Norfolk Auto Repair

As the leaves will soon start to change and the temperature drops, it's not just your wardrobe that needs adjusting for the fall season. Your car requires some special attention, too. Fall car care is essential - it ensures that your vehicle is efficient, prepared for low temperatures, and problem-free.  That's why we are here to help out and give you a few tips and tricks for this fall season. Not only will they save you money in the long run, but they'll also keep you safe on the road, so let's take a look. Check Your Tires Proper tire maintenance is of utmost importance throughout the year, but it becomes especially crucial during colder weather. Cold temperatures can cause your tire pressure to drop, affecting your vehicle's handling and fu ... read more

Jeep vehicles, with their iconic design and storied history, have captured the imagination of adventurers and off-road enthusiasts for decades. From the rugged trails of Moab to the bustling city streets, Jeep has carved a niche for itself in the automotive world. But the question remains: Are Jeep vehicles reliable and good?  The Allure of Jeep Jeep's reputation is synonymous with exploration and freedom. Renowned for their 4x4 capabilities, off-road prowess, and open-air design, Jeep vehicles have cultivated a dedicated following of fans who seek adventure beyond the beaten path. However, as with any vehicle brand, there are factors to consider when evaluating their reliability and overall goodness. Some of the most iconic models include: Jeep Grand Cherokee J ... read more

Living near the ocean offers picturesque views, salty breezes, and a unique lifestyle. But with that come a few negatives, which is today's topic - how does living next to an ocean or sea affect your vehicle. This topic can help you quite a lot especially if you are from Norfolk, VA, or another ocean/sea-side city. Here are a few of the effects salt water has on your car and how to avoid them:    Salt Water Corrosion One of the most significant risks for vehicles near the ocean is saltwater corrosion. The salt content in the air and ocean spray can settle on the vehicle's exterior, accelerating the corrosion process. Over time, this corrosion can affect the vehicle's body, undercarriage, suspension components, and even the electrical system.     Moisture and Humidity Coastal areas often have higher humidity levels due to the presence of the ocean. Increased moisture in the air can lead to condensation ... read more

Cars can overheat due to a lot of reasons. But the real question is what to do when it happens. Let's get right into that and not waste time because every second matters! Recognizing the Signs of Overheating                                                                                                                                                      Knowing the early warning signs of an overheating engine can help you take proactive measures. Look out for indicators such as a rising temperature gauge, steam coming from the hood, or a strong smell of coolant. Additionally, reduced engine perf ... read more

The main way we distinguish cars is by their logo. Everyone knows what a Toyota logo looks like or even easier, a Ford logo. But how did these logos happen, did they appear magically? Well, no, every logo has a long history in the background and if you dig deep you will find that most of them were related to something other than cars. Volkswagen - The Peoples Car The Volkswagen logo, with its iconic "V" and "W" intertwined, is instantly recognizable worldwide. Designed in the late 1930s, it symbolizes the company's roots in Germany. The circular shape represents unity, while the letters signify the brand's name -"Volks" means people, and "Wagon" means car - the car of the people! Over the years, the logo has undergone subtle refinements, maintaining its timeless and minimalist appeal. Mercedes-Benz - Luxurty In Two Words The three-pointed star logo of Mercedes-Benz is a symbol of luxury, prestige, and ... read more

When it comes to maintaining your vehicle's braking system, one crucial component to consider is the brake pads. Brake pads are an essential part of the braking system that provides the necessary friction to slow down or stop your vehicle.  There are different types of brake pads available in the market, each with its unique characteristics and performance. Continue reading to find out the various types of brake pads, their key differences, and how to generally maintain them! Non-Metallic Brake Pads Non-metallic brake pads, also known as organic or non-asbestos organic (NAO) brake pads, are made from a mixture of organic materials, such as rubber, glass, and resin. These pads are generally quiet and produce less brake dust. They are also gentle on the brake rotors, resulting in reduced wear. Semi-Metallic Brake Pads Semi-metallic brake pads are composed of a combination of organic materials and metal fibers, typically steel or copper. The ... read more

If you are a new Ford owner or are looking to buy one, you have probably wondered about its reliability. What problems should you expect? Is it even good? Well, we have an answer to the second one, and Ford has proven itself throughout the years as one of the greatest car manufacturers, so don't worry. But after all, vehicles do brake and age, so problems are expected. What problems exactly? Continue reading so you can find out. Spark Plug Wiring Issues  Some Ford vehicles are known to have a defect or problem with spark plug wiring. If you start to notice any start-up problems or misfiring, it's probably because of this. Make sure to visit a repair shop so the mechanics can take a closer look. Transmission Problems  With all its moving parts, the transmission is prone to damage. This especially applies to a few Ford-made vehicles. Slipping is also a symptom related to transmission problems, so make sure to check up on that as wel ... read more

Tire balancing is an important aspect of vehicle maintenance that helps ensure a smooth and comfortable ride, and also helps extend the life of your tires. If you've ever experienced a vibrating steering wheel or an uneven ride, it's likely that your tires are out of balance. Here's what you need to know about tire balancing and why it's important for your vehicle. What is Tire Balancing? Tire balancing refers to the process of adjusting the weight distribution of a tire and wheel assembly to ensure that it rotates evenly and smoothly. This is important because an unbalanced tire can cause a range of problems, including vibrations, uneven tire wear, and reduced fuel efficiency. Why is Tire Balancing Important? Improved Ride Quality: When your tires are properly balanced, your vehicle will ride more smoothly and comfortably. You'll also experience less vibration in the steering wheel, which can make driving more enjoyable. Extended Tire Life: An unbalanced tire ... read more

Transmission problems are a car issue that you should not take lightly. They can be extensive and costly if not taken care of. To prevent a hole in your wallet, you should perform transmission maintenance when necessary and get regular inspections.  Today, we will go over 8 symptoms that may indicate transmission trouble. If you experience one or more of the following warning signs, we invite you to visit the transmission auto repair specialists at Carmasters Automotive! Odd Smells - When your transmission overworks itself, it can emit an unpleasant burning scent.  Clunking, Humming, or Whining Noises - When you switch gears, it shouldn’t be described as a noisy experience. Otherwise, you should have your transmission checked out. Check Engine Light On - A warning light such as the check engine light may indicate a deeper problem within the transmission. A diagnostic scan can confirm whether or not it relates to the transmission.  Red Fluid Leak - Automatic t ... read more

Question: I need new tires. How do I know which tires to get? Carmasters Automotive Answer: Let's look at selecting new tires in light of three factors: Function, Fit, and Value. Function: This gets at what your needs are for new tires: VA weather conditions, Norfolk terrain, Norfolk temperatures, etc. Most new family vehicles in VA come with all-season tires. They can be used all year long and do pretty well in most VA road conditions – but they aren't ideal at the extremes. Winter tires have a more aggressive tread for handling snow and ice on roads, and they have a rubber compound that helps them have better traction as Norfolk temperatures drop below 45 degrees Fahrenheit/7.2 degrees Centigrade. In winter weather, you'll definitely experience better stopping and road-holding characteristics for Norfolk vehicles than all-season tires. Dedicated summer tires enhan ... read more