It’s always best to take action when you first notice that your car is struggling to fire up. This will give you the best chance to address the issue before it escalates and your vehicle won’t start whatsoever, leaving you stranded. At Powerhouse Auto Repair, our local mechanics are experts at fixing issues that cause hard-starts and no-starts. Here’s a look at five common car problems that can prevent the engine from firing up. Dead Battery A dead battery is one of the most common reasons for a car not starting. Batteries can drain for various reasons, including leaving lights on overnight, extreme weather conditions, or simply the battery reaching the end of its life. If you turn the key and hear nothing, or if your dashboard lights and accessories don't power up, a dead battery could be the culprit. Faulty Starter The starter is responsible for turning the engine over when you start the car. When it fails, your car won't start. If you hear a clicking noise when you try to start the vehicle, it could indicate a problem with the starter. Over time, wear and tear can take its toll on the starter motor, leading to its failure. Bad Alternator The alternator charges your car's battery and powers the electrical system while you're driving. If the alternator fails, your battery will not recharge, and eventually, your car won't start. Signs of a failing alternator can include dimming headlights, flickering dashboard lights, or a battery warning light on your dash. Ignition Switch Problems If your car's battery seems fine but the car still won't start, the problem could lie in the ignition switch. This switch is responsible for sending power from the battery to the starter motor and ignition system. A sign of a faulty ignition switch is that you have trouble turning the key in the ignition. Clogged Fuel Filter A fully clogged fuel filter can prevent fuel from reaching the engine, making it impossible for the car to start. Over time, dirt, debris, and contaminants can accumulate in the fuel filter, restricting the flow of fuel. Regular maintenance and replacing the fuel filter according to your vehicle’s guidelines can prevent this issue from occurring. Auto Repair in Tallahassee For auto repair in Tallahassee and the surrounding area, contact Powerhouse Auto Repair at  (850) 608-0420  . At our nearby auto shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!

When a transmission starts to malfunction, it can cause significant damage if not addressed quickly. Identifying the signs of a transmission problem early can help save you from more expensive repairs and dangerous breakdowns. At Powerhouse Auto Repair, our local mechanics provide expert transmission repair in the greater Tallahassee, FL area. Here are four common signs of a transmission problem that should be addressed ASAP. Delayed or Slipping Gears If you notice that your car is hesitating or taking longer than usual to switch between gears, this could indicate a transmission issue. Gear slipping—when the vehicle suddenly changes gears without any action on your part—can be especially dangerous. This issue could stem from low transmission fluid or a more serious internal failure. Abnormal Noises Grinding, clunking, or whining sounds while your vehicle is shifting gears are telltale signs of transmission trouble. These noises may signal worn or damaged gears, and addressing the problem early can prevent more extensive damage. Anytime your vehicle makes abnormal noises, it’s best to alert the mechanic as soon as possible. Burning Smell A burning smell coming from your vehicle could indicate that your transmission fluid is overheating. This could be due to low fluid levels, contaminated fluid, or issues with the transmission itself. Overheating fluid cannot lubricate properly, leading to increased friction and wear on internal components. If you detect a burning smell, it’s important to have your transmission checked immediately to hopefully prevent further damage. Leaking Transmission Fluid Transmission fluid is vital for lubricating and cooling the transmission’s internal components. If you notice reddish-colored fluid pooling under your car, your transmission could be leaking. Ignoring this issue could lead to low fluid levels, resulting in overheating and severe internal damage. It's essential to address leaks as soon as they are detected to keep your transmission functioning correctly. Transmission Repair in Tallahassee For auto repair in Tallahassee and the surrounding area, contact Powerhouse Auto Repair at  (850) 608-0420  . Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!