Planning a road trip is exciting, but should also include a trip to the shop to help ensure that your vehicle is prepared to perform safely and smoothly during your adventure. At Smith Specialty Automotive, we can complete auto maintenance in Olathe to get your car ready for your journey. Here’s a look at six important maintenance tasks before going on a road trip. Oil Change Oil keeps your engine’s moving parts lubricated, preventing excessive wear and tear. Before a long journey, it’s crucial to ensure your oil is clean and at the appropriate level. An oil change, along with replacing the oil filter, will help to optimize engine performance and fuel-efficiency, reducing the risk of engine damage during your trip. Brake Check Healthy brakes are critical for safe driving. A comprehensive brake inspection can detect worn brake pads, leaky brake lines, or other issues that may compromise braking efficiency. Ensuring your brakes are in top condition helps to minimize the risk of accidents on the road. Tire Inspection and Rotation Your tires are your vehicle’s only point of contact with the road, making them vital for safety and performance. Before setting off, have a professional inspect your tires for signs of wear, damage, or uneven tread wear. Rotating your tires promotes even wear and extends their lifespan, while also providing better traction and stability. Fluid Levels Various fluids—including coolant, transmission fluid, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid—play crucial roles in your vehicle’s operation. Checking fluid levels and replenishing or replacing them as needed promotes optimal performance during your trip. Battery Testing A dead battery can quickly turn a road trip into a frustrating ordeal. Before departure, have your battery tested to ensure it’s holding a charge and functioning properly. This will help to minimize the risk of finding yourself stranded in some remote location. Check Lights/Wipers During a road trip, visibility is key for safety. Before departing, it’s important to check lights including headlights, brake lights, and turn signals. As needed, bulbs should be replaced. Also, worn-out wiper blades should be replaced to help optimize visibility during heavy rains. Auto Maintenance in Olathe, KS When you need auto maintenance in Olathe and the surrounding area, contact Smith Specialty Automotive at (913) 270-1893. Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!

If you notice an indication of engine trouble, you’ll want to be proactive about getting to the shop for diagnostics. Otherwise, the issue may soon get worse and cause trouble that is more expensive to resolve. At Smith Specialty Automotive, we provide top-quality engine repair in the greater Olathe, KS area. Here’s a look at five common symptoms of an engine problem. Check Engine Light One of the most obvious signs of an engine problem is the illumination of the check engine light on your dashboard. While it may not pinpoint the exact issue, it serves as a warning that something isn't right under the hood. Don't ignore this warning light—instead, take your car to a qualified mechanic for diagnostics as soon as possible. Fluid Leaks Leaking fluids under your car should never be ignored. Leaks can stem from various engine components, such as gaskets, seals, or hoses. Oil and coolant leaks, in particular, can lead to catastrophic engine problems. Fluid leaks should always be fixed ASAP. Engine Overheating An overheating engine is a serious problem that requires immediate attention. If you notice the temperature gauge creeping into the red zone or steam rising from under the hood, pull over safely and turn off the engine to let it cool before investigating further. Common causes of engine overheating include coolant leaks, a malfunctioning thermostat, or a damaged radiator. Strange Noises Unusual noises coming from your engine—such as knocking, pinging, hissing, or grinding—could indicate various problems, from worn-out bearings to a failing water pump. Ignoring these noises can lead to significant damage. Abnormal sounds should be inspected by a professional mechanic promptly. Discolored/Excessive Exhaust Smoke The color of the smoke can provide valuable clues about the nature of the problem. For instance, black smoke typically indicates a rich fuel mixture, blue smoke suggests burning oil, and white smoke may signal coolant leaking into the combustion chamber. Discolored/excessive exhaust warrants immediate attention from a mechanic. Engine Repair in Olathe, KS When you need auto repair in Olathe and the surrounding area, contact Smith Specialty Automotive at (913) 270-1893. Feel free to give us a call today to schedule an appointment!