Common Reasons that Car Engines Struggle to Start Up

Staying on top of your car’s oil change schedule is one of the simplest yet most important responsibilities of vehicle ownership. Engine oil plays a critical role in keeping internal components lubricated, cool, and clean. When oil changes are delayed, performance and reliability can quickly suffer. Following the recommended schedule helps protect your engine and avoid costly problems down the road. At Gibbons Auto Service, we provide full-service oil changes in the greater Lakeland, FL area. Here are five reasons to always follow your oil change schedule. Prevents Excessive Engine Wear Engine oil creates a protective layer between moving metal parts, reducing friction during operation. Over time, oil breaks down and becomes contaminated with dirt and debris. When old oil circulates through the engine, it loses its ability to protect components, leading to increased wear. Regular oil changes help ensure fresh oil is always available to shield critical engine parts from damage. Decreases the Risk of Overheating In addition to lubrication, engine oil helps regulate engine temperature by absorbing and dispersing heat. When oil becomes dirty or degraded, it cannot manage heat effectively. This allows temperatures to rise, increasing the risk of overheating and potential engine failure. Consistent oil changes help maintain proper cooling. Improves Engine Performance and Efficiency Clean oil allows the engine to operate smoothly and efficiently. When oil thickens or turns sludgy, the engine must work harder to circulate it, which can reduce fuel-economy and responsiveness. Fresh oil improves overall performance, leading to smoother acceleration and better gas mileage. Prevents Harmful Sludge Buildup As oil ages, it can break down into sludge that clogs oil passages and restricts flow. Sludge buildup starves engine components of lubrication and increases the risk of serious mechanical issues. Following your oil change schedule helps flush out contaminants before sludge forms, keeping internal systems clean and functioning properly. Helps Maintain Resale Value A well-documented maintenance history is a major advantage when selling or trading in your vehicle. Buyers are more confident in vehicles that show consistent oil changes, as it indicates proper care and reduced risk of engine problems. Full-Service Oil Change 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!

Whether you’re navigating city traffic or driving on the highway, your brakes must perform reliably every time you press the pedal. Like any part of your vehicle, the braking system requires regular care to stay in top shape. Neglecting maintenance can lead to reduced performance and dangerous situations on the road. At Gibbons Auto Service, we provide expert brake service in the greater Lakeland, FL area. Here are four tips for keeping your brakes in excellent condition. Have Your Brakes Inspected Regularly Routine inspections are essential for maintaining brake health. Over time, brake pads wear down, rotors can warp, and hydraulic components may develop leaks. Having your brakes inspected at least once a year allows technicians to spot potential issues early. A professional can check pad thickness, inspect fluid levels, and check for uneven wear or corrosion. Regular inspections not only keep you safer—they can also save you money by catching problems before they become bigger repairs. Replace Brake Pads When Needed Brake pads are designed to wear down over time, but waiting too long to replace them can cause damage to the rotors and reduce braking efficiency. If you hear squeaking or grinding, it’s a sign your pads need attention. Keep Brake Fluid Fresh and Full Brake fluid plays a critical role in transferring force from the pedal to the brakes themselves. Over time, it can absorb moisture, reducing its effectiveness and leading to corrosion inside the system. Checking and replacing your brake fluid according to your vehicle’s maintenance schedule can prevent soft or spongy pedal feel and helps maintain strong braking response. Always use the type of brake fluid recommended by your vehicle manufacturer. Don’t Ignore Warning Signs of Trouble Your brakes will often give early warning signs when something isn’t right. Unusual noises, vibrations, or increased stopping distances should never be ignored. Paying attention to these cues allows you to schedule repairs before the problem escalates. Consistent maintenance and quick action when warning signs appear will help ensure your brakes stay in strong condition. Brake Service in Lakeland, FL For expert brake service 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!

Your car’s suspension system is designed to provide a smooth, controlled ride while keeping your tires in firm contact with the road. When the suspension begins to fail, it can affect not only your comfort—but also your safety. Because suspension issues tend to worsen over time, recognizing early warning signs is crucial to avoiding more expensive repairs and maintaining safe driving conditions. At Gibbons Auto Service, we provide expert suspension repair in the greater Lakeland, FL area. Here are five common signs that your suspension may need repair. Excessively Bumpy Ride One of the most noticeable symptoms of suspension trouble is a ride that feels rougher than usual. If every bump, crack, or pothole in the road seems exaggerated, it could be a sign that your shocks or struts are worn out. These components are essential for absorbing impact, and when they fail, your car’s ability to cushion the ride diminishes significantly. Uneven Tire Wear The suspension system plays a big role in how your tires meet the road. If you notice uneven or rapid tire wear, it may mean that your suspension is no longer keeping your tires aligned correctly. This not only shortens the lifespan of your tires, but can also reduce traction and handling, creating a safety risk. Pulling to One Side If your vehicle consistently pulls to the left or right when driving straight, the suspension system could be at fault. While misaligned wheels can also cause this issue, worn suspension components like control arms, ball joints, or bushings may be the underlying problem. Pulling affects your ability to steer safely and should be addressed promptly. Nose Dives When Braking When you apply the brakes, your vehicle should slow down in a controlled and balanced manner. If the front of your car noticeably dips or “nose dives” during braking, it’s a sign that your shocks are no longer providing adequate support. Excessive Swaying or Leaning Another sign of suspension trouble is if your car sways excessively during turns or leans noticeably to one side when parked on level ground. These symptoms suggest worn or broken suspension components, which compromise vehicle stability. Left unchecked, this issue can make your car more prone to losing control, especially during sharp turns. 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 make an appointment for car care in greater Lakeland!

Your car’s brakes are one of its most critical safety systems, giving you the ability to stop quickly and avoid accidents. But brakes wear down over time and eventually need attention. Ignoring warning signs can put you and others at risk while also leading to more costly repairs. By recognizing the symptoms of brake trouble early, you can schedule service before problems escalate. At Gibbons Auto Service, we provide expert brake repair in the greater Lakeland, FL area. Here are five warning signs that your car needs brake repair. Squeaking or Grinding Noises Unusual sounds when you press the brake pedal are one of the first red flags. A high-pitched squeaking noise often means the brake pads are worn and need replacing. If you hear grinding, it could indicate that the pads are completely worn down, causing the metal components of the brakes to scrape against each other. This not only reduces stopping power, but can also damage the rotors. Vibrations When Braking If you feel vibrations when stopping, it may point to warped rotors. Over time, heat and friction can cause rotors to lose their smooth surface, leading to uneven braking. While it might feel like a minor inconvenience at first, warped rotors can reduce control and increase stopping distances, making it important to address the issue quickly. Soft or Spongy Brake Pedal When your brake pedal feels unusually soft or sinks closer to the floor than usual, it’s a sign that something is wrong with the hydraulic system. This could be due to air in the brake lines or leaking brake fluid, which poses a major safety hazard. Dashboard Warning Light If the brake warning light appears on your dashboard, it’s not something to ignore. The light can indicate low brake fluid or another significant issue within the system. Pulling to One Side If your car pulls to the left or right when braking, it could be a sign of a stuck caliper. This uneven braking puts strain on your car’s suspension and makes it harder to maintain control in an emergency. Brake 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!

At Gibbons Auto Service, we’re proud members of the Lakeland small business community. Our local mechanics take great pride in earning our customers’ satisfaction by consistently providing top-quality auto repairs at fair rates. No matter how big or small the job, we’ll work diligently to complete it to the highest standards. And we appreciate it when our customers offer feedback about their experiences with us. Here’s a look at some of our recent customer reviews. “Gibbons is my favorite auto repair shop in Lakeland. They always do a great job at a great price. I recommend them to anyone that asks.” — David N. “10/10 recommend!! I brought my car to Mike after several other shops failed to fix my AC—and he got the job done! He’s incredibly fair and honest with his pricing, which is so refreshing. Ashley is also amazing—super communicative and always keeps you updated about your car. I couldn’t be happier with the service. This team truly goes above and beyond. I’ll definitely be coming back for any future car needs!” — Allison Y. “The fastest auto shop trip I’ve ever had! He not only got me in and out of there quickly, but the respectful attitude and explaining the issue and solutions thoroughly was the cherry on top, thank you!” — Elizabeth S. “I just had my A/C fixed, very reasonable price for what was done, and my car was ready in two hours. They have gained a new customer.” — Brian W. “The absolute best and most honest mechanic you will ever be lucky enough to have! I have taken two of my vehicles there and the results were always top notch and reasonably priced! No rip offs, honest assessments and no extra crap thrown in like you'll get at some mechanics. Don't be fooled by the size of the building, this business is the top mechanic in Lakeland, imo. Highly recommend!” — Yvonne B. Auto Repair in Lakeland, FL For auto repair in Lakeland, FL and the surrounding area, contact Gibbons Auto Service at (863) 900-8363. At our nearby auto shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment for car care in Lakeland!

Your car’s alternator plays a crucial role in keeping the electrical system functioning properly. It powers essential components such as the battery and lights while the engine is running. When the alternator starts to fail, it can lead to serious performance issues and even a breakdown if not addressed quickly. At Gibbons Auto Service, we provide expert alternator replacement and auto electric repair in the greater Lakeland, FL area. Here are five common warning signs that your alternator may be failing. Dimming/Flickering Lights One of the more common symptoms of a failing alternator is dimming or flickering headlights and interior lights. Because the alternator is responsible for supplying power to the electrical system, any drop in its output can cause lights to behave erratically. If your headlights seem unusually weak or if the dashboard lights fluctuate in brightness, it’s a strong indication that the alternator isn’t delivering consistent power. Warning Light on the Dashboard Most modern vehicles are equipped with a warning light on the dashboard that signals an issue with the charging system. This light is often shaped like a battery or reads ALT or GEN. If this light comes on and stays on while driving, it means your alternator may not be charging the battery correctly. Ignoring this warning could lead to a drained battery and a stalled vehicle. Electrical Accessory Failures When the alternator isn’t working properly, it can’t keep up with the electrical demands of the car. This can lead to a variety of strange issues, such as malfunctioning power windows, faulty radio operation, or problems with climate control systems. If multiple electrical features begin acting up at the same time, the alternator could be struggling to provide adequate voltage. Dead/Weak Battery While a dead battery is often blamed on the battery itself, a failing alternator is frequently the true culprit. If your car requires frequent jump-starts or the battery seems to lose its charge quickly after being replaced, the alternator may not be recharging it properly. The mechanic can perform a simple test to determine whether the battery or alternator is at fault. Strange Noises from the Engine Bay A failing alternator can sometimes produce unusual noises, such as whining, grinding, or squealing sounds coming from the engine compartment. These noises may be caused by worn bearings or a loose serpentine belt. If you hear odd sounds from the engine area, it’s important to get them inspected as soon as possible to avoid a sudden breakdown. Alternator Replacement & Auto Electric Repair in Lakeland, FL For 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 !

When your vehicle’s transmission starts showing signs of failure, a full replacement might be the only solution. While it sounds intimidating, knowing what happens during a transmission replacement can take some of the stress out of the process. When your vehicle needs transmission repair or replacement in Lakeland, FL, call or visit Gibbons Auto Service . Initial Inspection and Diagnosis The process begins with a thorough inspection. Mechanics will confirm that a replacement is truly necessary and not something a repair or fluid change could fix. Using diagnostic tools, they check for error codes, test drive the vehicle, and visually inspect for signs of internal damage, leaks, or severe wear. Removing the Old Transmission Once the need for replacement is confirmed, the vehicle is lifted, and the old transmission is removed. This isn’t a quick task, it involves disconnecting the battery, draining fluids, and removing parts like the driveshaft, exhaust components, and sometimes even part of the suspension to access the transmission. Installing the New or Rebuilt Unit After the old unit is out, the mechanic installs the new or rebuilt transmission. The replacement must match the make, model, and engine type of your vehicle. During installation, all connections, such as the torque converter, mounts, cooler lines, and sensors, are properly secured. Fluids and Testing New transmission fluid is added, and the system is bled to remove any air pockets. The mechanic will then start the vehicle and perform several tests, such as checking for leaks, listening for unusual noises, and ensuring the transmission shifts smoothly through all gears. Final Inspection and Road Test Before handing the car back to you, a final road test confirms everything is functioning properly. The mechanic may also check the transmission fluid again after the test to make sure the levels are right. Transmission Repair and Replacement in Lakeland At Gibbons Auto Service, our team provides professional automatic transmission repair, manual transmission repair, CVT transmission repair, and transmission replacement services for all makes and models. Common signs your car needs to visit our local transmission shop include slipping gears, grinding noises while shifting, delayed gear shifts, or a transmission fluid leak. Following initial transmission diagnostics, we can provide a detailed estimate for transmission repair costs, as well as associated services such as clutch repair, transaxle repair, and CV joint repair. Call us at  863-900-8363  the minute your transmission shows signs of trouble.

Car filters may not be flashy, but they’re essential to keeping your vehicle running clean and efficiently. They block out gunk, dust, and debris that can cause serious trouble under the hood. There are three main filters every driver should know about: air filters, oil filters, and fuel filters. Below, we break down what they do and when you should replace them. When it’s time to swap out a filter or get other routine maintenance in Lakeland, FL, leave it to the experts at Gibbons Auto Service . Air Filters Your engine needs a steady supply of clean air to run efficiently. The air filter keeps out dust, pollen, and other airborne particles that could otherwise clog up the system or damage engine components. Your engine will work harder and waste more fuel if your air filter is dirty, which will reduce fuel economy. Most manufacturers recommend changing your air filter every 12,000 to 15,000 miles, but in dusty areas or if you drive a lot, more frequent replacements might be smart. Oil Filters Your engine’s oil collects grime, metal particles, and other contaminants over time. That’s where the oil filter comes in; it catches the bad stuff so your engine can keep running smoothly. A clogged oil filter won’t do its job, and that can lead to dirty oil circulating through your engine, causing wear and tear. You should change your oil filter every time you get an oil change, typically every 3,000 to 7,500 miles, depending on your car and driving habits. Fuel Filters Fuel filters ensure that dirt and debris don’t make their way into your engine via your gas tank. A clogged fuel filter can cause rough starts, poor acceleration, or even engine stalling. While newer cars often have longer-lasting fuel filters, it’s still good practice to have them inspected and replaced about every 30,000 miles or according to your vehicle's maintenance schedule. Auto Maintenance in Lakeland Keeping up with factory auto maintenance is the best way to make sure your vehicle continues to perform great mile after mile. At Gibbons Auto Service, our team of trained auto mechanics has years of experience providing vehicles with preventative services that maximize performance and safety. When your foreign or domestic car or truck is due for any scheduled car care, including air, fuel, or oil filter replacement, don’t hesitate to visit Gibbons Auto Service. Give us a call at  863-900-8363  or stop by to learn more about our services or to make an appointment for expert auto maintenance in Lakeland.

Few things are more frustrating than turning the key (or pushing the button) and having your car hesitate, sputter, or refuse to start altogether. Hard-start issues can stem from several problems, ranging from simple fixes to more serious mechanical failures. Below, we break down what might be causing the trouble. When you need auto repair in Lakeland, FL, leave it to the experts at Gibbons Auto Service . Weak or Failing Battery A drained or dying battery is one of the most common culprits behind a hard start. If your engine cranks slowly or you hear clicking noises, your battery might not have enough power to get things going. Corroded terminals or loose connections can also prevent a strong electrical flow. You might need to replace your battery if it's more than three years old. Faulty Starter Motor Your starter motor is responsible for turning over the engine. If it’s worn out, you might hear a clicking noise but no crank. A faulty starter solenoid or a stuck gear can also cause similar symptoms. Fuel System Issues A lack of fuel will prevent your engine from starting smoothly. A clogged fuel filter, failing fuel pump, or dirty injectors can restrict fuel flow, making it harder for the engine to ignite. Fuel system problems can cause your car to struggle to start and perform poorly. Bad Spark Plugs or Ignition System Problems Your engine relies on spark plugs to ignite the fuel-air mixture. If the plugs are worn out, fouled, or incorrectly gapped, your engine may misfire or take longer to start. A failing ignition coil or faulty wiring can also disrupt the spark needed for combustion. Sensor and Computer Malfunctions Modern cars rely on a network of sensors to regulate fuel delivery, ignition timing, and air intake. If sensors like the crankshaft position sensor or mass airflow sensor fail, they can prevent the engine from starting properly. A check engine light or diagnostic scan can reveal sensor-related issues. Auto Repair in Lakeland At Gibbons Auto Service, we understand that a trip to the auto shop isn’t always planned. That’s why our local auto mechanics have dedicated themselves to getting you back on the road fast when trouble strikes. We use quality parts and practices to ensure every car that leaves our shop is ready for the road ahead. With more than 40 years of combined experience, we’ve seen and repaired it all on nearly every make and model. Call our Lakeland auto repair shop at  863-900-8363  to learn more about our auto repair services or to schedule an appointment.