BEAR AUTO REPAIR

Wheel bearings are essential components of your vehicle's suspension system. They are responsible for allowing smooth and efficient wheel rotation while you drive and turn. However, like all mechanical parts, they can wear out over time. Recognizing the signs of a damaged wheel bearing early on is crucial to prevent further damage to your wheels, tires and suspension system. A damaged wheel bearing can also prevent a serious safety concern affecting the handling of your car. Here are 3 of the most common signs of wheel bearing damage, according to Fox Run Auto: Humming or Growling Noises One of the most common symptoms of a failing wheel bearing is a strange noise coming from the wheels. This noise often starts as a faint hum or growl and gradually becomes louder as the bearing deteriorates. The sound may increase when you turn the steering wheel, e ... read more

Maintaining your car doesn’t always require a trip to the mechanic. While some tasks should be left to the professionals, there are a few easy maintenance tasks you can handle on your own. These simple steps can help keep your vehicle running smoothly and save you money. 1. Check and Top Off Fluids Your car relies on various fluids to operate effectively, including engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and windshield washer fluid. Regularly checking these levels is crucial. For most fluids, simply open the hood, locate the reservoirs, and top off as needed. Just be sure to consult your owner’s manual for the correct types and levels. If you aren't 100% certain you are using the proper fluid, it is best to consult with your mechanic. 2. Replace Windshield Wipers Worn-out wipers can significantly impair your visibility in adverse weather. Fortunately, replacing them is a ... read more

It’s always nice to save a little money at the gas pump. If you notice that you are losing fuel economy and your car isn’t getting the best gas mileage, it may be a result of a specific automotive problem. Here are ten common automotive issues that can affect gas mileage: 1. Poor Tire Maintenance Under-inflated or worn-out tires create more rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Regularly checking and maintaining proper tire pressure can improve gas mileage by up to 3%. Wheel alignment can also affect your vehicle’s fuel economy. 2. Dirty Air Filters Air filters prevent debris from entering the engine. When they get clogged, airflow is restricted, causing the engine to burn more fuel. Replacing dirty air filters can improve fuel efficiency by up to 10%. 3. Fuel Injector Issues Fuel injectors spray fuel ... read more

Proper wheel alignment is essential for the performance and safety of your vehicle. For drivers in Northern Delaware, where varied terrain and seasonal weather can take a toll on your vehicle, regular alignment checks are crucial. Here are seven advantages of ensuring your wheels are properly aligned by a professional auto repair shop like Fox Run Auto. 1. Enhanced Fuel Efficiency Misaligned wheels can cause your vehicle to drag, leading to increased fuel consumption. Proper alignment ensures that your tires are working together. This decreases resistance and boosting your vehicle's fuel efficiency. Wheel alignment can result in significant savings over time. 2. Improved Handling and Safety When your wheels are aligned correctly is healthy, your vehicle handles better. It will be much easier to steer and control ... read more

At Fox Run Auto, we see many vehicles come into the shop with suspension damage. The suspension system is crucial for maintaining a smooth and stable ride, absorbing the impacts from road surfaces and keeping the tires in proper contact with the ground. Yet, many drivers overlook this system until they experience significant handling issues or uncomfortable rides. Let's delve into five of the most common causes of suspension damage that we encounter regularly. 1. Rough Roads Potholes and rough roads are the bane of any vehicle's suspension system. When you hit a pothole, speed bump or other challenging road conditions—especially at high speeds—the sudden jolts can damage components such as struts, shocks and control arms. These parts are designed to absorb minor road imperfections. However, severe impacts or extended driving on rough roads can lead to bends, cracks or ... read more