Reading Auto Repair

You flip on your windshield wipers, expecting a quiet swipe across the glass—but instead, you hear a rhythmic clicking, tapping, or even a slight knocking sound every few seconds. It’s subtle at first, then impossible to ignore. So what’s causing it? That clicking noise could be harmless—or it might be a sign something in the wiper system is wearing out or misaligned. Understanding what’s normal and what needs attention can help you avoid annoying distractions—or costly repairs later on. Why Windshield Wipers Make Clicking Sounds The most common cause of clicking when using the wipers is a slight mechanical interference between parts of the wiper system. Over time, joints in the wiper linkage or play in the motor assembly can wear, causing small but noticeable sounds as the arms move back and forth. Another possibility is that one of the wiper blades or arms is slightly out of alignment and hitting the edge of the windshield trim ... read more

The sun is blazing, the pavement is sizzling, and your car feels like an oven before you even step inside. Sound familiar? When the temperatures climb during spring and summer, keeping your car cool isn’t just about comfort—it’s also essential for protecting your vehicle’s interior and mechanical components. The good news? You don’t have to suffer through unbearable heat every time you drive. With a few simple tricks, you can keep your car from turning into a sauna on those scorching days. Use a Sunshade or Windshield Cover One of the easiest ways to prevent heat buildup inside your car is by using a sunshade. A reflective windshield cover blocks out direct sunlight, keeping the dashboard, seats, and steering wheel from absorbing excessive heat. If you park outside often, investing in a high-quality sunshade is one of the best things you can do to maintain a cooler cabin. For extra protection, consider using window visors or tinted film ... read more

Driving should be an enjoyable experience, but when you start noticing the unmistakable scent of burning rubber, it’s hard not to feel a little uneasy. That strong, acrid smell is usually a sign that something isn’t quite right under the hood—or somewhere else in your vehicle. While some causes are minor and easy to fix, others can indicate more serious issues that need immediate attention. If you’ve ever caught a whiff of burning rubber while driving, here’s what might be causing it and what you should do about it. Slipping or Worn-Out Drive Belt One of the most common reasons for a burning rubber smell is a slipping or failing drive belt. Your car’s belts, including the serpentine belt, are responsible for powering essential components like the alternator, water pump, and air conditioning. Over time, these belts can wear down, become misaligned ... read more

Failing a state inspection or emissions test can feel frustrating, but it’s not the end of the road. Pennsylvania requires these tests to ensure vehicles meet safety and environmental standards, so a failure isn’t uncommon—and it’s fixable. If you’ve recently failed and aren’t sure how to proceed, don’t worry. Here’s what you need to know to get your vehicle back on track and passing with flying colors. Understand Why You Failed The first step in addressing a failed inspection or emissions test is understanding the reason behind it. The test results will typically include a detailed report outlining the issues. Common reasons for failure include: Worn brakes or tires Check engine light on Faulty emissions system Exhaust leaks Damaged lights or windshield By reviewing the failure report, you can pinpoint the exact areas that need attention. This knowledge will help you prioritize repairs and avoid unnecessary expens ... read more

Your car’s battery might not get as much attention as the engine or tires, but it keeps everything running. The battery is at the heart of your vehicle’s electrical system, from powering up the starter to ensuring your headlights shine bright. If you’re wondering when it’s time to replace it, you’re in the right place. Let’s find out how often you should swap out your car battery, what signs to watch for, and how to make the most of its lifespan. How Long Does a Car Battery Typically Last On average, a car battery lasts about three to five years. However, this range depends on factors like driving habits, climate, and maintaining the battery. For instance, batteries often wear out faster in regions with extreme temperatures—whether scorching summers or freezing winters. If you live in Reading, PA, where winter chills are no stranger ... read more