Houston Auto Repair

Your car’s transmission is one of its most critical components, responsible for transferring power from the engine to the wheels, ensuring a smooth ride. However, when you start to experience rough shifting, it’s a sign that something might be wrong. Rough shifting can manifest in various ways, such as hard shifts, jerking, hesitation, or strange noises when changing gears. These issues can be alarming, but understanding the causes and solutions can help you address them before they escalate into more significant problems. Let's explore why you may have a rough shifting transmission and what steps you can take to fix it. 1. Low or Contaminated Transmission Fluid One of the most common reasons for rough shifting is low or dirty transmission fluid. The fluid lubricates the transmission and ensures smooth gear transitions. Over time, the fluid can become contaminated with dirt, debris, and metal shavings, reducing its effectiveness. Low fluid levels can ... read more

Few things are more frustrating than getting into your car, turning the key (or pressing the start button), and realizing it won't start. Whether you're heading to work or out for errands, a car that won’t start can ruin your day. The good news is that this issue is often caused by some common, easily identifiable problems. Understanding what might be wrong can help you decide whether you can address the issue yourself or if it’s time to call in professional help. Here’s a list of the most common reasons your car might not start and what to check for. 1. Dead Battery A dead battery is the number one reason why a car won’t start. Your car's battery powers the starter motor, ignition system, and fuel system. If the battery is dead, none of these components will work. Symptoms: The car won’t start, but the dashboard lights flicker, or you hear a clicking noise. You may notice dim headlights, slow wipers, or the radio won&rsq ... read more

Shocks and struts don’t have a specific expiration date. The lifespan of these components can vary significantly depending on factors such as driving habits, road conditions, and vehicle type. However, under normal driving conditions, most shocks and struts can last anywhere from 50,000 to 100,000 miles. Some high-performance or heavy-duty vehicles may require replacements sooner, while vehicles that are driven mainly on smooth highways may be able to go longer without a shock or strut replacement. Ultimately, it’s important to pay attention to your vehicle’s behavior and signs of wear. Factors That Affect the Lifespan of Shocks and Struts While the typical range is 50,000 to 100,000 miles, several factors can shorten or extend the life of your shocks and struts: Driving Conditions: Regular driving on rough, uneven terrain will put more strain on your suspension system, causing shocks and struts to wear out faster. If you frequent ... read more