Columbia SC Auto Repair Pro on Choosing the Right Auto Repair Shop

Some auto repair shops have a better reputation than others.  You need make sure the repair shop you choose fits your needs.  For instance, not all auto repair shops have an ASE Certified Master Mechanic on staff.  Different auto shops will often provide different areas of expertise as well.  Here are some tips that should help you locate the right mechanic or car repair shop for you!

1. Go online – Check opinions and reviews!

Company websites are a great start.  Every business wants to highlight their reviews, especially if they’re great!  Independent auto repair review websites and customer opinion sites are other great sources in starting your search.  Print resources only give credentials and bullet points, but these days, you can locate scores of review sites offering valuable, honest opinions from verified actual customers.  Looking for a starting point? Try typing a shop’s name and city in quotations into the search bar.  For instance, try running a search on the terms “Sanford’s Automotive Service Columbia SC”.  The results that you get should bring a variety of places where we can be found online, plus several places you can go to read actual reviews from our customers.

2. Do not be afraid to ask questions.

You need to make sure that the shop you choose has experience with your particular make and model.  How do we determine this?  By calling and asking questions.  In addition to asking about your make and model, if you already know what specific repair you need, ask about their experience with that sort of repair too.  If a mechanic or the shop owner fails to sound confident in their abilities to fix your trouble or if they give a run-around type of answer, hang up and cross them off the list.   

3. Verify the mechanic or auto shop credentials!

Ask about the mechanic or the shop’s credentials.  A mechanic that has been certified and truly is qualified will not have a problem producing documentation of their credentials. Not every auto repair you get will need a Certified Master Mechanic, but when you are facing major repairs you definitely want the repair performed by an adequately qualified technician. 

4. Drop in for a visit.

Stop by and have a look around.  How do things look? Does the facility appear to be properly maintained and somewhat orderly?  No auto facility is going to be spotlessly clean, but you shouldn’t find it in a completely chaotic state either.  A quick look should give you enough to go on…if anything doesn’t look quite right, I’d suggest you move on.

5. The tools of the trade

What kind of equipment do they have? What about the tools they are they using? Did things look to be well maintained?  Does this auto repair shop utilize computer diagnostics?  If there do not appear to be updates and upgrades to meet current vehicles’ needs, you might decide to continue the search for the right auto repair shop for you.

6. What kind of guarantees do you get?

Every good mechanic will proudly stand behind the work they have performed.  Any reputable auto repair shop also offers a warranty of some sort on work performed at their shop.  Some of the auto parts that are being replaced may come with a manufacturer warranty. In addition to that, the auto repair shop itself should offer some type of guarantee on the installation or labor performed on your automobile.

7. If time allows, get estimates.

If you are able to, try to get multiple estimates on any repair job. Auto dealerships almost always charge much more than independent mechanics and stand alone auto repair shops.  To ensure you are not getting overcharged you should ask a variety of mechanics and repair shops for their price.  This also provides a chance to determine the customer service level of the shop and see the demeanor with which your questions and concerns are addressed. 

And the winner is…

Independent auto repair shops and mechanics commonly offer more customized service, handling every client as a priority.  Don’t just go with the best price or most convenient locale. Choose the mechanic or shop that you feel confidence in, one that gave you the feeling that they care about serving you and properly caring for your auto’s repair or other maintenance or auto service needs.  Customer satisfaction should always come first!

MORE Auto Problem Tips from the Best Columbia SC Auto Repair Pro

Car owners will face auto repairs.  It is a fact.  How do we know it is time for a repair? Often, it is when we’ve ended up broken down on the roadside or dashboard alerts are coming on.  Informed drivers are better prepared to handle these sorts of unexpected situations.

The Check Engine light came on, what do I do?

A Check Engine Light, sometimes called a Malfunction Indicator Lamp may come on for several reasons, ranging from simple stuff, like a loose gas cap or average spark plug issues, to more serious situations that will lead to costlier auto repairs. These types of issues can include things like emissions system problems, usually involving the Catalytic converter or EGR valve.

You will need the trouble code given by a computer scanning tool in order to determine the reason behind the Check Engine alert. Some autos may be able to be scanned at a local auto parts store, but some may require an auto to be taken into an auto repair shop with computer diagnostics to be checked.  With a fault code you are able to determine the issue and what will need to be done to correct it.

My A/C isn’t blowing cold air! What do I do?

If your A/C system isn’t creating cold enough air, you are probably dealing with a refrigerant issue. there are pressure gauges that you could use to check your refrigerant levels, but some cars may have to be taken to an auto care center that can add more refrigerant.  It is also advised that you have the A/C system checked by a professional to determine why you’re A/C system’s refrigerant level was low to start with.  A word to the wise: If you are dealing with a leak, adding more refrigerant will only temporarily fix the problem, if it is able to help at all.

I think I have a blown fuse.  Now what?

There are many fuses in a car, and nearly all can result in a headache.  Your fuses are vital to numerous electrical components within your auto. Some of these include your lights, dashboard lights, anti-lock brakes, defrosters, and even your locks!  A bad or faulty fuse can definitely cause an accident.   Fuse issues cannot be predicted nor can they be avoided. We advise that you carry an assortment of spare fuses in your vehicle.  A fuse puller also makes the job a little easier, but isn’t necessary.  Fuses are cheap and can be a real life saver.  Review your owner’s manual for particulars on the exact type and amp ratings you should have, as well as diagrams to the fuses’ locations and details on how to replace them. It is important that you only replace fuses with ones with the same amp rating.  If your fuse(s) continues to be blown repeatedly, contact an auto repair shop or mechanic to diagnose why.

What do I do if I have a flat tire or a blowout?

If you don’t know how to change a tire, having a blowout or flat can be serious business.  We always advise that you have someone teach you, just because it is the kind of thing every driver should know.  It is simple and you will definitely be glad you did when you need to put that spare on sometime.  You should also always be sure to check your spare tire.  A good spare gone flat can be very troublesome when you need it.  Other items you should have on hand when driving: a car jack, your tire iron and a can of Fix-A-Flat.  Fix-A-Flat can usually help a tire with a minor leak to get the few more miles it needs to get you off the road to safety.

Auto Problem Tips from the Best Columbia SC Auto Repair Pro

Auto repairs are an unfortunate necessity. 

Every auto owner faces unexpected breakdowns sometime.  While there are endless causes, here are some basic, commonly encountered auto repair issues you may experience. 

Battery Problems

A battery suffering from a low charge, no charge at all or one that is not able to hold a charge will leave you stuck.  Usually a set of jumper cables and a willing fellow motorist can remedy the immediate issue.  To be fully prepared, you may choose to purchase a road assistance device that can offer a jump start without another auto present. While the specific capabilities of the devices differ, most include a battery recharger.  It is ALWAYS advised that you keep jumper cables in your auto at all times.  Most issues arising from battery problems do not require a skilled mechanic or professional auto repair shop.

Overheating Engine

As temperatures go up, so do your odds of having your auto’s engine to overheat.  The usual causes of overheating: leaks or extremely low fluid levels, as well as defective cooling systems.  If you’re experiencing an overheating problem you should bring some extra water along in case of an emergency.  When the car overheats, wait for your entire engine to cool enough to safely touch before even raising the hood.  Once relatively cool you should raise the hood allowing excess heat to completely disperse.  Once cool enough to touch, open your water overflow tank or reservoir and check that the water levels are within the suggested markings.  For safety, always allow the engine to adequately cool before checking or adding any water or coolant to the cooling system.  If your auto is overheating, you need to locate a professional auto repair shop or mechanic to determine the reason and fix the issue before causing further damage. 

Engine Hesitation or Engine Surge

There are a multitude of issues that can lead to engine hesitation or surge.  Some of these may include a polluted air filter, or even hotter, more humid weather.  During extremely hot weather, particularly in rather humid conditions, some autos’ engines begin to struggle just to work properly.  Your vehicle must re-circulate exhaust gases coming through the engine in order to effectively reduce the exhaust emissions emitted into the air. Hotter, very humid weather can cause the exhaust flow to gather within the intake manifold affecting the auto’s drivability. It can also cause blockages, leading to the need for more significant auto repairs.

Alternator Failure

Your alternator is an essential part of your car.  Alternator failure will leave you sitting on the side of the road.  If you are having alternator problems, get it checked out and tested right away.  Signs of alternator problems might include a sluggish battery.  If the headlights and/or dashboard lights dim when the auto is idling, it is definitely pointing to alternator troubles. These warning signs should not be ignored. A mechanic or auto repair shop can help in quickly diagnosing and fixing the problem, avoiding the further complications or a breakdown. 

Mechanic’s Brake Repair Diagnosis – Auto Repair Tips from Columbia, SC

Your car’s brake system is of paramount importance to your car, truck or other automobile. If you do not recognize the warning signs of faulty brakes, you may find yourself in a dangerous or even fatal situation.

Brake Problems – What it May Sound Like

Brake repair is a serious issue.  If your brakes start emitting squeaking noises, it is time to have a closer look at your brakes. An even more alarming noise you might hear is a scraping or grinding sound. Grinding, scraping and squeaking noises usually indicate the need to find a mechanic or auto repair professional to inspect and probably perform some form of brake repair or brake component replacement.

Brake Problems – Other Warning Signs

There are many things you may notice happening with your auto that can indicate the presence of brake problems. Misaligned brakes can create vibrations in your steering. Misaligned or brakes that are improperly aligned could be a result of improper installation or it is possible that they have shifted by cause of an auto accident. If you continue driving with brakes that are improperly aligned, you are risking yourself and the other drivers sharing the road. A mechanic or auto repair shop can fix this or other brake problems, getting you back behind the wheel safely.

Changes in the feel of the brakes are also a big indicator of trouble. Brakes that are unresponsive, or have a spongy or soft feel to them when you slow or are stopping, point to problems located within the brake system. Brake problems left without proper repair result in larger, more complicated problems. To make certain your brake repairs are safely and properly completed, you should take your auto to a trusted mechanic or reputable auto repair facility. In the Columbia, SC metro area, Sanford’s Automotive Service is a great choice for all brake repair problems you may have!

What Does It All Mean?

When your car’s brakes start emitting worrisome noises or even worse, cause disruption to the proper function of the brake system, you likely need professional brake repair. Squeaking, scraping and grinding noises are often signs that the brake pads, and in some instances, the rotors, need to be replaced. Other signs of brake trouble can often be caused by worn, cracked or otherwise damaged brake linings. Sometimes these types of trouble can be a result of air in your brake lines. 

Because of the seriousness of brake problems and the importance of safety, all brake repairs should be handled by a well trained mechanic or auto repair shop experienced in brake repair. If you are particularly knowledgeable regarding auto repairs, and have adequate knowledge of the make and model of vehicle, brake repairs could be done yourself. NEVER drive with brake repairs unless you feel completely safe driving with a repair you have had done or completed yourself. 

You should always be confident that capable hands have performed your brake repairs because it could be a matter of life and death.

When the Car Won’t Start – No Spark, No Compression

There are few things as frustrating as getting into a car that won’t start.  Even more irritating is when your engine cranks and STILL will not start!  Before you hit an auto repair shop, let’s examine one issue you may be having. An educated auto owner is better equipped to understand and ask questions about what auto repairs their mechanic or auto repair shop technician advises. 

All engines require satisfactory fuel pressure, a precisely timed spark and regular compression.  If your vehicle’s engine cranks but doesn’t start, you are likely to be experiencing difficulty with one of these.

Engine Cranks – No Spark

Check the spark plug wires.  If they are cracked, wet, or burned it could be causing difficulty with the spark, creating a problem starting the car. Also check that the internal resistance does not exceed specifications, as this will cause the same problem.

You also need to examine the spark plugs.  When you remove the spark plugs, if they are wet they are either not firing or the engine is flooded.  If the plugs’ electrodes have been contaminated with deposits, this can allow the spark to ground before jumping the gap, causing the plugs to misfire.  This will make the vehicle hard to start and cause it to run poorly once started.

If there are cracks or carbon tracks on your rotor or inside the distributor cap, this can be causing problems.  Issues of this nature will allow your spark to short out to ground before ever reaching the spark plugs.

You may be dealing with a bad distributor pickup or faulty crankshaft position sensor. This is what sends the pulse signal to the ignition module or PCM.  Without this, there is no trigger for the ignition coils therefore, the car won’t start.

Another issue that you could have is a defective ignition module.  Since the ignition module is responsible for the firing of the ignition coils, a faulty one can create problems with starting and/or stalling. If you’re having a hard time starting the car, problems with sudden stalling, especially when the engine is hot, you may need to have the ignition module checked. 

Bad ignition coils can affect different autos in different ways.  Its purpose is to create a high voltage that fires your spark plugs.  On vehicles that have a distributor, a bad ignition coil prevents sparking at all of your spark plugs.  If you have a coil-on-plug or distributor-less ignition system, having a bad coil only affects one or two cylinders. While this can create some problems getting the car started, it will be able to run on the remaining cylinders once started.

Engine Cranks – No Compression

Take a look at the timing belt or chain.  A failure or breaking of the belt or chain keeps valves from opening.  Not only will the engine not run, you need to be sure that there are no other damages like bent valves that occurred due to the breakage.

When the engine starts but dies within a couple of minutes, you may have a plugged catalytic convertor.  When the catalytic convertor becomes obstructed, it creates restrictions that then cause your exhaust backpressure to accumulate.

If you have an overhead cam engine, check the camshaft.  If your engine overheats too badly it will warp the head, in turn seizing up the camshaft.  

As a Columbia, SC auto repair shop owner I want to inform drivers (and potential customers) about what their car troubles are and why they happen.  If you have car questions or need to schedule an auto repair or maintenance appointment in the greater Columbia, SC area, Sanford’s is happy to make you their newest loyal customer!