McFarland Auto Repair

When it comes to car maintenance, the topic of oil changes often sparks a lot of questions. We’ve all heard the advice to change your oil every 3,000 to 7,000 miles, but what if you don’t drive as much as the average person? If your car spends more time in the garage than on the road, you might wonder if these guidelines still apply. Understanding how often you should change your oil when you drive fewer miles is crucial for keeping your engine healthy and ensuring your vehicle runs smoothly for years to come. Why Time Matters As Much As Miles It’s easy to assume that less driving means less wear and tear on your engine, and while this is partially true, it doesn’t mean you can ignore oil changes altogether. The oil in your engine plays a critical role in lubricating moving parts, reducing friction, and preventing overheating. Over time ... read more

We've all been there - you slide into the driver's seat, turn the key, and... nothing happens. It's one of the most frustrating experiences, especially when you have places to be. But before you panic or call a tow truck, there are several things you can check to potentially solve the problem yourself.  The Basics of Why a Car Won't Start A car's failure to start can be attributed to various factors, from electrical issues to mechanical failures. Understanding the basics can help you pinpoint the problem faster. Common culprits include a dead battery, faulty starter, fuel system issues, or ignition problems. Recognizing the symptoms and knowing what to look for can save you time and money. Check the Battery First The most common reason a car won't start is a dead or weak battery. If your car makes a clicking noise when you turn t ... read more

When it comes to your car's health, electrical problems can be some of the most challenging and frustrating issues to deal with. Unlike a flat tire or an empty gas tank, electrical issues can be less obvious and more complex to diagnose. However, recognizing the signs early on can save you from unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs. Here are five key signs that your car might be experiencing electrical problems. 1. Trouble Starting the Car One of the most common signs of electrical issues is difficulty starting your vehicle. If you turn the key and hear a clicking sound, or if the engine takes longer than usual to turn over, it could indicate a problem with the battery, starter, or alternator. A dead or weak battery is often the culprit, but it's important to check the battery terminals for corrosion and ensure the connections are tight. Sometimes, the issue might be with the starter motor itself. If the starter motor fails, the engine won't crank at ... read more

You've just bought your dream car, and it's time to hit the road. But before you get too carried away, there are a few important steps to ensure your new vehicle stays in mint condition. Post-purchase maintenance and inspection might not sound as thrilling as a road trip, but they are essential for keeping your car running. Wondering what you need to do? Keep reading to find out! Initial Inspection The first thing you should do after purchasing your used car is to conduct a comprehensive inspection. While the dealership or previous owner might have assured you of its condition, an independent inspection can provide extra peace of mind. This step helps identify any potential issues that might have been overlooked. During this initial inspection, we check the engine, brakes, tires, fluid levels, and electrical systems. Ensuring these components are in good working order gives you confidence but sets a baseline for your car's future maintenance. Fl ... read more

Have you ever wondered about the inner workings of automatic transmissions? Specifically, do they utilize clutches like their manual counterparts? Let's unravel the mysteries behind automatic transmission technology. The Automatic Transmissions To comprehend whether automatic transmissions have clutches, we must first understand how they operate. Unlike manual transmissions, which require the driver to shift gears using a clutch pedal manually, automatic transmissions use a complex system of fluid coupling and planetary gear sets to change gears automatically. This eliminates the need for manual gear shifting, making driving more convenient and accessible to a wider range of drivers. The Role of Torque Converters At the heart of an automatic transmission lies the torque converter, a hydraulic coupling that replaces the clutch found in manual transmissions. The torque converter transfers power from the engine to the transmission input shaft, all ... read more