BEAR AUTO REPAIR

A tune-up used to be a routine service every car needed regularly. However, with today’s modern vehicles, the timing isn’t always as clear. Still, every vehicle benefits from scheduled maintenance and periodic tune-ups to keep the engine running smoothly, maintain fuel efficiency and prevent costly repairs. The key is knowing when it’s time. Warning Signs You Need a Tune-UpDifficulty starting: If your engine struggles to turn over or stalls right after starting, it could be a sign that your spark plugs, ignition system, or fuel system need attention. Poor fuel economy: A sudden drop in gas mileage often points to dirty filters, worn ... read more

An overheating engine is one of the most stressful problems a driver can face. If your temperature gauge is climbing into the red or steam is rising from under the hood, knowing how to respond can make the difference between a simple fix and major engine damage. Why Engines Overheat Engines typically overheat when the cooling system can’t keep temperatures under control. Common causes include low coolant, a leaking radiator, a stuck thermostat, a broken water pump or worn hoses and belts. Hot summer days, heavy traffic or towing can also put extra stress on your cooling system. What to Do If Your Engine OverheatsTurn off the A/C and turn ... read more

Your parking brake, also known as the emergency brake or handbrake, might seem like a backup system you rarely use. But when you need it to work on a steep incline, during a tow, or in the event of hydraulic brake failure, it has to do its job. If you've noticed that your parking brake doesn’t hold like it used to, it could point to one of several issues hiding beneath your vehicle. Ignoring a weak or nonfunctional parking brake is more than just an inconvenience. It can create a serious safety risk and lead to damage if your vehicle rolls unexpectedly. Let’s explore what might be going wrong and what to do about it. How the Parking Brake Works Unlike your main brake system, which relies on hydraulic fluid to activate calipers or wheel cylinders, the parking brake is mechanical. It typically uses a cable system connected to either the rear disc or drum brakes. When ... read more

As the leaves begin to change in Northern Delaware, fall is the perfect time to think about preventive maintenance for your vehicle. With summer heat behind us and winter weather on the horizon, scheduling service now ensures your car is ready for the road ahead. Recovering from Summer Stress Hot summer months can take a toll on your vehicle. High temperatures strain your cooling system, battery and tires. Fluids like oil, coolant and brake fluid may also break down faster in the heat. A fall inspection helps catch any wear or damage caused during summer driving before it becomes a bigger issue. Preparing for Colder Weather As temperatures drop, your vehicle faces new challenges. Cold weather can reduce battery power, thicken fluids and make starti ... read more

Spark plugs may be small, but they play one of the most important roles in your vehicle’s performance. Without them, your car’s engine simply wouldn’t run. Each spark plug creates the electrical spark that ignites the air-fuel mixture inside the engine’s cylinders. This controlled explosion generates the power that keeps your car moving. Spark Plug Problems When spark plugs are working properly, your engine starts quickly, runs smoothly and delivers the fuel efficiency and performance you expect. However, worn or faulty spark plugs can cause a variety of problems. Common signs include rough idling, misfires, sluggish acceleration, poor fuel economy or difficulty starting your car. In some cases, a failing spark plug can even trigger your check engine li ... read more