San Diego Auto Repair

Your brakes are one of the most critical safety systems in your car, allowing you to stop quickly and maintain control in traffic. But if you’ve ever had a brake inspection, you may have noticed that your brake pads need replacing far more often than the rotors. Why does this happen? The Role of Brake Pads and Rotors Your braking system relies on friction to bring your vehicle to a stop. When you press the brake pedal, hydraulic pressure forces the brake pads against the rotors, creating the resistance needed to slow down. Brake pads are made of high-friction materials designed to wear down over time, while rotors, typically made of metal, provide a stable surface for that friction. Since the brake pads are designed to be the first point of contact and absorb the brunt of the force, they naturally wear out faster than the rotors. Their softer material ensures they grip the rotors effectively but also means they degrade with each stop. Heat and Frictio ... read more

Have you ever been driving in San Diego and noticed your car struggling to shift gears smoothly? That unsettling sensation, often referred to as "transmission slipping," can leave you wondering what’s going on under the hood. At Import Auto Specialists, we understand how confusing and frustrating transmission issues can be. That’s why we’re here to answer your most common questions about slipping transmissions, what causes them, and what you can do to prevent them. What Is Transmission Slipping? Transmission slipping happens when your car’s transmission can’t maintain the connection between the engine and wheels, causing it to lose power or struggle to shift gears. You might notice symptoms like delayed acceleration, unusual noises, or a high engine RPM even though your car isn’t speeding up. Why it matters: Ignoring transmission slipping can lead to bigger problems down the road, including complete transmission failure—a costly rep ... read more