Miami Auto Repair

Misfire vs. Fuel Issue: How Technicians Tell the Difference When your car starts running rough, hesitating, or shaking at idle, one of the most common questions we hear is: “Is it a misfire, or is it a fuel problem?” To the driver, the symptoms can feel almost identical — loss of power, poor acceleration, rough idle, or even a flashing check engine light. But to a trained technician, misfires and fuel issues leave very different clues behind. Here’s how professionals tell the difference and why proper diagnosis matters. What Is a Misfire? A misfire happens when one or more cylinders fail to properly ignite the air-fuel mixture. In simple terms, the engine is skipping a beat. Common causes of misfires include:     •    Worn or failed spark plugs     •    Faulty ignition coils     •    Ignition wiring issues     ... read more

What Causes Cars to Overheat in Miami Traffic — And How to Prevent It Miami’s heat and heavy traffic are a tough combination for vehicle cooling systems. If your car routinely gets hot while idling or crawling on Miami streets, understanding the common causes and quick fixes can save you time, money, and an embarrassing roadside breakdown. Why cars overheat in Miami traffic Heavy stop-and-go traffic: When your vehicle moves slowly or sits idling, less airflow passes through the radiator and condenser, reducing the cooling effect. The engine generates heat but can’t shed it efficiently. High ambient temperatures and humidity: Miami’s hot, humid climate raises under-hood temperatures and makes heat dissipation harder for the radiator and cooling fans. Low coolant levels or leaks: If coolant (antifreeze) is low or leaking, the system can’t circulate enough fluid to carry heat away from the engine. Faulty thermostat: A thermostat stuck closed prevents co ... read more

Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Engine Ticking Noises   If your engine is making a ticking or tapping noise, it’s your vehicle’s way of telling you something isn’t right. While some engine sounds can be harmless, a ticking noise should never be ignored. Getting your vehicle properly diagnosed as soon as you notice the noise can help prevent more serious damage, save you money, and keep you safe on the road.   What Causes Engine Ticking Noises? Engine ticking noises can come from a variety of sources, ranging from minor issues to serious mechanical problems. Some common causes include:     •    Low or dirty engine oil     •    Worn or sticking lifters     •    Loose or failing components     •    Exhaust leaks     •    Fuel injec ... read more

Why Is My Car Overheating Even Though the Coolant Level Is Fine? If you’re driving around Coral Gables, Miami, or the 33145 area and notice your temperature gauge rising—even though your coolant level looks normal—you’re not alone. This is a common issue we see at our auto repair shop, and it often points to a hidden problem in the cooling system. Ignoring overheating can lead to serious engine damage, so it’s important to understand the possible causes. Common Reasons Your Car Is Overheating  Stuck or Failing Thermostat The thermostat controls coolant flow. If it fails in the closed position, coolant can’t circulate properly, causing the engine to overheat quickly—even with a full reservoir. Cooling Fan Not Turning On In Miami traffic and hot weather, radiator fans are critical. A bad fan motor, relay, or temperature sensor can cause overheating while idling or stopped at lights, then cool down once you’re driving. Water Pump ... read more