Boulder Auto Repair

As winter gives way to spring, potholes start appearing on roads across Colorado. These road hazards are more than just an annoyance—they can cause serious damage to your vehicle. From bent rims to alignment issues, hitting a pothole can leave you with unexpected repair bills. Here are some tips to help you protect your car from pothole damage and keep it running smoothly. 1. Check Your Tires Regularly Your tires are the first line of defense against pothole damage. To reduce the risk: Maintain proper tire pressure: Underinflated or overinflated tires are more prone to damage when hitting a pothole. Inspect tread depth: Worn tires are less effective at absorbing the impact, increasing the chances of damage. 2. Slow Down and Stay Alert Speeding over potholes increases the likelihood of damage. Instead: Drive cautiously, especially on roads you know are prone to potholes Avoid distractions and keep an eye on ... read more

Hey there, Boulder drivers! John here, your friendly neighborhood mechanic, ready to answer another common car question: How often should I get a wheel alignment? Generally, most vehicles should have their wheels aligned about once a year or every 10,000-12,000 miles. But, as with most car maintenance, the real answer depends on your driving habits and road conditions. When to Consider a Wheel Alignment If you frequently drive on Boulder’s winding mountain roads or hit the occasional pothole, your wheels may get misaligned more quickly. Off-roading in your Tacoma or tackling snowy trails on the way to Eldora? That’s another reason to check your alignment sooner! Here are a few signs it’s time for an alignment: Your car pulls to one side while driving. The steering wheel feels off-center. Uneven tread wear on your tires. You hear unusual vibrations while driving. Why Wheel Alignments Matter A proper wheel alig ... read more

Valentine’s Day is a perfect opportunity for a romantic road trip or a cozy escape to the mountains. Whether you’re planning a drive to Eldora for skiing, a scenic journey along Colorado’s winding roads, or a night out in Boulder, ensuring your vehicle is in top shape will help you focus on making memories instead of dealing with car troubles. 1. Check Fluid Levels Before heading out, take a moment to check your vehicle’s vital fluids: Oil: Clean oil ensures your engine runs smoothly and efficiently. Coolant: Proper coolant levels prevent your engine from overheating, especially on mountain climbs. Windshield washer fluid: A full reservoir of winter-grade fluid will keep your windshield clear from road spray and ice. For added protection and performance, consider our Premium ULTRA Oil Service, which includes BG MOA and BG 44K additives to keep your engine running like new ... read more

Your vehicle’s timing belt is one of its most essential components, yet it often goes unnoticed until something goes wrong. A failed timing belt can lead to serious engine damage and costly repairs. In this article, we’ll explain what the timing belt does, why regular replacement is crucial, and how to ensure your engine stays in top shape. What Does a Timing Belt Do? The timing belt ensures your engine’s valves and pistons work in perfect harmony. It synchronizes the rotation of the camshaft and crankshaft so that the engine’s cylinders fire at the right time. If the timing belt fails, this precise coordination is disrupted, leading to engine misfires or, worse, catastrophic damage. It’s important to note, however, that not all vehicles have a timing belt—some use a timing chain, which has different maintenance needs. Why You Might Not Notice a Failing Timing Belt One of the challenges with timing belts is that ... read more

If you’ve noticed that your Subaru’s oil level is dropping faster than expected or spotted some blue smoke from the tailpipe, you’re likely wondering, “Why is my Subaru burning oil?” As your trusted local mechanic here in Boulder, Colorado, we’re here to break it down. Common Reasons Subarus Burn Oil Subaru engines are known for their durability, but like any car, they can develop quirks over time. Here are a few common causes of oil burning in Subarus: 1. Worn Piston Rings or Cylinder Walls Piston rings seal the combustion chamber in your engine. If they wear out, oil can seep into the combustion chamber and burn alongside fuel. This is a frequent issue in higher-mileage vehicles. 2. Valve Seal Issues Valve seals keep oil from entering the engine's combustion chamber. If they deteriorate, oil may find its way into the chamber, resulting in oil loss and exhaust smoke. 3. PCV (Po ... read more