Your vehicle’s braking system is one of its most critical safety features. Properly functioning brakes allow you to slow down and stop safely in everyday driving and emergency situations. Unfortunately, brake problems often develop gradually and can lead to costly repairs or dangerous failures if ignored. Following a few preventive tips can help keep your brakes in good condition and reduce the risk of major issues. At Hye-Tech Auto, our local mechanics provide expert brake service in the greater Covina, CA area. Here are four tips for preventing major brake problems. Pay Attention to Warning Signs Brakes often provide warnings before more serious failures occur. Squealing, grinding, or scraping noises, vibrations, or a soft or spongy pedal feel should never be ignored. These symptoms can indicate worn brake pads, warped rotors, or hydraulic issues. Addressing warning signs promptly helps prevent further damage to the braking system. Schedule Regular Brake Inspections Routine brake inspections are essential for catching wear before it becomes severe. During an inspection, a technician can check brake pads, rotors, calipers, and brake lines for signs of damage or excessive wear. Regular inspections help ensure components are replaced at the right time, reducing the likelihood of brake failure. Avoid Aggressive Driving Habits Frequent hard braking, rapid acceleration, and riding the brakes put unnecessary stress on the braking system. These habits cause brake pads and rotors to wear out faster and increase heat buildup, which can lead to warping or reduced braking performance. Driving smoothly and anticipating stops helps extend the life of your brakes. Maintain Proper Brake Fluid Levels Brake fluid plays a crucial role in transferring force from the brake pedal to the braking components. Over time, brake fluid can become contaminated or leak, reducing braking efficiency. Having brake fluid checked and replaced as recommended helps maintain proper pressure and performance. Brake Service in Covina, CA For expert brake service in Covina and the surrounding area, contact Hye-Tech Auto at  626-332-5452  . Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment for car care in greater Covina, CA!

Your vehicle’s automatic transmission is responsible for delivering smooth, reliable shifts that allow your engine and wheels to work together efficiently. When something goes wrong, the transmission often sends out warning signs long before a complete failure occurs. Paying attention to these early indications can save you from more expensive repairs and breakdowns that leave you stranded. At Hye-Tech Auto, our local mechanics provide expert automatic transmission repair in the greater Covina, CA area. Here are four common signs that your automatic transmission may be in trouble and needs professional attention. Slipping Gears/Unpredictable Shifting One of the most noticeable signs of transmission trouble is slipping gears. If your vehicle unexpectedly changes gears, struggles to stay in gear, or feels like it’s losing power during acceleration, your transmission may be slipping. This issue is often caused by worn-out clutch components, low fluid levels, or internal mechanical problems. Even minor slipping should be taken seriously—ignoring it could lead to complete transmission failure. Delayed Engagement When Shifting If you shift from Park to Drive or Reverse and notice a delay before the car actually starts moving, that hesitation is a red flag. Delayed engagement commonly signals internal wear or low transmission fluid. This type of hesitation often worsens over time, and addressing it early can prevent much more costly internal damage. Grinding, Whining, or Unusual Noises Healthy transmissions operate smoothly and quietly. If you begin hearing whining, humming, clunking, or grinding sounds, you may be dealing with worn gears, failing bearings, or fluid problems. Transmission fluid lubricates and cools internal parts—when it’s old, contaminated, or running low, components start to wear quickly. Any new or unusual noise during shifting warrants an immediate inspection. Leaking Transmission Fluid Transmission fluid leaks are both common and serious. Automatic transmissions depend on fluid to operate, and a low fluid level can cause overheating, slipping, and severe internal damage. Transmission fluid is usually red or pinkish, though it can darken to brown as it ages. If you notice puddles or spots under your parked vehicle, have it evaluated right away. Fixing a small leak is far easier and cheaper than repairing the damage caused by driving with low fluid. Transmission Repair in Covina, CA For expert auto repair in Covina and the surrounding area, contact Hye-Tech Auto at  626-332-5452  . Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!