HESCO Automotive & Performance Center

SERVING OUR COMMUNITY SINCE 1971

Auto Repair, Auto Maintenance and Engine Repair & Diagnostics

in Birmingham, AL and the Surrounding Communities

Auto Repair, Auto Maintenance & Engine Repair & Diagnostics

in Birmingham, AL and the Surrounding Communities

Auto Repair

Bumper to bumper car repair services for all foreign & domestic makes & models.

Auto Maintenance

A trusted source for oil changes, fluid services & other factory maintenance.

Engine Repair & Diagnostics

Our ASE certified technicians will keep your vehicle's engine running like it is brand new.

HESCO Automotive & Performance Center is the premier auto repair shop in Birmingham, serving drivers of all makes and models of foreign and domestic cars, trucks and SUVs. The ASE certified technicians at our bumper to bumper service facility can perform a full spectrum of auto repair and maintenance tasks to help keep your vehicle running its very best. HESCO is outfitted with the most up-to-date diagnostic and repair equipment, allowing us to quickly pinpoint your vehicle's issues, and then we can get right to work fixing it, getting you back on the road in a timely manner. No matter what your car or truck needs, from simple maintenance, such as an oil change, battery replacement or new windshield wipers, to complicated brake repair, engine diagnostics or transmission service, we really do it all. The next time your car gives you any trouble or requires routine auto maintenance in Birmingham, don't hesitate to call HESCO Automotive & Performance Center to schedule automotive services.

Foreign & Domestic Auto Repair
Brakes, Steering & Suspension
Engine Repair & Diagnostics
Factory Auto Maintenance
Oil Change & Tune Up Services

Auto AC Repair
Transmission Services
Exotic Car & Classic Car Repair
ASE Certified & Nationwide Warranty
NAPA AutoCare Center

Foreign & Domestic Auto Repair
Brakes, Steering & Suspension
Engine Repair & Diagnostics
Factory Auto Maintenance
Oil Change & Tune Up Services
Auto AC Repair
Transmission Services
Exotic Car & Classic Car Repair
ASE Certified & Nationwide Warranty
NAPA AutoCare Center

As a NAPA AutoCare Center, HESCO is able to provide the benefits of a nationwide chain in the comforts of a locally owned and operated business, which we are! We truly care about our friends and neighbors and strive to always provide the highest levels of customer service. Our honest and knowledgeable technicians are more than happy to answer your questions, and we offer a 24 month/24,000 mile nationwide warranty for qualifying parts and services conducted at our Birmingham auto repair shop. Since we opened our doors in 1971 we've helped thousands of satisfied customers, and while we hope your car gives you no trouble, if it does, we invite you to come find out why we're a local favorite for nearby auto repair and maintenance, as well performance upgrades and other custom car services.

HESCO Automotive & Performance Center, LLC utilizes state of the art technology to assist our highly skilled technicians complete their diagnostic, maintenance and repair tasks. Our investment into dealership style repair tools is just one way we demonstrate a commitment to excellence. We know your vehicle is a major investment, and we promise to take great care of it at our local auto shop, no matter what service it requires. Give HESCO a call at (205) 526-3796 to learn more about our shop or to schedule professional, warranty backed auto repair in Birmingham, AL.

HESCO Automotive Blog

4 Warning Signs of a Cooling System Problem that Should Be Promptly Addressed

by HESCO Automotive • 2 May 2025

Your car’s cooling system plays a critical role in keeping the engine from overheating. Without it, your engine could quickly reach dangerously high temperatures, leading to major damage and expensive repairs. Recognizing early warning signs of cooling system trouble can help you avoid more serious problems. At HESCO Automotive & Performance Center, we provide expert cooling system repair in the greater Birmingham, AL area. Here are four signs of a cooling system problem. Rising Engine Temperature One of the first and most obvious signs of cooling system trouble is a rising engine temperature. If you notice that your temperature gauge is climbing higher than normal or reaching the red zone, it’s a strong indication that your cooling system isn’t doing its job. An overheating engine can quickly cause severe internal damage, so it’s important to pull over safely and address the problem right away. Coolant Puddling Below Vehicle Coolant leaks are a clear sign that your cooling system has a problem. You might spot a bright green, orange, or pink fluid (your coolant might be a different color) under your car after it has been parked. Coolant leaks can arise due to issues like a damaged radiator, cracked hoses, or a worn-out water pump. If your coolant level drops too low, your engine won’t be able to stay at a safe temperature, leading to overheating and potentially catastrophic engine damage. Visible Steam or Strange Smells If you notice steam coming from under your hood, especially after the engine has been running for a while, it's a clear warning that your engine is overheating. You might also detect a sweet, syrupy smell, which often comes from leaking coolant. These signs point to a cooling system failure that needs immediate attention to prevent further engine damage. Low Coolant Levels If you find yourself frequently needing to top off your coolant, even when you don't see obvious leaks, it’s a sign that something is wrong within the system. Sometimes small leaks are hidden, or the coolant could be leaking internally into the engine. Constantly low coolant levels should never be ignored because they point to a deeper issue that needs professional diagnosis and repair. Cooling System Repair in Birmingham, AL When you need auto repair in Birmingham and the surrounding area, contact HESCO Automotive & Performance Center at (205) 526-3796. 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!

4 Signs that You Need to Replace Your Car’s Shocks

by HESCO Automotive • 28 March 2025

Your vehicle’s shocks are critical components of the suspension system, designed to keep your ride smooth, stable, and safe. Shocks help absorb the impact from the road, control the movement of your suspension, and maintain proper tire contact with the ground. Over time, shocks wear out and lose their ability to perform effectively, which can lead to a rougher ride. Knowing the signs of worn shocks can help you address the problem early and maintain a comfortable experience. At HESCO Automotive & Performance Center, we provide expert suspension repair in the greater Birmingham, AL area. Here are four warning signs that your shocks may need to be replaced. Excessive Bouncing After Hitting Bumps If your car continues to bounce after driving over a bump or pothole, it’s a strong indication that the shocks are no longer doing their job. Worn shocks struggle to control suspension movement, which results in a bouncier, less stable ride. This kind of repeated motion after impact means your vehicle isn't settling as it should, making handling more difficult and uncomfortable. Nose Diving During Braking When shocks start to fail, they can no longer keep the vehicle level during sudden braking. You may notice the front of your car dipping downward, or "nosediving," when you apply the brakes. This not only affects your vehicle’s balance, but can also increase your stopping distance, creating a dangerous situation during emergency braking scenarios. Leaking Fluid on the Shocks Shock absorbers are filled with hydraulic fluid that helps them dampen motion. If you see oily or greasy residue on the outside of the shock bodies, it could mean the seals have failed and fluid is leaking out. A loss of hydraulic fluid means the shocks can’t function properly, and replacement will likely be necessary. Uneven Tire Wear If you’ve noticed that your tires are wearing unevenly or more quickly than usual, your shocks could be part of the problem. Worn shocks can lead to inconsistent contact with the road surface. This irregular motion can cause patches of tires to wear down more rapidly, reducing tire life and compromising traction. Suspension Repair in Birmingham, AL When you need auto repair in Birmingham and the surrounding area, contact HESCO Automotive & Performance Center at (205) 526-3796. 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!

5 Helpful Tips for Maintaining a Healthy Engine

by Hesco Automotive • 4 March 2025

Your vehicle’s engine is its heart, and keeping it in top condition is essential for reliable performance. Regular engine maintenance helps prevent breakdowns, improves efficiency, and can extend the lifespan of your car. By following these basic engine care tips, you help promote smooth operation for years to come. Change the Oil and Filter Regularly One of the most important aspects of engine maintenance is routine oil and filter changes. Engine oil lubricates moving parts, reduces friction, and prevents overheating. Over time, oil breaks down and becomes contaminated with dirt and debris, reducing its effectiveness. Regularly changing the oil and filter, as recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer, keeps the engine cleaner and running more efficiently. Keep the Cooling System Healthy Your engine generates a lot of heat, and the cooling system is responsible for preventing it from overheating. If the cooling system is not functioning properly, overheating can cause severe damage, including warped cylinder heads and blown gaskets. Regularly flushing the cooling system and replacing coolant according to the manufacturer’s guidelines helps maintain optimal performance. Replace Air and Fuel Filters as Needed Engines require a proper balance of air and fuel for combustion. A clogged air filter can restrict airflow, reducing efficiency and causing the engine to work harder than necessary. Similarly, a dirty fuel filter can limit the flow of fuel, leading to poor performance. Replacing these filters at recommended intervals helps ensure that your engine receives clean air and fuel, promoting better mileage and overall reliability. Monitor the Spark Plugs and Ignition System Spark plugs play a vital role in engine performance by igniting the fuel-air mixture in the cylinders. Worn or faulty spark plugs can lead to misfires, poor acceleration, and reduced fuel-efficiency. Regularly inspecting and replacing spark plugs, along with maintaining ignition coils and wires, helps ensure smooth engine operation. Stay on Top of Fluid Levels and Leaks Regularly checking fluid levels and inspecting for leaks can prevent minor issues from turning into major repairs. If you notice puddles or drips under your vehicle, it’s important to identify and fix the source promptly. Addressing leaks early can help prevent engine damage. Engine Repair & Maintenance in Birmingham, AL When you need an experienced mechanic in Birmingham, AL and the surrounding area, contact HESCO Automotive & Performance Center at (205) 526-3796. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!

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