Fort Collins Auto Repair

Driving should feel stable and controlled, with your vehicle responding smoothly to steering, braking, and changes in speed. But if your car starts to feel “floaty” or disconnected from the road, it’s a sign that something in your suspension or steering system may be off. That floating sensation could compromise handling and safety if not addressed on time. Understanding the possible causes of this spongy, drifting feeling can help you decide when it’s time to bring your vehicle in for an inspection. What Does “Floaty” Mean A “floaty” car typically feels loose, overly soft, or bouncy, especially when going over bumps or cruising at higher speeds. You might feel like the tires aren’t firmly planted on the road or like the body of the car is drifting slightly after every maneuver. It’s not the same as an alignment issue or steering pull—this is more of a general lack of firmness or feedback. This sensa ... read more

If you've ever caught a whiff of something burning while driving, it's a sign your car is trying to tell you something. Unusual smells are never a good sign, and a burning odor is among the most urgent to investigate. While not every scent signals immediate danger, ignoring a burning smell can lead to serious mechanical issues or even safety risks. Knowing the most common causes of this odor can help you act quickly before damage occurs. Whether the issue is minor or more serious, identifying the source early is the best way to keep your car running safely and efficiently. Burning Rubber Smell One of the most noticeable burning odors is a rubbery scent, and it usually points to parts in your car overheating or rubbing where they shouldn’t. This could be from a slipping serpentine belt or worn-out hose that is in contact with hot engine components. A loose belt can overheat from friction, while a misaligned pulley or malfunctioning tensioner can cause s ... read more

If you’ve started your car and been greeted by an unusually loud roar instead of the usual hum, there’s a chance your catalytic converter has been stolen. Catalytic converter theft has become a widespread issue across the country, affecting all types of vehicles and leaving drivers with unexpected, costly repairs. But why are thieves targeting this specific part of the exhaust system? And what can you do to protect your vehicle from becoming a target? What Makes Catalytic Converters So Valuable Catalytic converters contain precious metals such as platinum, palladium, and rhodium. These metals are essential to the chemical reactions that reduce toxic emissions. In recent years, the value of these metals has skyrocketed, making catalytic converters a lucrative and attractive target for thieves. The converters are easy to access from underneath the vehicle, and a thief with a cordless saw can remove one in just a few minutes. Once stolen, the part can be s ... read more

It’s not uncommon for drivers to notice a plastic or metal panel hanging down under their vehicle—or missing entirely after a minor road mishap or repair. That panel is your underbody shield, called a splash guard or skid plate. While it might not seem significant, it actually plays an important role in protecting your car’s underside. So, is it safe to drive without it? The Purpose of an Underbody Shield The underbody shield protects your engine components and other vital systems from road debris, water, salt, and other contaminants. It also helps manage airflow under the car to aid with cooling and fuel efficiency. Most shields are made from plastic or lightweight metal and are shaped specifically to fit your vehicle’s underside. Although it might seem like a minor piece, the shield contributes to both protection and performance. Short-Term Driving Without It If your shield has recently come loose or fallen off, you can s ... read more

When the weather turns sour—whether it’s rain, snow, or fog—the way you drive should change with it. But for many people, it doesn’t. That’s where problems start. Bad weather doesn’t cause accidents—bad decisions do. And unfortunately, the most dangerous mistakes people make in these conditions are often the ones they don’t realize they’re making. If you’ve ever felt your tires lose grip in a storm or struggled to see clearly in heavy snow, you already know how fast things can go wrong. Let’s break down the most common (and risky) driving behaviors that become even more dangerous when the weather takes a turn. Driving Too Fast for Conditions Even if you're within the posted speed limit, you're not always driving safely. Speed limits are set for ideal weather, not icy roads or downpours. The faster you go, the less time you have to react—and the more likely your car will lose traction. I ... read more