BEAR AUTO REPAIR

One of the most dreaded moments for any driver is seeing the check engine light suddenly appear on the dashboard. But what does it really mean? While it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, the check engine light is simply your car’s way of communicating that something is wrong. The actual issue could range from minor to serious. Understanding what the light indicates is the first step toward resolving the problem. Automotive Diagnostics Modern vehicles are equipped with an onboard diagnostic system (OBD-II) that monitors various components of your car. When something isn't functioning correctly, the system triggers the check engine light and stores a diagnostic trouble code (DTC). These codes can point to issues with anything from the engine and transmission to the exhaust system or fuel system. What Can Trip the Check Engine Light? Common causes of a check engine light in ... read more

Exhaust smoke can reveal a lot about your car's health. Some smoke may be normal, especially in cold weather. However, certain colors of exhaust smoke can indicate underlying issues that shouldn’t be ignored. Here’s what different exhaust smoke colors might mean for your car: White Smoke Thin, white smoke during start-up is usually harmless. It is caused by condensation in the exhaust. However, thick white smoke could signal a problem. If it continues while driving, it might indicate a coolant leak, a blown head gasket, cracked cylinder head or damaged engine block. You may see steam coming from your engine compartment and/or white smoke coming from your exhaust. These are serious cooling system issues that can lead to engine failure if left untreated. Blue or Gray Smoke Blue or gray smoke means your engine is burning oil. This cou ... read more

The engine air filter plays a crucial role in maintaining your car’s overall performance and efficiency. It traps dirt, dust and debris. It prevents these contaminants from entering the engine and causing damage. Having a clean air filter will help ensure proper airflow, which helps your engine burn fuel efficiently. This will improve performance, prolong engine life and reduce emissions. Signs of Dirty or Damaged Air Filters Here are some of the common signs that you have a damaged or dirty air filter: Reduced Fuel Efficiency One of the most common signs of a dirty air filter is a noticeable drop in gas mileage. When your engine isn’t getting enough air, it compensates by burning more fuel. This ultimately will reduce fuel economy. U ... read more

Maintaining proper tire air pressure is crucial for both your safety as a driver and the longevity of your tires. Properly inflated tires improve fuel efficiency, enhance vehicle handling and reduce the risk of blowouts or uneven tire wear. Here's why checking and maintaining the right air pressure is essential, along with some tips on how to do it effectively. Why Tire Air Pressure Matters Tires that are underinflated or overinflated can cause a variety of issues. Underinflated tires create more surface contact with the road, leading to increased friction. This will wear down the tire tread faster, while also reducing fuel efficiency. On the other hand, overinflated tires have less surface contact with the road. This may make the ride harsher and decrease the tire's ability to safely grip the road, especially in wet conditions. Tips fo ... read more

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