Jerry's Auto Repair Blog
Ignoring early signs of engine trouble can result in more extensive damage, costly repairs, or even complete engine failure. To avoid major headaches down the road, it's important to recognize and address engine problems as soon as they arise. At Jerry’s Auto Repair, our local ASE-certified mechanics provide expert engine repair in the greater Grandview, MO area. Here’s a look at four common engine issues that should be resolved ASAP. Overheating If your temperature gauge starts to climb or you notice steam coming from under the hood, pull over as soon as you safely can. An overheating engine can be caused by a malfunctioning thermostat, a broken water pump, a coolant leak, or a clogged radiator. If not fixed quickly, high engine temperatures can warp internal components, destroy gaskets, and even crack the engine block. Knocking Sounds Hearing a knocking or pinging sound from your engine is a red flag that something is off internally. Engine knocking is often the result of improper combustion. If left unresolved, this symptom might lead to serious damage to vital engine parts. Addressing it early can help you avoid a costly rebuild or replacement. Oil Leaks Finding oil spots under your car or noticing a burning oil smell while driving can indicate a leak somewhere in the engine. Low oil levels can lead to poor lubrication, causing the engine to overheat or seize. Regularly checking your oil and having leaks repaired quickly will keep your engine running smoothly and help extend its lifespan. Check Engine Light When the check engine light illuminates on your dashboard, it’s easy to ignore if the car seems to be running fine. However, this light is your vehicle’s way of telling you that something isn’t right. It could be triggered by issues ranging from a loose gas cap to a serious engine malfunction. A diagnostic scan at the shop can pinpoint the issue and help you resolve it before it turns into a more expensive problem. Engine Repair in Grandview, MO When you need auto repair in Grandview, MO and the surrounding area, contact Jerry’s Auto Repair at (816) 722-2344 . At our local auto shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!
Your car’s shocks play a crucial role in maintaining stability, comfort, and control while driving. They help absorb bumps and keep your tires in firm contact with the road. But as they age, shocks wear out and can no longer perform effectively, which can lead to handling issues and safety concerns. At Jerry’s Auto Repair, we provide expert suspension repair in the greater Grandview, MO area. Here are four signs that it’s time to replace your shocks. Excessive Bouncing Over Bumps One of the most noticeable signs of worn-out shocks is excessive bouncing after hitting a bump or pothole. When shocks are in good condition, they quickly absorb impacts and stabilize the vehicle. However, if your car continues to bounce several times after passing over rough terrain, it means the shocks are no longer effectively dampening the movement. Nose Diving When Braking When shocks wear out, they lose their ability to properly distribute weight during braking. If you notice that your car’s front end dips forward dramatically when you apply the brakes, it’s a clear sign that your shocks are no longer functioning effectively. This issue can increase stopping distances, making it harder to brake quickly in an emergency. Replacing the shocks can restore proper weight balance and improve braking performance. Uneven Tire Wear Worn shocks can lead to uneven tire wear, which shortens tire lifespan and can affect overall vehicle safety. When shocks can’t keep the tires properly in contact with the road, certain areas of the tread wear down faster than others. If you notice patches of excessive wear on your tires, your shocks may be the culprit. Replacing them will help maintain even tire wear and improve overall driving performance. Fluid Leaks on the Shocks Shock absorbers contain hydraulic fluid that helps dampen road vibrations. If you see fluid leaking from your shocks, it’s a sign that the internal seals have worn out, causing a loss of effectiveness. Leaking shocks can no longer provide proper dampening, leading to reduced ride comfort and control. If you spot fluid leaks near the suspension area, it’s a strong indication that your shocks need to be replaced. Suspension Repair in Grandview, MO For auto repair in Grandview, MO and the surrounding area, contact Jerry’s Auto Repair at (816) 722-2344 . At our local auto shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!
Your vehicle’s transmission relies on fluid to function properly by lubricating components, preventing overheating, and enabling smooth gear shifts. A transmission fluid leak can quickly lead to severe damage if left unchecked, resulting in costly repairs or even complete transmission failure. At Jerry’s Auto Repair, we provide expert transmission fluid leak repair in the greater Grandview, MO area. Here are four signs that your transmission may be leaking fluid. Visible Fluid Leaks Under Your Vehicle One of the most obvious indications of a transmission fluid leak is the presence of a puddle under your vehicle. Transmission fluid is usually red when new but can darken over time. If you notice a reddish fluid collecting beneath your car, it is a strong sign of a transmission fluid leak. Addressing leaks promptly is crucial to preventing low fluid levels that can cause transmission damage. Slipping Gears or Delayed Shifting If your vehicle hesitates when shifting gears or feels like it is slipping out of gear, you may be dealing with low transmission fluid levels due to a leak. Transmission fluid allows smooth gear transitions, and when there isn’t enough, shifting can become rough, delayed, or inconsistent. You may also notice that your vehicle revs unusually high before changing gears, signaling that the transmission isn’t operating efficiently. Ignoring this warning sign can lead to further wear. A Burning Smell While Driving A burning odor coming from your vehicle is a serious warning sign that your transmission fluid is low or overheating due to a leak. Transmission fluid not only lubricates internal parts, but also helps dissipate heat. When fluid levels drop too low, friction between components increases, leading to overheating and a noticeable burning smell. If you detect this odor, it’s essential to have the mechanic check for leaks immediately. Strange Noises When Shifting Gears A properly functioning transmission should operate quietly and smoothly. If you hear whining, grinding, or clunking noises when shifting gears, it could be a sign of low transmission fluid caused by a leak. Fluid shortages increase friction within the transmission, potentially leading to these sounds. Ignoring these noises can result in extensive damage and expensive repairs. Transmission Repair in Grandview, MO When you need auto repair in Grandview, MO and the surrounding area, contact Jerry’s Auto Repair at (816) 722-2344 . At our local auto shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!
