Blog

Professional Automotive Maintenance & Repair

Image of mutiple racks of tires
16 Jan

Tires: Which is Best for My Car?

Most car owners have had to replace their tires at some point, depending on how long they’ve had them. Even if the tires are brand new, there’s a constant risk of running over a nail or a blowout on the highway. It’s essential to be aware of these possibilities and prepared to choose the new […]

read more
Image of an oil dipstick being checked at Hollenshade's auto repair shop in Towson
08 Dec

How to Know if Your Car Needs An Oil Change

Oil changes are an important part of owning a car. Most car owners know it’s important to take your vehicle to an automotive repair service and get an oil change every 3,000-5,000 (semi-synthetic or three months) and 6,000-8,000 (full-synthetic or six months), depending on what’s recommended for your specific car. But, there are other factors […]

read more
Image of a car parked in snow
18 Nov

10 Tips to Get Your Car Ready for Winter

Winter takes a toll on your vehicle, unleashing a range of challenges. From plummeting temperatures that affect tire pressure to the damaging effects of ice and salt on your vehicle’s exterior, the winter weather subjects cars to significant wear and tear. That’s why it’s crucial to prioritize winterizing your vehicle. By preparing your car for […]

read more
Image of a flashing check engine light
19 Aug

My Check Engine Light Is Flashing; What Should I Do?

A check engine light flashing– as opposed to a continuously illuminated check engine light – should never be ignored. A flashing CEL indicates a severe problem, one that requires immediate car repair. In other words, if your check engine light is flashing, pull over and call a tow service.  Continuing to drive your car with […]

read more
dead car battery hollenshades auto repair towson md
14 Jun

Is My Car Battery Dead If the Car Won’t Start?

Car starting problems happen at the most inopportune of times. Here’s one that commonly occurs when people are ready to head out of the door: The car won’t start. This common car problem can be baffling, especially if your car started fine the day before. What’s causing this issue? Is your car’s battery dead? Is […]

read more
Image of a mechanic's gloved hand holding broken parts
29 May

What Does It Mean If My Car Shakes While Idling?

You’ve just started your car, and while it idles in the driveway, the engine shakes and rumbles. Something feels off, but what’s the problem? In short, this common symptom you’re experiencing is a “rough idle.” A rough idle can be an indicator of several issues, and there are several ways to know if your idle […]

read more
why does engine squeal hollenshades auto repair service
11 Mar

Why Does My Engine Squeal When I Turn it On?

Here’s a typical scenario: You start your car in the morning, and as soon as the engine fires up, you notice a loud, high-pitched squeal. When you accelerate or make a U-turn, the squealing gets louder and more pronounced. What’s Causing Your Engine to Squeal?   Although there are a few causes of a squealing […]

read more
12 Feb

Brake Noise Causes

Some vehicles exhibit brake related concerns such as brake noise, brake judder or brake dragging. If you encounter a situation that causes you to experience one of these symptoms you should seek a professional mechanic to inspect your vehicle’s brake system. An experienced technician will address the specific brake symptom that is causing the concerning […]

read more
hanging brake caliper hollenshades
31 Jan

What is a Hanging Brake Caliper?

The brake caliper is a component in the brake assembly where the pads and pistons are housed. If you have a stuck or hanging brake caliper, the brake pad won’t disengage from the brake rotor surface. This situation leaves you feeling like you are driving with the brakes slightly applied at all times because they […]

read more
damage catalytic converter
09 Jan

What Damages a Catalytic Converter?

Engine misfires that are not repaired promptly are the number one reason for damaged catalytic converters. A broken engine cylinder can damage the catalytic converter in a car, shortening its lifespan by several years. In some cases, it may even cause the converter to melt down completely. What is a Catalytic Converter? An emissions control […]

read more
4
© Hollenshades. All Rights Reserved | Customized by Shadowsong designs