501 University Blvd. Birmingham, AL 35205

Monday-Friday 7am-6pm

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

What are the common symptoms of contaminated transmission fluid?

by HESCO Automotive • 02 Oct, 2024

Transmission fluid plays a crucial role in keeping your vehicle’s transmission system running smoothly. It provides lubrication, cools the transmission, and helps transfer power from the engine to the wheels. When this fluid becomes contaminated, it can lead to serious transmission issues and expensive repairs. Recognizing the signs of contaminated transmission fluid early can help you avoid bigger problems down the road. At HESCO Automotive & Performance Center, we provide expert transmission service in the greater Birmingham, AL area. Here are four signs of contaminated transmission fluid. Discolored or Dark Fluid Healthy transmission fluid is typically bright red or pink in color. If the fluid appears dark brown or black, it’s a strong indication that it’s contaminated. The dark color suggests that the fluid has degraded or is filled with debris, which can no longer properly lubricate and cool your transmission. It's crucial to check your transmission fluid regularly and take action when you notice this color change. Burnt Smell Transmission fluid that smells burnt is another sign of contamination. The burnt odor often occurs when the fluid has overheated due to excessive friction or debris build-up. Overheated transmission fluid may no longer perform its function, which could lead to internal damage within the transmission system. Shifting Issues Contaminated transmission fluid can make it difficult for your vehicle to shift gears smoothly. You might notice delayed or rough shifting, which can feel like a jerking or hesitation when your car changes gears. This can happen because contaminated fluid can no longer provide the smooth hydraulic pressure needed for proper gear shifts. Unusual Noises Transmission systems are designed to operate quietly when they’re functioning properly. If you start hearing grinding, whining, or clunking noises while driving, it could indicate that your transmission fluid is contaminated. Contaminants in the fluid can lead to increased friction and wear on transmission components, which can cause these abnormal sounds. Addressing the issue early can prevent further damage to the transmission. Transmission Service 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 handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!

Common Warning Signs that Your Car Could Be Leaking Coolant

by Hesco Automotive • 04 Sept, 2024

A coolant leak in your vehicle can lead to serious engine problems if left unaddressed. The cooling system is essential for regulating your engine’s temperature, preventing it from overheating. Detecting a coolant leak early can help you avoid costly repairs. At HESCO Automotive & Performance Center, we provide expert coolant leak repair in the greater Birmingham, AL area. Here are four signs that your vehicle may have a coolant leak. Low Coolant Levels One of the most obvious signs of a coolant leak is when your coolant levels keep dropping. Make sure to check your coolant reservoir regularly and top off the coolant as needed until the leak is fixed. But remember that, for safety reasons, you should always wait until your engine has cooled down before you check/add coolant. Overheating Engine If your engine is running hotter than usual or overheating altogether, a coolant leak could be to blame. The coolant is vital for absorbing the heat produced by the engine and dissipating it through the radiator. Without enough coolant, the engine’s temperature will rise quickly, leading to potential damage. If your engine temperature gauge is creeping into the red zone or the overheating light on your dashboard illuminates, a coolant leak could be the culprit. Visible Puddles Under Your Vehicle A more obvious sign of a coolant leak is seeing puddles of coolant underneath your vehicle after it’s been parked for a while. Coolant is commonly green, yellow, pink, or orange (yours might be a different color), and has a slightly sweet smell. If you notice such a liquid pooling under your car, it's likely from a leak in the cooling system. In this case, it’s important to get your car checked immediately to prevent further damage. White Smoke from the Exhaust White smoke coming from your vehicle’s exhaust pipe can be another indication of a coolant leak. This could mean that coolant is leaking into the engine itself, often due to a blown head gasket. This is a serious issue that requires prompt attention. 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!

What are the common signs of alternator failure?

by HESCO Automotive • 05 Aug, 2024

The alternator is an integral component in your vehicle's electrical system. It generates the power needed to keep the battery charged and run the electrical systems when the engine is running. If your alternator starts to fail, it can lead to various issues with your car's performance. At HESCO Automotive & Performance Center, we provide alternator replacement in the greater Birmingham, AL area. Here’s a look at five symptoms of a failing alternator. Dim/Flickering Headlights One of the most noticeable symptoms of a failing alternator is dim or flickering headlights. Since the alternator powers the electrical system, if it's not functioning properly, the headlights can become weak or inconsistent. If you notice that your headlights are dimming or flickering, it might be time to check your alternator. Warning Light on the Dashboard Vehicles are commonly equipped with warning lights that can alert you to potential issues with the alternator. Look out for the battery warning light or the alternator warning light on your dashboard. If these lights turn on, it could indicate that the alternator is not charging the battery properly or there is another electrical issue in the system. Electrical Accessory Issues A failing alternator can cause various electrical problems in your vehicle. If you experience issues with accessories like power windows or the radio, the alternator could be the culprit. Since the alternator is responsible for supplying power to these systems, any irregularities in its performance can directly affect them. Difficulty Starting the Engine If the alternator is not charging the battery effectively, you might have trouble starting your vehicle. A weak or dead battery is often a sign that the alternator is failing. If you notice that the engine cranks slowly or struggles to start, it could be due to a problem with the alternator not keeping the battery charged. Unusual Noises A failing alternator can sometimes produce unusual noises, such as grinding or whining sounds. These noises are often caused by worn-out bearings or a damaged alternator belt. Alternator Replacement 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 handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!

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