Your vehicle’s cooling system is crucial for preventing the engine from overheating. When issues arise within the cooling system, it’s important to address them promptly to avoid costly repairs and potential engine damage. At American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission, we provide expert cooling system repair in the greater Tempe area. Here are four signs that your vehicle's cooling system is failing. Overheating Engine One of the most obvious signs of a cooling system problem is an overheating engine. If the temperature gauge on your dashboard climbs into the red zone or you see a warning light indicating high engine temperature, it's a clear sign that your cooling system isn’t functioning properly. Overheating can be caused by a variety of issues, such as a malfunctioning thermostat, low coolant levels, or a blocked radiator. Coolant Leaks Coolant leaks are another common indication of cooling system trouble. You might notice puddles of green, orange, or pink fluid (your coolant might be a different color) under your vehicle, particularly after it has been parked for a while. Leaks can occur from places such as hoses, the radiator, or the water pump. Ignoring a coolant leak can lead to low coolant levels and overheating. Steam Coming from the Engine If you see steam coming from under your hood, it's a strong indication that your engine is overheating. Steam is often caused by coolant boiling within the cooling system, which can occur if the coolant level is too low. Pull over safely if you see steam, as continuing to drive may cause serious engine damage. Unusual Engine Noises Unusual sounds coming from your engine, particularly a grinding or squealing noise, can be a sign of cooling system issues. These noises might indicate a failing water pump or a slipping belt, both of which are crucial components of the cooling system. If the water pump isn’t circulating coolant properly, your engine is at risk of overheating. Cooling System Repair in Tempe, AZ When you need auto repair in Tempe and the surrounding area, contact American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission at  480-613-5335  . 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!

Transmission fluid is essential to keeping your vehicle's transmission operating smoothly. It lubricates, cools, and helps transmit power, making it a vital component of your car's overall performance. When the transmission fluid level drops, it can lead to serious issues that may cause significant damage if not addressed promptly. At American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission, we can expertly handle issues related to transmission fluid. Here are five warning signs that your transmission fluid is too low. Slipping Gears One of the most common signs of low transmission fluid is gear slipping. If your vehicle unexpectedly changes gears or has difficulty staying in gear, it could indicate that there’s not enough transmission fluid to maintain proper pressure in the transmission system. This can be particularly dangerous while driving, as it may cause your car to lose acceleration unexpectedly. Delayed Shifting When the transmission fluid level is low, you might notice a delay when shifting gears, especially when moving from park to drive or reverse. This delay occurs because the transmission is struggling to build up enough hydraulic pressure to shift gears smoothly. Unusual Noises A healthy transmission should operate quietly, but low fluid levels can cause a variety of noises, including whining, humming, or clunking sounds. These noises often occur when the transmission is straining due to inadequate lubrication. If you hear any unusual sounds coming from your transmission, it’s crucial to investigate promptly. Overheating Transmission Transmission fluid helps cool the transmission by dissipating heat generated during operation. Low fluid levels can lead to overheating, which may manifest as a burning smell. Overheating can cause significant damage to your transmission, so it’s important to address this issue as soon as possible. Transmission Fluid Leaks If you notice puddles of reddish-colored fluid under your vehicle, your transmission might be leaking. A leak can quickly reduce the fluid level, leading to the symptoms mentioned above. Checking for leaks regularly and addressing them promptly can help prevent low transmission fluid and the associated issues. Transmission Repair in Tempe, AZ For transmission repair in Tempe and the surrounding area, contact American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission at  480-613-5335  . At our nearby auto shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

When the check engine light illuminates, it's a sign from your car that something isn't right. While the issue could be minor, it's always best to investigate promptly to avoid more serious problems. At American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission, we provide expert check engine light diagnostics and repair in the greater Tempe area. Here’s a look at five common reasons the check engine light illuminates. Oxygen Sensor Failure The oxygen sensor monitors the level of unburned oxygen in your vehicle's exhaust system and sends this information to the engine control unit (ECU). This helps the engine run efficiently and reduce emissions. A faulty oxygen sensor can lead to decreased fuel-economy, increased emissions, and potential problems with the catalytic converter. Catalytic Converter Issues The catalytic converter is an important component of your vehicle’s exhaust system. It helps convert harmful pollutants into less harmful emissions before they exit the exhaust system. If the catalytic converter fails, your car will not only emit more pollutants, but you can also experience reduced performance and fuel-economy. Mass Airflow Sensor Problems The mass airflow (MAF) sensor measures the amount of air entering the engine and helps the ECU determine the proper amount of fuel to inject. If the MAF sensor is faulty, it can result in incorrect air-fuel mixtures, leading to poor engine performance. Loose or Faulty Gas Cap One of the simplest reasons for a check engine light to illuminate is a loose or faulty gas cap. The gas cap seals the fuel system. If it’s loose or faulty, fuel may evaporate before you get the chance to run on it. Spark Plug or Ignition Coil Issues Spark plugs and ignition coils are essential for igniting the air-fuel mixture in your engine’s cylinders. Worn-out spark plugs or faulty ignition coils can cause misfires, leading to rough engine performance. Regular replacement of spark plugs and ignition coils can help keep your engine running smoothly. Check Engine Light Repair in Tempe, AZ When you need auto repair in Tempe and the surrounding area, contact American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission at  480-613-5335  . At our local auto shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs.Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!

Healthy brakes are crucial for staying safe during your daily commute. When you first suspect an issue with your brakes, you’ll want to visit the shop for an inspection. At American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission, we provide expert brake repair in the greater Tempe, AZ area. Here’s a look at six warning signs of brake trouble. Squeaking or Squealing Noises If you hear a high-pitched squealing noise when you apply the brakes, it’s often a sign that the brake pads are worn and need to be replaced. Most brake pads have a built-in wear indicator that produces this sound as an early warning. Ignoring this can lead to more serious issues, including damage to the rotors. Grinding Sounds A grinding noise usually indicates that the brake pads are completely worn out, and the metal parts of the brakes are rubbing against each other. This can cause significant damage to the rotors. If you hear grinding, it’s important to have your brakes inspected immediately. Vibrating Feeling a vibration or pulsation when you press the brake pedal can indicate warped rotors. Warped rotors can occur from excessive heat buildup. This issue can affect braking efficiency and needs to be addressed ASAP. Spongy or Soft Brake Pedal If your brake pedal feels spongy or sinks to the floor when you press it, there could be air in the brake lines or a brake fluid leak. This problem can severely affect your ability to stop quickly, making it a serious safety concern. You shouldn’t drive with a brake fluid leak. Rather, you should get towed to the shop. Pulling to One Side When your vehicle pulls to one side while braking, it may indicate that a caliper has seized up due to corrosion. Because this creates a serious accident risk, your car shouldn’t be driven in this condition. Brake Warning Light If your brake warning light illuminates, it could be due to issues such as low brake fluid or faulty wheel speed sensors. An illuminated brake warning light should be promptly brought to the mechanic’s attention. Brake Repair in Tempe, AZ When you need auto repair in Tempe and the surrounding area, contact American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission at  480-613-5335  . At our local auto shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call today to schedule an appointment!

Because transmission issues often escalate quickly, it’s always best to visit the mechanic at the first sign of trouble. At American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission, we provide expert transmission repair in the greater Tempe, AZ area. Our local mechanics will make sure your car is able to shift smoothly and safely. Here’s a look at five warning signs of a transmission problem. Strange Noises Unusual noises coming from your transmission—such as whining, grinding, or clunking—could indicate various issues. These noises might be a result of low transmission fluid or a failing torque converter. If you hear any unfamiliar sounds, it's best to have the mechanic inspect your transmission. Slipping Gears A transmission that slips gears can be a serious safety hazard. You may notice a delay in acceleration or a sudden increase in engine RPM without a corresponding increase in vehicle speed. This slipping sensation often indicates hydraulic problems within the transmission. Burning Smell If you detect a burning odor, it could be a sign of overheating transmission fluid. Overheating can occur due to low fluid levels, fluid leaks, or excessive friction within the transmission. Ignoring this issue can lead to severe damage to your transmission components. Fluid Leaks Transmission fluid is essential for lubricating and cooling the transmission system. A puddle of reddish-colored fluid underneath your parked car is a sign of a transmission fluid leak. Leaks can occur from damaged seals, gaskets, or transmission lines. Driving with low fluid levels can cause major damage to your transmission. Delayed Engagement When you shift your vehicle into drive or reverse, you expect an immediate response. However, if there's a noticeable delay before the transmission engages, it could indicate internal problems. Delayed engagement requires prompt attention to prevent further damage. Transmission Repair in Tempe, AZ When you need transmission repair in Tempe and the surrounding area, contact American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission at  480-613-5335  . At our nearby auto shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!

At American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission, it’s our mission to consistently outperform our customers’ expectations by providing flawless repairs at fair prices. Whether you need some light maintenance or in-depth transmission repair, our local mechanics will work meticulously to complete the job to the highest standards. And we appreciate it when our customers provide feedback about their experiences with us. Here’s a look at some of our recent customer reviews. “Eric and his crew are truly amazing. He is always willing to help his people by going over and beyond with excellent customer service. He is always very honest and does not try to get you to pay all these high fees like dealers and other mechanics to fix your car. Thank you for always being honest but most important taking care of my cars when I have to get them repaired. I am grateful to finally find someone I can trust with my cars.” — Lataica M. “I have been taking several vehicles to American Five Star for years now. I have had three transmissions rebuilt there and Eric completely rebuilt a 1968 Bronco for me. I cannot say enough about the customer service and the quality of the work coming out of this shop. I highly recommend and have recommended them to many of my friends and family members. Just a good/quality business with good people running it. Five Star gets five stars from me.” — Greg T. “Eric and his staff are always honest, affordable and professional. I’ve used this business on several vehicles over the years and have been very happy with their service.” — Della B. “Gina and her crew are always ready to go the extra mile. Also very honest and fair!” — Jeff C. “Eric and the crew do a wonderful job!” — Marc E. “We take our cars to Chad, our mechanic, who does excellent work. He always treats us fairly, is very knowledgeable and trustworthy. Five Star keeps us informed of what's needed before starting work and provides an accurate estimate up front. Gina is professional, efficient and great to work with!” — Richard M. Auto Repair in Tempe, AZ When you need auto repair in Tempe and the surrounding area, contact American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission at  480-613-5335  . Feel free to give us a call today to schedule an appointment!

When you notice evidence of an engine issue, it’s always best to alert the mechanic right away. This will give you the best chance to prevent the problem from escalating and causing breakdowns and/or more expensive repairs. At American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission, we provide expert engine repair in the greater Tempe, AZ area. Here’s a look at five common signs of engine trouble. Check Engine Light The check engine light is your car's way of telling you that something is wrong under the hood. While it can sometimes be triggered by minor issues like a loose gas cap, it's crucial not to ignore it. A diagnostic scan can reveal the specific problem, which can then be promptly addressed. Common check engine light triggers include issues with oxygen sensors, catalytic converters, and MAF sensors. Decreased Performance If your vehicle isn't accelerating as smoothly as it once did or if you notice a decrease in power and efficiency, it could be a sign of engine trouble. This could be caused by various factors, such as a clogged air filter, a malfunctioning fuel pump, or worn-out spark plugs. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent further issues and restore your engine’s performance. Discolored/Excessive Smoke from the Exhaust The smoke’s color can provide clues about the underlying issue. Blue smoke commonly suggests burning oil. White smoke might indicate a coolant leak, while black smoke could signal a rich fuel mixture. Strange Noises One of the most obvious signs that something is wrong with your engine is unusual noises. Knocking, tapping, hissing, or grinding sounds could indicate various issues, and should be promptly investigated. Unusual Smells Strange odors can also indicate engine trouble. A sweet smell could mean a coolant leak, while a burnt odor might suggest that oil or transmission fluid is leaking. Any unusual smells should be investigated promptly to prevent further damage. Engine Repair in Tempe, AZ When you need auto repair in Tempe, AZ and the surrounding area, contact American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission at  480-613-5335  . Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!

It’s important to get to the shop when you first notice that your car is struggling to fire up as easily as usual. If you delay, the underlying issue may soon escalate and prevent your car from starting at all. At American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission, our local mechanics are experts at identifying and fixing issues that cause no-start. Here are five common issues that prevent cars from starting up. Dead Battery One of the most frequent culprits for a car that won't start is a dead or weak battery. Common causes of dead batteries include loose/corroded connections, old age, parasitic draws, and leaving on headlights. If you hear a clicking sound when you turn the key or notice dim lights on the dashboard, you may well have a battery issue. Faulty Starter Motor The starter motor is responsible for turning the engine over when you turn the key. If the starter motor is faulty, your car won't start. A sign of a malfunctioning starter is that there’s a grinding noise. Fuel System Issues If there are issues with the car’s fuel system, it may not start. Common fuel-related problems include a clogged fuel filter and a malfunctioning fuel pump. Fuel system problems often cause symptoms such as sputtering and decreased fuel-efficiency. Ignition System Failure The ignition system is crucial for starting your car. Problems with components like the ignition switch, spark plugs, or ignition coil can prevent your car from starting. Symptoms may include a lack of engine turnover or irregular engine firing. Faulty Alternator The alternator charges the battery while the engine is running, and a malfunctioning alternator can lead to a drained battery and difficulty starting the car. Signs of alternator issues include dimming headlights and problems with interior electrical accessories. Auto Repair in Tempe, AZ When you need auto repair in Tempe, AZ and the surrounding area, contact American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission at  480-613-5335  . At our local auto shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call today to schedule an appointment!

Your vehicle's suspension system plays a crucial role in providing a smooth ride and proper stability. Eventually, wear and tear can take a toll on your suspension components, leading to potential safety hazards and a compromised driving experience. When you first notice a symptom of suspension trouble, it’s best to visit the shop for an inspection. At American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission, our local mechanics are highly experienced with suspension repair in the greater Tempe, AZ area. Here are five signs of a suspension problem. Bumpy or Unstable Ride If you notice excessive bouncing, swaying, or a generally uncomfortable ride, it could suggest problems with your shocks or struts. These components are responsible for absorbing shocks and vibrations, and when they fail, your vehicle's ride quality diminishes. Knocking or Clunking Noises Unusual noises, such as knocking or clunking sounds, when driving over rough terrain can indicate problems with the suspension system. These noises may be a result of worn-out bushings or issues with the shock absorbers. Ignoring these sounds can lead to further damage and compromise safety. Visible Fluid Leaks Leaking shock absorbers or struts can lead to a loss of fluid, affecting their ability to absorb shocks effectively. If fluid is leaking out onto your shocks, there’s a good chance that you’ll need to replace them. Dipping or Nose-Diving During Braking A healthy suspension system helps maintain stability during braking. If you notice your vehicle dipping forward or nose-diving when you apply the brakes, it could signal issues with the front suspension components. Failing shocks or struts can compromise braking performance and overall safety. Uneven Tire Wear In many cases, one of the first signs of a suspension problem is uneven tire wear. If you notice that your tires are wearing out unevenly, particularly on the inside or outside edges, it could be an indication that the suspension components are not properly supporting the vehicle's weight. Suspension Repair in Tempe, AZ When you need auto repair in Tempe and the surrounding area, contact American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission at  480-613-5335  . Feel free to give us a call today to schedule an appointment!