Boulder Auto Repair

Looking for an auto repair shop is a lot like suddenly needing a dentist. You don’t think about it until you’re in pain (in the form of a toothache or the inability to get to work), there’s a lot of urgency and you don’t know where to begin or what questions to ask.   Many people in this position focus on one criteria … price. Unfortunately that strategy is prone to failure, as there are a few unscrupulous mechanics (and dentists) out there who give the lowest price up front because either they’re not completely competent or they will load on the costs later.    At John’s Auto Care, we strive to empower our customers with the information they need to make good decisions about their vehicle, so we’ve put together a list of questions we think you should ask a mechanic (or us) before entrusting them with your car.   1) What do you charge to figure out my problem? While some car issues are easy to identify, often t ... read more

  Wouldn’t it be great if you knew to replace your car's battery before your vehicle refuses to start? Which seems to always be at the most inconvenient time. Well you can, when you know to look for these 6 common signs that your battery may be approaching the end of its life.   1. Age of the Battery The average lifespan of a car battery is typically around 3 to 5 years. If your battery is approaching or has surpassed this age range, it's a good idea to proactively consider a replacement. Aging batteries may not hold a charge as effectively, increasing the risk of being stranded with a dead battery.   2. Slow Engine Crank When you turn the key in the ignition, and the engine cranks slowly, it's a sign that your battery is losing its capacity. A healthy battery provides the necessary power to start the engine promptly. If you notice a sluggish crank, it's time to have your battery tested or replaced.   3. Frequent Jump Starts If you fi ... read more

  That dreaded moment when your vehicle's check engine light comes on can be quite a cause for concern. For many drivers, the sight of that ominous light prompts a series of questions: What’s wrong with my car? Is a breakdown imminent? Can I keep driving it? In this article, we'll delve into the reasons behind the check engine light activation and explore what to do when it does.   Understanding the Check Engine Light The check engine light is a part of your car's onboard diagnostics system (OBD-II) designed to monitor and identify issues related to the vehicle's engine, transmission, or emission control systems. When a problem is detected, the light is triggered to alert the driver that something requires attention.   Some Common Reasons Your Check Engine Light Comes On Faulty Oxygen Sensor  Oxygen sensors monitor the level of oxygen in the exhaust gasses. A malfunctioning sensor can lead to reduced fuel efficiency and increased emissi ... read more

  When a car won’t start, it’s common to jump to the conclusion that the battery is bad. But the battery is far from the only thing that will prevent a car from starting. Often the culprit is the alternator.    The alternator plays a crucial role in your vehicle’s charging system. It is responsible for charging the battery and powering the electrical systems while the engine is running. A malfunctioning alternator can lead to various issues. So how do you know if it’s the alternator that’s at fault? Here are some of the most common signs and what to do about it:     Dimming Headlights and Electrical Issues One of the most common signs of a failing alternator is dimming headlights. If you notice your headlights becoming noticeably dimmer while driving, it could be a clear indicator that the alternator is not generating enough power. Additionally, you might experience flickering dashboard lights or other electrical anomalies ... read more

We've all been there – you hop in your car, turn the key, and nothing happens. The frustration sets in as you ponder, "Why won't my car start?" A non-starting car can be a perplexing issue, but fear not, as we delve into some common reasons behind this problem and explore potential solutions. 1. Dead Battery One of the most frequent culprits for a non-starting car is a dead battery. Over time, batteries wear out, lose charge, or may be drained due to lights left on. Signs that you may have a worn out battery: Slow engine cranking Dim interior lights and/or headlights Illuminated check battery or check engine light   Solution: Jump-start your car using jumper cables and a functioning vehicle, and bring it to a trusted auto repair shop to diagnose. Although a worn out battery is one of the most common reasons a car won’t start, without properly diagnosing your charging system, you may be spending money needlessly replacing a perfectly goo ... read more