- Mon 8:00AM - 6:00PM
- Fri 8:00AM - 6:00PM
- Tue 8:00AM - 5:00PM
- Sat Closed
- Wed 8:00AM - 6:00PM
- Sun Closed
- Thu 8:00AM - 5:00PM
8 Signs Your Car Needs a Professional Mechanic
Dale's Automotive in Harrisburg, PA Is Here To Help
It can be tricky to tell whether your car needs a break or immediate attention from a mechanic. If you notice any of the signs we've listed below, we strongly recommend having your vehicle checked by a professional mechanic sooner rather than later. Taking action early can help you avoid more severe damage and expensive repairs later on.
1. Car Experiences Stalling
Is your car stalling or struggling to accelerate, no matter how hard you press the gas pedal? This isn't just inconvenient-it could indicate serious issues like a failing fuel pump or ignition problems, which are hazardous to face while driving. Don't wait and hope the problem resolves itself. Bring your vehicle in for a check up from our team of experts.
2. Trouble Steering
If your steering wheel becomes difficult to maneuver or your turns aren't as smooth as they used to be, it could signal an issue with essential steering components. Possible reasons could be low power steering fluid or other mechanical failures. It's crucial to address any problems that impact your ability to steer the car safely-seek immediate professional assistance at an auto repair shop.
3. Fluid Leaks
If your vehicle is leaving behind puddles of liquid, it's a sign you should investigate further. While water from air conditioning condensation is usually harmless, other fluids like oil, transmission fluid (red or brown), coolant (blue, yellow, green), power steering fluid, or brake fluid (thick but clear) indicate a potential leak in one of your car's critical systems. Addressing these leaks promptly can prevent further damage and ensure optimal performance. It's advisable to have these issues inspected and remedied by a specialist.
4. Worn Out Brakes
Brakes naturally wear down over time and if you notice them losing effectiveness or making unusual noises, it's a sign they may need attention. Screeching or squealing often indicates that the brake pads are worn and require replacement. Additionally, if your brakes shake or vibrate, this could point to a range of issues, from further wear on the pads to problems with the brake fluid or alignment.
5. Alignment Issues
If you've noticed your car's ride has become notably less smooth in the past few months, it might be time for a trip to the auto shop. A shaky or vibrating ride, especially at higher speeds, often stems from wheel or alignment issues.
Even after a proper wheel alignment, wheels can gradually shift, influenced by normal wear and tear or sudden incidents like accidents or unexpected bumps. Realignment is a straightforward procedure that can swiftly address the issue.
6. Uncommon Engine Noise
Engines are meant to run smoothly, so if yours starts to sound louder with age, that's normal. But if you hear sudden, unusual noises like grinding, popping, or growling-or if starting your engine becomes a struggle-it's a good idea to visit your local auto shop. Catching these warning signs early can help ensure your car stays in top shape!
7. Diagnostic Lights
Modern vehicles are equipped with engine diagnostic or check engine lights that sometimes activate not because of an immediate issue, but as reminders for routine checkups after a certain mileage has been reached.
In some instances, a glitch in the car's computer system might even trigger these lights without any actual problem. However, when these lights come on alongside other symptoms such as poor performance or strange noises, it's wise to get your car checked by a professional to ensure everything is running smoothly.
8. Unpleasant Exhaust
If you notice your exhaust emitting black smoke or strange odors, it might be time to check in with a mechanic. This could indicate something like a clogged filter or another issue with your car's systems, possibly even the catalytic converter. It's always a good idea to get these things looked at to keep your car running smoothly.
Stop by Dale's Automotive located at 3715 Derry St in Harrisburg, PA or call 717-564-5110 to talk to one of our friendly and professional technicians.
What People Say About Us
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Jonny G, 08/10/2021
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND Dale's Automotive! First, they understand that each vehicle has a person and their lifestyle attached to it! That's so much more important than just being able to do repairs and maintenance! Two Cadillacs, three Lexus, one Toyota, three Chevrolets, one Honda's my personal list of vehicles that my family and I have entrusted to the hands of Dale's mechanics to keep our valuable transportation safe and sound and on the road as both my family and our cars and trucks age! They know what they are doing period! Here's the best part. They absolutely will not overcharge you! As a matter of fact, time after time they have saved me money compared to a traditional dealerships overwhelming hourly rates and even steeper price mark up on parts. These guys are great. And I don't recall any service that they could not provide! Inspection, oil and filter, tires, brakes, engine analysis, emissions, air conditioning, electrical issues are all within their grasps! Thank you Dale and Family (that's how they function), for all that you've done for us down through the years! -
Julie P.I highly recommend Dales Automotive. It's a family run repair shop, and I've been going to them for nearly 10 years now. My parents have been getting their cars repaired here for longer than that. You see, I don't trust mechanics...but I definitely trust Dale. I drive an older car, which means I need a trustworthy mechanic who won't charge me for more than I need, and he doesn't. I dropped my car off about 2 weeks ago because I noticed my breaks felt squishy and I wasn't stopping quickly enough. (I usually drop my car off the night before and pick it up before they close.) At first glance, they couldn't really find anything wrong, so they called me to find out exactly what it was doing. I explained to them how it was acting and they put it up in the air to recheck it. They found out the problem and fixed it and my breaks are good as new! They always take good care of my vehicle, and will let me know (in english) when something looks like it's going to need to be repaired in the future. I've never been charged for something I didn't need...unlike other places. Sure, it can be expensive...but I don't feel like they're using me. Some things are just more costly to repair, especially when my car has over 200,000 miles on it! But thankfully they accept the autopride card. That thing is a lifesaver. It allows me to make payments over the period of several months...interest free.
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Kristie F.I will never go anywhere else with my car again. I came here after taking my car to Monroe Muffler Break to have my oil changed. Monroe cracked my oil pan while changing my oil, all of the oil leaked out, and not knowing any of this I drove. When my oil light went on I panicked and drove back there where I was treated awfully and told it was my fault. They told me that I needed to buy a new oil pan which is very expensive. As a full-time student with no income I had no idea what to do or what kind of damage that I had done to my car driving on it with no oil. Panicked, upset, and not knowing anything about cars I had my car taken here to Dales. I was treated wonderfully and my car was taken excellent care of. They were able to fix my oil pan and assure me that my car was ok. Every single time that I need something done on my car, they do their best to squeeze me in. These men do excellent work and really care about what they are doing. If there is anyway for me to get my car to Dales, I will continue to return time and again.
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Diane S.This shop has consistently provided excellent service at great prices. They've always been very friendly and accommodating. They do only the work requested, without digging for other issues that may or may not actually exist. Wonderful local business!
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Mark A.Knowledge, integrity, and determination to do the job right. That's what you will find at Dale's Automotive. And reasonable prices, too. I know that sounds a bit like a commercial, but it's all true. Sadly, it is NOT true of the vast majority of big company service places that loudly advertise their typically terrible service (I'm looking at YOU Tires Plus!).
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John F.Thanks for getting the inspection done! And I really appreciate you telling me which stuff didn't need to be replaced right away, saving me hundreds in the process! And Dale, thanks for letting me drive my car home with you in tow to drive it back to the shop so I didn't need to call a cab from your shop, that was priceless!
Call us for service: 717-564-5110
