Chico Auto Repair

The holiday season is upon us, and for many, that means embarking on a road trip to spend quality time with loved ones. Whether you're heading over the river and through the woods or taking a cross-country adventure, careful packing and planning can make your holiday road trip smooth and memorable. The team at D&E Auto Repair is here to offer tips to ensure your journey is as festive as the destination. Packing Smart for the RoadSafety First Before packing anything else, ensure your vehicle is in top shape. Check tires, brakes, fluids, and have a professional inspection if needed. Emergency Kit Include an emergency kit with items like a flashlight, first aid supplies, jumper cables, and a s ... read more

It's worth noting that your car's suspension system plays a crucial role in ensuring that your ride is smooth and comfortable. As with any important component, it's necessary to address any issues that arise. That's why we'll explore some common suspension problems and provide tips for avoiding them so that you can continue to enjoy a safe and pleasant ride. 1. Worn-Out Shocks and Struts If you're feeling like your journey is a wild ride on a rough path, take it as a sign to check your shocks and struts. Be aware of any overactive bouncing or a sudden dip during braking. Just like in life, a smooth and steady ride is within reach with proper maintenance. Prevention Tips Regularly inspect your shocks and struts for leaks or visible damage. Replace them every 50,000 miles or as recommended by your vehicle's manual. 2. Uneven Tire Wear Uneven tire wear, especially on the edges, indicates a suspension issue ... read more

Welcome to the world of stopping power, where not all brake pads are created equal. Yes, that means that brake pads are split into different types with distinctive characteristics. Some perform well, and others last forever - let's take a look and determine if you need a new set of brake pads! Semi-Metallic Brake Pads These are the workhorses of the brake pad world. Composed of a blend of metals, including copper, iron, and steel, they offer excellent stopping power and durability. They perform well under a variety of conditions but tend to produce more dust and can be noisier than other types. Organic Brake Pads For the eco-conscious driver, organic brake pads might be the way to go. Made from natural materials like glass and rubber, they are known for their quiet operation and low dust production. However, they can wear out faster ... read more

Imagine your vehicle as your trusty steed on the road. To ensure it stays in prime condition and doesn't let you down when you need it most, you need to be its knight in shining armor. That's where preventative maintenance comes into play. In this blog, we'll unravel the mystery of preventative maintenance, explaining what it is and providing a creative and easily understandable guide to the procedures it includes. What Is Preventative Maintenance? Preventative maintenance, often abbreviated as PM, is a proactive approach to vehicle care. Instead of waiting for something to break or go wrong, it involves regularly scheduled maintenance tasks to prevent potential issues and keep your vehicle running smoothly. It's like giving your car a checkup to catch and address minor problems before they become major headaches. If you are wondering about the procedure ... read more

Driving is a responsibility that extends beyond the wheel. Safe driving habits not only protect you but also safeguard fellow road users. While most drivers intend to drive safely, certain habits and behaviors can unknowingly compromise road safety.  This blog post aims to examine the proper and improper driving practices that greatly affect the safety of the road. By following these guidelines, you can improve your driving habits and become a more mindful and accountable driver. The Dos of Safe Driving1. Do Maintain a Safe Following Distance Maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you to ensure you have enough time to react to sudden stops or emergencies. The three-second rule is a good guideline: leave at least a three-second gap between your car and the vehicle ahead. 2. Do Observe Speed Limits Adhering to speed limits is crucial for road safety. Speeding reduces your reaction time and increases the severity ... read more

With increasing environmental concerns and the desire for cost-effective transportation, fuel efficiency has become a critical factor in the automotive industry. Today, automakers are employing innovative technologies and mechanisms to develop vehicles that maximize fuel efficiency without compromising performance. But how do they do it, what are the technology and mechanisms that make fuel efficient cars... well, fuel efficient? Don't worry because this is exactly today's topic - here is how cars can have an amazing MPG rating while still having power: Lightweight Materials One of the fundamental principles behind fuel efficiency is reducing a vehicle's weight. By utilizing lightweight materials such as aluminum, high-strength steel, carbon fiber, and composites, automakers can significantly decrease a car's overall weight. A lighter vehicle requires less energy to accelerate and maintain speed, resulting in improved fuel efficiency. Aerody ... read more

Photo by Will on Unsplash 5 Things To Add To Your Summer Bucket List in Chico Summer is the perfect time to explore and make the most of the outdoors, and if you're in Chico, California, you're in for a treat. Known for its picturesque landscapes, vibrant community, and an array of recreational activities, Chico offers plenty of options to create an exciting summer bucket list. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a foodie, or simply looking for fun, we've got you covered. And while you're enjoying your adventures, don't forget to keep your vehicle in top shape with reliable auto repair services from D&E Auto Repair. 1. Explore Bidwell Park: When it comes to outdoor adventures in Chico, Bidwell Park is a true gem. With sprawling 3,670 acres of natural beauty, this park offers endless opportunities for explorati ... read more

Photo by Simon Berger on Unsplash 3 Hybrids That Are Changing The Game: A Guide to Hybrid Vehicles in Chico Hybrid vehicles are changing the way we think about transportation. They offer a combination of gasoline and electric power, resulting in better fuel economy, lower emissions, and a reduced carbon footprint. If you're in Chico and looking to invest in a hybrid vehicle, D&E Auto Repair can help you maintain and service it. In this blog post, we'll look closely at three hybrid vehicles changing the game.   Hybrid vehicles are a type of vehicle that uses a combination of gasoline and electric power to operate. They offer better fuel economy and lower emissions than traditional gas-powered vehicles. Hybrid vehicles are becoming increasingly popular in Chico, and D&E Auto Repair can help you maintai ... read more

Photo by Simon Berger on Unsplash Is Your Car's A/C Working As It Should? Get It Checked at D&E Auto Repair Summer is just around the corner, and with it comes the blazing heat. As temperatures rise, you want to ensure your car's air conditioning system works correctly. A malfunctioning A/C can make driving uncomfortable and, in some cases, even dangerous.    A properly functioning A/C system should be able to cool the car's interior quickly and efficiently, even on hot summer days. It should also provide consistent and strong airflow without strange smells or noises. If you notice any issues with your car's A/C, check it immediately to avoid further damage and ensure your driving comfort.   In this blog post, we'll go over some common signs that your A/C needs to be checked and how our team at ... read more

Photo by Jamie Street on Unsplash Get A Tune-Up Before Spring Break! When it comes to taking care of your car, a tune-up is essential. With a tune-up, you’ll enjoy improved performance and fuel efficiency, avoid unexpected repairs during your vacation, and stay safe on the road with a reliable vehicle.  Why Tune-Up Before Your Road Trip? Improved performance and fuel efficiency are two of the most significant benefits of a tune-up. A tune-up will help your engine run more efficiently, resulting in better performance and improved fuel economy. That means you’ll save money on gas and enjoy a smoother ride on your trip.   Getting a tune-up before you leave is also a great way to avoid unexpected repairs during your vacation. A tune-up will ensure that your car is in the best condition possible, reducing the chances of any breakdowns while you’re away.  ... read more