Denton Auto Repair

So you just turn the key or push the button, right? Not so fast. While it may seem easy to get your vehicle's engine up and running a complex series of events must occur. Understanding your car's starting system can help you figure out what may be going wrong if your car fails to start. The primary parts that must work together in order to get your engine spinning, which will allow it to suck in air and fuel and run on its own, include the battery, ignition switch, starter relay, battery cables and the starter motor. Here's what they do to get you moving. Battery The battery is what stores electrical power that is needed to get the other components of your vehicle moving. This power is created by the alternator, which also powers other components of the vehicle when the motor is running. If your battery dies your car won't be going anywhere. Ignition Switch The ignition switch is activated when the key is inserted into the ignition. The ignition switch has multiple positions, but turn ... read more

Let's face it, the engine is the heart of your car, and you wouldn't ignore your own heart if it was giving you trouble, would you? No! Keeping your heart pumping smoothly keeps you alive, which is why it is crucial to provide your car's engine with the love and attention it needs to keep beating mile after mile. While routine maintenance is the primary way to keep things running right, there may be times when you encounter issues you're unfamiliar with. By paying attention to how your engine is performing you can keep often tell if something is amiss. If you notice any of these signs of major engine trouble be sure to contact your favorite mechanic right away for proper diagnostics and repairs. Knocking Noises A knocking sound coming from under the hood often indicates worn engine bearings. These bearings are what support the motion of the engine's moving parts and should they seize due to wear or a lack of lubrication, the engine could fail completely. Always let a train ... read more

When it comes to getting auto repair it is important to research the characteristics of a shop to ensure that you're going to get great service. It is unfortunate, yet true, that there is a stigma that surrounds the auto repair industry that has to do with unnecessary upselling, erratic pricing and other issues. To avoid this and to ensure that the correct repairs needed by your vehicle are completed correctly seek out an auto shop that holds the following traits, such as Strande's Garage in Denton, TX, that way you can rest easy knowing your car or truck is in good hands. Years of Business Always use a shop that has been operating for numerous decades. The simple reason for this is that it shows they have become a reputable business in their community that is trusted by people in need of auto repair services. Strande's has been helping drivers since 1962! ASE Certified Technicians The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence is a national organization ... read more

March is upon on, which means the weather is getting warmer and summer is just a few months away. Now is the time families across the country start planning their route for that good ole American tradition -- the road trip. Summer is the perfect time for a road trip as the kids are often on break from school, the weather is warm and the water cool. As you prepare to head out this summer be sure to take your car's needs into consideration so you don't end up stuck on the side of the road or spending too much time at the gas station. Here's our tips on prepping your car for a road trip, and be sure to contact us before you head out for any of the following! Fluid Checks & Oil Change Your car uses a number of fluids to operate, including coolant, transmission fluid, power steering fluid, brake fluid and engine oil. If any are due for a flush do it now, and top off fluid levels as needed. If your trip is a long one, it's best to change the oil before you hit the highway. Wipers Summer ... read more

At Strande's Garage we love being able to help our friends, neighbors and other community members keep their vehicles from across the pond in tip top shape. It seems the Germans, Swedes and Brits have really hit the mark when it comes to engineering and building quality cars and SUVs and we take the opportunity to maintain these vehicles with the utmost gratitude, and the occasional spot of tea.When you need European auto repair in Denton we hope that you'll come see our team of ASE certified mechanics. Our highly trained team has access to the best parts available for any make and model since Strande's is a NAPA Auto Care Center. This also means that most of our auto maintenance and repair services are available with a great warranty. German Auto Repair Some of the earliest automobiles were built in Germany by Karl Benz and other famous engineers. One such man, Emil Jellinek, named his car company after his daughter, Mercedes. To ensure ... read more

With a driver's license and a car comes a lot of responsibility. When you get behind the wheel of any vehicle you are taking your life and those of all around you into your hands. At Strande's Garage we are dedicated to providing expert auto care that results in a reliable, comfortable and safe vehicle. However, we can't do our part unless you do yours. It's important to pay attention to any signs of safety concerns for your vehicle, such as the following. If you ever encounter issues that comprise the safety of your vehicle, such as the following, do not hesitate to visit us for professional, friendly car care. Worn Tires What connects your car to the ground? The tires! It is critical that you pay close attention to the condition of your tires, as you'll want to replace them as they become worn to ensure you always have proper control of your vehicle. Bald tread, cracked or bubbling sidewalls or dry-rotted rubber are all signs it's time for new tires. How long your tires will last is ... read more

We totally get it, because even as mechanics, we've been there too. A breakdown is not only frustrating, but it can be confusing, especially if your car or truck showed no signs of trouble before having issues starting, suddenly shutting off, or coming to a harsh halt. While diagnosing car trouble on the side of the road may not help you get to where you need to be any faster, perhaps after reading through these common causes of breakdowns you'll find some comfort in having some understanding of what's wrong. Remember, no matter what you drive or how new your vehicle is, all cars, trucks and SUVs are susceptible to a break down under the right, or should we say wrong, conditions. Auto Electric Failure The auto electric system in your car includes the ignition, alternator, spark plugs, starter and of course the battery. Issues with any of these components, as well as electrical relays, fuses and wiring, could contribute to a breakdown. The most common reason that you won't be able to s ... read more

When the check engine light illuminates many drivers will ignore it, thinking it is an error, since their car seems to be running just fine. Truth is, it isn't an error. The check engine light often comes on in relation to a small malfunction within the vehicle that if left unchecked will grow into a much worse problem. Be sure to get to the auto shop for further diagnostics if your check engine light comes on. The following are five common check engine light issues. Loose gas cap If the gas cap is loose, broken or otherwise ill-fitting it could allow fuel to evaporate out of the filler hose. This would be detected by the EVAP system, which then illuminates the check engine light. Be sure to always tighten your gas cap after a fill up. Oxygen Sensor The oxygen sensor is located in the exhaust system and helps calculate the proper air to fuel ratio. If the sensor malfunctions it could result in excessive amounts of gasoline being burnt, thus decreasing your fuel efficiency. This could ... read more