BEAR AUTO REPAIR

Most of the time, you probably don’t pay much attention to what comes out of your vehicle’s exhaust. But if you suddenly notice thick or unusually colored smoke, your car may be giving you an important clue about what’s happening under the hood. The color of the exhaust can help narrow down the potential problem, although a professional diagnosis is the best way to determine the actual cause. White Exhaust Smoke A small amount of thin white vapor when you first start your car can be completely normal, particularly on a cool morning. This is typically condensation in the exhaust system and should disappear as the vehicle warms up. Persistent, thick white smoke is different. It may indicate that coolant is entering the combustion chamber. Possible causes include a damaged head gasket or another internal ... read more

When you receive an estimate for thousands of dollars in vehicle repairs, it can be difficult to know what to do next. Some repairs may be urgent, while others can safely wait. If you’re unsure about a recommendation from a dealership or another repair facility you don't fully trust, getting a second professional opinion can help you make a more informed decision. A recent Fox Run Autocustomer, Tom, experienced exactly that situation: “These guys are the best!" Tom says. "The dealership wanted me to have over $6,000 in repairs done. I took it to them and they went through each one and said what should be fixed now, what was absolutely not wrong, and what they will keep an eye on to see if it needs to be done next oil change." A long repair estimate doesn’t necessarily mean every recommended service has the same priority. An experienced technician c ... read more

Your car’s air conditioning should make the cabin more comfortable, not fill it with an unpleasant odor. If you notice a musty or stale smell when you turn on the A/C, it could indicate a problem within the HVAC system that deserves attention. Moisture Inside the A/C System Your air conditioning system naturally creates condensation as it removes moisture from the air. Normally, that water drains underneath the vehicle. However, moisture can sometimes remain inside the HVAC system, creating an environment where mold, mildew and bacteria can develop. The result may be a musty odor coming through the vents. A Dirty Cabin Air Filter Your cabin air filter captures dust, pollen and other contaminants before they enter the passenger compartment. Over time, the filter can become dirty or damp. Instead of helping keep the ... read more

You might assume that a vehicle sitting unused for several weeks is avoiding wear and tear. In reality, cars are designed to be driven regularly, and extended inactivity can create its own set of problems. Whether you've been traveling, working from home or simply haven't needed a second vehicle lately, here are some issues to watch for when it's time to drive again. A Weak or Dead Battery Your vehicle continues using small amounts of electricity even when it's parked. Security systems, computers and other electronics create a gradual drain on the battery. If the battery is older or already weak, several weeks without driving may leave you with a vehicle that won't start. Tire Pressure and Flat SpotsTires naturally lose air over time. When a vehicle remains in the same position for weeks, the weigh ... read more

Oil changes are one of the simplest services a vehicle needs, but the correct interval is not the same for every car. Many newer vehicles can travel farther between services than older ones, especially when they use full synthetic oil. Even so, following a generic 3,000-mile rule or stretching every oil change as far as possible can both be the wrong approach. The best interval comes from the vehicle manufacturer, then gets adjusted for how the car is actually driven. Short trips, heavy traffic, towing, long periods of idling, extreme temperatures, and turbocharged engines can place additional stress on the oil. A professional oil change also allows the technician to notice developing problems while the vehicle is in the shop. Start With the Manufacturer’s Oil Change Interval Your owner’s manual or maintenance information should be the first place to look. Some vehicles call for service around 5,000 miles, while others may allow 7,500, 10,000 miles, or a ... read more