Air conditioning is essential for a comfortable ride, especially in spring when temperatures rise. However, ensuring its longevity requires proper care. Below are several methods you can use to prolong the life of your car's air conditioning system and avoid costly repairs. When you need automotive AC maintenance in Lakeland, FL, or the surrounding areas, stop by Gibbons Auto Service. Run Your AC Regularly To maintain a healthy automotive AC system, it's important to run it regularly, even during cooler months. Running the AC helps circulate refrigerant and lubricant throughout the system, preventing seals from drying out and potentially causing leaks. Additionally, regular operation helps maintain proper pressure levels, ensuring optimal performance when you need it most. Even if you don't feel the need for cool air, running the AC for a few minutes every couple of weeks can make a significant difference in prolonging the system's lifespan. Replace the Cabin Filter The cabin filter is critical to keeping your car's air clean and free of dust, pollen, and other contaminants. Over time, the cabin filter may clog, limiting the efficiency of your air conditioning and ventilation system. Replacing the filter every 12,000 to 15,000 miles improves air quality and keeps your vehicle's air conditioning system functioning properly. Check for Leaks Low refrigerant levels can reduce cooling performance and damage the AC compressor. Examine the air conditioning system's hoses for any obvious leaks, such as greasy residue at couplings and connectors. If you notice a drop in cooling efficiency, warm air coming from the vents, or strange hissing sounds, there may be a refrigerant leak. Inspect Belts Over time, belts can wear down, become cracked, or even break, leading to inefficient operation or complete AC failure. Checking the belts for signs of wear, such as cracks or fraying, and ensuring they're properly tensioned can prevent potential problems. If you notice any issues, it's important to replace the belts promptly to avoid further damage to the AC system. Auto AC Repair in Lakeland A working car air conditioner is a must-have in Florida. If you’re not getting the cool breeze you crave during your commute, call Gibbons Auto Service at  863-900-8363  or visit us for expert car AC repair in Lakeland. We can perform an AC recharge/Freon recharge, fix auto air conditioner leaks, replace AC condensers, fix AC fans, and complete other services to ensure you don’t overheat behind the wheel.

Are your brakes due for a checkup? We explore the signs that may indicate your brakes need to be serviced below. Bring your vehicle to Gibbons Auto Service for expert brake repair in Lakeland, FL, and the surrounding areas. The ABS Light Turns On The ABS (anti-lock braking system) light may illuminate for a variety of reasons, including a lack of brake fluid, worn brake pads, or a braking system failure. Ignoring this warning can lead to poor braking performance and possible traffic accidents. The Brakes Are Screeching or Squealing When brake pads wear, they produce high-pitched squeals and screeches. Brake pads have a built-in sensor that generates this sound when they get severely worn, indicating that it is time to replace them. Avoiding these sounds could result in more damage to the brake components, reducing their efficiency. Grinding Metal Metal-on-metal contact makes a grinding noise, which is usually caused by severely worn brake pads or, in certain situations, a complete lack of brake pads. Ignoring this warning sound may cause significant damage to the rotors, compromising your ability to brake safely. Shaking If your car shakes or vibrates while braking, it could be a sign of a brake problem. Unevenly worn brake rotors can cause unsteady braking while overheating and uneven cooling can cause rotor warping, which leads to pulsing sensations. We recommend bringing your car to a professional mechanic who can diagnose and repair the underlying brake problems. Brake Repair in Lakeland Your vehicle’s brakes are its most vital safety feature. We recommend visiting Gibbons Auto Service for a brake job in Lakeland if you encounter strange noises while braking, a soft brake pedal, a vibrating brake pedal, or other issues slowing your vehicle. At our brake shop, we can perform brake pad replacement, brake rotor replacement, brake fluid leak repair, master cylinder repair, and other brake repair services to restore the safety of your ride. Give us a call at  863-900-8363  or visit our Lakeland auto shop for premium brake service.

Have you ever wondered what's under your car's hood, and why a part as small as the oxygen sensor is so important? This seemingly minor component has a significant impact on your vehicle's performance, influencing everything from fuel efficiency to emissions. Below, we discuss the importance of a functioning oxygen sensor as well as issues to be aware of. If you suspect your oxygen sensor is damaged and you need auto repair in Lakeland, FL, call or visit Gibbons Auto Service . What Does the Oxygen Sensor Do? The oxygen sensor's principal function is to measure the amount of oxygen present in exhaust fumes. The sensor alerts your vehicle's computer when it burns too much or too little fuel. Using this data, the computer changes the fuel-air combination to find the sweet spot for optimal engine performance. Common Issues A few problems can emerge with the oxygen sensor. Contamination is a common issue; dirt and oil accumulation can result in inaccurate readings. Another concern is that sensors decay over time, becoming less accurate. If your vehicle is using too much gas or the check engine light turns on, your oxygen sensor may be defective. Ignoring these warnings can result in decreased fuel economy and higher emissions. How To Keep Your Oxygen Sensor Functional Regular maintenance is required to keep your oxygen sensor in good operating order. To keep your engine running smoothly, stick to the service schedule recommended in your owner's manual. Continue to get frequent oil changes since a clean engine is associated with a healthy oxygen sensor. Consider what you put in your tank: high-quality fuel reduces the risk of sensor contamination. Finally, if your fuel efficiency drops unexpectedly or the check engine light comes on, have a professional inspect your car. Auto Repair in Lakeland At Gibbons Auto Service, we understand that a trip to the auto shop isn’t always planned. That’s why our local auto mechanics have dedicated themselves to getting you back on the road fast when trouble strikes. We use quality parts and practices to ensure every car that leaves our shop is ready for the road ahead. With more than 40 years of combined experience, we’ve seen repaired it all on nearly every make and model. Call our Lakeland auto repair shop at  863-900-8363  to learn more about our services or to schedule an appointment.

When an engine misfires, it interferes with the smooth operation of your vehicle, which can be perplexing for vehicle owners. Understanding the reasons for engine misfires is essential for successfully resolving them. We look at the most common causes of engine misfires and, more importantly, how our skilled mechanics can detect and resolve the issue. When your vehicle needs engine repair in Lakeland, FL, call or visit Gibbons Auto Service . What Is an Engine Misfire? An engine misfire occurs when one or more cylinders in an internal combustion engine fail to ignite the air-fuel mixture at the right time. This pause in the combustion process causes noticeable power loss, severe idling, and potentially increased emissions. Misfires in engines can be caused by several factors, including malfunctioning spark plugs, ignition coils, fuel injectors, or issues with the air and fuel delivery systems. The Most Common Causes of a Misfire Complexities in the ignition, fuel, and airflow systems are commonly to blame for engine misfires. Spark plugs, ignition coils, and spark plug wires that are damaged or faulty can all cause misfires. Fuel delivery system issues, such as blocked injectors, a broken fuel pump, or a fuel filter nearing the end of its useful life, can threaten the proper air-fuel mixture required for combustion. A vacuum leak caused by a fractured hose or gasket, as well as mass airflow sensor failures, can change the balance of air entering the engine. These airflow issues may cause misfires by altering the tightly regulated air-to-fuel ratio. Engine Repair in Lakeland If your vehicle is misfiring, don’t ignore the issue. The engine mechanics at Gibbons Auto Service provide both gas engine repair and diesel engine repair for all makes and models. From oil leaks and overheating to blown head gaskets and cracked blocks, our Lakeland engine shop has a remedy for your ride. If you encounter signs of engine trouble, including knocking noises, hard starting, or poor performance, give us a call at  863-900-8363  . We’d be happy to perform engine diagnostics to determine if your car will benefit from engine repair or engine replacement in Lakeland.

Is your engine not running as well as it used to? Engine problems are every car owner's worst nightmare, with symptoms ranging from strange noises to decreased performance. The most common engine problems and their solutions are discussed below. When you need engine repair in Lakeland, FL, call or visit Gibbons Auto Service . The Engine Won't Start A non-starting engine can be aggravating. A dead or weak battery, which stops the starter motor from turning on, is the most prevalent cause. A faulty ignition coil or a worn-out spark plug might also cause the engine to fail to start. Furthermore, fuel system issues, such as a clogged fuel filter or a faulty fuel pump, may disturb the fuel supply required for combustion. A detailed inspections involving checking the battery, ignition system, and fuel supply components is required to appropriately diagnose and repair this issue. “Check Engine Light” Turns On The check engine light is a common source of worry for vehicle owners, and it can indicate underlying engine issues. Faulty oxygen sensors, which can reduce fuel economy, and a loose or damaged gas cap, which can create evaporative emissions problems, can both activate this warning light. Issues with the ignition system, such as broken spark plugs or a faulty ignition coil, can also cause the indicator to glow. Connecting a diagnostic tool to your vehicle's onboard computer can help determine the exact problem. The Engine Overheats Overheating can be caused by a variety of factors, including clogged radiators, leaking coolant reservoirs, and defective water pumps. It is extremely harmful to overheat the engine and other vehicle components. An overheated engine is indicated by a dashboard warning light, a sudden loss of power, a burning odor, or steam pouring from the engine bay. Check your coolant levels regularly to prevent engine overheating and check that your cooling system is functioning properly. Wait for your engine to cool down before trying any repairs if it overheats. Engine Repair in Lakeland The engine mechanics at Gibbons Auto Service provide both gas engine repair and diesel engine repair for all makes and models. From oil leaks and overheating to blown head gaskets and cracked blocks, our Lakeland engine shop has a remedy for your ride. If you encounter signs of engine trouble, including knocking noises, hard starting, or poor performance, give us a call at  863-900-8363  . We’d be happy to perform engine diagnostics to determine if your car will benefit from engine repair or engine replacement in Lakeland.

Repairs are an unavoidable part of vehicle ownership. Knowing the most common forms of auto repairs will help you make informed decisions regarding your vehicle's upkeep and budget, whether you're a seasoned or rookie driver. The most typical auto repairs we see are discussed here. When you need auto repair in Lakeland, FL, call or visit Gibbons Auto Service . Spark Plug Replacement Spark plugs are essential for starting the engine and igniting the air-fuel mixture within the combustion chamber. Spark plugs degrade over time, resulting in decreased fuel efficiency, delayed acceleration, and even engine misfires. Your spark plugs should be changed regularly, as recommended by the manufacturer, to optimize engine performance, maximize fuel efficiency, and minimize dangerous emissions. Check Engine Light Repair This warning light will activate if the onboard diagnostics system identifies an issue with the engine or the emissions control system. It's important to not ignore a check engine light because it can suggest a wide range of potential issues, from minor fixes like a loose gas cap to more serious engine or sensor problems. Brake Repair The brake system is critical to the safety of your vehicle and must be serviced on a regular basis to ensure proper operation. Brake pads and rotors naturally wear out over time, and failing to fix them can result in decreased braking performance and increased safety risks. Screeching noises, a squishy brake pedal, or longer stopping distances are all signs that your brakes are in need of service. Oxygen Sensor Replacement The oxygen sensor measures how much oxygen is present in your vehicle's exhaust emissions. It sends essential information to the engine control module, which allows it to optimize the fuel-air mixture for combustion. These sensors can clog or wear out over time, resulting in decreased fuel efficiency and increased emissions. Auto Repair in Lakeland At Gibbons Auto Service, we understand that a trip to the auto shop isn’t always planned. That’s why our local auto mechanics have dedicated themselves to getting you back on the road fast when trouble strikes. We use quality parts and practices to ensure every car that leaves our shop is ready for the road ahead. With more than 40 years of combined experience, we’ve seen repaired it all on nearly every make and model. Call our Lakeland auto repair shop at  863-900-8363  to learn more about our services or to schedule an appointment.

The transmission in your vehicle is a complex and necessary component, and when problems emerge, it's critical to make the best selection for both your vehicle and your wallet. Below, we go over the elements to consider when deciding whether your transmission needs to be repaired or replaced. When you need transmission services in Lakeland, FL, call or visit Gibbons Auto Service . What Is Transmission Repair? Transmission repair includes correcting issues such as slipping gears, unpredictable shifting, or strange noises to return the transmission to optimal operation. Transmission repair can range from modest tweaks and part replacements to more substantial repairs, depending on the severity of the problem. When the damage is not too extensive, the goal is to fix the specific problem while maintaining as much of the old transmission as feasible, making it a cost-effective solution. What Is a Transmission Replacement? A transmission replacement entails removing the vehicle's original transmission and installing a new or rebuilt unit. This procedure is often used when the present transmission is significantly damaged and repairs are no longer viable or cost-effective. Transmission replacements are a more thorough and costly solution than repairs since they require the complete removal and replacement of the transmission system. However, it can be a viable option when the current transmission has experienced significant wear and tear and a new unit is required to preserve the vehicle's long-term durability. Which Is Better? The decision between transmission repair and replacement is influenced by various aspects, the most important of which is the state of your vehicle's transmission. Repair is generally the more cost-effective and feasible option when the problem is minor or limited, retaining the present transmission while addressing particular issues. However, if your transmission has sustained significant damage or has a history of recurring problems, a replacement may give greater long-term reliability, albeit at a higher cost. It is critical to contact a knowledgeable mechanic who can precisely analyze the transmission's condition and prescribe the best course of action. Transmission Repair and Replacement in Lakeland At Gibbons Auto Service, our team provides professional automatic transmission repair, manual transmission repair, CVT transmission repair, and transmission replacement services for all makes and models. Common signs your car needs to visit our local transmission shop include slipping gears, grinding noises while shifting, delayed gear shifts, or a transmission fluid leak. Following initial transmission diagnostics we can provide a detailed estimate for transmission repair costs, as well as associated services such as clutch repair, transaxle repair, and CV joint repair. Call us at  863-900-8363  the minute your transmission shows signs of trouble.

Maintaining your vehicle goes beyond occasional oil changes and tire rotations. Regularly replacing your vehicle's air filter is a sometimes overlooked yet crucial aspect of car care. While the air filter may appear insignificant in comparison to the complex technology under the hood, its value in preserving engine health and enhancing fuel efficiency cannot be emphasized. When your vehicle needs a new air filter or other essential maintenance tasks in Lakeland, FL, call or visit Gibbons Auto Service . What Do Air Filters Do? Air filters are essential for safeguarding your engine from harmful contaminants that can enter during the combustion process. They are the first line of defense for the engine, keeping dust, dirt, pollen, and pollutants out of the combustion chamber. By ensuring that only clean and filtered air reaches the engine, air filters aid in effective fuel combustion, engine efficiency, and overall performance. We recommend that you get your air filter checked every time you have your car serviced. The Consequences of Not Replacing Your Air Filter Failure to replace your air filter can have an adverse effect on engine performance as well as the overall driving experience. Over time, a clogged air filter obstructs the flow of pure air essential for efficient combustion. As the engine attempts to compensate for the lack of air, power production, acceleration, and fuel consumption may suffer. Furthermore, a malfunctioning air intake could result in an imbalance in the air-fuel combination, which could lead to engine misfires and rough idling. Aside from the technical issues, neglecting to replace your air filter can affect air quality within the cabin by allowing allergies and pollutants to circulate. Auto Maintenance in Lakeland Keeping up with factory auto maintenance is the best way to make sure your vehicle continues to perform great mile after mile. At Gibbons Auto Service, our team of trained auto mechanics has years of experience providing vehicles with preventative services that maximize performance and safety. When your foreign or domestic car or truck is due for any scheduled car care, including air filter replacement, don’t hesitate to visit Gibbons Auto Service. Give us a call at  863-900-8363  or stop by to learn more about our services or to make an appointment for expert auto maintenance in Lakeland.

Owners often overlook or undervalue the importance of regularly flushing the transmission fluid in their cars. However, a transmission fluid flush is essential to keeping the transmission system in your vehicle operating smoothly and effectively. Understanding the advantages of a transmission fluid flush will help you make knowledgeable decisions regarding the upkeep of your vehicle, whether you are a car enthusiast or simply a responsible vehicle owner. When your vehicle needs transmission maintenance in Lakeland, FL, call or visit Gibbons Auto Service . It Prevents the Need for Expensive Repairs A transmission fluid flush has many advantages, one of which is that it helps you avoid costly repairs. Transmission fluid loses its ability to lubricate the transmission system as it gathers dirt, debris, and impurities over time. Without routine maintenance, the contaminated fluid can build up heat and result in severe wear and tear on the transmission's parts. This may eventually require expensive repairs or even a complete transmission replacement. It Improves Your Engine’s Efficiency Transmission fluid is essential for lubricating the different parts of your car's transmission so they can move smoothly and with minimal resistance. You can replace the old fluid with new, clean fluid by getting a transmission fluid flush. As a result of the transmission parts moving more consistently and smoothly, there is less energy wasted and better fuel consumption, which enhances the economy of your engine. A cleaner fluid also aids in preventing overheating and excessive wear on the transmission parts, extending the life of your engine. Transmission Maintenance and Repair in Lakeland At Gibbons Auto Service, our team provides professional automatic transmission repair, manual transmission repair, CVT transmission repair, and transmission maintenance and replacement services for all makes and models. Common signs your car needs to visit our local transmission shop include slipping gears, grinding noises while shifting, delayed gear shifts, or a transmission fluid leak. Following initial transmission diagnostics we can provide a detailed estimate for transmission repair costs, as well as associated services such as clutch repair, transaxle repair, and CV joint repair. Call us at  863-900-8363  to schedule an appointment.