Kelowna Auto Repair

When you stand in front of the oil shelf, every jug claims to protect better, clean better, or last longer than the one beside it. It is easy to wonder whether brand actually matters or if they are all basically the same. The truth sits somewhere in the middle. The logo on the bottle is less important than the specifications on the label, but there are still real differences in how oils are blended and how well they suit your particular engine and driving style.   What Engine Oil Is Really Doing Inside Your Engine Oil has more jobs than most drivers realize. It creates a protective film between moving parts, carries heat away from hot spots, suspends contaminants, and helps keep internal surfaces clean. It needs to flow quickly on cold starts, stay stable when hot, and resist breaking down over thousands of miles. Inside modern engines, oil also feeds systems like variable valve timing and sometimes turbochargers. Small passages rely on the right viscosit ... read more

Most drivers expect two things from a service visit. They want to know what the car needs, and they want to see why. A digital vehicle inspection, often called a DVI, does both. It gives you photos, short videos, and clear notes from a technician, so decisions feel simple instead of stressful. You can review the report on your phone, share it with a family member, and ask questions with everything in front of you.   What a Digital Vehicle Inspection IncludesA DVI follows a set checklist that covers safety, maintenance, and any concerns you mention at drop off. The technician documents tire tread and age, brake pad thickness, rotor condition, fluid levels and health, battery status, suspension wear points, lights, filters, belts, and leaks. You will see exact measurements rather than vague terms. Tread depth readings across the inner, center, and outer ribs Pad th ... read more

Wheel bearings are small, tough components that sit inside your vehicle’s wheel hub assembly. Their main job is to allow the wheels to rotate smoothly while supporting the weight of the vehicle. Each wheel has its own bearing, and it plays a key role in steering, stability, and even braking. When a wheel bearing starts to fail, it doesn’t usually break all at once. Instead, it sends out subtle warning signs. Catching those signs on time will help you avoid breakdowns and save on repairs.   Early Warning Signs of a Bad Wheel Bearing Most wheel bearing problems start with noise. You may hear a low growl or hum that changes with speed. It might sound like tire noise at first, but it gets louder the faster you go. If the sound gets worse when turning or leaning toward one side, that’s another strong clue. The noise usually comes from the side of the vehicle with the failing bearing. You might also feel ... read more

Autumn brings cooler temperatures, vibrant colors, and falling leaves—but for your car’s paint, it can also bring trouble. Leaves, tree sap, and other seasonal debris may seem harmless at first, but if left on your vehicle’s surface, they can cause stains, scratches, and even permanent damage to the finish. Taking a few preventative steps during this time of year can save you from costly paint repairs and help keep your car looking its best.   Why Leaves Can Damage Your Paint Falling leaves aren’t just pretty decorations. When they land on your car, especially after rain or damp weather, they can trap moisture against the surface. Over time, this can lead to water spots or even paint etching. Leaves also contain natural tannins and acids that can stain the clear coat if they sit too long. Combine that with dirt, pollen, and tiny abrasive particles that get trapped underneath, and you have the perfect recipe for scratches and discol ... read more

You might hear the term “tune-up” and wonder whether it still applies to modern vehicles filled with sensors, computers, and digital diagnostics. The truth is, while the nature of tune-ups has evolved, the need for periodic engine care remains just as important. Ignoring signs that your car needs attention can lead to performance issues, reduced fuel economy, and bigger repair bills down the road. So how do you know if your car is due for a tune-up? Let’s take a closer look at what today’s tune-ups involve and what symptoms to watch for.   What Is an Engine Tune-Up Traditionally, a tune-up included replacing spark plugs, adjusting the timing, and checking fuel and air filters. Modern engines don’t need as much manual adjustment, but many of the core services remain. Today’s tune-ups focus on restoring engine efficiency, updating worn parts, and ensuring everything is operating in sync. This may include: Replacing spark ... read more