Helping You Fix the Top 10 Most Common Car Problems

At Garbs Automotive & Exhaust, we’ve seen it all—clicking starters, smoking hoods, and tires flatter than a pancake. Car troubles are a fact of life, but they don’t have to be a headache. We’re here to break down the 10 most common issues we tackle every day, share quick tips you can try, and explain how we can step in when the wrench gets too heavy. Let’s get you back on the road!

1. Dead Battery

**What We See:** No start, faint clicks, or lights that won’t flicker. Batteries die from age, cold snaps, or that dome light you forgot overnight. 

**Quick Tip:** Try a jump-start—cables are your friend. If it dies again, bring it in. 

**How We Help:** We test your battery for free, replace it on the spot (with top brands), and check your charging system to prevent round two.

2. Flat Tire

**What We See:** Punctures from nails or worn-out tread that’s begging for a blowout. 

**Quick Tip:** Swap it with your spare if you’re stuck—just don’t drive on it forever. 

**How We Help:** We can help refer to a nearby tire shop to patch or replace tires fast, balance them for smooth rides, and toss in a tread check to keep you safe.

3. Brake Problems (Squeaks or Grinding)

**What We See:** High-pitched squeals from worn pads or grinding that screams “too late.” 

**Quick Tip:** Don’t ignore it—brakes aren’t a gamble. 

**How We Help:** We inspect pads, rotors, and fluid, then fit premium parts that last. Most brake jobs are same-day, so you’re not sidelined long.

4. Overheating Engine

**What We See:** Steam, red gauges—usually low coolant or a busted thermostat. 

**Quick Tip:** Pull over, cool off, and add coolant if you’ve got it (50/50 mix). 

**How We Help:** We track down leaks, test thermostats, and flush your system. Radiator fixes are our specialty—no more summer meltdowns.

5. Faulty Alternator

**What We See:** Dimming lights or a battery that won’t charge. Alternators burn out over time. 

**Quick Tip:** Hard to DIY—symptoms mimic battery issues, so don’t guess. 

**How We Help:** Free alternator tests, quick replacements with OEM-grade parts, and a full electrical check to catch related gremlins.

6. Worn Spark Plugs

**What We See:** Misfires, shaky idling, or gas mileage that’s tanking. Plugs wear out every 30k-100k miles. 

**Quick Tip:** A steady hand can swap them—check your manual for the right kind. 

**How We Help:** We replace plugs, tune your engine, and ensure it’s firing on all cylinders. Affordable and fast.

7. Check Engine Light

**What We See:** The mystery glow—loose gas caps to failing catalytic converters. 

**Quick Tip:** Tighten your cap and wait a day. Still on? Don’t panic. 

**How We Help:** We scan codes free with every visit, explain what’s up (no jargon), and fix it right—whether it’s a sensor or something bigger.

8. Bad Starter

**What We See:** Key turns, but the engine’s silent—or just clicks. Starters hate cold mornings. 

**Quick Tip:** A tap might wake it up temporarily, but it’s on borrowed time. 

**How We Help:** We diagnose starters fast and swap them out with reliable units. You’ll be cranking again by lunch.

9. Leaking Fluids

**What We See:** Puddles—green (coolant), black (oil), red (transmission). Leaks mean trouble brewing. 

**Quick Tip:** Top off small leaks and watch them; big ones need us ASAP. 

**How We Help:** We pinpoint the source—hoses, seals, or worse—then seal it up tight. No mess, no stress.

10. Worn Tires

**What We See:** Bald spots, uneven wear, or vibes at speed. Tires wear faster than you think. 

**Quick Tip:** Penny test—Lincoln’s head showing? Time’s up. 

**How We Help:** We can refer you to a local tire shop for rotating, aligning, and replacing tires with brands you trust, dialed in for your ride. Safety first, always.

Why Trust Us with Your Car Repair Fix in Baytown, TX?

These 10 headaches roll into Garbs Automotive & Exhaust daily, and we’ve got the tools, know-how, and honest pricing to handle them. DIY’s great for some, but when it’s time to call in the pros, we’re your pit crew—fast, reliable, and upfront. Spotted one of these issues? Swing by or give us a call. We’ll diagnose it and get you rolling again. What’s your car throwing at you today? Tell us—we’re here to help!