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Best Auto Repair, Knoxville

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8 Signs Your Car Needs a Professional Mechanic

 96 Verified Review(s)

B & M Automotive & Diesel Service in Knoxville TN Is Here To Help

Sometimes it's hard to know when your car just needs a break and when it needs a mechanic. If you notice any of the signs detailed below, it's important to have your vehicle inspected by a professional mechanic as soon as possible. By addressing problems early on, you can help to prevent more serious damage and costly repairs down the road.

1. Car Experiences Stalling

Is your car experiencing stalling issues? This situation isn't ideal and could indicate various problems, such as a malfunctioning fuel pump or ignition issues. These are concerns you'd rather not confront while driving. We do not recommend waiting to see if this issue will correct itself.

If you sense that your car is struggling to accelerate, regardless of how forcefully you press the gas pedal, it's advisable to pull over and request assistance immediately.

2. Trouble Steering

Has your steering wheel suddenly become harder to control? Are your turns less reliable or smooth? This often indicates a significant problem with steering components, such as low power steering fluid or another malfunction. Any issue affecting your ability to control the car requires immediate attention at an auto repair shop.

3. Fluid Leaks

If your vehicle is leaving behind puddles of liquid, it's a sign you should investigate further. Examine the liquid closely. Water is usually not a concern, often originating from air conditioning condensation.

However, liquids like oil, transmission fluid (red or brown), coolant (blue, yellow, green), power steering fluid, or brake fluid (thick but clear) warrant closer inspection. A leak in one of these vital systems is likely the culprit.

Visit B & M Automotive & Diesel Service to fix the leak and replace the fluids before it worsens and affects your car's performance.

4. Worn Out Brakes

Brakes naturally wear down over time. If your brakes are losing their effectiveness and emitting strange noises, it's a sign they may need attention. Screeching or squealing sounds usually indicate worn-out brake pads requiring replacement.

Shaking or vibrating brakes can suggest various issues, from worn brake pads to brake fluid problems or alignment issues-problems best addressed by auto repair experts.

5. Alignment Issues

If you've noticed your car's ride has become notably less smooth in just a few months, it might be time for a trip to the auto shop. Don't fret over potentially costly repairs; a shaky or vibrating ride, especially at higher speeds, often stems from wheel or alignment issues.

Even after a proper wheel alignment, wheels can gradually shift, influenced by normal wear and tear or sudden incidents like accidents or unexpected bumps. Realignment is a straightforward procedure best handled by professionals who can swiftly address the issue.

6. Uncommon Engine Noise

Engines should run smoothly. While they may become noisier with age, sudden noises or difficulty in turning the engine should prompt a visit to the auto shop. Keep an ear out for any unexpected grinding, popping, or growling noises when your engine is idling.

7. Diagnostic Lights

This one can be a bit tricky. Modern vehicles come equipped with engine diagnostic or check engine lights, but they don't always signal a genuine problem. Some are programmed to illuminate after a certain mileage for a routine checkup. Occasionally, the car's computer module may malfunction and trigger the lights when nothing's wrong.

However, these lights also serve as valuable indicators that something within your engine might be amiss. Generally, if a diagnostic light accompanies other signs like poor performance or unusual noises, it's a good idea to visit B & M Automotive & Diesel Service. If you're simply tired of looking at it, a quick check at the shop can confirm if there's an actual issue.

8. Unpleasant Exhaust

Surprisingly, exhaust issues can help diagnose serious auto problems. If you notice your exhaust suddenly becoming dirty, black, or emits foul odors, some part of the filtering system may be clogged or damaged. It's advisable to have a mechanic investigate, whether it's related to your catalytic converter or another unknown issue.

Stop by B & M Automotive & Diesel Service located at 7301 Maynardville Pike in Knoxville, TN or call 865-922-7111 to talk to one of our friendly and professional technicians.


what our customers say

They performed 100,000 mile service on my auto and did a very good job and the service was completed in a very timely manner. I would recommend this repair service to anyone needing auto repair work.
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, 12/28/2023

I flip cars here and there and I take all mine to these guys at B & M. They are very thorough yet cost efficient. I'm very pleased with our relationship!
S
, 08/22/2023

I really appreciate these guys! After moving from out of state and having a solid mechanic you have trusted for over 14 years, it's like having to find a new doctor too! I am so thankful I found these guys! They have been so helpful and honest every single time! When I first moved here, I worked for UPS using my vehicle out of Oliver Springs. Let's just say that was not good. I've had issues ever since. Going up and down mountains was hard on my vehicle, and unfortunately, my light came on. I knew it was the transmission. I took it in, and they went thru it and told me they would check out everything they could and get back to me. Sadly, it was my transmission. They were super kind, and we decided it would be better to just get another vehicle, and they agreed. I really appreciate their honesty and hard work! Like I told them when I left...I will be back with the new vehicle because I know I found my mechanics for life here in Tennessee!
A
, 07/24/2023

Professional quality service. No hidden costs or surprises when it came time to settle up. Will definitely take my vehicles to them again for my repair needs.
G
, 07/11/2023

Pricing was extremely reasonable and everyone was so nice and knowledgeable! I had the A/C compressor in my 2014 Fiat 500L and it's working great!
T
, 06/20/2023

Very friendly and great work. I will return when I need more automotive work.
L
, 04/30/2023

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