A healthy transmission smoothly transfers power from the engine to the wheels and allows you to shift gears properly. But when the transmission starts to develop issues, ignoring the warning signs can lead to more expensive repairs or even complete failure. Recognizing early symptoms of transmission trouble can help you address problems before they escalate. At American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission, we provide expert transmission repair in the greater Tempe, AZ area. Here are four common signs of a transmission problem. Delayed or Slipping Gears One of the most noticeable signs of a transmission issue is when the vehicle hesitates or struggles to shift gears. If you experience a delay when shifting from park to drive or notice that the engine revs without a corresponding increase in speed, your transmission may be slipping. Slipping gears can happen due to low transmission fluid or internal wear, and it should be addressed immediately to avoid further damage. Unusual Noises While Driving A properly functioning transmission should operate smoothly and quietly. If you hear strange noises such as whining, buzzing, clunking, or grinding, it could indicate a serious problem. These sounds may be caused by low or degraded transmission fluid, worn-out components, or internal mechanical failure. Any unusual noise coming from the transmission should be inspected by a professional before it worsens. Leaking Transmission Fluid Transmission fluid is essential for lubricating moving parts and maintaining the system’s efficiency. If you notice reddish fluid pooling under your car, it may be a sign of a transmission fluid leak. Low fluid levels can cause overheating, increased friction, and eventual transmission failure. Checking the transmission fluid regularly and addressing any leaks promptly can prevent significant damage. Burning Smell A burning smell coming from your vehicle is never a good sign, and if it's related to the transmission, it could indicate overheating fluid. Transmission fluid helps to cool and lubricate internal components, but if it becomes low, it can start to overheat and break down. Overheating can cause serious damage to transmission parts. If you notice a burning odor, have your transmission checked as soon as possible. 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 local auto shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

Recognizing early warning signs of engine trouble can help you address problems before they become severe. By paying attention to how your vehicle behaves, you can help prevent breakdowns and extend the life of your engine. At American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission, we provide expert engine repair in the greater Tempe, AZ area. Here are five common signs of an engine issue. Strange Noises Coming from the Engine Unusual sounds such as knocking, tapping, or grinding can indicate serious engine problems. A knocking noise could be a sign of worn-out bearings. Tapping noises may signal low oil levels. Grinding sounds might indicate a problem with the water pump or alternator. Any persistent or loud noise should be inspected by the mechanic to help prevent more serious damage. Loss of Power/Poor Performance If your vehicle loses power while driving or feels sluggish, you’ve got a sign of an issue with the engine. Reduced performance can be caused by problems such as clogged fuel injectors, a failing mass airflow sensor, or worn-out spark plugs. If your car is not responding as it normally would, it’s best to have it checked to avoid further complications. Discolored/Excessive Smoke from the Exhaust The color of the smoke coming from your exhaust can tell you a lot about potential engine problems. Blue smoke indicates that oil is burning. White smoke suggests coolant is leaking into the combustion chamber, which may be due to a blown head gasket. Black smoke signals that the engine is burning too much fuel. If you notice discolored/excessive smoke coming from your exhaust, it’s essential to diagnose and fix the problem quickly. High Engine Temperature If your temperature gauge rises above normal levels, it’s an indication that your engine is overheating. Overheating can be caused by failing cooling system components, such as a malfunctioning thermostat, a leaking radiator, or a broken water pump. Driving with an overheated engine can lead to severe damage. Check Engine Light The check engine light is a clear indication that something is wrong with your engine. While it could be triggered by a minor issue like a loose gas cap, it can also signal more serious problems, such as a failing oxygen sensor, catalytic converter trouble, or ignition system failure. Ignoring the check engine light can lead to bigger and more expensive repairs, so it’s best to visit the shop for diagnostics ASAP. Engine Repair in Tempe, AZ For 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 to schedule an appointment!

A well-functioning suspension system is critical for a smooth ride and safe handling. If your car’s suspension starts to fail, it can affect comfort, performance, and safety. At American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission, our local mechanics provide expert suspension repair in the greater Tempe, AZ area. Here are five common signs of suspension trouble to watch for. Excessive Bouncing or Rough Ride When your car bounces excessively after hitting a bump or feels unusually rough, it’s a sign of worn-out shocks or struts. These components help absorb impacts and maintain control. If they’re damaged, you’ll likely feel every bump on the road. Uneven Tire Wear Uneven tire wear is often a result of suspension problems. If the system isn’t distributing weight evenly, certain tires will wear down faster. Misalignment or worn suspension components can lead to this issue, reducing tire life and increasing the risk of blowouts. Drifting or Pulling During Turns If your car feels like it’s drifting or pulling to one side when you’re turning, it could mean the suspension system isn’t keeping the vehicle stable. This can be caused by worn shocks, struts, or other suspension components that no longer provide adequate support. Sagging or Uneven Stance A visibly sagging or uneven vehicle stance is another common sign of suspension issues. If one side of your car sits lower than the other, it could be due to a damaged spring or other worn suspension parts. This can also affect handling and increase tire wear. Nose-Diving When Braking If your car’s front end dips dramatically when braking, it’s a sign that your shocks or struts are worn out. This problem reduces your braking efficiency and can increase stopping distances, posing a serious safety risk. 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  . At our local auto shop, we can expertly handle your car’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

The alternator is a vital component of your car’s electrical system, responsible for keeping the battery charged and powering electrical functions while the engine is running. When the alternator starts to fail, it can lead to various issues that affect your vehicle’s performance and reliability. Recognizing the signs of alternator trouble can help you address the problem before it leaves you stranded. At American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission, we provide expert alternator replacement and auto electric repair in the greater Tempe, AZ area. Here are five common symptoms of alternator trouble. Dashboard Warning Light Vehicles are commonly equipped with a warning light—usually in the shape of a battery or marked ALT or GEN—to indicate a problem with the charging system. If this light comes on, it often signals an issue with the alternator. While this warning light doesn’t specify the exact problem, it serves as an important indicator that your electrical system needs inspection. Dead Battery While a failing battery can be the root cause of a no-start situation, a bad alternator can also lead to a dead battery. If your alternator isn’t charging the battery properly, the battery will gradually lose its charge, leaving you unable to start your vehicle. Dimming/Flickering Lights Another red flag for alternator trouble is dim or flickering headlights and interior lights. The alternator generates the power required to keep these lights at full brightness. If it’s not functioning correctly, your vehicle may not produce enough power to sustain consistent lighting. Unusual Noises Strange noises coming from under the hood can also point to alternator trouble. A failing alternator may produce a whining or grinding sound, which could be caused by a worn-out bearing or a belt problem. These noises often indicate that the alternator’s internal components are deteriorating and require attention before the alternator fails completely. Issues with Electrical Accessories A failing alternator can disrupt your car’s electrical functions. You may notice that power windows operate slowly, the radio cuts out, or other electronic accessories like the air conditioning or heated seats work inconsistently. These malfunctions occur because the alternator isn’t supplying enough power to support all the electrical systems in your car. Alternator Replacement & Auto Electric 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!

Automatic transmission issues can escalate quickly, making it important to get to the shop at the first sign of trouble. At American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission, we provide expert automatic transmission repair in the greater Tempe, AZ area. Here’s a look at four warning signs of automatic transmission trouble. Delayed or Rough Shifting One of the most common signs of a transmission issue is difficulty when shifting gears. If you notice delays, jerks, or roughness when the car changes gears, there could be an underlying transmission problem. This is often due to worn-out transmission fluid or mechanical wear within the transmission itself. Pay attention to any grinding or clunking sounds when shifting, as these could point to serious issues. Slipping Gears When your transmission "slips," it might feel like the car momentarily loses power, then regains it unexpectedly. This can be hazardous, as it may happen while accelerating or even while driving at consistent speeds. Slipping gears can result from low or degraded transmission fluid or other internal transmission issues that require immediate attention. Burning Smell A burning smell from your vehicle often signals overheated transmission fluid, which could result from inadequate fluid levels or fluid that's become too old and contaminated to cool and lubricate properly. If you notice a burnt odor, check your transmission fluid level, and have the system inspected. Left unchecked, overheating can lead to serious transmission damage. Fluid Leaks Transmission fluid is typically red and has a slightly sweet smell. If you see this fluid leaking under your vehicle, it’s a red flag. Leaking fluid not only reduces the lubrication and cooling abilities of the transmission, but also could indicate a seal or gasket failure. It’s important to address leaks promptly to avoid further damage to your transmission. Automatic Transmission Repair in Tempe 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 to make an appointment!

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!