Miramar Transmission

5 Common Signs Your Car Needs a Checkup From a Mechanic

If you consult a mechanic when you suspect that something might be wrong, you could end up saving thousands of dollars down the road. Here are 5 common signs your car needs a checkup:

1.Oil Light

The oil light indicator is the most obvious sign that your car needs service. Because the oil light is relatively commonplace, car owners have a tendency to delay getting their cars checked out. This a mistake that can result in more severe damage later on.

2.Unusual Noises

If you notice any strange, unfamiliar noises while you’re driving, you should stop driving as soon as possible. Unlike a check engine light or oil light, clunking noises often indicate more serious damage that requires immediate action.

3.Check Engine Light

Like the oil light indicator, drivers tend to be confused by what exactly the check engine light means. This is not surprising, because the light can indicate a wide variety of issues, including a loose fuel cap, transmission problems, or unusually high emission levels.

4.Difficulty Starting Your Car

If you turn the key in the ignition and your car is slow to start, chances are your battery is low on power and will need to be replaced. In the more serious case, a slow-starting car can also indicate a broken alternator. Taking your car to the mechanic as soon as possible could save you a lot of trouble of being stranded later on.

5.Squeaking Brakes

While some brake noise is normal, if you notice any unusual squeaking it is critical that you consult your mechanic as soon as possible. Loud squeaking can be caused by problematic brake rotors or worn-down brake pads.

If you live in the San Diego area and think your car needs a checkup, visit Miramar Transmission or give us a call at (858) 457-3777.

Do You Know How to Tell If your Clutch is Slipping?

Recognizable signs of problems with a slipping clutch are lag when accelerating, leaks, and burnt fluid. A slipping clutch can cause serious trouble on the road.  Check out this video to learn more about a slipping clutch.

This video explains how to recognize if you’re experiencing a slipping clutch. The presenter describes the feeling of a slipping clutch and the sounds that it might make. A car that revs in higher gears but never actually accelerates most likely has a slipping clutch.

If your clutch is slipping or if you have any other transmission or clutch problems, then you should call Miramar Transmission at (888) 789-4786 and set up an inspection today. We have over 20 years of experience of general car repair and maintenance in San Diego.

Do You Have Your Roadside Emergency Kit Ready?

You never know when you might experience a transmission problem that can leave you stranded on the road. That’s why it’s smart to have a roadside emergency kit in your vehicle. Watch this video to learn how to build your kit.

First, make sure that you have jumper cables in the event of a dead battery. Instead of a flare, make sure you have an LED light source; they are battery-operated and water resistant. Some tools for basic repairs, and some survival supplies should also be included.

If your car is ever in need of affordable car repair or service in San Diego, be sure to come over to Miramar Transmission. Call us at (888) 789-4786 if you need any assistance.

Vital Car Services Every Owner Should be Familiar With

Basic service for your car is more involved than just a regular tire rotation and oil change. To find out more about some of the most important services for your car, and how often you should get them done, continue reading:

Timing Belt Replacement

The timing belt in your car keeps all of the components of your car’s engine in sync. Therefore, it’s a good idea to replace your car’s timing belt before it fails. The effective life of a timing belt is usually four years or 60,000-100,000 miles. If you are careful not to exceed the lifespan of the timing belt and seek preventive maintenance from an expert, you can avoid catastrophic damage on the road.

Transmission Fluid Change

This service is just as important as an oil change. Transmission fluid works to lubricate your transmission and keep it cool. If you have an automatic transmission, you’ll need a special kind of fluid, so be sure that you get the right kind.

Water Pump Replacement

Your water pump is responsible for preventing your engine from overheating. If your engine has recently overheated, it could be because you need fresh engine coolant, or even a new water pump. Be sure to visit your local repair shop for a diagnostic test if you suspect that your car’s water pump is in danger of failing.

Spark Plug Replacement

This is a quick and easy service that should be done roughly every 30,000 miles. Replacing your spark plugs ensures that your engine will run efficiently and provide the power that your engine requires.

If you think that your car might need any of these services, come to Miramar Transmission for a diagnostic check-up. We have been offering high-quality, cost-effective services and repairs in the San Diego area for over 20 years. Call us at (888) 789-4786 for more information.

Common Problems that Can Afflict High-Mileage Vehicles

When you drive a high-mileage vehicle in San Diego, it’s a good idea to be aware of some of the common issues that high-mileage vehicles are likely to encounter in case you need to take it in to a repair shop. Your needs may vary based on the age of your car and how you use it, but many cars will experience similar problems. Here are a few of the most common issues for high-mileage cars:

Used-Up Consumable Components

Many people in San Diego and around the world forget to take care of the maintenance basics. These basics include regularly replacing your tires, your air and fuel filter, brakes, and other components as they begin to wear. By ignoring preventive maintenance, you put your car at risk for serious damage.

Worn Transmission

A worn transmission is one of biggest problems that high-mileage vehicles encounter. Grinding and slipping during acceleration are signs of this type of problem, which can be avoided with responsible driving and regular fluid checks. Transmission replacement is an expensive process, so it is wise to take good care of your car so that the transmission lasts for as long as possible.

Broken Clutch

Especially if you have a manual transmission car, your high-mileage vehicle is likely to need a clutch replacement at some point. Just as is the case with an older transmission, it is a good idea to seek regular maintenance and small repairs to prolong the life of your clutch.

Bring your high-mileage vehicle into Miramar Transmissions today for a quick, informative diagnostic test. We offer discounts to students, seniors, and members of the military. Call us at (888) 789-4786 today for more information about our services.