The auto mechanics and the rest of our team at Import Auto Specialists in San Diego love to educate our customers, and that’s why we write this blog. Any way that our auto repair team can provide you useful information, that’s exactly what we want to do. That’s also why we perform digital inspections and take the time to listen to you thoroughly and what you have to say about your car. Import Auto Specialists in San Diego offers a 3 year/36,000 mile parts and labor warranty on most repairs. We also have a 3 Year/36,000 Mile NAPA AutoCare Peace of Mind Warranty on parts and labor. To make your experience with us even better, when you bring your vehicle in for any major service or repair, you’ll drive away with a vehicle that has received a complimentary full-service! When you are ready for top-quality auto care, give us a call at 858-576-7186, or schedule an appointment today. We hope you enjoy our blog!

Category Archives: Blog

Why Does My Transmission Slip? Common Questions Answered

Why Does My Transmission Slip? Common Questions Answered

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

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Top 5 Tips for Maintaining Your Tires in San Diego

Top 5 Tips for Maintaining Your Tires in San Diego

When it comes to keeping your vehicle road-ready in San Diego’s unique driving conditions, tire maintenance is key. Properly maintained tires ensure safety, improve fuel efficiency, and save you money on costly repairs. Whether you’re cruising along the coast or navigating city streets, follow these top five tips to extend the life of your tires and enjoy a smoother ride. 1. Check Your Tire Pressure Regularly Keeping your tires inflated to the correct pressure is essential for safety and performance. In San Diego's warm climate, fluctuations in temperature can affect tire pressure. Use a reliable gauge to check your tire pressure at least once a month, and compare it to the manufacturer’s recommended PSI listed in your vehicle’s manual or door jamb. Why it matters: Proper inflation improves fuel efficiency and prevents uneven wear, saving you from unexpected blowouts or expensive replacements. 2. Rotate Your Tires Every 5,000 to 7,000 Miles Tire rotatio ... read more

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7 Signs Your Car's Transmission Is in Trouble

7 Signs Your Car's Transmission Is in Trouble

Your car’s transmission is one of the most critical components for smooth operation, and ignoring warning signs can lead to costly repairs. Here are 7 key signs that your transmission might be in trouble: 1. Delayed Gear Shifting If your car hesitates when shifting between gears, it may indicate a problem with the transmission fluid or a more serious internal issue. Delayed shifting often results in poor acceleration and reduced fuel efficiency. At Import Auto Specialists, we can perform a thorough diagnostic to identify the issue. 2. Grinding or Shaking A grinding sensation or noticeable shaking while shifting gears is a clear sign of a problem. Automatic transmissions should shift smoothly, and any roughness could mean worn-out components, such as gears or bearings. This is a critical issue that requires immediate attention from our expert technicians. 3. Fluid Leaks Transmission fluid is essential for cooling and lubricating the internal parts. If you notice red or brown ... read more

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10 Components to Inspect Regularly for Safe Driving

10 Components to Inspect Regularly for Safe Driving

Maintaining your vehicle's safety is essential for peace of mind on the road. Regular inspections of critical components help you avoid unexpected issues and costly repairs. In this blog, we’ll walk through the top 10 car components you should inspect regularly for safe driving and how Import Auto Specialists in San Diego can assist with these checks. Schedule your appointment today. 1. Tires Your tires are your car’s direct connection to the road. Checking tire tread depth and tire pressure is crucial to maintaining proper traction, especially in wet or slippery conditions. Driving on underinflated or overinflated tires can lead to uneven wear and reduce fuel efficiency. Regularly inspecting your tires for any signs of wear and tear ensures your vehicle handles well in various road conditions. At Import Auto Specialists, we can check your tire alignment and rotation to maximize your tire life. 2. Brakes Your brake sy ... read more

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Fuse Box vs. Circuit Breaker: Managing Electrical Flow in Your Vehicle

Fuse Box vs. Circuit Breaker: Managing Electrical Flow in Your Vehicle

Are you familiar with the differences between a fuse box and a circuit breaker? Understanding these two components is key for safe electrical management in your vehicle. A fuse box uses replaceable fuses to protect circuits from overload, while a circuit breaker can reset itself after a fault is cleared. In this blog, we’ll explore the pros and cons of each, when you might encounter them in your vehicle, and how Import Auto Specialists in San Diego can assist with all your electrical system needs. Schedule an appointment here. Fuse Box Basics Fuse boxes contain replaceable fuses, each designed to blow when electrical flow exceeds a safe level. While this effectively protects the system, blown fuses must be replaced after each overload, making this option less convenient for frequent or high-power users. When dealing with fuse issues, our experts at Import Auto Specialists will carefully inspect and replace your fuses to prevent f ... read more

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Cabin Air Filter vs. Engine Air Filter: Clearing the Air

Cabin Air Filter vs. Engine Air Filter: Clearing the Air

When it comes to maintaining your car's air quality and engine performance, understanding the difference between a cabin air filter and an engine air filter is crucial. Both filters play essential roles in your vehicle, but they serve very different purposes. Here’s a detailed look at what each filter does, their importance, and how to maintain them. What is a Cabin Air Filter? The cabin air filter is designed to filter the air that enters the passenger compartment of your vehicle. Its primary role is to ensure that the air inside your car is clean and free of pollutants. The cabin air filter traps dust, pollen, smog, and other airborne particles that can affect your health and comfort while driving. This is especially important for those with allergies or respiratory issues. By maintaining a clean cabin air filter, you ensure that the air you and your passengers breathe is as clean as possible. Over time, the cabin air filter can become clogged with dirt and debris, redu ... read more

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10 Common Dashboard Lights and What They Mean

10 Common Dashboard Lights and What They Mean

This blog will guide you through deciphering the ten most common dashboard lights and what they signify. By understanding these warning symbols, you can gain valuable insight into your car's health and take appropriate action to avoid potential problems.  Remember, early detection is key! 1. Check Engine Light (CEL) This universally dreaded symbol is often the first to cause panic. While it can indicate a severe issue, the CEL can also illuminate seemingly minor problems. Please don't ignore it! The CEL signifies a problem within the engine control system, which could be anything from a loose gas cap to a faulty sensor or malfunctioning component. It is best to get your car checked out by a qualified technician as soon as possible if you notice this light turning on, particularly if it does so in conjunction with rough idling, stalling, or strange noises. 2. Oil Pressure Warning Light This symbol, often resembling an oilcan, is a critical indicator. It means your engin ... read more

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Keeping Cool in California: Essential Seasonal Maintenance Tasks for Your Car

Keeping Cool in California: Essential Seasonal Maintenance Tasks for Your Car

Photo by Corey Agopian On Unsplash California's sunny climate is a delight, but it can strain your car's cooling system. Neglecting to keep your vehicle cool can lead to more than just discomfort—it can result in overheating and damage to your engine. In this blog, we'll provide an overview of your car's cooling system, break down the key components, and offer practical tips for maintaining its cool throughout the hot seasons. By understanding the potential consequences of neglect, we hope to motivate you to take action. Understanding Your Car's Cooling System Your car's cooling system is a complex network designed to remove excess heat from the engine. This system prevents your engine from overheating and ensures optimal performance. Here are the main components involved: Radiator The radiator is the cor ... read more

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Does a Dirty Car Air Filter Really Affect Your Health?

Does a Dirty Car Air Filter Really Affect Your Health?

When it comes to car maintenance, one of the most overlooked yet essential components is the air filter. At Import Auto Specialists in San Diego, California, we often get questions about the impact of a dirty air filter on both vehicle performance and personal health. One common concern is whether a dirty car air filter can exacerbate conditions like asthma. Let's dive into this topic and separate fact from fiction. What Does a Car Air Filter Do? A car air filter is designed to prevent harmful debris, dirt, and contaminants from entering your engine. It ensures that the air mixing with your fuel is clean, which is crucial for maintaining your engine's performance and longevity. Essentially, it's the car's first line of defense against environmental pollutants. Can a Dirty Air Filter Affect Your Health? The Myth There's a prevalent myth that a dirty car air filter can worsen asthma or other respiratory conditions for drivers and passengers. This concern arises f ... read more

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Fuel Efficiency FAQs: Maximizing Miles and Minimizing Costs

Fuel Efficiency FAQs: Maximizing Miles and Minimizing Costs

In today's world, where every dollar counts and environmental issues are at the forefront of our minds, fuel efficiency has become paramount for car owners everywhere. The quest for better fuel efficiency has taken center stage in the automotive industry, from reducing our carbon footprint to saving money on gas expenses. Over here, we've seen firsthand the impact that fuel efficiency can have on both vehicles and their owners. In this blog, we'll address some of the most common questions surrounding fuel efficiency to ensure you get the most possible out of every gallon of fuel. What factors affect fuel efficiency? The make and model of your vehicle don't solely determine fuel efficiency. Several factors come into play, including driving habits, vehicle maintenance, road conditions, and even weather.    Aggressive driving behaviors like rapid acceleration and excessive speeding can significantly reduce fuel efficiency. Likewise, neglecting routine ... read more

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