Honest Auto Repair & Maintenance Services in Novato, CA

Your brakes are your vehicle’s biggest safety feature, so they need to be working perfectly to best protect you and your passengers when you need to stop suddenly. Our technicians are ASE certified and equipped to handle all types of brake repair and maintenance items, including brake pad and shoe replacement, resurfacing rotors, brake caliper replacement, brake hose replacement, and brake fluid flushes. Come to us for brake service, and we’ll have your vehicle’s braking system working like new.

Failing to get your timing belt replaced when it needs to be can result in complete engine failure or, at a minimum, severe engine damage. Signs of a worn or stretched timing belt include rough idling or difficulty starting the engine. Cracks on the belt are an indication that it may soon break. Replacement of your timing belt will help keep your engine performing as it should and ensure you avoid expensive future repairs. 

Your vehicle’s radiator helps keep your engine cool. An overheated engine can lead to a breakdown, so radiator maintenance is very important to the overall functionality and performance of your vehicle. If you think your radiator isn’t working properly, there are signs that might help you determine the appropriate time to schedule service, such as an elevated temperature gauge or a puddle of coolant under your car, which indicates a radiator leak. Our technicians will determine if it’s best to repair or replace your radiator.

Properly functioning CV joints are integral to the performance and drivability of your vehicle, as they allow the axle to bend and change while accommodating the bounce of the wheels. Clunking or clicking noises, vibrations, and loss of acceleration through turns are signs that a CV joint needs to be replaced. If you experience the symptoms of a worn or damaged CV joint, and the joint is not promptly replaced, the minor issue will cause additional damage to your vehicle and lead to more expensive repairs in the future.

The suspension system is responsible for maintaining comfort and control while you drive. Suspension system components, including coil springs and shock absorbers, help to lessen the impact of road force and provide the handling  that makes you feel in charge of your car. Excessive bouncing or swaying during bumps and intermittent control while driving are cause for a suspension system checkup. Uneven tire wear is also a potential sign of a suspension problem.

Maintenance of your vehicle, including oil changes, tire rotation, and fluid top-offs, is necessary to retain its value, safety, and dependability. Diligently following your vehicle manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule also helps you avoid serious breakdowns and minimize the likelihood of needing a high cost auto repair. At Oliver Automotive, we emphasize preventive maintenance as the smart and convenient way to keep your car running well.