Seven Warning Signs You Need Auto Repair in Billings, MT

With the winter weather coming to an early close, it’s time to start thinking about the upcoming busy summer months. Before you take your snappy coupe or powerful 4×4 on the road, there are some warning signs of impeding auto failure that you should be aware of. When it comes to auto repair in Billings, MT, no one can prepare and protect you for the road like Brown’s Auto. You can trust the safety of you and yours to our capable and knowledgeable technicians.

Seven Times You Need Auto Repair in Billings, MT

1. Shaking Gear Shift—Normally functioning transmissions in both manual and automatic vehicles should remain smooth during gear shifts. If you notice rattling, shaking, or catching, it may mean that the transmission fluid is low or needs to be changed. In manual vehicles, specifically, a sticking or jerking gear shift can be warning of a more serious and costly problem. It’s always wise to have a trusted mechanic look at your vehicle if you feel differences in your transmission.
2. Smelling Burning Fluid—Whether it’s the acrid smell of burning transmission fluid or the unfortunately familiar smell of burning oil, any fluids burning under the hood point to a serious problem. Be sure to visit a mechanic for auto repair in Billings, MT, immediately and do not try to simply wash the leaking fluid off.
3. Unusual Noises—If you hear rattling, ticking, clicking, or whining coming from under the hood, it’s high time to visit a mechanic. A well-maintained vehicle without problems will run smoothly and without extra noise emanating from the engine block. If you’re unsure of the sound, try putting the car in neutral and listening for unnatural sounds.
4. Slipping Gears—If your car struggles to change gears or maxes out the RPMs before switching, it could be a transmission slip. Another tell-tale sign is a slow acceleration rate.
5. Soft Brake Pedal—Having to push harder and harder on the brake pedal to get a response means that there is either worn brake pads, or a much scarier brake fluid leak.
6. Car Pulling—Once you notice your car pulling to the left or right when you drive, there’s already uneven wear of the brake pads, dirty brake fluid, or a stuck wheel cylinder. Schedule an auto repair appointment immediately, and have your wheels, tires, and brakes examined.
7. Dashboard Lights—If a check light comes on, it’s always your safest bet to have the car properly and thoroughly inspected by a trained and certified technician.

If your car shows any of these signs, don’t hesitate to call Brown’s Auto for maintenance or auto repair in Billings, MT. We have the knowledge and equipment to get you back on the road in no time.