Northridge Auto Repair

As a vehicle owner, it's understandable that you may not be well-versed in the intricacies of automotive mechanics, but it's essential to understand transmissions. They are a vital component that plays a significant role in the smooth operation of your vehicle. Whether you have an automatic or manual transmission, learning the basics of maintenance and troubleshooting can be overwhelming. However, taking the time to grasp the fundamentals of transmissions can ensure the longevity of your vehicle. So, don't worry, we're here to help you understand the complexities of transmission systems and the nuances of proper care. What is a Transmission and How Does It Work? The transmission serves as the bridge between the engine and the wheels, facilitating the transfer of power and enabling the vehicle to shift gears and achieve varying speeds. In automatic transmissions, the system uses a torque converter and planetary gear sets, while manual transmissions rel ... read more

If you live in California, you're probably familiar with the biennial smog test requirement. This test is designed to ensure that your vehicle's emissions meet the state's environmental standards. However, what happens if your car doesn't pass the California smog test? Don't worry – RM Automotive is here to provide you with insights and guidance. Why Did My Car Fail the Smog Test? There are several reasons why your car might fail the smog test. Common issues include: High Emissions: Your vehicle may be emitting pollutants above the acceptable limits due to a malfunctioning component like the catalytic converter, oxygen sensors, or fuel injectors. Check Engine Light: If your check engine light is on, it's an automatic smog test failure. This usual ... read more

When it comes to cars, the mention of high horsepower numbers brings a smile and a rush of adrenalin to every car owner. The more, the merrier, right? Well, not so fast. While high-horsepower vehicles are thrilling to drive, they come with a unique set of demands, particularly when it comes to brake care. That is solely due to the fact that if you are going faster you have to brake faster and stronger, but how is that done?  What We Mean By High-Horsepower Let's start by acknowledging the allure of high-horsepower cars. They offer breathtaking acceleration, spine-tingling speed, and the kind of exhilaration that sends shivers down your spine. Such cars can include any and all that have a number higher than 300 for both horsepower and torque. The Price of Speed One of the key challenges of performance cars is brake fade. This phenomenon occurs when brakes get so hot that they lose their ability to grip effectively. The result? Longer stopping distances and reduced braking p ... read more

Your car only comes into contact with the road via the tires. This makes them crucial for the performance and safety of the car. Proper tire care is essential for maximizing its useful life. How to Care For Your Tires You need to put some effort to take good care of your tires. Here are some valuable tips on how to maintain your tires effectively: Regularly Check Tire Pressure Insufficient or too much pressure in your tires can decrease fuel efficiency and cause poor handling. This leaves you exposed to the risk of accidents. Always use a pressure gauge to check tire pressure at least monthly or before long trips. Rotate Your Tires Uneven wear can occur due to weight distribution and alignment issues. Rotating your tires every 5,000-8,000 miles ensures even wear across all four wheels, promoting longevity. Maintain Proper Wheel Alignment Misaligned wheels cause uneven tread wear and affect steering stability. Have a professional align your wheels according to manufacturer recom ... read more

Windshield wiper fluid, a mixture of solvent, antifreeze and detergent. This fluid comes in handy when removing dirt and grime from your windshield. But, can it be replaced by regular tap water? Let's find out more on the topic. Benefits of Using Windshield Washer Fluid A vehicle's windshield is cleaned using windshield wiper fluid, a pump, and windshield wipers. The fluid can be sprayed on to the windshield irregardless of whether the vehicle is moving or stationary. One of the major pros of using windshield fluid is that all types of the products contain some type of antifreeze which comes in handy in the cold temperatures. As the name suggests, antifreeze prevents the windshield liquid from freezing. Regular water does not have this property and thus will freeze in cold weather. There are different types of windshield fluid formulas. Some washer fluids come in powder form, to be mixed by you. Others are sold in fluid form but are to be diluted by water. This however does ... read more