BEAR AUTO REPAIR

Did your "check engine" light come on recently? It's something that no driver ever wants to see. Sometimes, it can be the sign of bad news. In other cases, it's really no big deal. So, how do you know what the check engine light represents and what should you do about it? Those are the key questions we will answer in this article. What Trips the Check Engine Light? The check engine light can actually illumination for a number of different reasons. It is kind of a "catch all" warning attached to various sensors throughout the vehicle. It can be letting you know you have low oil, a dying battery, a failing oxygen sensor, a transmission issue, an exhaust/emissions system issue, a cooling system issue, a fuel system issue or, of course, an engine problem. In some cases, it may just be that your fuel tank cap or cover isn ... read more

If you notice any fluids leaking from under your car or truck, you should be concerned. Some fluid leaks may seem like no big deal at first, and they may not be early on. However, leaking fluid could lead to major problems if left ignored. You may not have enough healthy fluids running through vital automotive systems like the engine, transmission or cooling system. This can cause parts to seize up or fail, which could lead to major damage that will be expensive to repair. What Do Automotive Fluids Do? Different automotive fluids perform different functions throughout your vehicle. You have engine oil, transmission fluid, radiator coolant, A/C coolant, windshield wiper fluid, brake fluid and fuel. Some provide lubrication. Others provide cooling properties. Some are hydraulic fluids. And some perform multiple important functions within their particular automotive system. For example, a transmission fluid leak could lead to significant internal transmission dama ... read more

Valentine's Day is just around the corner. Hearts and flowers are everywhere you look as you prepare to celebrate the day with your special someone. Most of us feel a special connection to our cars, as well. And, if you really think about it, the engine is like the heart of your car. It is what drives everything and allows you to get to your destination.  Show Your Vehicle Some Love This Valentine's Day, it's time to show your car's engine a little love. Keep it healthy with the necessary maintenance and consider getting repairs taken care of if something is wrong with your vehicle—engine or otherwise. Oil Changes A healthy engine always starts with clean oil running through the system. Motor oil provides vital lubrication and cooling properties. The more you drive, the more your oil starts to degrade. It can lose viscosity, become dirty/contam ... read more

Many people assume a car's cooling system is only there to help keep the car from overheating. That is true, but it also helps regulate the running temperature throughout the year. Your vehicle's cooling system still plays a large part in engine health and performance during the colder winter months.  You'll want to take care of your car's cooling system all year round. Now may be a good time for maintenance and a system tune-up. You will also want to look out for warning signs of cooling system problems during the winter season. Here are 5 cooling system maintenance tips you can follow this winter: 1. Take Care of Plastic and Rubber Components Your cooling system features a network of belts, hoses and seals made up of rubber and plastic materials that can easily freeze or degrade when the weather is really cold. Ice, salt and moisture from the roa ... read more

The winter season is almost here in Northern Delaware. The temperatures are dropping fast and cold weather is ahead. It's always smart to think about car maintenance when the seasons change, especially this time of year. Obviously, the most important preventative maintenance step you can take is to change your oil. Whether you do it yourself or have a professional service your vehicle, now is a good time to get your oil changed before things get even colder outside. Here are 3 helpful tips for anyone thinking about getting an oil change this winter: 1. Don't Wait Too Long It's usually best to get your oil changed before the coldest weather starts to set in. This is especially true if you are already due for an oil change anyway. Old oil can cause damage within your engine, and your engine is already getting more stress s ... read more