At American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission, it’s our mission to consistently outperform our customers’ expectations by providing flawless repairs at fair prices. Whether you need some light maintenance or in-depth transmission repair, our local mechanics will work meticulously to complete the job to the highest standards. And we appreciate it when our customers provide feedback about their experiences with us. Here’s a look at some of our recent customer reviews. “Eric and his crew are truly amazing. He is always willing to help his people by going over and beyond with excellent customer service. He is always very honest and does not try to get you to pay all these high fees like dealers and other mechanics to fix your car. Thank you for always being honest but most important taking care of my cars when I have to get them repaired. I am grateful to finally find someone I can trust with my cars.” — Lataica M. “I have been taking several vehicles to American Five Star for years now. I have had three transmissions rebuilt there and Eric completely rebuilt a 1968 Bronco for me. I cannot say enough about the customer service and the quality of the work coming out of this shop. I highly recommend and have recommended them to many of my friends and family members. Just a good/quality business with good people running it. Five Star gets five stars from me.” — Greg T. “Eric and his staff are always honest, affordable and professional. I’ve used this business on several vehicles over the years and have been very happy with their service.” — Della B. “Gina and her crew are always ready to go the extra mile. Also very honest and fair!” — Jeff C. “Eric and the crew do a wonderful job!” — Marc E. “We take our cars to Chad, our mechanic, who does excellent work. He always treats us fairly, is very knowledgeable and trustworthy. Five Star keeps us informed of what's needed before starting work and provides an accurate estimate up front. Gina is professional, efficient and great to work with!” — Richard 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 today to schedule an appointment!

It’s important to get to the shop when you first notice that your car is struggling to fire up as easily as usual. If you delay, the underlying issue may soon escalate and prevent your car from starting at all. At American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission, our local mechanics are experts at identifying and fixing issues that cause no-start. Here are five common issues that prevent cars from starting up. Dead Battery One of the most frequent culprits for a car that won't start is a dead or weak battery. Common causes of dead batteries include loose/corroded connections, old age, parasitic draws, and leaving on headlights. If you hear a clicking sound when you turn the key or notice dim lights on the dashboard, you may well have a battery issue. Faulty Starter Motor The starter motor is responsible for turning the engine over when you turn the key. If the starter motor is faulty, your car won't start. A sign of a malfunctioning starter is that there’s a grinding noise. Fuel System Issues If there are issues with the car’s fuel system, it may not start. Common fuel-related problems include a clogged fuel filter and a malfunctioning fuel pump. Fuel system problems often cause symptoms such as sputtering and decreased fuel-efficiency. Ignition System Failure The ignition system is crucial for starting your car. Problems with components like the ignition switch, spark plugs, or ignition coil can prevent your car from starting. Symptoms may include a lack of engine turnover or irregular engine firing. Faulty Alternator The alternator charges the battery while the engine is running, and a malfunctioning alternator can lead to a drained battery and difficulty starting the car. Signs of alternator issues include dimming headlights and problems with interior electrical accessories. Auto 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 local auto shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call today to schedule an appointment!

Your vehicle's suspension system plays a crucial role in providing a smooth ride and proper stability. Eventually, wear and tear can take a toll on your suspension components, leading to potential safety hazards and a compromised driving experience. When you first notice a symptom of suspension trouble, it’s best to visit the shop for an inspection. At American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission, our local mechanics are highly experienced with suspension repair in the greater Tempe, AZ area. Here are five signs of a suspension problem. Bumpy or Unstable Ride If you notice excessive bouncing, swaying, or a generally uncomfortable ride, it could suggest problems with your shocks or struts. These components are responsible for absorbing shocks and vibrations, and when they fail, your vehicle's ride quality diminishes. Knocking or Clunking Noises Unusual noises, such as knocking or clunking sounds, when driving over rough terrain can indicate problems with the suspension system. These noises may be a result of worn-out bushings or issues with the shock absorbers. Ignoring these sounds can lead to further damage and compromise safety. Visible Fluid Leaks Leaking shock absorbers or struts can lead to a loss of fluid, affecting their ability to absorb shocks effectively. If fluid is leaking out onto your shocks, there’s a good chance that you’ll need to replace them. Dipping or Nose-Diving During Braking A healthy suspension system helps maintain stability during braking. If you notice your vehicle dipping forward or nose-diving when you apply the brakes, it could signal issues with the front suspension components. Failing shocks or struts can compromise braking performance and overall safety. Uneven Tire Wear In many cases, one of the first signs of a suspension problem is uneven tire wear. If you notice that your tires are wearing out unevenly, particularly on the inside or outside edges, it could be an indication that the suspension components are not properly supporting the vehicle's weight. 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  . Feel free to give us a call today to schedule an appointment!

Your car's alternator plays a vital role in keeping the electrical system running smoothly. It generates electrical power to recharge the battery and supply electricity to various components in your vehicle. When the alternator malfunctions, it can lead to a host of issues, and potentially leave you unable to start your vehicle. This makes it important to get to the shop at the first sign of trouble. At American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission, we provide expert alternator replacement and auto electric repair in the greater Tempe area. Here are five symptoms of an alternator problem. Dimming Headlights and Interior Lights A common early sign of an alternator problem is the dimming of headlights and interior lights. The alternator is responsible for providing power to the lighting system, and if it's failing, you may notice a gradual or sudden decrease in the brightness of your lights. Dashboard Warning Light Vehicles are regularly equipped with a dashboard warning light that specifically indicates issues with the charging system. Often shaped like a battery, this light will illuminate if the alternator is not providing sufficient power. Ignoring this warning light may lead to a drained battery and eventually leave you stranded. Strange Noises Unusual noises could be a sign of alternator trouble. A failing alternator may produce grinding, whining, or squealing sounds. These noises can result from worn-out bearings or a loose belt. If you hear any unusual sounds, it's best to have your vehicle inspected promptly to prevent further damage. Difficulty Starting the Engine If you find yourself struggling to start your car, the alternator might be the culprit. A failing alternator may not be able to charge the battery adequately, leading to difficulties starting the vehicle. Flickering or Malfunctioning Electronics The alternator supplies power to various electronic components, such as the radio and power windows. If you notice erratic behavior from your electronics, or if they cease to function altogether, it's a strong indication that the alternator is struggling to provide a consistent power supply. Alternator Replacement & Auto Electric 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 today to make an appointment!

At the first indication of automatic transmission trouble, you’ll want to get to the shop for an inspection. When transmission issues are ignored, they often escalate quickly and become more costly to address. At American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission, we provide expert automatic transmission repair in the greater Tempe, AZ area. Here are five warning signs of automatic transmission trouble. Delayed or Rough Shifting One of the most noticeable signs of automatic transmission trouble is delayed or rough shifting. You might feel your car hesitating or jerking when changing gears. This can happen when the transmission doesn't engage smoothly, and it may be accompanied by a clunking sound. If you experience this, it's important to have your transmission checked to prevent further damage. Fluid Leaks Automatic transmissions require a specific type of fluid to operate correctly. If you notice red or brownish fluid leaking from your vehicle, it's a potential sign of a transmission fluid leak. Low transmission fluid can lead to overheating, which can cause serious damage. Slipping Gears Transmission gears are responsible for the power transfer from the engine to the wheels. If your transmission is slipping, you'll feel your vehicle losing power unexpectedly, often with a noticeable increase in engine RPM. Sometimes, gears slip due to problems with transmission fluid. Unusual Noises Unusual noises coming from your vehicle can be a sign of transmission trouble. Listen for sounds like grinding, whining, or clunking when you shift gears or while the car is in neutral. These noises can indicate worn-out or damaged transmission components, and ignoring them can lead to more severe issues down the road. Difficulty in Engaging Gears If you find it challenging to engage gears, whether moving from "Park" to "Drive" or vice versa, it's a clear sign of transmission trouble. This symptom should be brought to the mechanic’s attention so the underlying issue can be pinpointed and addressed before it escalates. 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 nearby auto shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!

The right level of clean transmission fluid is vital to your transmission’s health. Transmission fluid serves multiple important functions. It provides lubrication, cooling, fluid pressure, and rust prevention. If your transmission fluid becomes contaminated, then significant issues could arise. At American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission, we provide expert transmission service in the greater Tempe area, including transmission fluid exchanges. Indications of a Transmission Fluid Problem There’s definitely cause for concern if your car suddenly pops out of gear while you’re cruising along. This may happen because pollutants in transmission fluid are impeding the fluid’s flow. In turn, fluid pressure decreases to the extent that the vehicle can’t dependably stay in gear. You might be able to resolve this symptom by getting to the shop for a transmission fluid exchange, which is a maintenance task that should always be completed at the mileage point indicated in your owner’s manual. Other symptoms of polluted transmission fluid include whining noises and grinding. Transmission fluid leaks are a common problem, making it important to be aware of signs that such a leak is present. One potential sign that transmission fluid is leaking is that there’s red-to-pink colored fluid on the pavement beneath your vehicle. Another indication that it’s transmission fluid that’s leaking is that it has a slightly sweet scent. You might also have a leak if you check your transmission fluid level and see that it has gotten very low. Transmission fluid should be checked every month so that you’ll know if your fluid is getting dangerously low or starting to burn. In many cases, transmission fluid leaks arise due to issues such as damaged transmission lines and failing pan gaskets. If a leak is causing your transmission fluid to get too low, then you may notice symptoms such as delayed shifting, grinding, or a burning smell. 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 today to make an appointment!

At American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission, our goal is to earn our customers’ trust and respect by providing top-quality service at fair rates. Whether you need a quick oil change or complex transmission rebuilding, our ASE-certified technicians will work diligently to get the job done correctly the first time. And we’re truly thankful when our customers take the time to offer feedback about the work that we did for them. Here’s a look at some of our latest customer reviews. “I have taken my 2010 Honda Pilot here on three occasions and each time their team has been helpful, efficient, and swift with their service. I appreciate the thorough information they provide me about my car, especially as someone who is a novice to car ownership!” — Jocelyn O. “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. I love this place and I am sure you will too!” — Wendy H. “We've taken 2 vehicles here and they've done a spectacular job each time! Fast and honest. They have a great lobby too!” — Drew R. “I took my car to different places for diagnostics to verify if they all came up with the same issue and some were dishonest. This place did a quick diagnostic with open availability and worked with my service contract. I was able to pick up my Jeep same day for replacement of my motor mounts. The waiting area is really unique, retro style with comfy recliners, cold a/c, clean bathroom, and some good old country music (at low volume in case you don't like it). To top it all off, they are all very friendly, even the mechanics.” — Michelle V. “My car is basically a bucket and it needed emergency repairs. Rusty and his team did AMAZING! Rusty was able to explain everything to me and made me feel stress free about my situation. They are a local business that definitely cares about the community and making sure problems are solved. Definitely was worth every penny! They gained my trust and I know that I’ll be in good hands in the future.” — Kenya C. 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  . At our local auto shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!

If your check engine light comes on, it doesn’t necessarily mean that your engine is nearing total disaster. But you should still get to the shop ASAP for computerized diagnostics so that the problem can be identified and resolved before it escalates. At American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission, we provide expert check engine light diagnostics and repair in the greater Tempe, AZ area. Here’s a look at six common reasons the check engine light turns on. Failing Catalytic Convertor Catalytic converters do the important job of turning harmful substances in exhaust gasses into less polluting emissions. A faulty catalytic converter is a common check engine light trigger, and may also cause signs of trouble such as decreasing acceleration, a sulfurous odor, and darkened exhaust smoke. Faulty Oxygen Sensor Oxygen sensors monitor how much unburned oxygen is in the exhaust system. An oxygen sensor problem can lead to issues with the catalytic converter. Bad Mass Airflow Sensor Mass airflow sensors help with making sure that fuel is correctly injected with incoming air. Symptoms of a mass airflow sensor problem include poor acceleration, rough idling, and difficulty starting your engine. Faulty Spark Plugs Healthy spark plugs help to optimize engine performance and gas mileage. With bad spark plugs, you may notice symptoms such as worsening acceleration, hard starts, and misfiring. Bad Battery/Charging System If your battery is falling, then low voltage at the computer could lead to an illuminated check engine light. Gas Cap Is Loose/Missing It might seem bizarre that a loose or missing gas cap could trigger the check engine light, but it does sometimes happen. It’s important to keep your gas cap fastened tightly so that gas doesn’t evaporate before it is directed to your engine. Check Engine Light Repair in Tempe, AZ When you need engine 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 today to make an appointment!

It’s important to get to the shop when you first suspect that engine trouble is brewing. By getting to the mechanic quickly, you’ll have the best chance to address the issue before it escalates and costs a lot more money to fix. At American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission, our local mechanics are highly experienced with engine repair in the greater Tempe area. Common Symptoms of an Engine Problem If your check engine light comes on, you’ll want to get to the shop for diagnostics. While an illuminated check engine light doesn’t necessarily mean that your engine is on the brink of disaster, it’s still important to pinpoint and address the issue as early as possible. Common reasons the check engine light turns on include problems with catalytic converters, mass airflow sensors, oxygen sensors, ignition coils, and spark plugs. There’s also cause for concern if you notice abnormal sounds coming from under the hood. Knocking/tapping noises can arise due to faulty rod bearings, a lean air/fuel mix, and inadequate lubrication due to low oil. Squealing sounds are often due to serpentine belt problems. Grinding noises may arise because of issues with your power steering or water pump. Another common sign of engine trouble is power loss. If you drive an old vehicle with high miles and it has gradually lost a little power over the years, then you don’t necessarily have a significant problem. But a sudden loss of a substantial amount of power could mean you have head gasket or piston trouble, or another serious issue. You should also get to the shop if you notice discolored/excessive exhaust smoke. Blue-tinted smoke is a sign of an oil leak. Black smoke is symptomatic of too much fuel being burned up. White smoke could mean you have an internal coolant leak and perhaps a blown head gasket. Engine Repair in Tempe, AZ When you need engine 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 today to make an appointment!