Best Auto Repair, Clovis

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8 Signs Your Car Needs a Professional Mechanic

Circle Automotive in Clovis CA Is Here To Help

Sometimes it's hard to know when your car just needs a break and when it needs a mechanic. If you notice any of the signs detailed below, it's important to have your vehicle inspected by a professional mechanic as soon as possible. By addressing problems early on, you can help to prevent more serious damage and costly repairs down the road.

1. Car Experiences Stalling

Is your car experiencing stalling issues? This situation isn't ideal and could indicate various problems, such as a malfunctioning fuel pump or ignition issues. These are concerns you'd rather not confront while driving. We do not recommend waiting to see if this issue will correct itself.

If you sense that your car is struggling to accelerate, regardless of how forcefully you press the gas pedal, it's advisable to pull over and request assistance immediately.

2. Trouble Steering

Has your steering wheel suddenly become harder to control? Are your turns less reliable or smooth? This often indicates a significant problem with steering components, such as low power steering fluid or another malfunction. Any issue affecting your ability to control the car requires immediate attention at an auto repair shop.

3. Fluid Leaks

If your vehicle is leaving behind puddles of liquid, it's a sign you should investigate further. Examine the liquid closely. Water is usually not a concern, often originating from air conditioning condensation.

However, liquids like oil, transmission fluid (red or brown), coolant (blue, yellow, green), power steering fluid, or brake fluid (thick but clear) warrant closer inspection. A leak in one of these vital systems is likely the culprit.

Visit Circle Automotive to fix the leak and replace the fluids before it worsens and affects your car's performance.

4. Worn Out Brakes

Brakes naturally wear down over time. If your brakes are losing their effectiveness and emitting strange noises, it's a sign they may need attention. Screeching or squealing sounds usually indicate worn-out brake pads requiring replacement.

Shaking or vibrating brakes can suggest various issues, from worn brake pads to brake fluid problems or alignment issues-problems best addressed by auto repair experts.

5. Alignment Issues

If you've noticed your car's ride has become notably less smooth in just a few months, it might be time for a trip to the auto shop. Don't fret over potentially costly repairs; a shaky or vibrating ride, especially at higher speeds, often stems from wheel or alignment issues.

Even after a proper wheel alignment, wheels can gradually shift, influenced by normal wear and tear or sudden incidents like accidents or unexpected bumps. Realignment is a straightforward procedure best handled by professionals who can swiftly address the issue.

6. Uncommon Engine Noise

Engines should run smoothly. While they may become noisier with age, sudden noises or difficulty in turning the engine should prompt a visit to the auto shop. Keep an ear out for any unexpected grinding, popping, or growling noises when your engine is idling.

7. Diagnostic Lights

This one can be a bit tricky. Modern vehicles come equipped with engine diagnostic or check engine lights, but they don't always signal a genuine problem. Some are programmed to illuminate after a certain mileage for a routine checkup. Occasionally, the car's computer module may malfunction and trigger the lights when nothing's wrong.

However, these lights also serve as valuable indicators that something within your engine might be amiss. Generally, if a diagnostic light accompanies other signs like poor performance or unusual noises, it's a good idea to visit Circle Automotive. If you're simply tired of looking at it, a quick check at the shop can confirm if there's an actual issue.

8. Unpleasant Exhaust

Surprisingly, exhaust issues can help diagnose serious auto problems. If you notice your exhaust suddenly becoming dirty, black, or emits foul odors, some part of the filtering system may be clogged or damaged. It's advisable to have a mechanic investigate, whether it's related to your catalytic converter or another unknown issue.

Stop by Circle Automotive located at 137 N Sunnyside Ave in Clovis, CA or call 559-325-9585 to talk to one of our friendly and professional technicians.

ASSOCIATIONS

  • ACDelco
  • ASE (Automotive Service Excellence)
  • Jasper
  • AAA Approved Auto Repair
  • ASE Master Technician
  • Car Care Aware

Testimonials

  • Chris helped me with my vehicle, and he was thorough, professional and very helpful! We highly recommend this business, as they have exceptional customer service!
    , 06/23/2022

  • We came in to have our car fixed and since then our car has ran well!
    , 07/21/2020

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    Blessed to have come upon this shop. My family and I were on a road trip from New York and our car broke down near Clovis at 8pm on Friday. Our Honda Odyssey couldn't take the hilly up and downs of the Cali hills. AAA towed us to this shop but since it was late we would have to wait till the morning to talk to anyone about the work. The shop says it's only open weekdays and Saturday by appt. So we decided we would come in the morning and possibly someone would be there working. We came back the next morning and John was there. He is a very generous and caring man. He decided to look at our car to see what's wrong and ended up helping us out. The day before, we already were thinking the road trip is down and out, and the super old car is dead. Everything was amazing, from the service to the conversations. Huge thank you to John!!
    , 07/20/2020

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    We've gone to Circle Automotive a few times, and each time we received excellent service with a friendly staff.

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    First time to use Circle Auto service, read reviews and chose to go there. I wasn't disappointed. Very good job, took care of my AC. Done in one day. Very happy. Will go there again if needed.

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    Very trustworthy and dedicated owners and mechanics. They are very fair in their pricing. They are also thoughtful about diagnostics and figuring out exactly what your car needs. They never offer things that you don't need. In fact, many times I have had other dealers and mechanics recommend services and then bring it to Circle Automotive for a 2nd opinion and have them tell me that they didn't think it was necessary. They have definitely earned my trust.