Mon-Thurs 8am-5pm   |   Fri 8am-4pm

2889 W Tharpe St Tallahassee, FL 32303

A logo for a car repair shop called power house.

2889 W Tharpe St Tallahassee, FL 32303   |   Mon-Thurs 8am-5pm   |   Fri 8am-4pm   (850) 608-0420

Powerhouse Auto Repair Blog

Don’t Ignore these 5 Warning Signs that You Need Engine Repair

by Powerhouse Auto Repair • 22 March 2025
Recognizing early warning signs of engine trouble can help you address issues before they become severe. At Powerhouse Auto Repair, we provide expert engine repair in the greater Tallahassee area. Here’s a look at five common symptoms of engine trouble Unusual Noises Coming from the Engine Strange noises—such as knocking, grinding, or hissing—are never a good sign. A knocking sound could indicate worn-out bearings. Grinding noises might suggest a problem with the water pump, while a hissing sound may signal a vacuum leak. Any unfamiliar engine noise should be inspected promptly, as it could indicate a problem that may worsen. Check Engine Light Is On One of the most obvious indications of engine trouble is the check engine light on your dashboard. While some drivers ignore this warning, doing so can lead to serious mechanical problems. The check engine light can be triggered by a variety of issues, ranging from a faulty sensor to a bad spark plug. A diagnostic scan can pinpoint the exact problem, allowing you to address it before it worsens. Loss of Power or Poor Performance If your vehicle feels sluggish or stalls unexpectedly, there may be an issue with the engine. A loss of power can stem from problems such as a clogged fuel filter, failing spark plugs, or issues with the air and fuel mixture. Regular maintenance, such as replacing filters and spark plugs, can help keep your engine running smoothly. Discolored/Excessive Exhaust Smoke The color and amount of exhaust smoke coming from your vehicle can provide clues about engine health. Blue smoke suggests burning oil. White smoke may be a sign of a coolant leak, which can lead to overheating and engine damage. Black smoke often means too much fuel is being burned due. If your car is producing excessive or discolored exhaust, it’s best to have it checked immediately. Overheating An overheating engine is a serious problem that should never be ignored. If your temperature gauge is high, there could be an issue with the cooling system such as a failing radiator, a coolant leak, or a broken water pump. Overheating can cause severe engine damage, including a blown head gasket, so any cooling system issues should be addressed ASAP. Engine Repair in Tallahassee, FL When you need auto repair in Tallahassee and the surrounding area, contact Powerhouse Auto Repair at  (850) 608-0420  . At our local auto shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!

5 Common Indications of a Suspension Issue

by Powerhouse Auto Repair • 22 February 2025
Your vehicle’s suspension system is crucial for maintaining a smooth ride, stability, and control. When the suspension begins to fail, it can affect handling and safety. At Powerhouse Auto Repair, we provide expert suspension repair in the greater Tallahassee area. Here’s a look at five warning signs of suspension trouble. Bumpy or Unstable Ride One of the most noticeable signs of suspension trouble is a rough or bouncy ride. Your shocks and struts are designed to absorb bumps, keeping your ride smoother. If your vehicle feels excessively bumpy, even on relatively smooth roads, your suspension components may be worn out. Uneven or Excessive Tire Wear A properly functioning suspension system helps ensure even tire wear. When components like shocks, struts, or control arms begin to wear out, the weight of your vehicle may no longer be distributed evenly. This can cause uneven tire tread wear, with one side of the tire appearing more worn than the other. Pulling to One Side While Driving A properly aligned and balanced suspension system helps your car drive straight. If you notice your vehicle pulling to one side while driving, it could indicate a suspension issue or misalignment. Nose Dives While Braking When your suspension system is in good condition, your vehicle should remain level when braking. If you experience a noticeable forward lurch when braking (nose diving), it’s a strong sign that your shocks or struts are worn out. This can affect braking efficiency and overall vehicle control, increasing the risk of an accident. Strange Noises When Driving Over Bumps Unusual noises—such as clunking, knocking, or squeaking—when driving over bumps can be a sign of worn or damaged suspension components. Bushings, ball joints, and control arms can wear down and cause these sounds. Ignoring these noises can lead to further damage and more expensive repairs. Suspension Repair in Tallahassee, FL For auto repair in Tallahassee and the surrounding area, contact Powerhouse Auto Repair at  (850) 608-0420  . At our local auto shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

Common Signs of an Alternator Problem that Mean You Should Visit the Mechanic

by Powerhouse Auto Repair • 19 January 2025
The alternator is a crucial component of your vehicle's electrical system, responsible for charging the battery and powering essential systems like lights, radio, and air conditioning. When an alternator starts to fail, it can lead to a range of problems that may leave you stranded on the side of the road. Identifying early warning signs of alternator trouble can potentially save you from inconvenient breakdowns. At Powerhouse Auto Repair, we provide expert alternator replacement and auto electric repair in the greater Tallahassee area. Here’s a look at five warning signs of alternator trouble. Dashboard Warning Light Modern vehicles are equipped with dashboard warning lights designed to alert drivers to potential problems. If you see a battery-shaped warning light or one labeled ALT or GEN illuminate on your dashboard, it could indicate an issue with the alternator. While the battery light might suggest a battery problem, it often signals alternator trouble since the two components work closely together. Dead Battery While a dead battery can result from several issues, a failing alternator is a common culprit. The alternator is responsible for recharging the battery while the engine runs, and if it's not functioning correctly, the battery will eventually lose its charge. Dimming/Flickering Lights One of the most common signs of alternator trouble is dimming or flickering lights. Since the alternator supplies power to your car's electrical systems, a failing alternator may struggle to maintain consistent power output. You might notice headlights that dim or interior lights that flicker. These are indications that the alternator might not be functioning properly. Strange Noises A failing alternator can produce unusual noises, such as grinding or whining sounds. These noises are often caused by a worn-out bearing or a loose belt within the alternator system. If you hear such sounds coming from your engine bay, it's best to have the mechanic inspect the alternator before it fails completely. Electrical Accessory Problems When an alternator starts to fail, it may struggle to supply adequate power to the vehicle's electrical systems. This can result in malfunctioning power windows, issues with the radio, or weak air conditioning performance. If multiple electrical components are acting up simultaneously, there’s a good chance that the alternator is the root cause. Alternator Replacement & Auto Electric Repair in Tallahassee, FL For auto repair in Tallahassee and the surrounding area, contact Powerhouse Auto Repair at  (850) 608-0420  . Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!
Show More →
Share by: