Gilbert Auto Repair

Imagine gliding down a winding road, the gentle hum of your tires on the pavement, and the feeling of effortless control as your car gracefully navigates each curve. Behind this harmonious experience is a marvel of engineering - your vehicle's suspension system. It's the hero lurking in the shadows that ensures your ride remains comfortable and your tires stay firmly planted on the road.  Join us on a journey through the intricate web of shocks, struts, and everything else that makes your suspension system work as well as it does. The Key Components of a Suspension System and Their FunctionsSprings Springs are the backbone of your suspension system. They absorb shocks and bumps, maintaining tire contact with the road. Coil springs and leaf springs are common types used in vehicles. Shock Absorbers (Dampers) Shock absorbers, often simply called shocks, work in tandem with springs to control the rebound and oscillatio ... read more

Although often overlooked, axles are crucial components that play a significant role in the proper functioning of your vehicle. Responsible for transferring power from the engine to the wheels, axles ensure a smooth and controlled ride. Understanding their importance and recognizing signs of potential issues can save you from costly repairs and ensure your safety on the road. The Role of Axles Axles serve as the link between your vehicle's wheels and its transmission. They bear the vehicle's weight, absorb road shocks, and deliver torque from the engine to the wheels, allowing your car to move forward. In essence, axles are the backbone that supports your vehicle's movement and stability. Signs You Need Axle Repairs Unusual Noises: A clicking or clunking noise when turning, accelerating, or braking could indicate worn or damaged axles. This could be a sign of failing CV (constant velocity) joints, which connect the axle to the wheels. Vibratio ... read more

Ah, the sweet relief of a cool breeze on a hot summer day as you turn on your car's air conditioning. But what happens when that refreshing blast of cool air turns into a feeble puff or, worse, warm air? It's undoubtedly an annoying experience. However, fear not; Spectrum Car Care in Gilbert, AZ is here to shed light on the mysterious world of auto A/C problems and guide you through the process of diagnosing them. Lack of Cooling Power: If you're feeling underwhelmed by the cooling power of your A/C system, the culprit could be a refrigerant leak. Insufficient refrigerant levels can result in reduced cooling performance. Another possible cause is a malfunctioning compressor, which is responsible for compressing the refrigerant and circulating it through the system. In either case, it's essential to have a professional technician inspect and repair the issue. No Airflow or Weak Airflow: If your A/C system isn't producing any airflow or if the airflow is weak, seve ... read more

When summer comes around, it's time to enjoy the outdoors in your car. However, the scorching heat of summer can cause damage to your vehicle, affecting its overall performance. But not to worry. Below are five measures to protect your car from the heat. 5 Ways to Protect Your Car This Summer The summer's heat can take a toll on your car, affecting its performance. However, you can protect your car from the heat this season with the following measures. Park Smartly Ensure you leave your car under a shade to reduce the heat absorbed. If you cannot access covered parking areas, such as garages or carports, you may have to consider using a windshield sunshade. Protect the Interior Investing in a car cover or window shade can shield your car from direct sunlight. You can go to the extent of getting dashboard covers and seat covers to help keep the cabin cooler. Maintain Fluid Levels Another critical point is to ensure the car ... read more

The water pump in your car is an essential component of the engine's cooling system. It is responsible for circulating coolant or antifreeze through the engine to stop it from overheating. However, like all car components, the water pump is subject to wear and tear and may eventually require replacement.  What Does a Water Pump Do As mentioned earlier, a water pump circulates coolant through the engine to regulate the temperature. It is driven by the engine's crankshaft and typically has a pulley on the front. The impeller, which is located inside the water pump, rotates and moves the coolant through the engine's cooling passages. How to Tell If the Water Pump Needs to Be Replaced One of the most common indicators is coolant leaking from the water pump itself. A puddle of coolant under your car could indicate a damaged or worn-out water pump. Another sign to look out for is a high-pitched whine coming from the engine. This audible cue could be caused by a malfunct ... read more

In the past few decades, there have been significant changes in automotive technology, including the refrigerants used in air conditioning (A/C) systems. The traditional refrigerant, R-12, was phased out due to its harmful environmental effects. Its replacement, R-134a, has been used for over two decades, but now a newer refrigerant, 1234YF, is being used in newer car models. What Is The Difference Between New Refrigerants Versus Old Refrigerants? Firstly, the primary difference is the environmental impact. Old refrigerants like R-12 and R-134a are known to contribute to ozone depletion and global warming. In contrast, 1234YF is classified as a has a much lower global warming potential. Secondly, the performance of the refrigerants is different. R-12 and R-134a are known to be very efficient at cooling but are not as energy efficient as 1234YF. Therefore, cars with 1234YF systems can have better fuel efficiency and emit fewer greenhouse gases. Thirdly, the cost of refrigerants als ... read more

Auto air conditioning is vital to a vehicle, especially for those in Gilbert, AZ, where the temperatures are high year-round. A/C helps keep the interior cool and comfortable and improves the air quality inside the car. However, like all other car parts, the auto air conditioning system requires regular maintenance and occasional repairs to keep it functioning at its best. Some vehicle owners may be tempted to try and fix A/C issues themselves or go to a cheap, unlicensed mechanic. However, there are many reasons why auto A/C service and repair should be left to professionals. Expertise One of the most important reasons to trust professional auto mechanics with A/C service and repair is their expertise. Auto technicians undergo extensive training and certification to learn about the complex workings of different car systems, including A/C systems. For instance, the team at Spectrum Car Care in Gilbert, AZ, has all the knowledge and skills to identify and diagnose A/C issues and provi ... read more

Spring break is a popular time for road trips, vacations, and adventures, and it is important to make sure your vehicle is in good condition before embarking on your journey. Many people overlook the importance of having their vehicle checked before a long trip, which can lead to unwanted breakdowns and delays. At our Gilbert auto service shop, we recommend that you have your vehicle checked before your spring break trip to ensure the safety and reliability of your car. Here are some reasons why you should have your vehicle checked: Prevent breakdowns: A breakdown on a long trip can be frustrating, costly, and potentially dangerous. A pre-trip vehicle check can help identify potential issues and prevent unexpected breakdowns. Save money: Repairing a vehicle on the road can be expensive, especially if you are far from home. Identifying and fixing problems before your trip can save you money in the long run. Ensure safety: A pre-trip vehicle check can identify potential safety issues ... read more

Nowadays, cars come in all shapes and sizes, a variety of engine options, or if we are talking about EVs, a lack of them. For those who want to save a little bit on gas but still want a powerful and futuristic vehicle - hybrid vehicles are the answer, The hybrid market is full of makes and models, but if you are looking for help deciding, you're at the right place. Spacious And Family Friendly Looking for a family-friend hybrid that doesn't sacrifice any space? We have two recommendations: the 2020 Volvo XC90 T8 Twin Engine and the 2017 Chrysler Pacifica Plug-In Hybrid The Volvo's most distinct feature is its safety, and just behind that is speed. It pairs an electric motor to the 2.0 liter I-4 engine for an output of a whopping 400hp and 472 lb-ft. In addition to that, it has 144 cubic feet of storage space with collapsible third-row seats. The T8 is a perfect match for someone that needs that extra horsepower but at the same time doesn't want to sacrifice space and ... read more

Technological developments in cars have made long strides over the years. From GPS navigation to mapping technologies and automatic braking sensors, modern vehicles are arguably the most advanced since car invention. One of the most significant improvements in the motor vehicle industry is the car's ability to communicate with you. Your car's dashboard can tell you a lot about the functionality of your vehicle's components. There're some warnings signaled by your dashboard that you shouldn't ignore, including the following: Oil Pressure Warning Light The oil pressure light warning resembles an oilcan and is usually deep amber or red. The sign gives information about your car's engine oil. It tells you you're low on oil. However, sometimes it indicates an oil filter or pump issue. Electrical System Fault Warning Light This warning light mimics a car battery and is one of the most crucial warnings on your dashboard. The electrical system fault warning li ... read more