Recognizing early warning signs of engine trouble can help prevent costly repairs and potential breakdowns. At Mata Auto Repair, we provide expert engine repair in the greater Omaha, NE area. Here are five warning signs of an engine problem. Unusual Noises Strange noises coming from the engine, such as knocking, grinding, or hissing, can signal various issues. A knocking sound may indicate worn-out bearings, while hissing could suggest a vacuum leak. Any unusual engine noise should be investigated promptly to avoid further damage. Check Engine Light is On One of the most obvious indications of an engine problem is the illumination of the check engine light on your dashboard. While this warning light can indicate minor issues, such as a loose gas cap, it can also signify more severe problems like catalytic converter trouble or sensor failures. It’s important to have the vehicle inspected as soon as possible to determine the cause. Decreased Performance and Power Loss If you notice a sudden drop in acceleration or difficulty maintaining speed, you’ve got a sign that your engine is struggling. This could be due to problems like clogged fuel injectors, faulty spark plugs, or issues with the fuel or air intake system. Addressing these issues early can often prevent more serious engine problems. Discolored/Excessive Smoke from the Exhaust Different colors of smoke coming from the exhaust can indicate specific engine issues. Blue smoke suggests burning oil, white smoke may indicate coolant leakage, and black smoke often points to excessive fuel consumption. If your vehicle is emitting unusual smoke, it’s important to have it checked by the mechanic to determine the underlying cause. Unusual Smells Inside or Outside the Car Strong or unusual odors coming from your vehicle can signal engine trouble. A burnt oil smell may indicate an oil leak, while a sweet, syrup-like odor could be a sign of a coolant leak. If you detect a strong fuel smell, there could be a fuel leak that needs immediate attention for safety reasons. Engine Repair in Omaha When you need engine repair in Omaha and the surrounding area, contact Mata Auto Repair at  (402) 205-8750  . At our local auto shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!

The check engine light is one of the most critical indicators on your dashboard, signaling that something in your vehicle requires attention. While it’s easy to dismiss this warning as a minor issue, it can point to problems that may worsen if left unaddressed. At Mata Auto Repair, we provide expert check engine light diagnostics and repair in the greater Omaha area. Here’s a look at five common check engine light triggers. Malfunctioning Catalytic Converter The catalytic converter is an essential component of your car’s emissions system, converting harmful gases into less harmful emissions. If it fails, it can reduce engine performance, increase emissions, and trigger the check engine light. Failing Oxygen Sensor The oxygen sensor monitors the amount of unburned oxygen in your vehicle’s exhaust and helps ensure the engine runs efficiently. As the miles add up, the sensor can wear out, leading to poor fuel economy and higher emissions. A faulty oxygen sensor can cause the check engine light to illuminate and should be replaced promptly to avoid issues with the catalytic converter. Worn or Failing Spark Plugs Spark plugs are vital for igniting the fuel-air mixture in your engine. When they wear out or fail, the engine may misfire, leading to reduced performance and increased emissions. Misfiring can also cause the check engine light to activate. Replacing spark plugs and wires as part of regular maintenance can prevent this issue. Loose or Damaged Gas Cap The gas cap seals the fuel system. If it’s not properly tightened on, fuel may evaporate before you get the chance to use it, and your check engine light may come on. Issues with the Mass Airflow Sensor The mass airflow (MAF) sensor measures the amount of air entering the engine and helps determine the correct fuel-to-air ratio. If the MAF sensor malfunctions, it can lead to engine stalling, poor fuel-efficiency, and increased emissions. This problem can trigger the check engine light and should be addressed to maintain optimal engine performance. Check Engine Light Repair in Omaha, NE For check engine light diagnostics and repair in Omaha, NE, contact Mata Auto Repair at  (402) 205-8750  . At our local auto shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment for auto care in Omaha!

Winter in Nebraska can be tough on vehicles due to freezing temperatures, snow, and icy road conditions. Preparing your car for these harsh conditions can improve safety and help prevent costly repairs. At Mata Auto Repair, we provide expert winter auto maintenance in the greater Omaha area. Here’s a look at five important winter auto maintenance tasks in Nebraska. Check and Replace the Battery Cold weather is hard on car batteries, and a weak battery is more likely to fail in winter. Before the temperatures drop too low, have your battery tested to ensure it has enough power to handle Nebraska’s freezing nights. If it’s more than three years old or shows signs of weak performance, it’s wise to replace it. Inspect and Top Off Antifreeze Antifreeze prevents your engine from freezing in extremely cold temperatures. If its level is too low or it’s lost its effectiveness, your engine could be at risk of freezing, potentially leading to significant issues. During maintenance, the mechanic can check the antifreeze and top it off as needed. Or you might consider flushing and refilling if it’s been a while since you’ve done so. If you check it yourself, be sure to only do so after the engine has cooled. Check and Replace Wiper Blades Visibility is crucial in winter, especially when dealing with snowfall, rain, or road spray from melting snow. Cold weather can cause wiper blades to crack or stiffen, reducing their effectiveness. Invest in winter-specific wiper blades designed to handle snow and ice. Also, switch to a winter windshield washer fluid that won’t freeze. Consider Changing to Winter Tires Winter tires are designed to provide better traction on icy and snowy roads. Their rubber compounds remain flexible in low temperatures, allowing for better grip. In Nebraska’s unpredictable winter conditions, swapping your regular tires for winter tires can make a significant difference in handling and braking. Don’t forget to check tire pressure regularly, as it can drop with the temperature. Test and Maintain the Heating System A properly functioning heating system is important not only for comfort, but also for safety, as it helps prevent your windows from fogging up. Test your heater and defroster before temperatures drop too much to ensure they are working correctly. If you notice any strange noises, reduced airflow, or lack of warmth, have the mechanic inspect the system. Winter Auto Maintenance in Omaha, NE For auto maintenance in Omaha and the surrounding area, contact Mata Auto Repair at  (402) 205-8750  . Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!

At Mata Auto Repair, we strive to earn our customers’ complete satisfaction by providing top-quality repairs, friendly service, and fair prices. No matter how big or small the job, our local mechanics will work diligently to complete it to the highest standards. And we’re grateful when our customers offer feedback about their experiences with us. Here’s a look at some of our latest customer reviews. “We take all our vehicles to Mata Auto Repair and recommend them to everyone looking for an honest, reasonable, friendly place to take their car/truck.’ — Cynthia G. “Someone referred me to you and I totally appreciate your honesty. You have treated me fairly in anything that you’ve done for me on my 2007 Toyota Tundra. A big thank you once again, great service.” — Linda F. “Love this shop—when my former shop closed due to retirement I did not know what my family was going to do in finding a reliable shop for car repair. Well, we found it in Mata Auto Repair. They are family oriented, honest, and reliable. They are also timely and will find you just what you need. Prices are fair and they will work with you. It is a joy when I get the chance to refer Mata.” — Tyrome C. “You can trust Fren and his team to do great work! They’re ALWAYS honest, fair and timely.” — Mark E. “The best mechanic we have ever come across. Reasonable pricing, polite professional workers. Great timing. Honesty which is a must when looking for someone to fix your everyday auto!” — Letisia N. “Always very polite, very detailed when explaining things to me—good prices and very nice people!!” — Susan R. Auto Repair in Omaha, NE When you need auto repair in Omaha, NE and the surrounding area, contact Mata Auto Repair at  (402) 205-8750  . At our local auto shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment for auto care in Omaha!

Your vehicle's suspension system plays a crucial role in providing a smooth and stable ride. If your suspension system begins to fail, you may experience a rougher ride and handling issues, which can compromise your safety. At Mata Auto Repair, we provide expert suspension repair in the greater Omaha area. Here are six signs that your suspension may need professional attention. Rough or Bumpy Ride A noticeable sign of suspension trouble is a rough or bumpy ride. If you start feeling every bump or dip in the road, your suspension system’s shock absorbers or struts may be worn out. These components are designed to absorb road impact, and if they’re no longer effective, the ride will become increasingly uncomfortable. Nose Dives When Braking If you notice your vehicle's front end dipping downward when you brake, this is often called "nose diving." A failing suspension system is less able to support the vehicle’s weight during sudden stops, causing the front of the vehicle to lunge forward. This can lengthen your stopping distance, posing a safety risk. Uneven Tire Wear Suspension problems can lead to uneven tire wear, which is often a result of poor alignment or failing suspension components. If you notice your tires wearing down unevenly or more quickly than normal, it could mean that your suspension system isn’t evenly distributing the car’s weight. This increases the risk of tire blowouts and reduces traction, especially in wet conditions. Excessive Bouncing When your car continues to bounce after hitting a bump or driving over a pothole, it's a sign that the shock absorbers or struts are failing. With this issue, a suspension inspection should be conducted as soon as possible. Leaning or Sagging on One Side If one side of your car sits lower than the other, even when parked on level ground, this could indicate a broken or damaged spring. Springs are responsible for supporting the vehicle’s weight, and when one fails, it can cause the car to lean or sag. A sagging suspension compromises the car's balance, leading to further wear on other components and a rough ride. Suspension Repair in Omaha, NE For auto repair in Omaha and the surrounding area, contact Mata Auto Repair at  (402) 205-8750  . 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!

Your vehicle's transmission is responsible for transferring power from the engine to the wheels. When it’s not functioning properly, it can lead to serious performance issues and costly repairs. By recognizing the early signs of transmission trouble, you can address problems before they become more severe. At Mata Auto Repair, we provide expert transmission repair in the greater Omaha area. Here are four common signs of a transmission problem. Slipping Gears If your car unexpectedly shifts out of gear while you’re driving, this is a clear sign of transmission trouble. Slipping gears can make it difficult to accelerate and maintain speed, posing a serious safety risk. This problem is often caused by issues related to transmission fluid. If you notice your car slipping out of gear, it’s important to have it inspected as soon as possible to prevent further damage. Delayed or Rough Shifting A healthy transmission should shift smoothly between gears. If you experience delays when shifting, or if the shifts feel rough and jerky, it could indicate a problem. Delayed shifting may be caused by low transmission fluid or issues with the transmission’s computer system. Rough shifting, on the other hand, could be due to worn-out gears or a failing torque converter. Unusual Noises Grinding, whining, or clunking noises coming from your transmission are never a good sign. These sounds can indicate various issues, such as worn-out gears, a failing clutch (in manual transmissions), or problems with the torque converter. If you hear any unusual noises while driving, it’s best to have your vehicle inspected immediately to prevent further damage. Fluid Leaks Transmission fluid is essential for keeping the transmission lubricated and functioning properly. If you notice a puddle of reddish-colored fluid under your car, it could be a sign of a transmission fluid leak. Leaks can be caused by damaged seals, gaskets, or transmission lines. Low transmission fluid levels can lead to overheating and significant transmission damage, so it’s crucial to address leaks promptly. Transmission Repair in Omaha, NE When you need transmission repair in Omaha and the surrounding area, contact Mata Auto Repair at  (402) 205-8750  . 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 !

The cooling system in your vehicle plays a critical role in maintaining a healthy engine temperature. If this system fails, it can lead to overheating and serious engine damage. This makes it important to promptly alert the mechanic if you notice any signs of cooling system trouble. At Mata Auto Repair, we provide expert cooling system repair in the greater Omaha area. Here’s a look at four signs of a cooling system problem. High Reading on Temperature Gauge If you notice the temperature gauge rising into the red zone, it’s an indication that your engine is running too hot. Overheating can be caused by a variety of issues, such as a malfunctioning thermostat, a leak in the radiator, or a failed water pump. With a high reading on your temp gauge, it’s best to find a safe place to pull over. Then, you can call the mechanic to explain the situation and seek further guidance. Coolant Leaks Coolant leaks are another common sign of cooling system trouble. If you see puddles of brightly colored fluid under your vehicle, it could be due to a coolant leak. Coolant leaks can originate from several parts of the cooling system, including the radiator, hoses, or the water pump. Identifying the source of the leak early can prevent more severe damage to the engine. Strange Engine Noises Unusual noises from the engine can also signal cooling system problems. For instance, a high-pitched whining sound may indicate that the water pump is failing, while gurgling or bubbling noises also might suggest problems with your vehicle’s cooling system. Paying attention to these noises can help you catch issues before they become more severe problems. Steam from the Engine Seeing steam coming from under the hood is a clear and alarming sign of a cooling system problem. This steam is commonly a result of the coolant boiling due to excessive heat. If you notice steam, it’s important to pull over safely and let the engine cool down before investigating the issue. Cooling System Repair in Omaha, NE When you need auto repair in Omaha and the surrounding area, contact Mata Auto Repair at  (402) 205-8750  . At our nearby 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 car's alternator is tasked with keeping the battery charged and the electrical components functioning. When the alternator starts to fail, it can lead to various issues, potentially leaving you stranded. At Mata Auto Repair, we provide expert alternator replacement and auto electric repair in the greater Omaha area. Here’s a look at five symptoms of alternator trouble. Dimming or Flickering Lights One of the most noticeable signs of alternator trouble is dimming or flickering lights, both inside and outside your vehicle. When the alternator can't supply enough power to the electrical components, you may see your headlights dimming, dashboard lights flickering, or interior lights becoming dimmer than usual. If you notice this happening consistently, it's a sign that your alternator needs attention. Weak or Dead Battery While a dead battery could simply mean it's reached the end of its lifespan, it can also be a symptom of a failing alternator. The alternator charges the battery while the engine is running, so if the alternator is malfunctioning, the battery won't receive a proper charge. Strange Noises A failing alternator may produce grinding, whining, or squealing noises, often caused by worn-out bearings or a loose belt. If you hear any abnormal sounds while driving, have the mechanic conduct an inspection. Electrical Accessory Issues As the alternator powers the electrical systems in your car, a malfunctioning alternator can cause various electrical problems. These may include erratic behavior from the power windows, malfunctioning power locks, or issues with the radio or air conditioning. If you experience any of these electrical issues, it's wise to have your alternator checked. Dashboard Warning Light One of the most common warning lights related to alternator problems is the battery warning light. If this light appears on your dashboard while you're driving, it indicates a problem with the charging system, which commonly points to a faulty alternator. Warning lights should always be brought to the mechanic’s attention ASAP. Alternator Replacement & Auto Electric Repair in Omaha, NE When you need auto repair in Omaha and the surrounding area, contact Mata Auto Repair at  (402) 205-8750  . 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!

Ignoring signs of brake trouble can lead to dangerous situations, compromising your safety and that of others. This makes it important to visit the shop at the first indication of a brake problem. At Mata Auto Repair, we provide expert brake repair in the greater Omaha area. Here’s a look at five warning signs of brake trouble. Squealing or Grinding Noises One of the most common indications of brake trouble is unusual sounds when you apply the brakes. A high-pitched squealing noise often indicates that your brake pads are worn down and need replacing. If the squealing progresses to a grinding noise, it likely means that your brake pads have worn down completely, potentially causing rotor damage. Soft/Spongy Brake Pedal Your brake pedal should feel firm and responsive when you press down on it. If it feels soft or spongy, it's a clear sign of trouble. This could be due to air in the brake lines or brake fluid leakage. If your car is leaking brake fluid, you’ve got a major safety risk that needs to be addressed immediately. With this issue, you should get towed to the shop rather than drive there. Vibrating If you feel vibrations or pulsations when you apply the brakes, it could indicate warped brake rotors. Warped rotors can develop from excessive heat buildup during braking. Driving with warped rotors can compromise your ability to stop safely and should be addressed ASAP. Pulling to One Side When you apply the brakes, your vehicle should come to a smooth and straight stop. If you notice your vehicle pulling to one side when you brake, it could be a sign of a stuck brake caliper. Obviously, this creates a serious accident risk, so you shouldn’t operate your vehicle if it’s exhibiting this symptom. Dashboard Warning Light If your dashboard warning light for the brakes illuminates, it's important not to ignore it. This light could indicate low brake fluid levels, faulty wheel speed sensors, or other issues with the braking system. Have your vehicle promptly inspected by the mechanic to diagnose and address the problem. Brake Repair in Omaha When you need auto repair in Omaha and the surrounding area, contact Mata Auto Repair at  (402) 205-8750  . At our nearby 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!