5 Common Symptoms of a Faulty Alternator

Your vehicle’s suspension system plays a crucial role in maintaining a smooth and controlled ride. It absorbs shocks from the road, keeps your tires in contact with the pavement, and helps with steering stability. When your suspension starts to fail, it can affect both comfort and safety. Recognizing the warning signs early can help prevent bigger problems. At All Tune & Lube, we provide expert suspension repair in the greater Austin, TX area. Here’s a look at five signs of suspension trouble. Excessive Bouncing After Hitting Bumps If your vehicle bounces excessively after hitting a pothole or speed bump, this is a strong indication of a suspension issue. The suspension system is designed to absorb impacts and keep the car stable. Worn-out shocks or struts lose their ability to control movement, causing the vehicle to continue bouncing rather than settling quickly. If your car feels overly bouncy, it's time to have the suspension inspected. Uneven Tire Wear A failing suspension system can lead to uneven tire wear, which compromises traction and handling. If you notice bald spots or inconsistent tread wear patterns on your tires, it could mean that your suspension isn’t properly distributing the weight of the vehicle. Misaligned wheels, worn-out shocks, or failing suspension components can all contribute to this problem. Addressing suspension issues early can help extend the life of your tires. Drifting If your car feels like it’s drifting when making turns, this could indicate a suspension problem. A properly functioning suspension system keeps the vehicle stable and balanced, allowing for controlled turns. Worn or damaged suspension parts can cause excessive body roll, making the vehicle feel unsteady. This can be particularly dangerous when navigating sharp curves. A Rough/Uncomfortable Ride One of the most obvious signs of suspension trouble is a noticeably rough ride. If you start feeling every bump and dip in the road more than usual, your shocks or struts may be failing. These components help absorb bumps. When they wear out, the car loses its ability to dampen road vibrations, leading to an uncomfortable ride. Nose Diving When Braking When you apply the brakes, your vehicle should slow down smoothly without excessive forward movement. If the front of the car noticeably dips downward while braking, this is a sign of worn-out suspension components. A failing suspension system reduces the car’s ability to maintain balance under braking, which can increase stopping distances. Suspension Repair in Austin, TX When you need auto repair in Austin and the surrounding area, contact All Tune & Lube at (512) 836-6724. At our local auto shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

Transmission fluid plays a critical role in keeping your vehicle's transmission system running smoothly. It lubricates, cools, and enables seamless gear shifting. A leak in the transmission system can quickly lead to significant damage if not addressed promptly. Recognizing the signs of a transmission fluid leak can save you from expensive repairs and extend the lifespan of your vehicle. At All Tune & Lube, we provide expert transmission fluid leak repair in the greater Austin, TX area. Here are five signs that your transmission fluid might be leaking. Puddles of Reddish Fluid Under Your Vehicle One of the most obvious signs of a transmission fluid leak is spotting a puddle of reddish fluid underneath your vehicle. Transmission fluid is typically bright red when new and turns brownish as it ages. If you notice these stains on your parking space, it's a strong indication that your transmission system is leaking fluid. Ignoring this can lead to low fluid levels and significant transmission damage. Difficulty Shifting Gears Low transmission fluid levels caused by a leak can make it difficult to shift gears smoothly. You might notice hesitation, slipping, or jerking when trying to change gears. In automatic transmissions, the fluid is essential for maintaining hydraulic pressure, and without it, the system cannot function properly. Unusual Burning Smell A burning smell coming from your vehicle is never a good sign, and it can often indicate overheating transmission fluid. When fluid levels drop due to a leak, the remaining fluid works harder to keep the transmission cool, leading to overheating. This may lead to long-term damage to the transmission. Unusual Noises While Driving A healthy transmission operates smoothly and quietly. However, when fluid levels drop because of a leak, you may hear unusual noises such as grinding, whining, or clunking. These sounds commonly indicate that the transmission components are not being properly lubricated. If you notice these noises while driving, it’s crucial to address them ASAP. Slipping Transmission A slipping transmission is another clear sign of low transmission fluid caused by a leak. You may notice your vehicle unexpectedly changing gears, a loss of power during acceleration, or a delay in movement when you press the gas pedal. These symptoms indicate that the transmission isn't receiving enough fluid pressure to function correctly. Transmission Repair in Austin, TX For auto repair in Austin and the surrounding area, contact All Tune & Lube at (512) 836-6724. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

Regular oil changes are one of the simplest yet most important tasks you can do to keep your car running smoothly. While it may be tempting to push off your next oil change, sticking to the schedule can make a huge difference in the longevity and performance of your vehicle. At All Tune & Lube, we provide full-service oil changes in the greater Austin, TX area. Here are four reasons why you should always follow your oil change schedule. Prolong Engine Life Oil is the lifeblood of your car’s engine. It lubricates all the moving parts, reducing friction and heat buildup. As the miles add up, oil breaks down and becomes less effective at doing its job. If you skip oil changes, the engine parts will experience greater wear and tear, which can lead to costly damage. By changing your oil on schedule, you help keep the engine in top condition and extend its lifespan. Improve Fuel-Efficiency Dirty oil makes the engine work harder to perform. This extra strain can reduce your car’s fuel-efficiency, leading to more frequent trips to the gas station. Fresh oil helps ensure that your engine operates more efficiently, saving you money on fuel in the long run. Maintain Optimal Engine Performance As it ages, oil collects debris and contaminants, which can clog your engine’s components and reduce its performance. By regularly changing your oil, you help ensure that your engine remains clean and operates at its best. You may notice smoother acceleration and fewer performance issues when you stick to your oil change schedule. Prevent Expensive Repairs Failing to change your oil on time can result in serious engine damage. When oil is contaminated or too low, it can’t properly lubricate the engine’s moving parts, which can cause parts to wear out prematurely. In severe cases, neglecting oil changes can lead to engine failure, resulting in extremely expensive repairs. A simple oil change is much more affordable than a major engine overhaul. Full-Service Oil Change in Austin, TX When you need auto maintenance in Austin, TX and the surrounding area, contact All Tune & Lube at (512) 836-6724. At our nearby auto shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

When the check engine light illuminates, it's often a source of anxiety for drivers. While it doesn’t always indicate a major issue, it's important to address the underlying problem as soon as possible to avoid further damage. At All Tune & Lube, we provide expert check engine light diagnostics and repair in the greater Austin, TX area. Here are five common reasons why your check engine light might come on. Faulty Oxygen Sensor If an oxygen sensor fails, the engine’s computer won’t get accurate readings about the air-to-fuel ratio, leading to poor fuel-economy and potentially causing catalytic converter problems. Replacing a faulty oxygen sensor is an easy fix, but ignoring it could lead to more costly repairs. Loose or Damaged Gas Cap Believe it or not, a loose or damaged gas cap is one of the more common reasons the check engine light comes on. A gas cap that doesn’t seal properly may allow fuel to evaporate before it is directed to the engine. Catalytic Converter Issues The catalytic converter reduces harmful emissions by converting exhaust gasses into less toxic pollutants. As the miles add up, it can become clogged or fail. A failed catalytic converter can lead to decreased fuel-efficiency and increased emissions, so it’s essential to address this problem right away. Mass Airflow Sensor Failure The mass airflow (MAF) sensor monitors the amount of air entering the engine and helps determine the proper fuel-to-air ratio. If the sensor fails, your car may experience poor fuel-economy, difficulty starting, or rough idling. Replacing a bad MAF sensor can improve engine performance and fuel-efficiency, so it’s important not to ignore this issue. Spark Plug or Ignition Coil Problems Ignition coils and spark plugs work together to ignite the fuel in your engine. Over time, spark plugs can wear out, and ignition coils can fail, leading to misfires, reduced power, and poor fuel economy. Check Engine Light Repair in Austin, TX When you need auto repair in Austin and the surrounding area, contact All Tune & Lube at (512) 836-6724. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

At All Tune & Lube, we aim to earn our customers' satisfaction by offering top-quality repairs and maintenance at fair rates, all while providing friendly service. No matter how big or small the job, our local mechanics will diligently complete it to the highest standards. And we appreciate it when our customers provide feedback about the work that we did for them. Here’s a look at some of our latest customer reviews. “My car care team has to be honest, friendly, professional, and fair. Those qualities are why Kevin and Keith are my guys. I have been with them since they started their business and wouldn’t think of taking my car anywhere else. From maintenance to engines to brakes to tires to AC’s, they do it all. Thanks fellas! All Tune and Lube is the best!” —Amy E. “All Tune goes above and beyond with their customer service and care, and I cannot recommend them enough. I was on the way to an appointment at All Tune recently, when my car broke down at a major intersection about a mile away. I called to let them know that I wouldn’t make it, and instead of just saying “ok,” they went out of their way to come help me. They arrived within 5 minutes. They calmed my nerves, talked to me about what was likely wrong, and towed my car to the shop. Fixing the car would’ve cost almost the same amount as buying a new one, so All Tune even helped me find someone that would pay for the scraps. I’m so grateful for this shop.” —Alexandra L. “Honest and straightforward service. I will ALWAYS take my family cars to All Tune!” —Brendon N. “Hands down best car shop I have been to. My kids recommended them and I drove from New Braunfels. It was worth it. Great service. Fixed an AC issue 2 other places couldn’t figure out. An honest mechanic is hard to come by. Worth the drive for me.” —Ken W. “Good workshop, good service, and good prices.” —Jose F. “Nice folks! In and out quickly and they do great work!” —Teddy E. Auto Repair in Austin, TX When you need auto repair in Austin and the surrounding area, contact All Tune & Lube at (512) 836-6724. At our nearby auto shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

When you first notice a symptom of engine trouble, it’s important to be proactive about addressing it. Otherwise, the issue could soon worsen and leave you stranded and needing more expensive repairs. At All Tune & Lube, our local mechanics provide expert engine diagnostics and repair in the greater Austin, TX area. Here’s a look at five common signs of an engine problem. Unusual Noises Concerning noises can range from knocking or pinging sounds to squealing or grinding. Knocking can indicate issues with the combustion process, while grinding may suggest problems with internal components like bearings. If you notice any strange noises, it’s a good idea to have your engine checked by the mechanic. Loss of Power If your vehicle feels sluggish or if you experience a noticeable decrease in acceleration and power, this could be a sign of engine trouble. A drop in power can be caused by various issues, such as fuel delivery problems or ignition system malfunction.. It's important to address this issue promptly, as it can affect your vehicle’s overall performance and safety. Check Engine Light The check engine light is designed to alert you when there’s an issue with your engine or emission control system. While it doesn’t specify the exact problem, it’s a signal that something needs attention. Common causes for the check engine light to illuminate include faulty spark plugs, a loose gas cap, or issues with the catalytic converter. Ignoring this warning can lead to more serious damage, so you should get it diagnosed as soon as possible. Discolored/Excessive Exhaust Smoke Different colors of exhaust smoke can indicate various problems. Blue smoke often indicates burning oil. White smoke might suggest coolant is leaking into the engine, which could point to a blown head gasket. Black smoke usually is a sign of an overly rich fuel mixture. Overheating An engine that frequently overheats is a major red flag. Overheating can be caused by a variety of factors, including a malfunctioning thermostat, a failing water pump, or a leaking radiator. If your engine temperature gauge is in the red zone or you notice steam coming from under the hood, it’s essential to pull over safely and turn off the engine to prevent further damage. Cooling System Repair in Austin, TX When you need auto repair in Austin and the surrounding area, contact All Tune & Lube at (512) 836-6724. At our nearby auto shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

When you first notice that your vehicle isn’t firing up as easily as usual, it’s best to bring it to the shop for an inspection. This way, the issue can be pinpointed and fixed before it gets worse and your car won’t start at all. At All Tune & Lube, our local mechanics are experts at diagnosing and resolving problems that cause no-start. Here’s a look at four common reasons that cars fail to start up. Dead Battery One of the most frequent reasons for a car not starting is a dead or weak battery. Batteries can lose their charge due to old age, extreme temperatures, leaving lights on, or a malfunctioning charging system. Symptoms often include dim interior lights or clicking sounds when you turn the key. Jump-starting the battery may get you going temporarily, but if it keeps happening, it might be time for a replacement. Faulty Starter Motor The starter motor is responsible for initiating the engine's combustion cycle. If it fails, your car won’t start, and you might hear a clicking sound when you turn the key. Fuel Delivery Issues If your car is out of fuel, obviously, it won't start. However, even if the tank isn't empty, issues with the fuel pump, fuel filter, or fuel injectors can prevent the engine from getting the necessary fuel to smoothly start and run. Symptoms might include sputtering or the engine turning over but not starting. Ignition System Problems The ignition system includes components like spark plugs, ignition coils, and ignition switch. If any of these components fail or become worn out, your car may struggle to start or not start at all. Signs of ignition problems can include difficulty starting when the engine is cold, rough idling, or misfiring. Brake Repair in Austin, TX When you need auto repair in Austin, TX and the surrounding area, contact All Tune & Lube at (512) 836-6724. At our nearby auto shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!

A vehicle's cooling system is vital for preventing engine overheating and maintaining optimal performance. When this system fails, it can lead to significant engine damage and costly repairs. Recognizing the early signs of a cooling system problem can save you from higher repair bills. At All Tune & Lube, we provide expert cooling system repair in the greater Austin, TX area. Here’s a look at four common indications of a cooling system problem. Rising Temperature Gauge The temperature gauge on your dashboard shows the engine's operating temperature. If you notice the needle creeping into the red zone or higher than usual, it’s a clear warning that your engine is overheating. This can be caused by a variety of issues such as low coolant levels, a faulty thermostat, or a failing water pump. It’s crucial to address this promptly to avoid severe engine damage. Coolant Leaks Finding puddles of coolant under your vehicle can indicate a leak somewhere in the cooling system. Coolant is typically brightly colored and has a sweet smell. Leaks can occur from the radiator, hoses, water pump, or other components. Low coolant levels due to leaks can prevent your engine from being properly cooled, leading to overheating and potential engine failure. Steam or Smoke from the Engine If you see steam or smoke coming from under the hood, it’s a sign that your engine is overheating, likely due to a cooling system malfunction. Steam usually indicates that the coolant is boiling, while smoke might indicate an even more severe issue. If this occurs, it’s best to pull over safely and turn off the engine to prevent further damage. Call for roadside assistance if necessary. Unusual Engine Noises Strange noises coming from your engine can also point to cooling system problems. A grinding or squealing noise might indicate a failing water pump. The water pump is crucial for circulating coolant throughout the engine, and any malfunction can severely affect the cooling process. Cooling System Repair in Austin, TX When you need auto repair in Austin and the surrounding area, contact All Tune & Lube at (512) 836-6724. At our nearby auto shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!

Your brakes are a critical safety feature. Any issues with them should always be addressed ASAP to help minimize the risk of accidents. At All Tune & Lube, we provide top-quality brake repair in the greater Austin, TX area. Here’s a look at five warning signs of a brake problem. Squealing or Grinding Sound A high-pitched squealing or grinding sound often indicates that the brake pads have worn down significantly. Ignoring this sound can lead to damage to the brake rotors and compromise your ability to stop effectively. Vibrations If you notice vibrations or pulsations when you apply the brakes, it could be a sign of brake rotor warping. As the miles add up, the heat generated during braking can cause the brake rotors to warp, leading to an uneven surface. This uneven surface can cause vibrations that you feel through the brake pedal or steering wheel. Addressing this issue promptly is crucial to prevent further damage and maintain braking performance. Soft or Spongy Brake Pedal A soft or spongy brake pedal is a sign of air in the brake lines or a leak in the brake system. If your vehicle has a brake fluid leak, you’ve got a major safety hazard and shouldn’t drive your car until this issue has been fixed. Dashboard Warning Light You’ll want to promptly alert the mechanic if you see an illuminated brake warning light, such as the ABS (anti-lock braking system) light. A warning light could indicate issues such as failing wheel speed sensors or low brake fluid. Veering Veering can be caused by a stuck brake caliper, which may happen due to corrosion. Obviously, this creates a serious accident risk, so you shouldn’t operate your vehicle if it has this issue. Rather, you should get towed to the shop for the repairs. Brake Repair in Austin, TX When you need auto repair in Austin and the surrounding area, contact All Tune & Lube at (512) 836-6724. At our nearby auto shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!