Burbank Auto Repair

When your steering becomes harder to turn, especially at low speeds, it’s often a sign that your power steering system is under pressure—literally. In hydraulic systems, a drop in fluid level or pressure is usually the root cause. In electric systems, it may be a failing motor or sensor. Some of the most common culprits include: Low or leaking power steering fluid A worn or slipping serpentine belt Faulty power steering pump Problems with the electric power steering motor Clogged or restricted hoses If the issue started gradually, it might be due to fluid loss or wear. If it happened suddenly, it could be due to a snapped belt or electrical failure. Why Low Fluid Causes Stiff Steering In vehicles with hydraulic systems, fluid helps create the pressure that makes steering easier. If your car is low on fluid or if there’s a leak in the sys ... read more

Cold Starts and Car Batteries: What’s the Deal In Burbank, sunny skies and mild temperatures are typical for most of the year. However, when October arrives, chilly early mornings become more frequent. Though you might enjoy this refreshing change, your car battery may not be as enthusiastic. Early morning cold can notably affect its performance. If you've ever turned the key only to hear a sluggish crank or nothing at all, it could be a sign that your battery needs attention. Why Your Battery Struggles in Cold Weather   Car batteries generate the electrical charge required to start your vehicle through chemical reactions. However, when temperatures decrease, these reactions slow down, causing the battery to work harder to produce the same level of power. Even in Southern California, a shift from a warm afternoon to a chilly morning can strain an already struggling battery. When you factor in additional demands on your battery such as heaters, defrosters, and seat warm ... read more

Your car’s timing belt might be out of sight, but ignoring it can quickly turn into a real-life Halloween horror story. This critical component keeps your engine’s internal parts working in perfect sync. When it fails, the results are rarely minor. Bent valves, damaged pistons, or a completely ruined engine are all possible outcomes. Many drivers underestimate the importance of timing belt maintenance because it’s hidden beneath covers and doesn’t give obvious warning signs. Unfortunately, when a belt finally gives out, there’s rarely any room for quick fixes. That’s why understanding what it does, when to replace it, and what happens if you ignore it can save you from expensive nightmares. What the Timing Belt Actually Does Your timing belt is responsible for coordinating two essential parts of your engine: the crankshaft and the camshaft. The crankshaft moves the pistons up and down, while the camshaft controls the opening and c ... read more

Gearing Up for Fall in Burbank As September arrives and the California heat begins to subside, it's time for a shift in both seasons and your approach to car maintenance. While Burbank may not experience blizzards or intense storms typical of other regions during fall, this period still marks an important transition for your vehicle. The combination of summer road trips, high temperatures, and city traffic can impact its condition. Fall provides an ideal opportunity to reset, refresh, and get ready for the cooler months ahead. Imagine your vehicle as if it were your body after a long hike: in need of hydration, fresh air, and a proper stretch to maintain peak performance. This is where fluids, filters, and seasonal awareness play crucial roles. Your September checklist focuses less on urgent repairs and more on proactive maintenance, a guide designed to ensure smooth operation, efficiency, and peace of mind for the months ahead. Why September Is a Smart Month for Maintenance Nu ... read more

Seeing a dashboard light come on is never a welcome surprise, and the ABS warning is one of those signals that deserves your attention. While it doesn’t necessarily mean your brakes are failing, it does point to a problem within your vehicle’s Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). Understanding what the ABS light means, what can trigger it, and how to respond helps you stay safer and avoid more expensive repairs. Let’s take a closer look at what causes the ABS light to come on and what you should do about it. How The ABS Works Your ABS is a safety system designed to keep your wheels from locking up during hard or sudden braking. It uses sensors on each wheel to monitor speed, and when it detects rapid deceleration or potential lock-up, it adjusts brake pressure in milliseconds to help you maintain steering control. It’s especially important in wet, icy, or slippery conditions. When the ABS is working correctly, you’ll feel a pulsing sensatio ... read more