Fort Collins Auto Repair

One common experience most people have is getting into their car on a hot, sunny day, turning on the AC, and being greeted with a bad smell coming from the AC vents instead of fresh air. What causes this unpleasant odor, and how can it be eliminated? We will examine the main culprits behind bad car AC odors and learn how to get rid of them once and for all. Stagnant Water Accumulation Ever left your car sitting in the sun for too long with the AC off? This can lead to condensation buildup in your AC system, creating the perfect breeding ground for bacteria and mold. As these microorganisms multiply, they emit a musty odor that can permeate your car's interior. Regularly running your AC and ensuring proper drainage can help prevent stagnant water accumulation and keep foul odors at bay. Dirty or Clogged Air Filters When did you last check or replace your car's cabin ... read more

Are you experiencing difficulty turning the steering wheel in your vehicle? Have you noticed strange noises or stiffness when maneuvering? If so, it might be time to consider a power steering fluid flush.  Understanding Power Steering Fluid Before diving into the reasons for a power steering fluid flush, let's first understand the role of power steering fluid in your vehicle. Power steering fluid is a hydraulic fluid that assists in the smooth operation of your car's power steering system. It helps transmit the force from the steering wheel to the steering mechanism, making it easier to turn the wheels, especially at low speeds. Why Consider a Power Steering Fluid Flush? Over time, power steering fluid can accumulate dirt, debris, and contaminants, compromising its effectiveness. This buildup can lead to decreased performance of the power steering system, resulting in difficulty steering, increased steering effort, or even damage to co ... read more

The check engine light, an essential dashboard warning, serves as an indispensable indicator of potential issues within a vehicle's intricate system. Among the different types of check engine light signals, the flashing and solid variations represent distinct conditions that demand a driver's immediate attention. Understanding the disparity between these signals is crucial for maintaining a well-functioning vehicle and ensuring road safety. Check Engine Light Basics The check engine light, often depicted as an illuminated engine symbol on the dashboard, operates as a crucial communication tool between the vehicle and the driver. When the check engine light activates, it signals the presence of an underlying problem that requires inspection and resolution. Ignoring this warning can lead to severe consequences, ranging from ... read more

As the calendar flips to a new year, many of us consider making fresh starts in various aspects of our lives. If you're thinking about a new car for the year ahead, it's essential to ensure your fresh start includes a reliable vehicle. Before you make the leap, consider a pre-purchase inspection from Community Auto as a smart move to kick off the year with a safe and dependable set of wheels. Why a Pre-Purchase Inspection Matters A pre-purchase inspection, often conducted by a trusted auto repair shop, offers several compelling reasons to make it your first step in acquiring a new-to-you car: Hidden Issues: Even though a used car may look good on the outside, there could be hidden issues beneath the surface. An inspection can uncover potential problems, saving you from costly surprises. Safety Assurance: Your safety on the road should never be compromised. An ins ... read more

If you've noticed that your Ford vehicle is not performing as well as it used to, or consuming more fuel than usual, it could be due to a clogged or dirty intake air filter.  Many people tend to overlook this important maintenance task, but replacing the air filter at regular intervals can greatly improve your engine's performance and fuel efficiency. Let's take a look at how to change it and everything else you need to know! Why Change the Intake Air Filter? Before diving into the replacement process, it's essential to understand the importance of the intake air filter. The intake air filter prevents harmful debris, dirt, and contaminants from entering the engine's combustion chamber.  Over time, the filter becomes clogged with dirt and debris, restricting ... read more