BEAR AUTO REPAIR

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 a ... 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 radiator ... 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 be ... 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 pr ... read more

Your car's suspension helps create a smoother ride for you and your passengers. When it starts to fail, it may seem like you are feeling every single bump on the road. In addition, having a healthy suspension is also a matter of safety. If the suspension isn't working correctly, the vehicle won't perform as well and may struggle with handling. Signs of Suspension Damage First, it helps to know some of the common signs of a failing suspension: • Car lurches forward when coming to a quick stop • Car leans back when you accelerate • Car pulls hard when making a tight corner • Car drifts to one side of the other when driving straight • Car is very bumpy (or vibrates a lot) while you drive These are common symptoms of suspension damage, but there could be other issues at hand such as ... read more