San Diego Auto Repair

Wheel alignment and tire balance sound similar, but they solve very different problems. One sets the angles your wheels point and lean, which determines how the car tracks and how the tires wear. The other evens out the weight around each tire and wheel assembly so it spins smoothly at speed. Knowing which service you need saves time and money. Alignment vs. Balance in Plain Terms Alignment adjusts the chassis geometry so the wheels point in the correct direction and sit at the correct tilt. Balance adds or moves small weights so each tire and wheel spins without a hop or shake. Alignment changes how the car drives and how the tires wear over thousands of miles. Balance changes how smooth it feels today on the freeway. Symptoms You Can Feel From the Driver’s Seat Use these quick cues to narrow it down: Likely Alignment The steering wheel sits off center on a straight road, the car drifts left or right, you see feathered edg ... read more

Every car makes noise. But not all noises are normal, and some can be a warning sign of bigger problems under the hood. Whether it’s a high-pitched squeal, a grinding sound when you brake, or a mysterious rattle that shows up at every red light, strange vehicle noises can be unsettling. At Import Auto Specialists in San Diego, we’ve diagnosed thousands of unusual sounds from European and Asian vehicles since 1996. While some noises may be harmless, others could be signs of critical issues that need immediate attention. This guide will walk you through the most common types of car noises, what they might mean, and when to get them checked out by a pro.   1. Squealing When You Start the Engine What it might be: Worn or loose serpentine belt. If you hear a loud squeal right after starting your car, especially on a cold morning. It’s often due to a loose or worn serpentine belt. This belt powers several key systems, including the alternator, power steering, and ... read more