Sherman Oaks Auto Repair

Your vehicle's tires are the only point of contact between you and the road, making their condition a crucial factor in your safety and driving experience. Regular tire maintenance and replacement are key to optimal performance, fuel efficiency, and traction. But how do you know when it's time for new rubber? Tread Wear Indicators: Tires come equipped with built-in tread wear indicators, small raised bars of rubber located in the grooves. Once the tread wears down to the level of these indicators, it's a clear sign that your tires have reached the end of their life and need replacement. Tire Age: Tire age is another important factor to consider. Even if your tires appear to have decent tread depth, they can still deteriorate over time due to exposure to the natural elements and temperature changes. As a general rule of thumb, most industry experts recommend replacing tires every 6 years, regardless of their tread depth. Tire Trea ... read more

Your vehicle's windshield is more than just a piece of glass – it's a critical safety feature that protects you from the elements and provides structural integrity to your car. When your windshield is compromised, whether due to cracks, chips, or extensive damage, you must ensure it is fixed promptly. Let's get into the importance of timely windshield replacement and why it is crucial for your safety and the well-being of your vehicle. Structural Integrity The windshield is an integral part of your vehicle's structural support system. In the event of a collision or rollover, a properly installed windshield helps distribute the impact's force, preventing the roof from collapsing and protecting passengers. Visibility and Safety A cracked or damaged windshield can impair your visibility, making it difficult to see clearly and react to road conditions. A compromised field of vision increases the risk of accidents and endangers both you and others on the r ... read more

You've probably come across an engine misfire before if you've driven a car for a while. An engine misfire happens when the combustion process is unfinished, triggering the cylinder to remain unfired. Anytime you hear your engine misfire is an early sign you'll face car issues such as decreased engine power and increased fuel consumption and emissions. Below are some causes of engine misfires and how to mitigate them. Vacuum Leakages A leaking vacuum hose or intake manifold gasket could also be an indicator of a misfire, usually called a lean misfire. Lean misfires occur when there's an air-fuel mix issue(a mixture of too little fuel and too much air). Early signs of this problem are rough idling, the dashboard warning light turning on, and diminished gas mileage. Worn Out Spark Plugs Some engine misfires ensue from old or defective spark plugs. The spark plugs are small components with a crucial role in igniting fuel in the engine. If they're faulty or worn out ... read more

With the scorching sun and the open road calling your name, it's time to prepare your vehicle for a summer full of adventures. As the temperatures rise, your car requires special attention to ensure optimal performance and reliability. Here are some valuable summer car maintenance tips to keep you cruising smoothly through the hottest months of the year. Check your cooling system: The cooling system plays a vital role in preventing your engine from overheating. Ensure that the coolant level is adequate and the coolant mixture is suitable for summer temperatures. Additionally, inspect the radiator hoses and belts for signs of wear and tear. Don't let your summer plans get derailed by an overheated engine. Test your air conditioning system: A well-functioning air conditioning system is essential for a comfortable summer driving experience. Test your AC system and ensure that it's blowing cold air. If you notice any issues, such as weak airflow or strange odors, it's ad ... read more

Transmission fluid is a vital portion of a vehicle's transmission system; it is necessary to lubricate the moving parts of the transmission and also serves as a coolant. The transmission fluid is released throughout the transmission, providing the necessary hydraulic pressure to engage the vehicle's gears. Many people assume that only automatic transmissions require transmission fluid, but the truth is that both manual and automatic transmissions can have it. Manual transmissions use a different type of transmission fluid than automatic transmissions, but they both require attention. Transmission fluid is designed to last a long time, but it does need to be changed periodically. The manufacturer's recommended service interval for transmission fluid changes varies depending on the make and model of the vehicle, but it typically varies from 30,000 to 60,000 miles. If you're unsure whether your vehicle needs a transmission fluid change, there are a few signs that you c ... read more

A check engine light is one of those car problems that motorists dread the most. While it may come on in silence, it can be anything from minor to severe. That is why you should always pay attention to the check engine light when it comes on your dashboard. If you catch this pesky yellow light, turn to the local experts at Sherman Oaks Exclusive for a proper diagnostic scan and check engine light repairs.  Common Reasons for Check Engine Light  Loose or bad gas cap  Bad sensors Worn spark plugs Damaged catalytic converter Overheating transmission What To Do When the Check Engine Light Comes On When you notice the light, one of the first things you should do right away is to check if your gas cap is closed tightly. It is the easiest and quickest way to minimize the headaches that may come after. If your gas cap is not the culprit, then you should go back to your car to see if the light is steady or blinking.  You should closely monitor the warning light. If t ... read more

Leather seats can make your car look luxurious, but they require a little extra attention and care to keep them in good condition. Leather is a natural material and can dry out, crack or fade over time, so it is vital to maintain and keep it looking nice. Today, we will share some tips on how to protect your leather seats and keep them looking like new. Clean Them Regularly The first step in protecting your leather seats is to clean them regularly. Use a soft-bristled brush or a microfiber cloth to remove any dust or debris from the surface. Then, use a leather cleaner to remove any stains or spills. Please use a cleaner specifically designed for leather seats and avoid using harsh chemicals or cleaners that can damage the leather. Once you have cleaned the seats, allow them to air dry. Condition the Leather After cleaning the seats, follow up with conditioning the leather to prevent it from drying out and cracking. We recommend using a leather conditioner that is designed to penet ... read more

Being involved in a car accident is not the way you want to start off 2023, but we understand accidents occur all the time in the state of California. If you’ve recently been in one, we feel for you. Depending on the crash, it could have been a traumatic experience for you. But, it is always important for you to stay calm and take a deep breath. Whether you’re a new or experienced driver, you should familiarize yourself with these tips on how to handle the events following a car accident. #1. Check for Injuries The first and most important thing you should do is to check for Injuries. Make sure you, your loved ones, and those of the other party are safe. Please call 911 immediately if anyone is hurt. #2. Swap Information  Next, you should be ready to exchange information with the other driver. You will need their name, contact information, and insurance details. This will make filing a claim with your insurance company easier. In worse case scenarios, you may even ... read more

Modern cars are some of the most complex pieces of machinery on the planet. The electrical system of your car is responsible for powering essential functions, from the lights to the engine itself. Unfortunately, due to the complexity of the system, problems can arise over time. Here are some of the most common car electrical system problems and what you can do if you encounter them. One of the most common problems is an issue with the battery. A weak or failing battery can cause all sorts of problems, from difficulties starting your vehicle to an inability to power on certain features. Similarly, a faulty alternator can cause the battery to drain, leading to a weak electrical system. Another common electrical system problem is a battery drain, which occurs when the car is not in use. This can be caused by a faulty alternator, a failing battery, or an electronic component that is drawing power when it should not be. If your car's electrical system is functioning erratically, it ... read more

Most people that own an SUV don’t even understand what it the letters stand for. An SUV is a sports utility vehicle, and they have been increasing in popularity over the years. In the last several years, over 8 million SUVs have been accounted for in automobiles (new or used) sold in America. That is why most vehicles on the road today are SUVs. Read on to learn why they are America’s preferred vehicle choice. Sedans used to be the winner in the categories of sizing and affordability. However, they don’t offer the versatility of sports utility vehicles. SUVs can handle various terrains with better comfort, larger space, and increased safety.  Versatility You can get the best of both worlds with an SUV. Whether you are squeezing into city traffic and parking or ready to go off-roading, it is perfect for both. SUVs can have both a casual appearance and a fancy appearance. They can be driven by practically any individual with various needs ... read more