HESCO Automotive & Performance Center Blog
A healthy suspension system absorbs bumps, keeps your tires in contact with the road, and helps maintain control during cornering and braking. When suspension components begin to wear out or fail, your car’s handling, comfort, and safety can all be compromised. Knowing what to watch for can help you address issues before they escalate. At HESCO Automotive & Performance Center, we provide expert suspension repair in the greater Birmingham, AL area. Here are four common signs that your vehicle may have a suspension problem. Ride Feels Rough One of the most obvious indications of suspension trouble is a noticeable decline in ride comfort. If your car starts feeling unusually rough, bouncing excessively over small bumps, or jarring when driving on uneven roads, your shocks or struts may be worn out. These components are designed to absorb impact, and once they lose effectiveness, every bump in the road becomes more pronounced. Uneven Tire Wear Your suspension system helps distribute weight evenly across all four tires. When it’s not functioning properly, tires may wear down unevenly, often showing more wear on one side than the other. This pattern suggests that the wheels are not staying properly aligned or that the suspension is failing to keep the tires firmly planted. Uneven wear not only shortens tire life, but can also make your vehicle harder to control. Drifting or Pulling During Turns If your vehicle drifts or pulls to one side while turning, it could indicate a suspension issue. A failing suspension system may not be keeping the car balanced, which can affect stability and cornering performance. This problem can make handling unpredictable, especially at higher speeds or during sharp turns, increasing your risk of losing control. Visible Damage or Leaks A quick visual inspection can reveal clues about suspension health. Leaking hydraulic fluid on the sides of shocks indicates they’re worn and need replacement. You might also notice sagging in one corner of the vehicle, which suggests a broken spring. 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 handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!
When your car’s temperature gauge rises or steam escapes from under the hood, it’s a clear sign that something isn’t working as it should. Overheating is not only inconvenient, but also dangerous for your vehicle, as it can cause severe engine damage if ignored. Understanding the common problems that lead to overheating can help you catch them earlier and have a better chance of avoiding major engine damage. At HESCO Automotive & Performance Center, we provide expert cooling system repair in the greater Birmingham, AL area. Here are four common reasons that cars overheat. Failing Water Pump Your vehicle’s water pump is at the heart of its cooling system, responsible for pushing coolant through the engine and radiator. If it fails, coolant circulation slows or stops entirely. Without proper flow, the engine cannot cool down, leading to overheating. Warning signs of a bad water pump include coolant leaks and unusual whining noises. Low or Leaking Coolant Coolant is essential for regulating engine temperature by absorbing and transferring heat away from the engine. If coolant levels are too low due to leaks in the radiator, hoses, or water pump, the system cannot function effectively. Without enough fluid circulating, the engine quickly overheats. Regularly checking coolant levels while the engine is cool—and addressing leaks promptly—is key to preventing this issue. Faulty Thermostat The thermostat controls the flow of coolant between the engine and radiator. When it works correctly, it opens and closes at the right times to maintain a safe operating temperature. If the thermostat becomes stuck closed, coolant cannot circulate, causing the engine to overheat. Clogged/Damaged Radiator The radiator’s job is to release heat from the coolant before it cycles back into the engine. If the radiator is clogged with debris, corroded, or leaking, it cannot do its job effectively. A damaged radiator fan can also reduce airflow, making it harder for the system to dissipate heat. Any of these problems can lead to overheating. 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 local 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 greater Birmingham, AL! .
Your vehicle’s alternator plays a crucial role in keeping the electrical system functioning properly. It generates the electricity needed to power systems like the headlights, radio, and power windows, while also keeping the battery charged. When the alternator begins to fail, your car may exhibit a range of symptoms that signal it’s time for replacement. Ignoring these warning signs could leave you stranded. At HESCO Automotive & Performance Center, we provide alternator replacement in the greater Birmingham, AL area. Here are four common signs that your alternator may be failing. Battery Warning Light The battery warning light on your dashboard doesn’t always mean there’s a problem with the battery itself. Often, it’s an early indication of an alternator issue. This light may come on if the alternator isn’t producing enough voltage. Some vehicles also have a specific alternator warning light, which should be taken seriously and investigated as soon as possible. Dim/Flickering Lights If your headlights or dashboard lights start to flicker or appear dimmer than usual, it may be due to the alternator not supplying enough power. As the alternator deteriorates, it can’t maintain a steady electrical output, which often results in erratic lighting performance. Electrical Accessory Issues If you start noticing multiple electrical issues, such as malfunctioning power windows or a failing radio, the alternator could be the culprit. Since the alternator supplies power to the electrical components, a decline in its performance can cause these systems to act up or stop working altogether. Strange Noises A failing alternator can produce a variety of unusual sounds. You might hear a grinding or whining noise coming from the engine bay. This often occurs when the alternator’s bearings are worn out or there’s a belt issue. These noises are not just annoying—they’re an important sign that something mechanical inside the alternator is breaking down. Alternator Replacement in Birmingham, AL For expert auto repair in Birmingham and the surrounding area, contact HESCO Automotive & Performance Center at (205) 526-3796. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment for car care in greater Birmingham, AL!
