Auto Repairs in Ontario, CA: The Ultimate Guide to Car Repair Services

As Ontario drivers, it’s our responsibility to create a safe environment on the road for others by upholding the best driving habits and maintaining the health of our vehicles. Most of the time, we enter our cars and don't think twice about all the mechanical functions that make driving possible. Do you ever consider how all of these components work in tandem to accelerate your vehicle and help you remain in control?

Behind every steel or aluminum car body lies a world of systems, parts, and wires that your local Ontario mechanics have grown to become very familiar with. 

In this guide, we’ll cover the basics of general auto repair, including common auto repair services in Ontario, CA, warning signs you should look out for, preventative maintenance tips you should follow, and so much more.  

Common Auto Repair Services Your Ontario Mechanic Performs 

A typical day in the life of your local Ontario mechanic may consist of the three Rs—repair, replace, and routine maintenance tasks. Unfortunately, many of the most common repairs and replacements performed could have been prevented with routine care. Preventive maintenance tasks are some of the most common auto repair services a mechanic will perform on a daily basis. 

Since all mechanics may not have the same specialties, all repair shops don’t operate the same. At some shops, there is a mechanic who specializes in diagnostics, and a separate mechanic for transmissions, repairing car AC units, etc. Once an issue occurs with your vehicle, it may require a mechanic to inspect these common areas—your starting system as well as the charging, electrical, fuel, transmission, brake, suspension, and auto AC systems. 

Below are the most common auto repair services that encourage drivers to bring their vehicles to a mechanic:

• Brake repair
• Starting/charging system service
• Transmission repair
• Car battery replacement or service
• Suspension repair
• Tire rotation
• Auto AC system repair
• Engine/transmission cooling system repair
• Belt or hose replacement

When you choose a professional auto shop in Ontario that you can count on, you can trust that the mechanics are capable of properly and effectively handling any vehicle service needs that you may encounter.

The Different Classifications of Auto Parts for Repair Service

When it comes to replacement auto parts, there are several different classifications. When your Ontario auto shop gives you an estimate for car repair work, it is vital to understand the differences in these types of parts. The ones you decide to go with can depend on your budget, their availability, and the warranty coverage. Here is a brief breakdown of each type to help you make the best decision:

New Parts (OEM Parts) 

These parts, which have never been used, are built by the original vehicle manufacturer or an independent company to meet the original manufacturer's specifications (aka aftermarket parts). They are usually the most expensive types of parts but are often fully covered under your vehicle’s warranty. So, make sure you check your warranty coverage before making a decision.

Most mechanics will recommend going with new auto parts to ensure dependable performance, especially if your vehicle is new or it is a critical part that needs to be replaced. But, if the part has a relatively short lifespan anyway, aftermarket parts can also be a suitable choice, no matter how old your vehicle is. Aftermarket parts can be an affordable alternative to OEM parts as long as they are purchased from a reliable vendor.

Rebuilt/Reconditioned Parts 

These used parts have been rebuilt to bring them back to good working condition. In most cases, these will be covered under warranty by the manufacturer but the labor to install them will not be covered.

Salvaged Parts 

These used parts have been taken from another vehicle, have not been altered or rebuilt, and will have no guarantee of their reliability. But, these might be the only option for some repairs. This is especially true if the part that needs to be replaced is very expensive when brand new, like in the case of a catalytic converter. 

In most cases, a local, established auto parts shop is going to be the most reliable source for salvaged parts. They’ll have reasonable prices and may even offer a warranty on the used parts.

No matter what type of part you are looking at, always ask about the price, warranty, and return policy. The service staff at a reputable vendor or parts shop can usually also provide a lot of good information on buying parts for your vehicle’s repairs, so don’t be afraid to ask questions.

Warning Signs That You May Need Auto Repair Service

In most cases, when your vehicle is in need of repair, it will start to sound or behave differently. Being aware of the early warning signs can help ensure that you get to the car auto shop before it has a chance to progress into a bigger and much more expensive problem.

Paying attention to your senses is actually one of the best ways to quickly pick up on some common indications of a problem:

Strange Sounds

One of the first things you’d probably notice is an odd sound, whether it is when you are starting your vehicle or if it happens while driving. Some specific sounds are common warning signs of a problem, including:

• Loud squealing when starting the vehicle: If this noise is coming from the front of your vehicle and gradually fades, you most likely have a serpentine belt that is nearing the end of its lifespan. 
• High-pitched squealing when the vehicle is running: An overly worn AC belt, worn power steering components, or a faulty fan can be the source of this sound.
• Sharp shrieking when braking: In most cases, this is the brake wear indicator alerting you that the brake system is overdue for service.
• Clicking sound that gets faster when accelerating: Often due to low engine oil, a stuck valve lifter, or simply a loose or bent fan blade.
• Periodic loud clunking: This can be due to a worn suspension component or a loose exhaust pipe. 

Unusual Sensations

While a smooth ride is the goal, unusual sensations are a common indication there could be a problem with your vehicle. You may quickly realize if your vehicle feels “different” when you start the engine or are driving. Some common unusual sensations include:

• Difficulty starting the vehicle, unusual idling, or stalling: Issues within the charging, starting, or fuel systems can all cause these problems.
• Reduced acceleration: This can be due to clogged fuel injectors, a clogged air filter, a faulty O2 sensor, or overly worn spark plugs.
• Unusual shifting: If the gear shifting feels rough or it is failing to properly shift when accelerating, you could have a failing transmission system component.
• Strange vibrations: An overly worn steering/suspension component or out-of-balance tire can cause vibration in your steering wheel and/or seat.
• Vehicle is pulling to one side while driving: This can be due to an alignment issue, brake problem, underinflated tire, or steering system issue.
• Brake pedal feels strange: If your brake pedal feels “spongy” and soft, this is usually an indication of an issue within the brake system.

Strange Sights

One of the most obvious warning signs to indicate you may need auto repair is when your “Check Engine” light begins to illuminate on your dashboard. You should get into the habit of viewing your dashboard for any warning signs in advance and regularly looking under your vehicle to detect leaking fluids.

Depending on the color, the sight of leaking fluid oozing from your car can be a sign of something serious. Here’s what each color generally means:

• Greasy dark brown or black fluid: This is leaking engine oil that is probably coming from a bad gasket or seal.
• Bright, watery-thin greenish-yellow or fluorescent orange fluid: This is leaking coolant/antifreeze that could be coming from a bad hose, the radiator, or a faulty water pump.
• Oily dark-red fluid: This can either be leaking transmission fluid or power steering fluid.

Odd Smells

While some warning signs are flashy, visible, and loud, other warning signs of car trouble can be silent, but deadly. Several auto issues can present themselves as unusual smells, including:

• Strong, bitter, burning smell from the engine: Overly dirty or leaking oil can cause this smell.
• Distinct “burnt toast” smell: Most often due to an electrical short and/or insulation burning. If this occurs, do not continue to drive your vehicle.
• Burning chemical smell: Usually caused by overheated brakes or clutch. If you see light smoke coming from one of your wheels, you have a locked-up brake. If this occurs, you’ll need to have the vehicle towed in for service.
• Sweet, maple syrup smell: This distinct smell is caused by leaking coolant. If the engine begins to overheat and your temperature gauge jumps up, immediately stop driving.
• A foul, “rotten egg” smell: This strong smell is due to an emission control system problem, often within the catalytic converter.

No one knows your vehicle and how it drives better than you do. If something seems off, bring it into our Ontario auto shop for an inspection or diagnostic test immediately.

How to Find an Exceptional Auto Repair and Tire Shop in Ontario

Finding a quality auto repair and tire shop in Ontario can be challenging if you don’t know what to look for. To get exceptional auto repair that you can count on, you’ll want to select a reputable auto shop that can provide high-quality service, and the skills and knowledge to fulfill your vehicle’s other needs. 

Below are a few tips you can use to locate the perfect auto repair shop:

• Ask friends, family, coworkers, and others you trust for recommendations. Chances are, someone has a good auto repair shop they have been using.
• Read through online reviews from people who have used the shop you are considering. 
• Look for certifications from reputable organizations, specifically the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).
• Get several different estimates before deciding on which shop to go with.
• Ask the shop about warranty coverage and any payment options available.

If your search for a good auto repair and tire shop in Ontario brings you to Ramona Tire, schedule an appointment with us today.   

Additional Auto Repair Tips from the Pros

The need for auto repair service can sometimes bring a bit of stress and anxiety, but there are a few things to remember that can help things go as smoothly as possible:

1. Don’t rely solely on self-serve error code kiosks that scan your vehicle’s computer. Nothing can pinpoint exactly what service is needed like a professional Ontario mechanic. The last thing you want to do is buy parts only to find out that’s not what is actually needed after all.
2. Give your mechanic as much detail about what is happening with your vehicle as possible. This will enable them to more accurately pinpoint the problem. Write down exactly what you are experiencing, including any changes in performance, any warning lights that are on, as well as any unusual vibrations, sounds, smells, etc (and exactly where these things are coming from).
3. Don’t be afraid to ask questions! The mechanic at the auto shop doesn't know how familiar you are with auto service and the related verbiage. They are happy to answer any questions you have.
4. Pay attention to the list of recommended services on the repair quote the auto repair shop gives you. These things will usually be in priority order, so start from the top.
5. Keep all of the paperwork together from any maintenance or auto repair service in an easy-to-find place, just in case something comes up later.
6. Keep a tidy car interior because a vehicle that is neat on the inside is easier to work on. Some parts of a vehicle are more easily accessed from inside the cabin, so before leaving your vehicle at the shop for service, remove any excess clutter from the seats and floorboards. 
7. If your car battery needs to be replaced, get your mechanic’s input before buying one at the auto parts store to ensure you get the right type for the local Ontario climate and your driving needs. Putting in the wrong kind of car battery can cause it to wear out much faster or even cause costly electrical damage.
8. Frequently towing heavy loads puts more stress on your vehicle, which means you may need a higher quality oil. Your mechanic can advise you on which kind of oil will ensure your engine stays properly protected.
9. Periodically look over the coverage, deductible, and limits of your vehicle insurance policy. Make any necessary changes before you find yourself in need of in-depth auto repair due to an accident. 

Why Preventive Maintenance Is Key

When it comes to how well your vehicle operates on a daily basis, preventive maintenance is essential. Preventive maintenance, also referred to as PM, relates to routinely scheduled auto repair that is coordinated based on mileage and time. Whether or not you keep up with your vehicle manufacturer’s recommended routine maintenance tasks directly impacts its performance and reliability. These maintenance services can significantly help reduce the occurrence of many of the auto problems we covered above.

Even though it may seem like a bigger investment of time and money upfront, preventative maintenance will prevent much bigger and more expensive problems down the road. Plus, following the proper maintenance routine and keeping in-depth service records can boost your vehicle’s resale or trade-in value.

How often inspections and maintenance services need to be performed varies with each vehicle. Your owner’s manual is where you’ll find the specific information regarding recommended services and schedules. 

Maintenance Routine Essentials

Keeping up with routine maintenance for your vehicle can improve how it drives, and extend its lifespan. Once you’ve become familiar with the specific factors that contribute to keeping your car in optimal condition and making it last longer, properly maintaining your vehicle becomes even easier. 

To keep your vehicle healthy and running smoothly, your preventative maintenance routine should include the following tasks:

• Routine engine oil/filter changes
• Periodic tire rotation
• Topping-off of fluids or fluid replacement (as needed), including the transmission, brake, and power steering fluids, as well as the coolant
• Maintaining the proper tire air pressure
• Wheel alignment and tire balancing service (as needed)
• Periodic multi-point vehicle inspections
• Brake pad replacement (as needed)
• Fuel system service (as needed)
• Replacement of spark plugs (as needed)
• New battery installation (as needed)
• Belt and hose inspection and replacement (as needed)

Find A Reliable Auto Repair Shop in Ontario, CA

Now that we’ve explored all of the basics to auto repairs in Ontario, CA, you’re probably wondering how you can use this new information to make the best decisions for your vehicle. For starters, you can select a shop that has everything your vehicle needs.   

If you’re exploring the market for a quality mechanic that provides exceptional auto repair in Ontario and surrounding areas, look no further than Ramona Tire & Service Centers. Our ASE-certified auto repair experts provide professional vehicle service backed by a customer experience that can’t be beat.

Schedule an appointment at your closest Ramona Tire & Service Centers location today!