New Orleans Auto Repair

Have you ever noticed that driving at low speeds makes your steering wheel harder to turn? Maybe it’s when you're trying to park or make a slow turn, and suddenly, your steering feels stiff, and you have to put in extra effort. This issue can not only be frustrating but also unsafe if left unchecked. But why does it happen? Low Power Steering Fluid One of the most frequent causes of a stiff steering wheel at low speeds is low-power steering fluid. Your car’s power steering system relies on hydraulic pressure to make turning the wheel easier. This pressure is created by the power steering fluid circulating through the system. If there isn’t enough fluid, the hydraulic pressure drops, making the wheel harder to turn, especially when you’re driving at low speeds. If this is the issue, you may notice other symptoms, such as a whining noise when you turn the steering wheel. It’s a sign that air is getting into the system due to the low f ... read more

Tires are the only part of your car that makes direct contact with the road, which means they endure the most wear and tear. However, excessive tire wear can be a major headache. Not only can it lead to more frequent replacements, but it can also compromise your safety on the road. Understanding the factors that contribute to tire wear can help you prevent unnecessary damage and keep your vehicle running smoothly. Let’s explore six common issues that lead to excess tire wear and what you can do to avoid them. 1. Misaligned Wheels One of the leading causes of premature tire wear is wheel misalignment. When your wheels aren’t properly aligned, they don’t meet the road at the correct angle. This uneven contact with the road surface leads to excessive wear on specific parts of the tire, especially the edges. Misalignment is often caused by hitti ... read more

Did your engine suddenly stop dead? There was no warning, no strange noises—just silence. If this happens, there's a good chance your timing belt has snapped, and the consequences for your engine could be severe. But what exactly does a broken timing belt mean for your engine? Can it really cause irreparable damage? Let's look into the timing belts to understand their importance and what happens when they fail. The Role of the Timing Belt in Your Engine To explain the potential damage a broken timing belt can cause, it's essential first to understand what a timing belt does. The timing belt is a crucial component in your engine, responsible for synchronizing the movement of the camshaft and crankshaft. This synchronization ensures that the engine's valves open and close at the right time in coordination with the movement of the pistons. Essentially, the timing belt keeps your engine's components in perfect harmony, allowing it to run smoothl ... read more

Driving with a broken speedometer is riskier than you might think. While it may seem like a minor inconvenience, a malfunctioning speedometer can lead to significant safety hazards and legal issues. We'll explain why this seemingly small problem can have serious consequences. The Speedometer's Role A speedometer is more than just a dial on your dashboard - it's a critical safety feature. It provides real-time information about your vehicle's speed, allowing you to adjust your driving according to speed limits and road conditions. Without it, you lose the ability to accurately gauge how fast you're going, which can lead to unintentional speeding or driving too slowly, both of which can be dangerous. Legal Implications of a Faulty Speedometer Driving with a broken speedometer can quickly lead to legal troubles. Speed limits exist for a reason – to ensure the safety of all road users. Without a functioning speedometer, you mi ... read more

Few things are as frustrating as being stuck on the side of the road with steam billowing from under your car's hood. Engine overheating is a common issue that can lead to serious damage if not addressed promptly. But what causes engines to overheat in the first place? Understanding these causes can help you prevent such a scenario and keep your vehicle running smoothly. 1. Low Coolant Levels One of the primary reasons for engine overheating is low coolant levels. Coolant (or antifreeze) is essential for maintaining your engine's temperature. It circulates through the engine, absorbing heat and transferring it to the radiator, where it's cooled by air. Why It Happens Coolant levels can drop due to leaks in the cooling system, which worn-out hoses, a damaged radiator, or a faulty water pump can cause. Sometimes, neglecting regular maintenance, such as not checking the coolant level or not flushing the system as recommended, can lead to lo ... read more