Tucson Auto Repair

A squeak that your brakes make when you first drive your car in the morning could be the result of moisture and/or dirt that collects on the rotors, including from condensation caused by high humidity. Under these circumstances the squeak should go away after a short period of driving and applying the brakes a few times. Simple. If you notice that the noise is not going away or you hear nonstop squeaking while you’re driving, the cause may be more serious and should be checked out right away by a trusted auto shop like One Stop Automotive to avoid higher repair costs. Nonstop squealing while you drive is probably the sound of the brake pad wear indicator (squealer) letting you know it’s time for new brakes. When the braking material on the brake pads gets too thin, the "squealers" rub on the brake rotors. This makes the squealing or squeaking noise that you hear. Some cars have electronic brake pad wear sensors, but most have the squealers. Duri ... read more

Keep Your Tires Properly Inflated To keep your tires from unnecessary wear and tear and even blow-outs, it is very important to keep them properly inflated. Properly inflated tires can also help with your gas mileage. When tires are filled to specifications, they also run cooler, reducing the possibility of a blowout. You should always keep a good quality tire gauge in your vehicle. You can get a cheap one, but they tend to break after a few uses.  It is best to check tire pressure before you drive anywhere so the tires are cool. This is the required method because tires heat up as you drive, which will keep you from getting an accurate reading.  There is a sticker inside the driver’s door jamb that gives tire size and pressure information. Use this guide when checking tire pressures.  Take of the valve stem caps and press the tire gauge to the valve stem. This will give you the tire’s pressure. If it’s low, add some air. If it’s high, let som ... read more

Thinking Of Buying A New Car? So You’ve had your car for a few years and feel like you want to upgrade. That's understandable. I think we all experience that same feeling at some point. Maybe your family size has changed, and it’s time to get a larger or smaller vehicle. Do you want a compact car or a SUV? Maybe you saved a little money and want a muscle car. Whatever reason, purchasing a new car is a big investment and for many people and it may represent a financial decision that will impact the next several years of a person's life. Most people buy their cars at a dealership, and if you do, here are a few tips for your test drive. Listen, listen, listen. You should be listening for ANY unusual noises. Don’t let a salesman blow off your concerns. Always follow your first instinct. When you are sitting in the vehicle at the dealership, test everything. Heated and power seats, power mirrors, sun visor lights...etc. If there is a tire pressure sensor (TPMS) ... read more

THE POWER OF A PROPER TUNE UP We get several phone calls each week asking for an estimate for a tune up, but never asked what's included. Tune-up pricing can vary from shop to shop, usually based upon what work will be done. Manufacturers recommend tune-ups at different mileage. With newer vehicles, the mileage is less frequent because the dealerships want to make it appear that your new vehicle will require less maintenance. It's all just smoke and mirrors to sell more cars. A vehicle that is kept properly tuned will perform better, run and idle better, get better fuel economy, and release less pollutants. This will help save you money.  A regular tune-up is like a medical exam, and is pretty much the same way your Doctor keeps you healthy by making sure you are in great shape.  Vehicles can also vary on how many parts need to be replaced based upon the year, make, and model. Some newer cars and trucks may only need the spark plugs replaced, where ... read more

HVAC Maintenance In Tucson we have absolutely perfect weather for a few months of the year. The remaining months are either too hot to drive around with the windows up, or too cold to have them rolled down. That's why proper maintenance of your HVAC (Heating, Ventilation And Air Conditioning) is crucial in our climate.  Whew, how many of us have been stuck in the Arizona heat with no A/C? Its brutal to say the least. The very least, LOL! Driving around when its 34 degrees out is no fun either. Its hard to see with the windshield all fogged up. Driving around with the HVAC not working, in any kind of weather can cause unneeded discomfort, tension and anxiety.  A properly maintained HVAC system allows you to travel in relative comfort by helping you and your passengers from either overheating or shivering to death.     Have you ever gone out to your vehicle in the morning and the doors are frozen shut? I have, that's why the last vehicle I bought has ... read more