Kelowna Auto Repair

You might hear the term “tune-up” and wonder whether it still applies to modern vehicles filled with sensors, computers, and digital diagnostics. The truth is, while the nature of tune-ups has evolved, the need for periodic engine care remains just as important. Ignoring signs that your car needs attention can lead to performance issues, reduced fuel economy, and bigger repair bills down the road. So how do you know if your car is due for a tune-up? Let’s take a closer look at what today’s tune-ups involve and what symptoms to watch for.   What Is an Engine Tune-Up Traditionally, a tune-up included replacing spark plugs, adjusting the timing, and checking fuel and air filters. Modern engines don’t need as much manual adjustment, but many of the core services remain. Today’s tune-ups focus on restoring engine efficiency, updating worn parts, and ensuring everything is operating in sync. This may include: Replacing spark ... read more

Buying a car is a big decision that can stir up a lot of emotions. Whether it’s the excitement of imagining your dream car or the practical considerations of daily commuting, choosing a vehicle often involves a balance between your heart and your head. While it's natural to feel drawn to a stylish sports car or a luxurious SUV, making the right choice means considering both your needs and wants. Understanding how to balance these two sides can help you make a purchase you won’t regret.   Following Your Heart When you buy a car with your heart, emotions take the lead. You might be attracted to a sleek design, a powerful engine, or a brand you’ve always admired. Maybe you’ve always dreamed of driving a convertible down a scenic highway or owning a sporty coupe that turns heads at every intersection. Emotional purchases can feel thrilling and rewarding in the moment. Driving a car you truly love can make everyday trips more enjoyab ... read more

When you think of the check engine light, your first thought might be a gasoline-powered car with engine trouble. But what about electric vehicles? These cars don't have traditional engines, yet they still have check engine lights. So, what does it mean when this warning appears in an EV? Understanding the purpose of this light in electric vehicles is crucial for preventing minor issues from escalating into major problems. While the systems in an EV differ from those in gas-powered cars, modern EVs are still complex machines packed with sensors, software, and electric drivetrains that need regular oversight.   Why Do EVs Have a Check Engine Light Even though EVs don’t use internal combustion engines, they have electronic control units (ECUs), battery management systems, and drive motors that can trigger fault codes. The check engine light is a general warning indicator designed to alert you that one or more of these systems aren't operating a ... read more

You might not think about your tires until one goes flat or the tread starts to look worn—but regular tire rotation plays a big part in how long they last and how well your car drives. It’s one of those simple maintenance steps that makes a real difference, even if it doesn’t always get the attention it deserves. If you’ve ever noticed one tire wearing out faster than the others or your vehicle pulling slightly to one side, uneven tire wear might be the reason. Knowing when and why to rotate your tires can help you extend their lifespan, improve safety, and even save money on fuel.   What Does Tire Rotation Actually Mean Tire rotation involves moving your tires from one position on the vehicle to another—typically switching the front and rear tires, and sometimes crossing them from side to side depending on the vehicle’s drivetrain. The goal is to ensure that all four tires wear evenly over time. Why does this matter? B ... read more

Heavy rain doesn’t just make the drive more uncomfortable—it dramatically changes how your vehicle handles. One of the most common types of accidents during rainy weather is the rear-end collision, and there’s a reason why they spike every time the skies open up. Reduced traction, longer stopping distances, poor visibility, and slower reaction times all play a part in turning wet roads into crash zones. Even experienced drivers aren’t immune. When it comes to driving in the rain, confidence can sometimes work against you. Understanding why these collisions happen—and how to avoid them—can help keep your vehicle and everyone inside it safer during the next downpour.   Rain Reduces Traction When your tires hit a wet surface, they don’t grip the pavement as well as they do on dry roads. This is especially true if the road has oil buildup, worn asphalt, or pooling water. As a result, your braking distance increases, an ... read more