Our Services

Inspection-

Car inspections are a critical part of vehicle maintenance, ensuring safety, reliability, and compliance with local regulations. Regular inspections help identify potential issues before they escalate, mitigating the risk of breakdowns and costly repairs. Furthermore, certain states mandate inspections as a requirement for vehicle registration, making it legally important. Come on ahead and get you inspection Today at our shop.

Knowing when to get a car inspection is crucial for maintaining your vehicle’s safety and performance. Here are several indicators that signal it’s time for an inspection:

Dashboard Warning Lights: If any warning lights illuminate, such as the check engine light, oil pressure light, or battery light, it's essential to have your vehicle inspected promptly.
Unusual Noises: Any unfamiliar sounds, such as grinding, squeaking, or knocking, may indicate mechanical issues that require immediate attention.
Decreased Performance: Noticeable drops in acceleration, power, or fuel efficiency are signs that your vehicle may need a thorough inspection.
Vibrations While Driving: If you experience vibrations in the steering wheel or throughout the vehicle, it could indicate alignment or suspension problems.
Fluid Leaks: Puddles or spots under your car can signify leaks in critical systems like oil, transmission fluid, or coolant. These should be investigated without delay.
Strange Smells: Unpleasant odors, such as burning rubber, gasoline, or other unusual smells, may indicate a potential issue that needs professional assessment.
Tires: Uneven tire wear or low tread depth suggests that alignment or suspension issues may exist, necessitating an inspection.
Brake Performance: If you notice reduced braking efficiency or hear grinding noises when applying the brakes, an inspection is imperative.
Age of the Vehicle: Older vehicles, particularly those over 100,000 miles, benefit from regular inspections to ensure all systems are functioning properly.
Scheduled Maintenance: Regular inspections based on your vehicle's maintenance schedule can prevent issues from arising.

By recognizing these signs, you can ensure your vehicle remains safe and reliable on the road. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s best to consult a professional mechanic as soon as possible.

Diagnostic-

WHEN UNDER PRESSURE, WE’LL COME THROUGH IN THE CLUTCH!

The clutch is the mechanism allowing your wheels to disengage from the engine, so they can stop spinning even while your engine continues to run. Without a clutch, your wheels and engine would be stuck spinning at the same rate. We imagine we don’t need to explain why it’s important to stop at a red light without your whole engine going kaput!

IS CLUTCH DIFFERENT THAN TRANSMISSION?

Your vehicle’s clutch and transmission are not the same thing, but they do work together. The clutch transfers power from your engine to your transmission and is located between those two components (engine and transmission). The transmission then takes that power and passes it on to the wheels, which if properly aligned, gets you rolling down the road.

In order for the transmission to switch gears, the clutch has to release from the transmission momentarily – something those of you with manual transmissions are familiar with!

HOW OFTEN DOES YOUR CLUTCH NEED TO BE REPLACED?

A clutch generally lasts between 60,000-100,000 miles, though its lifespan is highly dependent on the level of use, wear and tear. No clutch will last forever, but there are a few different scenarios that can cause the facings on your clutch to wear more quickly.

Stop-and-go city traffic is harder on your clutch than the open highway, so if you’re a city guy or gal, it’s more likely your clutch will wear out faster. For those out-of-towners, off-roaders, pulling a trailer, and frequent gear shifters, these driving habits can also accelerate clutch wear and tear.

SIGNS YOU NEED A CLUTCH REPLACEMENT

Slipping gears, causing temporary loss of acceleration
Burning smell when accelerating from a stop
Grinding sound while shifting between gears
Clutch pedal stays near the floor, or feels soft when pressed (for manual transmission vehicles)

WHAT’S INCLUDED IN A CLUTCH SERVICE?

Replacement of the pressure plate, clutch disk, and throwout bearing
Resurfacing or replacement of the flywheel
Replacement of any worn out hydraulic parts

You can trust the experts at all of our nearby Brakes Plus locations with your clutch repair and replacement needs. We’re here to help get you back on the road quickly and safely, but before you stop by, don’t forget to check our clutch offers (see what we did there) and save on your next service!

Wipers & Premium Wipers-

There are few things more dangerous than operating your vehicle without having clear visibility through your windshield. Experts can replace your wiper blades in just a few minutes with high-quality, Valvoline wiper blades designed for your vehicle.

Headlights-

Air filter-

Cabin Air filter-

Transmission fluid-

power steering -

brakes- shop fee 25.00

fuel filter-

belts-

coolant-

tire rotation-

differential-

engine flush-

battery replacement-

fuel system-

brakes fluid-

Headlights are essential for vehicle safety and performance. They light up the road, helping drivers see better in low-light situations like night, dusk, or bad weather. Working headlights let drivers spot hazards, road signs, and other vehicles, reducing accident risks.

Headlights also communicate a driver’s presence, which is crucial for safety, especially in bad weather and crowded areas.

Regular headlight maintenance is important too. Over time, headlights can become foggy or dim from dirt and oxidation, making them less effective. Keeping headlights clean and in good working order improves visibility, especially at night or in poor conditions.

In short, headlights are vital for safe driving. Regular checks, timely bulb changes, and maintaining lens clarity are key for optimal performance. Caring for your headlights helps protect you, your passengers, and others on the road.

Knowing when it’s time to replace your headlights is crucial for your safety and visibility on the road. Here are key indicators that suggest it's time for new headlights:

Diminished Brightness: If you notice that your headlights appear dimmer than usual, it may be time to replace them. Reduced brightness can hinder your ability to see clearly, especially at night or in adverse weather conditions.
Yellowing or Cloudiness: Over time, headlights can become discolored or cloudy due to UV exposure and environmental factors. This affects not only the appearance of your vehicle but also the effectiveness of the lights.
Flickering or Intermittent Lighting: If your headlights flicker or fail to illuminate consistently, this could indicate a malfunction. This may require immediate attention, as it can pose a serious safety risk.
Burned-Out Bulbs: If one or both of your headlights are out, it’s a clear sign that you need to replace them. Driving with a burned-out headlight is not only dangerous but also illegal.
Age of Bulbs: If your vehicle has halogen headlights, they typically last around 450-1,000 hours. If you can't remember when you last replaced them, it might be time for an upgrade.
Increased Difficulty in Night Driving: If you find it challenging to see the road or identify obstacles during nighttime driving, it may indicate that your headlights are no longer effective.

To ensure your headlights are functioning optimally, conduct regular inspections and address any issues promptly. Properly functioning headlights are essential for your visibility and safety on the road.

The car air filter plays a crucial role in maintaining the efficiency and longevity of your vehicle’s engine. It is designed to prevent dust, dirt, pollen, and other contaminants from entering the engine, ensuring that only clean air mixes with fuel during combustion. This is vital for several reasons.

First, a clean air filter contributes to optimal engine performance. By allowing the proper amount of air into the engine, it supports the right air-to-fuel ratio, which is essential for efficient combustion. A clogged or dirty air filter can restrict airflow, leading to a decrease in power, acceleration, and overall performance.

Second, a functioning air filter improves fuel efficiency. When the engine receives an adequate supply of clean air, it burns fuel more efficiently. Conversely, a dirty filter can cause the engine to work harder, resulting in increased fuel consumption and higher operating costs.

Additionally, maintaining a clean air filter can prolong the life of the engine. Contaminants that enter the engine can cause wear and tear on internal components, leading to costly repairs and decreased engine life. By replacing the air filter regularly, you can help protect your engine from unnecessary damage.

Finally, an effective air filter enhances vehicle emissions control. A well-functioning engine burns fuel more completely, producing fewer harmful emissions. This can be beneficial not only for the environment but also for meeting regulatory requirements.

Regular maintenance of your car’s air filter is vital for ensuring optimal engine performance, improving fuel efficiency, prolonging engine life, and reducing environmental impact. It is recommended to check and replace the air filter as part of routine vehicle maintenance to reap these benefits.

Your car air filter plays a crucial role in maintaining the performance and efficiency of your vehicle. Here are some key indicators that it may be time to replace your air filter:

Reduced Engine Performance: If you notice a significant decrease in power during acceleration or a rough idle, it could be due to a clogged air filter restricting airflow to the engine.
Decreased Fuel Efficiency: A dirty air filter can cause the engine to work harder, leading to increased fuel consumption. If your gas mileage is suddenly worse, it may be time for a replacement.
Check Engine Light: If the check engine light illuminates, it might be a sign that the air filter is affecting engine performance. Having it checked at our shop can provide clarity.
Visual Inspection: If you can access the air filter, remove it and inspect it. A dirty or excessively dusty filter appears discolored and blocked. If it looks compromised, a replacement is advisable.
Frequent Driving in Dusty Conditions: If you often drive in areas with lot of dust or debris, you should have your air filter checked regularly. It may need replacement sooner than recommended service intervals.

If you recognize any of these signs, we invite you to visit Texas AutoCare. Our skilled technicians are ready to help ensure your vehicle runs smoothly with a new air filter. Protect your engine and improve your driving experience by scheduling your appointment today.

CLEAR THE AIR

Cabin Air Filters filter the air in the passenger cabin area of your vehicle. Over time, cabin air filters can get clogged with dirt and debris, leading to contaminated air in the cabin. Most vehicles manufactured after the year 2006 have cabin air filters.

BENEFITS OF CABIN AIR FILTER REPLACEMENT

Our cabin air filter service replaces your cabin air filter — helping to keep your air clean and protect your heating and air conditioning systems from dirt and debris. Please remember to consult your owners manual for any specific manufacturer recommendations.

MILEAGE INTERVAL FOR CABIN AIR FILTER REPLACEMENT

Many vehicle manufacturers recommend this service to maintain vehicle performance. Please consult your owner’s manual for specific manufacturer recommendations.

Degradation and contamination of transmission fluid can lead to buildup of deposits and debris resulting in overheating, delayed/rough shifting and transmission failure.

BENEFITS

A Transmission Fluid Service using Valvoline Professional Series transmission products when replacing your fluid will:

Help keep your vehicle shifting smoothly by reducing wear on transmission gears and other parts
Minimize the risk of transmission failure and expensive repairs
Provide additional protection by using advanced detergents that help to reduce deposits
Provide advanced conditioners to rejuvenate seals

MILEAGE INTERVAL FOR TRANSMISSION FLUID REPLACEMENT

Many vehicle manufacturers recommend fluid replacement at regular intervals to maintain vehicle performance. Please consult your owner’s manual for specific manufacturer

Degradation of old fluid can cause stiff steering, squealing, fluid leaks and eventual system failure.

BENEFITS OF POWER STEERING SERVICE

Power Steering Service using Valvoline Professional Series products:

Helps to achieve optimal steering performance by cleaning away damaging deposits with specially formulated detergents
Replace old fluid with a premium full synthetic power steering fluid

Please remember to consult your owner’s manual for any specific manufacturer recommendations.

Old brake fluid absorbs moisture, reducing your car’s stopping power, and causes corrosion, sluggish brake response, and premature failure.

BENEFITS OF BRAKE FLUID EXCHANGE

Brake Fluid Service using Valvoline Professional Series products:

Helps maintain maximum stopping power by removing contaminated fluid
Cleans the entire brake system
Replenishes the system with new premium dry formula to protect against moisture

New car brakes are an essential component of the braking system, designed to slow down or stop the vehicle effectively. Here are several important reasons why maintaining and understanding new car brakes is vital:

Safety- the primary function of brakes is to ensure the driver can stop safely. New brakes provide optimal stopping power, which is crucial in emergency situations. Worn or poorly functioning brakes increase the risk of accidents, endangering not only the driver but also passengers and pedestrians.

Performance- new brakes significantly enhance vehicle performance. They ensure smooth, responsive stopping, which is essential for maintaining control, especially on highways or in adverse weather conditions. Upgrading to high-quality brakes can improve overall driving experience.

Compatibility- new brakes are designed to work seamlessly with other vehicle systems. Properly matched brake components can enhance braking efficiency and reduce strain on the vehicle’s mechanical systems. It is essential to ensure that all brake parts are compatible with your specific make and model.

Cost-Effectiveness- investing in new brakes can save money in the long run. Over time, worn brakes can lead to more extensive and expensive repairs, such as damage to rotors or other components. Regularly replacing and maintaining brakes prevents these issues, helping to extend the lifespan of the vehicle.

Resale Value- a well-maintained braking system can positively impact the resale value of a vehicle. Potential buyers often look for evidence of regular maintenance, and new brakes are a strong selling point that can justify a higher price.

Compliance with Regulations- in many areas, safety regulations require that vehicles have functioning brakes in good condition. Failing to keep brakes properly maintained may lead to legal penalties, including fines or failed inspections.

The importance of new car brakes cannot be overstated. They are critical for ensuring safety, enhancing performance, and protecting both the vehicle and its occupants. Regular inspection and timely replacement of brakes are essential practices for any responsible vehicle owner.

SIGNS YOU’RE IN NEED OF BRAKE SERVICE

Squealing, grinding, or growling noises – Although this one is fairly self-explanatory… if your vehicle sounds like a bunch of rocks in a food processor or an angry jungle animal, we advise you let us take a look!
Shaking or pulsing – If you notice your car shaking or pulsing when you brake, your brake pads may need to be replaced or your rotors could be warped.
Soft or hard braking – Is the brake pedal more or less resistant than usual? Does it sink all the way to the floor when you press it? These can be indications that you need service stat!
Pulling while braking – If your brakes are more worn down on one side than the other, your car may pull left or right when you hit the brakes.
Illuminated brake warning light – Your dashboard isn’t lighting up just for fun. It’s trying to tell you something!

Deposits in your fuel system can cause blockages that lead to lost acceleration, rough idling and hesitation.

BENEFITS OF FUEL & AIR SERVICE

Fuel System Service using Valvoline Professional Series products:

Helps restore power and performance by using advanced detergents to thoroughly clean the system
Removes deposits, dirt and sludge
This service can be performed on both gasoline and diesel engines

Please remember to consult your owner’s manual for any specific manufacturer recommendations.

A car's fuel filter maintains the performance and longevity of the engine. It is designed to remove contaminants and debris from the fuel before it reaches the engine, ensuring that only clean fuel is injected for combustion. This helps prevent damage to the fuel injectors and other engine components.

Importance of a Fuel Filter:

Protects Engine Components: By filtering out dirt and particles, the fuel filter protects critical components of the fuel system, such as the fuel injectors and the fuel pump.
Enhances Performance: A clean fuel filter allows for optimal fuel flow, which can improve engine performance and efficiency.
Prevents Clogs: Regular replacement of the fuel filter helps prevent clogs that could lead to engine stalling or failure to start.

Signs You Need a New Fuel Filter:

Poor Acceleration: A clogged filter can restrict fuel flow, leading to sluggish acceleration.
Engine Misfires: Insufficient fuel reaching the engine can cause it to misfire or run unevenly.
Difficulty Starting: A clogged fuel filter may hinder the engine from starting due to inadequate fuel supply.
Warning Light: In some vehicles, a warning light may illuminate on the dashboard to indicate a fuel system issue.
Unusual Noises: If you hear strange noises from the fuel tank area, it could signal that the fuel pump is working harder due to a blocked filter.

Regular maintenance, including timely replacement of the fuel filter, is essential for optimal vehicle performance and longevity.

A dead battery is a common reason a car wont start. Over time, batteries lose their ability to hold a charge. Batteries may not give a warning of when they will fail and can fail suddenly.

BENEFITS OF BATTERY REPLACEMENT SERVICE

Our battery replacement service tests if your battery has started to lose its charge. We can then replace the battery as needed to help your car continue to start smoothly. Please remember to consult your owners manual for any specific recommendations.

Sooner or later your car’s engine accessory drive belts, timing belts will dry out and crack. Regular inspections, coupled with timely automotive belt replacement will help protect against roadside breakdowns and expensive repairs.

Coolant, also known as antifreeze, is a vital fluid in your vehicle's cooling system. Its primary function is to regulate engine temperature, preventing overheating and protecting engine components from corrosion. Coolant plays a critical role in maintaining optimal engine performance, especially during extreme weather conditions.

Importance of Car Coolant

Temperature Regulation: Coolant absorbs heat from the engine, helping to keep the temperature within a safe operating range. This prevents engine overheating, which can lead to severe damage.
Corrosion Protection: The additives in coolant inhibit rust and corrosion within the cooling system, extending the life of components like the radiator and water pump.
Freeze Protection: During colder months, coolant prevents the engine from freezing, allowing for smooth operation and starting.
Boiling Point Elevation: Coolant raises the boiling point of water, which is essential for preventing vapor lock and overheating during high-performance demands.

Signs You Need to Get Car Coolant

Overheating Engine: A consistently high engine temperature gauge indicates low coolant levels; check immediately.
Coolant Leaks: Puddles of bright green, orange, or pink fluid under the vehicle signal a leak; inspect hoses, radiator, or water pump.
Frequent Check Engine Light: The light may indicate issues in the cooling system related to low coolant that need urgent attention.
Heater Malfunction: Cold air from the heater suggests insufficient coolant circulation through the heater core.
Steam or Coolant Smell: Steam or a sweet smell from under the hood could mean coolant leakage or overheating.
Low Coolant Reservoir: Regularly monitor the coolant reservoir; if levels are low or below the minimum line, add coolant.
Bubbling or Gurgling Sounds: Odd noises from the coolant reservoir may indicate trapped air from insufficient coolant.
Diminished Performance: Sluggish performance or difficulty maintaining speed can signal engine overheating due to low coolant.
Corroded or Discolored Coolant: Rusty or contaminated coolant is ineffective and should be replaced.

Maintaining proper coolant levels is vital for your vehicle's performance. Regular inspections can help prevent serious engine issues. If you notice any of these signs, consult a professional mechanic immediately.

Your tires are extremely important for safely operating your vehicle. Whether you still have the original tires you bought with your vehicle or you have invested in new tires, they are worth maintaining to help minimize tire wear.

BENEFITS OF TIRE ROTATION SERVICE

Rotating your tires regularly approximately every other oil change helps to:

Maximize the life of your tires
Prolong the tread wear and promote even wear
Improve the ride and handling of your car or truck

Please remember to consult your owner’s manual for any specific manufacturer recommendations.

MILEAGE INTERVAL FOR TIRE ROTATION SERVICE

Most auto manufacturers recommend rotating your tires at regularly scheduled intervals. Please consult your owner’s manual for specific manufacturer recommendations.

Differentials deliver the power from transmission to wheels. Extreme high operating temperatures can cause thermal breakdown of the differential fluid, leading to a loss of lubrication and deposit formation. This can cause gears to grind while leaving behind metal shavings and other debris.

BENEFITS OF DIFFERENTIAL & TRANSFER CASE FLUID SERVICE

Our Valvoline Differential and Transfer Case Services (Gearboxes) use Valvoline Professional Series products that are thermally stable and help remove deposits while working to keep new ones from forming. This helps to ensure proper gear lubrication.

MILEAGE INTERVAL

Many vehicle manufacturers recommend fluid replacement at regular intervals to maintain vehicle performance. Please consult your owners manual for specific manufacturer recommendations.

Signs You Need to Get a Car Differential Done

Unusual Noises: Listen for grinding, whining, or clunking sounds when turning or accelerating. These noises often indicate differential issues that need immediate attention.
Vibration: If you experience vibrations in the vehicle, especially while driving at higher speeds, this could signal problems within the differential.
Fluid Leaks: Check for any fluid leaking from the differential housing. Any sign of fluid loss may indicate a seal failure or other mechanical issue.
Difficulty Turning: If turns feel stiff or the vehicle struggles to make corners, this may be a symptom of differential failure.
Increased Tire Wear: Uneven or excessive wear on tires could suggest that the differential is not functioning correctly, leading to improper power distribution.
Dashboard Warning Light: Pay attention to warning lights on your dashboard. Some vehicles have differential systems integrated with their computer systems, which can trigger alerts.
Burning Smell: A burning smell while driving can be a sign of overheating differentials, typically due to low fluid levels or mechanical failure.
Poor Acceleration: If you notice a significant loss of power during acceleration, it may indicate that the differential is not effectively transferring power from the engine to the wheels.
Change in Handling: If the handling of your vehicle becomes erratic or unstable, especially in corners, it’s prudent to have the differential checked.
Age and Mileage: If your vehicle is older or has high mileage, consider having the differential serviced as part of regular maintenance, even if you haven’t noticed any specific issues.

Promptly addressing these signs can help prevent more extensive damage and ensure your vehicle remains safe and efficient on the road.

A car engine flush is a service that cleans the internal components of an engine by removing sludge, carbon deposits, and other contaminants. During the process, a specially formulated cleaning fluid is added to the engine oil, which circulates through the engine while it runs. This helps break down harmful residues that can accumulate over time, enhancing engine performance and efficiency.

The importance of an engine flush lies in its ability to extend the life of the engine and improve its function. Regular flushing can help prevent overheating, increase fuel efficiency, and reduce the likelihood of mechanical failure. It is particularly beneficial for older vehicles or those that have not received adequate maintenance. An engine flush contributes to better overall engine health and can lead to reduced repair costs in the long run.

Signs You Need a Car Engine Flush

Overheating Engine: If your engine frequently overheats, it may indicate a build-up of sludge or deposits that prevents proper cooling. An engine flush can help remove these contaminants.
Diminished Performance: Noticeable decreases in engine performance, such as poor acceleration or rough idling, can signal the need for an engine flush to clear out harmful deposits affecting fuel flow.
Oil Discoloration: If you check your engine oil and notice it appears dirty or gritty rather than smooth and amber, it’s a sign that a flush may be necessary to clean the internal components.
Increased Oil Consumption: If you find yourself topping off your oil frequently, it may indicate that sludge is obstructing oil flow, making an engine flush advisable.
Unusual Noises: Excessive knocking or ticking noises can imply that oil is not circulating properly due to contaminants. An engine flush can help restore normal operation.
Frequent Oil Changes: If you are having to change your oil more often than typical, a build-up of debris might be hindering engine function, warranting a flush.

Visit Texas AutoCare

If you are experiencing any of these signs, we recommend bringing your vehicle to Texas AutoCare. Our experienced technicians are equipped to perform a comprehensive engine flush that will remove harmful deposits and restore your engine's performance. Keep your engine running smoothly; contact us today to schedule your service.