Boulder Auto Repair

When winter hits Boulder, many drivers find themselves dealing with a frustrating problem: a dead car battery. Cold weather is hard on car batteries, which is why they often fail just when you need them most. Understanding why this happens, and what you can do to prevent it, could save you from getting stranded on a freezing morning. Here’s what you need to know to keep your car running smoothly all winter long. Why Do Car Batteries Die in Winter?1. Cold Temperatures Slow Down Chemical Reactions  Car batteries rely on chemical reactions to produce power. When temperatures drop, these reactions slow down, meaning the battery can’t produce as much power. This is why a battery that seemed fine in the summer might suddenly struggle in the winter. 2. Engines Need More Power to Start in Cold Weather Cold weather thickens engine oil, making it harder for the engine to turn over. This requires more power from the battery ... read more

If you're hearing a ticking noise from your Chevrolet Suburban’s engine, you're not alone. This is a common issue that can stem from various causes. Some are simple fixes, while others might require more in-depth repairs. Let’s break down the potential reasons behind that ticking sound and when it might be time to get your Suburban checked out. Common Causes of Engine Ticking in a Suburban1. Low Oil Level or Oil Pressure    One of the most common causes of ticking sounds in engines is low oil. Oil lubricates the engine's moving parts, and if it's low, those parts can start to rub against each other, causing a ticking noise. It’s also possible that the oil pressure is too low to properly lubricate everything. Regular oil changes help prevent this issue, but if you're hearing a ticking noise, it's a good idea to check your oil level or schedule an inspection. 2. Lifter Tick   ... read more

Why Your Brake Warning Light Is On and What to Do About It Seeing a warning light on your dashboard can be stressful, especially when it’s the brake warning light. But don’t panic—here are a few common reasons your brake light might be on and what you should do about it. What Could Cause the Brake Light to Come On? Low Brake Fluid: Your brake system relies on fluid to work, and if the fluid level is low, the brake light will come on. Low fluid can be a sign of worn brake pads or a leak in the system, both of which need to be addressed immediately. Worn Brake Pads: Some cars have sensors that trigger the brake light when the pads are worn down to a certain level. If your pads are nearing the end of their life, this light may be warning you that it’s time for a replacement. Parking Brake Engaged: Sometimes the simplest explanation is the correct one. Double-check that your parking brake is fully disengaged. If the light is still on, you likely have a more ser ... read more

The rear lift gate of a Subaru Outback is a feature most drivers rely on every day, making it a real hassle when it suddenly stops working. If you’re having issues with your Outback’s lift gate, you’re not alone. Here's a look at some common problems and possible solutions. 1. Battery Problems The rear lift gate in newer Subaru Outbacks is powered by electricity, which means it relies on the car’s battery to function. If your battery is weak or drained, the lift gate might not open or close properly. Try checking the battery level and connections first. Pro Tip: If your lift gate is slow to respond or doesn't open at all, it might be time to inspect or replace your car's battery. 2. Liftgate Motor or Actuator Failure The motor or actuator responsible for opening and closing the lift gate can wear out over time. If you hear a clicking noise but the lift gate doesn’t move, the motor or actuator could be t ... read more

Your car’s brake system relies on more than just brake pads and rotors. Brake fluid is a crucial part of the system that helps your car stop safely, yet it often goes unnoticed. Keeping your brake fluid fresh can prevent costly repairs and ensure your brakes work properly when you need them most. Why Brake Fluid Matters: Brake fluid is hydraulic fluid, which means it transfers the force from your foot on the brake pedal to the brakes themselves. Over time, brake fluid can absorb moisture from the air, which reduces its effectiveness. Moisture in brake fluid can lead to: Corrosion: Water in the brake fluid can cause rust and corrosion in your brake lines, calipers, and other components. This can lead to leaks or even brake failure if left unchecked. Decreased Performance: Moisture reduces the fluid’s boiling point, causing it to vaporize under heavy braking, especially in Colorado’s mountainous areas. This is known as “brake fade” and can make it hard ... read more