BEAR AUTO REPAIR

Whether you know much about cars or not, it's very easy to check your motor oil using the dipstick under your hood. If you don't know where to find it, consult your owner's manual for instructions. If you are good about getting your oil changes done when they are due, then there rarely should be an issue with the oil levels or quality. However, it's still worth taking a few minutes every few weeks or so to check the oil that's in the reservoir. It can tell you a lot about the health of the engine and it's just a smart thing to do if you care about your vehicle. Here are a few things to look for when checking your engine oil, according to the Northern Delaware auto repair experts at Fox Run Auto: Oil Level The first thing to look for is the oil level. The dipstick will have markers to show you the desired ... read more

Poor handling is a common automotive problem. Whether your vehicle is pulling hard to one side or the other, vibrating oddly while you drive or it just feels "loose" when making a tight turn, handling concerns can be a sign a different issues that you will want to get checked out. A professional mechanic will be able to diagnose the problem, recommend specific repairs and replace damaged components. When your car is handling poorly on straightaways or around corners, there are several common causes that could be in play. Here are a few of the most notable handling issues we see at Fox Run Auto: 1. Wheel Alignment Improper wheel alignment is the most common problem leading to poor handling. Over time, it's natural for the wheels to get out of alignment and eventually you will really notice it while driving. It's ... read more

Your vehicle has many important fluids that keep it running right. If you notice any fluid leak under your car, truck or SUV, it is certainly cause for concern. This is especially true if you notice any radiator coolant leaking.  How to Identify Radiator Fluid Radiator fluid (also known as coolant or antifreeze) is typically very easy to identify because it is bright greenish/yellow in color and any leaks will likely be noticed when you look under the hood or somewhere under the front of the vehicle. If you have a sports car or another vehicle with a rear-mounted engine and cooling system, then a radiator coolant leak would obviously be back there instead. Common Sources of Coolant Leaks Once a radiator fluid leak is identified, it's important to determine where the leak is coming from. Is it coming from the radiato ... read more

One of the most common transmission problems that you can encounter is a slipping transmission. This means that it is not shifting smoothly from gear to gear or that it is not staying fully in gear as you drive. This can be the sign of internal damage or it may just mean you are due for a standard transmission service to replace the transmission fluid, filter and pan gasket. As with any automotive problem, you will want to deal with it as soon as you can to hopefully avoid major repairs. The longer you put it off, the more likely the damage will compound and cost you even more to fix. That's why Fox Run Auto has put together this list of common "symptoms" to let you know that your transmission may be slipping: 1. Vehicle Feels Sluggish If the car feels very sluggish or is not accelerating as quickly as usual, it could ... read more

Sometimes, it's pretty obvious that you need new tires on your car or truck. Still, there are warning signs you can look for to let you know that one or more of the tires is ready to be replaced. Here are X signs, according to the auto repair and tire experts at Fox Run Auto in Bear, DE: 1. The Penny Test If the tires are really bald and almost devoid of tread, then you can plainly see that it's time for new ones. However, if you are not certain, you can always try the penny test. Take a penny and place it upside-down between the treads of each tire. If there is any space between the top of the tread and the top of Mr. Lincoln's head, then that means the treads are dangerously low. Ideally, you want at least some of Honest Abe's face covered up. 2. Not Holding Air Pressure Another sign that the tires are getting too old and worn out is if they aren't holding air p ... read more