Gibbons Auto Service Blog

Engine problems can develop over time because of issues like worn components, fluid leaks, overheating, and inadequate maintenance. Recognizing early warning signs can help you address mechanical issues before they become more serious and potentially leave you stranded. Whether you drive a daily commuter or a heavy-duty vehicle, paying attention to changes in how your engine sounds and performs is important. At Gibbons Auto Service, we provide expert engine diagnostics and repair in the greater Lakeland, FL area. Here are four warning signs of engine trouble that should never be ignored. Unusual Engine Noises Strange noises coming from beneath the hood can indicate that something is wrong with your engine. Knocking, tapping, or grinding may point to problems involving internal components or lubrication. For example, knocking can sometimes indicate improper combustion or excessive wear, while a ticking sound may be associated with valvetrain problems. Although some noises have relatively simple explanations, others can signal serious mechanical damage. If your engine suddenly starts making unfamiliar sounds, have a mechanic diagnose the problem. Discolored/Excessive Exhaust Smoke The color and amount of exhaust smoke can provide clues about your engine's condition. Bluish smoke may indicate that the engine is burning oil, while thick white smoke could suggest coolant entering the combustion chamber. Black smoke can indicate an overly rich fuel mixture. Unusual exhaust smoke warrants professional attention. Engine Overheating An overheating engine is another important warning sign that requires immediate attention. Possible causes include low coolant, a malfunctioning thermostat, a failing water pump, or problems with the radiator. If the temperature gauge rises into the danger zone or an overheating warning appears, pull over somewhere safe and turn off the engine. Continuing to drive can cause severe damage, including a warped cylinder head or failed head gasket. Never remove a hot radiator cap, as pressurized coolant can cause serious burns. An Illuminated Check Engine Light The check engine light alerts you when the vehicle's onboard diagnostic system detects a potential problem. The cause could be something relatively minor, such as a loose fuel cap, or a more significant issue involving engine sensors, ignition components, or emissions equipment. If this warning illuminates, it’s important to arrange for diagnostic testing rather than ignoring it. Engine Repair in Lakeland, FL For expert auto repair in Lakeland , FL and the surrounding area, contact Gibbons Auto Service at 863-900-8363 . Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment for car care in greater Lakeland, FL!

The suspension includes components such as shocks, struts, springs, control arms, and other parts that work together. When these components begin to wear out or become damaged, your vehicle may develop noticeable handling and ride-quality problems. Recognizing the warning signs of suspension trouble can help you have repairs performed before the problem becomes more serious. At Gibbons Auto Service, we provide expert suspension repair in the greater Lakeland, FL area. Here’s a look at four warning signs that your suspension may need repair. Excessive Bouncing After Bumps If your vehicle continues bouncing several times after driving over a bump, worn shocks or struts could be responsible. These components help control the movement of the suspension after it encounters uneven pavement. Excessive bouncing can make the vehicle uncomfortable to drive and may affect how well the tires maintain contact with the road. Have the suspension inspected if your vehicle feels unusually bouncy. Uneven Tire Wear Suspension problems can sometimes cause your tires to wear unevenly. A damaged or worn suspension component may affect wheel alignment or change how a tire contacts the road. Look for areas of tread that appear significantly more worn than others. Uneven tire wear can also have other causes, so a professional inspection can help determine whether suspension components are contributing to the problem. Excessive Leaning or Sagging If your vehicle leans noticeably when turning or appears to sit lower on one side, there may be a problem with the suspension. Worn springs or other issues can affect how the vehicle supports its weight. A vehicle that leans excessively during turns may also feel less stable, making this a warning sign that should not be ignored. Unusual Suspension Noises Clunking, knocking, squeaking, or other unusual sounds coming from the suspension area can indicate worn or damaged components. These noises may occur when driving over bumps, turning, or braking. Because multiple suspension parts can produce similar sounds, diagnosing the exact source requires a thorough inspection by an experienced technician. Suspension Repair in Lakeland, FL For expert auto repair in Lakeland, FL and the surrounding area, contact Gibbons Auto Service at 863-900-8363 . Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment for car care in greater Lakeland, FL!

Brake components experience significant friction and wear during normal driving, so they periodically require inspection, maintenance, or replacement. Recognizing warning signs early can help you address developing problems before they dangerously compromise braking performance. At Gibbons Auto Service, we provide expert brake repair in the greater Lakeland, FL area. Here are five common signs of brake trouble. Squealing or Grinding Sounds Unusual noises when braking are often an early warning sign of trouble. High-pitched squealing can occur when brake pads are becoming worn, while grinding may indicate that pads have completely worn out and metal components are contacting each other. Grinding should be taken especially seriously because continued driving can damage rotors. Have unusual brake noises inspected promptly. A Soft Brake Pedal Your brake pedal should provide consistent resistance when you press it. If the pedal suddenly feels soft, spongy, or unusually low, there may be a problem with the hydraulic braking system. Air or moisture in the brake lines or a fluid leak could affect pedal feel. A brake fluid leak poses a major safety risk and means it’ll be safest to get towed to the shop. Vehicle Pulling While Braking If your vehicle pulls noticeably to one side when you apply the brakes, it may indicate uneven braking force. This may indicate a sticking caliper. A vehicle that pulls during braking can be much more difficult to control, particularly during emergency stops. This makes it an urgent repair. Vibrations When Stopping Vibrations during braking can indicate warped brake rotors. When rotors are warped, there is uneven contact with brake pads. The mechanic can determine if the rotors need to be replaced to restore smooth braking. Brake Warning Light If your brake warning light flashes on, you shouldn’t ignore it. This could indicate issues related to sensors or fluid or something else. Illuminated dashboard warning lights should be promptly diagnosed. Brake Repair in Lakeland, FL For expert auto repair in Lakeland and the surrounding area, contact Gibbons Auto Service at 863-900-8363 . Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment for car care in greater Lakeland!

A road trip should be about enjoying the journey—not worrying about breakdowns. Before you head out on a long drive, it's a smart idea to have your vehicle inspected by a mechanic. Preventive maintenance can uncover developing problems that might otherwise leave you stranded far from home. By addressing potential issues before you hit the road, you'll enjoy greater peace of mind. At Gibbons Auto Service, our local mechanics can help prepare your car for your journey. Here are five ways the mechanic can help prepare your car for your road trip. Oil Change/Fluid Inspection Fresh engine oil helps lubricate moving parts, reduce friction, and prevent excessive engine wear during long hours of driving. Before your trip, the mechanic can change the oil if it's due and inspect other essential fluids, including coolant, transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and windshield washer fluid. Ensuring all fluids are clean and at the proper levels helps your vehicle perform efficiently throughout your journey. Inspect the Braking System Your brakes are one of the most important safety systems on your vehicle, especially when traveling through unfamiliar areas or mountainous terrain. The mechanic can inspect the brake pads, rotors, calipers, brake lines, and brake fluid to ensure everything is functioning properly. Addressing worn brake components before your trip helps maintain dependable stopping power. Check the Cooling System Long highway drives and hot weather place additional demands on your vehicle's cooling system. The mechanic can inspect the radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, and coolant level for signs of leaks and wear. Catching cooling system problems early can help prevent overheating, one of the most common causes of roadside breakdowns during summer travel. Test the Battery and Charging System A weak battery or failing alternator can quickly spoil a drive. Before you leave, your mechanic can test the battery's condition, inspect the terminals for corrosion, and verify that the alternator is charging properly. Replacing an aging battery or repairing charging system issues before departure greatly reduces the chances of experiencing a no-start situation during your travels. Inspect Belts and Hoses Belts and hoses play critical roles in keeping your engine running properly. Over time, they can crack, become brittle, or show signs of wear that may not be obvious to the average driver. Replacing worn belts or hoses before they fail can help you avoid breakdowns. Auto Maintenance in Lakeland, FL For expert auto maintenance in Lakeland, FL and the surrounding area, contact Gibbons Auto Service at 863-900-8363 . Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment for car care in greater Lakeland!

Your vehicle's alternator plays a critical role in keeping the electrical system functioning properly. While the battery provides the power needed to start the engine, the alternator generates electricity and keeps the battery charged while the vehicle is running. When the alternator begins to fail, a variety of warning signs can appear. Recognizing these symptoms early can help you avoid being stranded and prevent additional electrical problems. At Gibbons Auto Service, we provide expert alternator replacement and auto electric repair in the greater Lakeland, FL area. Here are five common signs of alternator trouble. Battery Warning Light on the Dashboard Many vehicles have a battery-shaped warning light that illuminates when there is a problem with the charging system. While the light may seem to indicate a battery issue, it often points to an alternator that is not charging properly. If this warning light comes on, it’s important to have the charging system inspected promptly. Problems with Lights A rather common symptom of a failing alternator is dim or flickering lights. Headlights, dashboard lights, and interior lights may appear weaker than normal or fluctuate in brightness. This often occurs because the alternator is no longer supplying a consistent amount of electrical power. Difficulty Starting the Vehicle A failing alternator may not provide enough power to keep the battery fully charged. As a result, the battery can become depleted, making the vehicle difficult to start. If your car frequently requires jump-starts, the alternator may be the underlying cause. Electrical Accessories Malfunctioning Modern vehicles rely on numerous electrical components, including power windows, infotainment systems, heated seats, and air conditioning controls. When the alternator struggles to supply sufficient power, these accessories may operate inconsistently or stop working altogether. Unusual Noises Under the Hood A failing alternator may produce grinding, whining, or squealing noises while the engine is running. This could be due to bearing or belt problems. These sounds should never be ignored, as they often indicate internal wear that can lead to complete alternator failure. Alternator Replacement & Auto Electric Repair in Lakeland, FL For expert auto repair in Lakeland, FL and the surrounding area, contact Gibbons Auto Service at 863-900-8363 . Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment for car care in greater Lakeland!








