Our Auto Repair Blog

July 12, 2023
According to California law and EPA standards, gasoline-powered, hybrid, and alternative fuel vehicles model year 1976 and newer will require a smog check. There are a few exceptions to this rule. For example, if the vehicle is 8 model years or newer, the car doesn’t need a biennial smog check. If the car is fewer than four model years old, it will not require a change of ownership smog check. That means if you buy a new car, you won’t need to have a biennial smog check for eight years. For diesel-powered vehicles, if the vehicle is a 1998 model or newer and has a gross vehicle weight rating of 14,000 pounds or less, you’ll need to have a smog check performed on your vehicle.

April 12, 2023
The summer months can make for a miserable commute if your car’s AC isn’t working at its best. Noticing the signs that your vehicle AC has a leak early and getting it repaired right away can mean avoiding more costly and time-consuming repairs in the future. One of the most obvious signs of a problem with your vehicle’s AC system is when the system blows warm or hot air instead of cold. You could have a problem with the AC compressor if you hear a clicking sound when your AC is running. The compressor problem could be a result of low refrigerant levels caused by a leak, but there are other reasons for the same symptom. If your vehicle has one, a warning light on the dashboard can also point you toward a leak in the AC system.

January 12, 2023
Any oil leak can become a big problem for your engine. Even the smallest of leaks can sometimes expand while your vehicle is in operation, causing your engine to seize up. Such a catastrophic engine failure is not only going to be expensive to repair but should the failure happen while you’re driving, the seizure of the engine can contribute to a crash and the accompanying problems and repairs that result from a crash. The best thing you can do for your engine and peace of mind is to take your vehicle to Encinitas Foreign & Domestic Auto Repair in Encinitas, CA, for regular oil changes and engine inspections.