Laurel Auto Repair

A new year is a great time to reset. Not just your goals, but your vehicle's maintenance, too. Regular oil changes are one of the most important services you can do to protect your engine, improve performance, and avoid expensive repairs, especially during the colder months in Laurel, Maryland. Why Oil Changes Matter More In Winter Cold weather causes engine oil to thicken, making it harder for your engine to circulate oil during startup. Old or dirty oil can't protect engine components as effectively, leading to increased wear. Keeping fresh oil and a clean filter in your vehicle helps ensure proper lubrication and smoother cold starts. What Happens During a Professional Oil Change At A. Anthony's Mobile Vehicle Service, Inc, our oil change service includes more than just replacing the oil. We: Check engine oil levels and condition Replace the oil filter with quality parts Drain old engine oil properly Perform a visual inspection o ... read more

Cold weather doesn't just affect your comfort. It directly impacts your tires. As temperatures drop in Laurel, Maryland, many drivers begin seeing low tire pressure warnings pop up on their dashboards. This isn't a coincidence, and it's something every vehicle owner should take seriously. Why Does Tire Pressure Drop in Cold Weather? Air contracts when temperatures fall. For every 10-degree drop in temperature, tire pressure can decrease by about 1 PSI. That means overnigth cold snaps can leave your tires underinflated before your morning commute even begins. Underinflated tires can lead to: Reduced traction on cold or wet roads Uneven tire wear Poor handling and steering response Decreased fuel efficiency Increased risk of tire damage from potholes Winter Roads Make Tire Issues Worse Winter driving in Laurel brings additional challenges like potholes, rough pavement, and fluctuating temperatures. Low tire pressure combined with roa ... read more

Coolant Leaks Explained: What Laurel, MD Drivers Need to Know Before Winter A coolant leak may seem minor at first, but it can quickly lead to engine overheating, poor heater performance, or even serious engine damage. As temperatures drop, drivers in Laurel, MD often experience cooling system issues caused by aging hoses, brittle plastic components, or weakened seals. Many drivers ask: "Why is my car losing coolant?" "Is it safe to drive with a coolant leak?" "Where can I get a coolant leak fixed near me?" If you've noticed coolant under your vehicle, a dashboard temperature warning, or steam coming from under the hood, it's time to have your system checked. Common Causes of Coolant LeaksCracked or swollen radiator hosesLeaking radiator or water pumpLoose clamps or failing gasketsOld coolant breaking down system components Ignor ... read more

As winter approaches in Maryland, your vehicle's braking system becomes more important than ever. Wet roads, colder temperatures, and heavier holiday traffic all place extra demands on your brakes. One of the simplest, but most critical, checks we perform during a winter inspection is brake pad measurement. Many drivers in Laurel, MD search questions like: "How do I know if my brake pads are worn?" "Are my brakes safe for winter driving?" "How thick should brake pads be?" If you've been wondering the same, here's what you should know. What is Brake Pad Measurement? Brake pad measurement is a precise inspection that determines how much friction material remains on your brake pads. Using a brake gauge or caliper, our mechanics measure pad thickness to see whether your brakes are still safe or if they are nearing replacement. Most brake pads should be replaced when they reach 3 millimeters ... read more

Winter Car Battery Care: Why Testing and Replacing Your Battery Matters in Cold Weather When winter hits Maryland, your car feels the cold just as much as you do. Especially your battery. At A. Anthony's Mobile Vehicle Service, Inc in Laurel, MD, we see more battery failures in December and January than in any other months of the year. Freezing temperatures slow your battery's chemical reactions, reduce available power, and make engines harder to turn over. That's why battery testing and replacement are two of the most important steps in your winter readiness checklist. Why Car Batteries Struggle in Winter When temperatures drop, your battery loses a significant amount of its cranking power. A battery that performs fine in the fall ma struggle, or completely die, when the first freezing night arrives. Signs your battery may be on the edge include: Slow engine crank Flickering interior or dashboard lights Clicking noises when starting ... read more