Northridge Auto Repair

Getting a flat tire is stressful enough without making it worse by mishandling the repair. Whether you’re pulled over on the side of the road or swapping in a spare in your driveway, changing a tire seems simple—but it’s also one of the most commonly mishandled roadside tasks. The tools are basic, and the process is straightforward, yet the risks of skipping steps or doing it wrong are real. If you ever find yourself stuck with a flat, avoiding these common mistakes will keep you safe, prevent damage to your car, and get you back on the road faster. 1. Not Pulling Over to a Safe, Level Location In the panic of a flat, many drivers stop wherever the car gives out. But pulling over on a slope, soft ground, or near fast-moving traffic puts you in danger—and makes the job harder. A flat surface is essential for proper jack stability. If your tire goes flat on a busy road, keep driving slowly until you can reach a flat, wide shoulder or parking l ... read more

Pressing the brake pedal and feeling it sink all the way to the floor is a moment that makes your heart skip a beat—and for good reason. It’s one of the clearest signs something is seriously wrong with your braking system. Whether it happens suddenly or gradually over time, a soft or sinking brake pedal means your car may not be able to stop when you need it most. This isn’t the kind of issue you can brush off until your next oil change. Understanding what causes this problem—and how to respond—can help keep you safe and prevent further damage to your braking system. Brake Fluid Loss or Leaks One of the most common causes of a brake pedal sinking to the floor is a loss of brake fluid. Your braking system relies on hydraulic pressure. When you press the pedal, fluid moves through the brake lines and activates the calipers or wheel cylinders that stop your vehicle. If there’s a leak anywhere in the system—whether it’s a ... read more