Yakima Auto Repair

Every spring, it feels like potholes are everywhere, turning once-smooth roads into obstacle courses. If you’ve ever wondered why they seem to get worse after winter, the answer lies in how roads react to cold temperatures, moisture, and traffic. Potholes aren’t just an inconvenience—they can cause serious damage to your tires, wheels, and suspension. So, what exactly makes them form, and why do they seem to multiply when winter ends? How Potholes Form Potholes are caused by the expansion and contraction of water beneath the pavement. When moisture seeps into cracks in the road, it settles underneath the surface. In colder months, freezing temperatures turn that water into ice, which expands and pushes against the pavement from below. This weakens the road structure, creating small gaps and fractures. As temperatures rise, the ice melts, leaving empty pockets under the pavement. The weight of passing vehicles puts stress on these weak spots, eventu ... read more

Has your car been guzzling oil faster than usual? Excessive oil consumption is more than just a mild inconvenience—it’s often a sign that something deeper is going on under the hood. While all engines burn a small amount of oil over time, consistently adding oil to your vehicle before its next scheduled change points to a potential issue that needs attention. Let’s find the reasons behind excessive oil consumption and what your engine might be trying to tell you. Why Do Engines Consume Oil Engines naturally use a small amount of oil during normal operation. This is usually caused by slight evaporation under high temperatures or minimal seepage past engine seals. However, when the oil disappears at an alarming rate, it’s a red flag. Reasons can range from aging components to internal malfunctions. Identifying the cause early can save you from costly repairs and extend your engine’s life. Worn-Out Piston Rings or Valve Seals ... read more