Your transmission is responsible for transferring power from the engine to the wheels, making it one of the most important systems in your vehicle. When a transmission fails, the repairs can be extensive. However, with a few preventive measures and good maintenance habits, you can help extend the life of your transmission and avoid major issues down the road. Here are four tips for keeping your transmission in top condition. Schedule Regular Transmission Service Like any other critical system in your vehicle, your transmission needs regular maintenance to perform its best. Over time, transmission fluid can break down and become contaminated, leading to overheating and increased wear on internal components. Refer to your owner’s manual to find out how often your vehicle’s transmission fluid should be changed. Regular service usually includes draining the old fluid, replacing the filter as necessary, and refilling with fresh fluid. Staying on top of this schedule can prevent many common transmission problems. Check Fluid Levels and Condition Monitoring your transmission fluid can help you catch potential issues early. Low fluid levels or dirty fluid can indicate a leak or internal problem. Transmission fluid should be bright red or pink and have a clean, slightly sweet smell. If it appears dark or smells burnt, it’s time to have it inspected and replaced. Some vehicles have a dipstick for easy checking, while others may require a technician to evaluate fluid levels. Avoid Aggressive Driving Habits How you drive has a direct impact on your transmission’s health. Rapid acceleration, hard braking, and frequent gear changes can all place unnecessary stress on the transmission. Towing excessively heavy loads can also lead to overheating. By driving smoothly and avoiding excessive strain, you can reduce the risk of damaging the transmission. Address Issues Promptly If you notice symptoms like slipping gears, delayed shifting, or unusual noises, don’t ignore them. These signs often indicate a developing problem that can get worse if left unaddressed. Early intervention could prevent a minor issue from turning into a complete transmission failure. At the first sign of trouble, it’s best to have the mechanic inspect your vehicle and perform any necessary repairs. Transmission Service in Tempe, AZ For expert transmission service in Tempe and the surrounding area, contact American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission at  480-613-5335  . At our nearby auto shop, we can skillfully handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

Your vehicle’s braking system is one of its most critical safety components. When brakes start to malfunction, it puts you, your passengers, and others on the road at risk. Recognizing early signs of brake trouble can help you avoid more expensive repairs and prevent dangerous situations. At American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission, we provide expert brake repair in the greater Tempe, AZ area. If you notice any of the following symptoms, it's important to have your brakes inspected by the mechanic as soon as possible. Squealing or Grinding Noises One of the most obvious signs of brake trouble is unusual noise when you apply the brakes. A high-pitched squealing sound often indicates that the brake pads are worn down and need to be replaced. This sound comes from a built-in wear indicator designed to alert you before damage occurs. If you hear a grinding noise, it likely means the brake pads are completely worn out and metal is grinding against metal, which can severely damage the rotors. Spongy Brake Pedal A brake pedal that feels soft, spongy, or sinks to the floor when pressed is a serious warning sign. This can indicate air in the brake lines or a brake fluid leak, which creates a major safety hazard. These issues can significantly reduce your braking power, increasing the risk of an accident. Vibrations When Braking If you feel vibrations when you apply the brakes, it may signal that the brake rotors are warped or uneven. Warped rotors can occur due to excessive heat buildup. This not only affects the comfort of your drive but also reduces braking efficiency, especially during emergency stops. Warning Light on the Dashboard Modern vehicles are equipped with sensors that monitor the braking system. If the brake warning light or ABS (anti-lock braking system) light comes on, it means the system has detected a potential problem. While it might be something simple, it could also signal a more serious issue that requires immediate attention. Car Pulling to One Side If your car pulls to one side when braking, it could be a sign of a stuck caliper. This kind of pulling can make it harder to control your vehicle and is especially dangerous in wet or high-speed conditions. A technician can confirm the root cause and restore balanced braking. Brake Repair in Tempe, AZ When you need auto repair in Tempe, AZ and the surrounding area, contact American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission at  480-613-5335  . At our nearby auto shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!

At American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission, it’s our mission to consistently exceed our customers’ expectations by providing expert repairs and maintenance at fair prices. Whether you need light maintenance or in-depth repairs, our local mechanics will work meticulously to complete the job to the highest standards. And we appreciate it when our customers offer feedback about their experiences with us. Here’s a look at some of our recent customer reviews. “Service and communication is awesome-really honest mechanics, Chad is our guy.” — Susan A. “Very professional and great communication with their customers. Would highly recommend.” — Tim G. “Everyone there are extremely friendly and the work they have done on my vehicle has been wonderful. Highly recommend American Five Star Auto Repair.” — Ruth R. “Great experience, best auto shop I've been to in AZ no doubt. Got the job done on time and at a great rate. Will only use this shop for my auto needs. Thank you.” — Clay D. “Took my car right away without an appointment. Took care of the issue in less than 24 hours AND listed out some other things that will need to be addressed without making me feel pressured! These guys are one of a kind and I HIGHLY recommend them!” — Brian V. “American Five Star is the very best vehicle repair shop in the metro area! If you're nervous about car repair and worry about being taken for a ride, make a beeline for American Five Star; they are honest and their work is outstanding... and their customer service is amazing.” — Wendy H. “I love how well they take care of my car, I’ve gotten a lot of work done on my 2015 Honda Civic (salvaged) like a broken valve, new engine mounts, etc., and 5 stars is definitely the rating I’d give them. Thank you!” — Noah L. “Always spot on, they go the extra mile to make the job right. Honest repair shop.” — Melody M. Auto Repair in Tempe, AZ When you need auto repair in Tempe and the surrounding area, contact American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission at  480-613-5335  . Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment for car care in the greater Tempe area!

A healthy transmission smoothly transfers power from the engine to the wheels and allows you to shift gears properly. But when the transmission starts to develop issues, ignoring the warning signs can lead to more expensive repairs or even complete failure. Recognizing early symptoms of transmission trouble can help you address problems before they escalate. At American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission, we provide expert transmission repair in the greater Tempe, AZ area. Here are four common signs of a transmission problem. Delayed or Slipping Gears One of the most noticeable signs of a transmission issue is when the vehicle hesitates or struggles to shift gears. If you experience a delay when shifting from park to drive or notice that the engine revs without a corresponding increase in speed, your transmission may be slipping. Slipping gears can happen due to low transmission fluid or internal wear, and it should be addressed immediately to avoid further damage. Unusual Noises While Driving A properly functioning transmission should operate smoothly and quietly. If you hear strange noises such as whining, buzzing, clunking, or grinding, it could indicate a serious problem. These sounds may be caused by low or degraded transmission fluid, worn-out components, or internal mechanical failure. Any unusual noise coming from the transmission should be inspected by a professional before it worsens. Leaking Transmission Fluid Transmission fluid is essential for lubricating moving parts and maintaining the system’s efficiency. If you notice reddish fluid pooling under your car, it may be a sign of a transmission fluid leak. Low fluid levels can cause overheating, increased friction, and eventual transmission failure. Checking the transmission fluid regularly and addressing any leaks promptly can prevent significant damage. Burning Smell A burning smell coming from your vehicle is never a good sign, and if it's related to the transmission, it could indicate overheating fluid. Transmission fluid helps to cool and lubricate internal components, but if it becomes low, it can start to overheat and break down. Overheating can cause serious damage to transmission parts. If you notice a burning odor, have your transmission checked as soon as possible. Transmission Repair in Tempe, AZ When you need transmission repair in Tempe and the surrounding area, contact American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission at  480-613-5335  . At our local auto shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

Recognizing early warning signs of engine trouble can help you address problems before they become severe. By paying attention to how your vehicle behaves, you can help prevent breakdowns and extend the life of your engine. At American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission, we provide expert engine repair in the greater Tempe, AZ area. Here are five common signs of an engine issue. Strange Noises Coming from the Engine Unusual sounds such as knocking, tapping, or grinding can indicate serious engine problems. A knocking noise could be a sign of worn-out bearings. Tapping noises may signal low oil levels. Grinding sounds might indicate a problem with the water pump or alternator. Any persistent or loud noise should be inspected by the mechanic to help prevent more serious damage. Loss of Power/Poor Performance If your vehicle loses power while driving or feels sluggish, you’ve got a sign of an issue with the engine. Reduced performance can be caused by problems such as clogged fuel injectors, a failing mass airflow sensor, or worn-out spark plugs. If your car is not responding as it normally would, it’s best to have it checked to avoid further complications. Discolored/Excessive Smoke from the Exhaust The color of the smoke coming from your exhaust can tell you a lot about potential engine problems. Blue smoke indicates that oil is burning. White smoke suggests coolant is leaking into the combustion chamber, which may be due to a blown head gasket. Black smoke signals that the engine is burning too much fuel. If you notice discolored/excessive smoke coming from your exhaust, it’s essential to diagnose and fix the problem quickly. High Engine Temperature If your temperature gauge rises above normal levels, it’s an indication that your engine is overheating. Overheating can be caused by failing cooling system components, such as a malfunctioning thermostat, a leaking radiator, or a broken water pump. Driving with an overheated engine can lead to severe damage. Check Engine Light The check engine light is a clear indication that something is wrong with your engine. While it could be triggered by a minor issue like a loose gas cap, it can also signal more serious problems, such as a failing oxygen sensor, catalytic converter trouble, or ignition system failure. Ignoring the check engine light can lead to bigger and more expensive repairs, so it’s best to visit the shop for diagnostics ASAP. Engine Repair in Tempe, AZ For auto repair in Tempe, AZ and the surrounding area, contact American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission at  480-613-5335  . Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!

A well-functioning suspension system is critical for a smooth ride and safe handling. If your car’s suspension starts to fail, it can affect comfort, performance, and safety. At American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission, our local mechanics provide expert suspension repair in the greater Tempe, AZ area. Here are five common signs of suspension trouble to watch for. Excessive Bouncing or Rough Ride When your car bounces excessively after hitting a bump or feels unusually rough, it’s a sign of worn-out shocks or struts. These components help absorb impacts and maintain control. If they’re damaged, you’ll likely feel every bump on the road. Uneven Tire Wear Uneven tire wear is often a result of suspension problems. If the system isn’t distributing weight evenly, certain tires will wear down faster. Misalignment or worn suspension components can lead to this issue, reducing tire life and increasing the risk of blowouts. Drifting or Pulling During Turns If your car feels like it’s drifting or pulling to one side when you’re turning, it could mean the suspension system isn’t keeping the vehicle stable. This can be caused by worn shocks, struts, or other suspension components that no longer provide adequate support. Sagging or Uneven Stance A visibly sagging or uneven vehicle stance is another common sign of suspension issues. If one side of your car sits lower than the other, it could be due to a damaged spring or other worn suspension parts. This can also affect handling and increase tire wear. Nose-Diving When Braking If your car’s front end dips dramatically when braking, it’s a sign that your shocks or struts are worn out. This problem reduces your braking efficiency and can increase stopping distances, posing a serious safety risk. Suspension Repair in Tempe, AZ When you need auto repair in Tempe and the surrounding area, contact American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission at  480-613-5335  . At our local auto shop, we can expertly handle your car’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

The alternator is a vital component of your car’s electrical system, responsible for keeping the battery charged and powering electrical functions while the engine is running. When the alternator starts to fail, it can lead to various issues that affect your vehicle’s performance and reliability. Recognizing the signs of alternator trouble can help you address the problem before it leaves you stranded. At American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission, we provide expert alternator replacement and auto electric repair in the greater Tempe, AZ area. Here are five common symptoms of alternator trouble. Dashboard Warning Light Vehicles are commonly equipped with a warning light—usually in the shape of a battery or marked ALT or GEN—to indicate a problem with the charging system. If this light comes on, it often signals an issue with the alternator. While this warning light doesn’t specify the exact problem, it serves as an important indicator that your electrical system needs inspection. Dead Battery While a failing battery can be the root cause of a no-start situation, a bad alternator can also lead to a dead battery. If your alternator isn’t charging the battery properly, the battery will gradually lose its charge, leaving you unable to start your vehicle. Dimming/Flickering Lights Another red flag for alternator trouble is dim or flickering headlights and interior lights. The alternator generates the power required to keep these lights at full brightness. If it’s not functioning correctly, your vehicle may not produce enough power to sustain consistent lighting. Unusual Noises Strange noises coming from under the hood can also point to alternator trouble. A failing alternator may produce a whining or grinding sound, which could be caused by a worn-out bearing or a belt problem. These noises often indicate that the alternator’s internal components are deteriorating and require attention before the alternator fails completely. Issues with Electrical Accessories A failing alternator can disrupt your car’s electrical functions. You may notice that power windows operate slowly, the radio cuts out, or other electronic accessories like the air conditioning or heated seats work inconsistently. These malfunctions occur because the alternator isn’t supplying enough power to support all the electrical systems in your car. Alternator Replacement & Auto Electric Repair in Tempe, AZ When you need auto repair in Tempe, AZ and the surrounding area, contact American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission at  480-613-5335  . Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!

Automatic transmission issues can escalate quickly, making it important to get to the shop at the first sign of trouble. At American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission, we provide expert automatic transmission repair in the greater Tempe, AZ area. Here’s a look at four warning signs of automatic transmission trouble. Delayed or Rough Shifting One of the most common signs of a transmission issue is difficulty when shifting gears. If you notice delays, jerks, or roughness when the car changes gears, there could be an underlying transmission problem. This is often due to worn-out transmission fluid or mechanical wear within the transmission itself. Pay attention to any grinding or clunking sounds when shifting, as these could point to serious issues. Slipping Gears When your transmission "slips," it might feel like the car momentarily loses power, then regains it unexpectedly. This can be hazardous, as it may happen while accelerating or even while driving at consistent speeds. Slipping gears can result from low or degraded transmission fluid or other internal transmission issues that require immediate attention. Burning Smell A burning smell from your vehicle often signals overheated transmission fluid, which could result from inadequate fluid levels or fluid that's become too old and contaminated to cool and lubricate properly. If you notice a burnt odor, check your transmission fluid level, and have the system inspected. Left unchecked, overheating can lead to serious transmission damage. Fluid Leaks Transmission fluid is typically red and has a slightly sweet smell. If you see this fluid leaking under your vehicle, it’s a red flag. Leaking fluid not only reduces the lubrication and cooling abilities of the transmission, but also could indicate a seal or gasket failure. It’s important to address leaks promptly to avoid further damage to your transmission. Automatic Transmission Repair in Tempe When you need transmission repair in Tempe and the surrounding area, contact American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission at  480-613-5335  . At our nearby auto shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

At American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission, we strive to earn our customers’ satisfaction by doing top-quality work at fair rates. No matter if you need an oil change or complex transmission repair, our local mechanics will work diligently to get the job done right the first time. And we’re grateful when our customers offer feedback about the work that we did for them. Here’s a look at some of our latest customer reviews. “American Five Star is the premier auto repair shop for all your auto needs. It has been over a year now since I had major engine repair and my car is still operating better than ever. What is the most unique about American Five Star is the amount of expertise, high technical knowledge, and speed. If you go here, your vehicle will absolutely be in better condition than when you came in, it will be completed timely, and the staff is extremely friendly.” — Jake A. “The team here at American Five Star Auto Repair does an amazing job. They are friendly, efficient and their prices are great.” — Katherine C. “Awesome customer service and always keeping me updated regarding the vehicle, really taking time to fix the problem with my vehicle. Awesome place to get your vehicle repaired.” — Bella H. “Wonderful experience with the staff, mechanics and owner. They take excellent care of my BMWs.” — Andrea R. “Wonderful customer service and workmanship. This is the best mechanic shop I've ever been to. They're thorough with inspections, realistic with expectations, and so transparent with everything. Really feel like they're looking out for my best interest.” — Carlos C. “I run a company that relies on our vehicles on a daily basis. Having a truck or van down for too long is not an option. With that being said the crew at American Five Star understands that and does what they can to get me in and out as quick as possible and at a very competitive rate. Their work is great and I trust them with my personal vehicles as well as my fleet.” — Travis W. Auto Repair in Tempe, AZ When you need auto repair in Tempe and the surrounding area, contact American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission at  480-613-5335  . Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!