is in working condition. Test the Battery Warm weather can shorten battery life, especially if it’s already a few years old. Have your battery tested to make sure it’s holding a charge. If your car’s been slow to start or you’ve noticed dim lights, a new battery might be in order before you head out. Air Conditioning and Filters Nothing kills the summer road trip vibe like a broken AC. Make sure your air conditioning is blowing cold and that your cabin and engine air filters are clean. Replacing a dirty filter can improve airflow and fuel efficiency. Lights, Wipers, and Brakes Check your headlights, brake lights, and turn signals, and replace any burnt-out bulbs. Wiper blades should be in good shape, too, in case you hit a sudden rainstorm. And of course, listen for any squealing or grinding from your brakes—if something sounds off, get it checked. Auto Maintenance in San Rafael To maximize the performance and reliability of your car or truck, it is important to keep up with preventive maintenance services. Auto Repair Specialist is a dealer alternative for auto maintenance in San Rafael, meaning we can complete any factory services required by your car or truck, even those necessary to keep its new car warranty valid. The next time your car is due for service, skip the expensive dealership and come see for fast and fair-priced car care. Call us at  (415) 612-3933  to schedule an appointment .

When the temperatures start climbing in San Rafael, it’s not just your AC that feels the pressure, your tires do too. While summer is great for road trips and coastal drives, the heat can seriously impact your vehicle’s rubber. Understanding how hot weather affects your tires can help you stay safe and avoid a sudden roadside surprise. When you need tire repair or replacement in San Rafael, CA, don’t delay a visit to Auto Repair Specialist. Heat + Pressure = Risk As the temperature rises, so does the air pressure in your tires. For every 10°F increase in temperature, your tire pressure can go up by about 1 PSI (pound per square inch). Overinflated tires have less contact with the road, which can lead to reduced traction, uneven wear, and potential blowouts. Driving on hot asphalt only makes matters worse, especially if your tires are already a bit worn. Tread Wear Accelerates San Rafael summers aren’t usually extreme, but even moderate heat can speed up tire degradation. The rubber compounds in your tires begin to soften, making them more susceptible to wear and tear. If your tread is already low, the heat can worsen the situation quickly, affecting your stopping distance and control. Keep an Eye on Pressure It’s smart to check your tire pressure more frequently in the summer. Ideally, do it when the tires are cool, such as before you drive in the morning. Make sure they match the manufacturer’s recommended PSI, not what the tire says on the sidewall. Also, don’t forget the spare! Don't Skip Tire Maintenance Rotate your tires regularly, get alignments when needed, and inspect for cracking, bulges, or uneven wear. A quick stop at our local auto shop in San Rafael could save you a lot of hassle down the road. Tire Services in San Rafael Auto Repair Specialist offers new and used tires in San Rafael for all types of vehicles from name brands that you know and trust, such as Cooper, Hankook, Michelin, and Toyo. We also offer many tire services, such as flat tire repair, tire balancing, and tire rotation. Don't put off fixing or replacing tires when necessary, as healthy tires are key to safe and reliable driving. Give us a call at  (415) 612-3933  when it’s time for a new set of tires.