Tommy's Automotive Repair Services
Transmission Repair
Transmission Repair can be very costly if you don’t change your transmission fluid or if you continue to drive with problems in your transmission. Whether you’re an automatic or manual transmission driver, we can help you shift in the right direction.
Transmission Warning Signs
Even if you aren’t a mechanic, there are things you can look for when it comes to the health of your transmission. Next time you take a drive, pay attention to these transmission warning signs:
- Abrupt, hard, or noisy shifts between gears.
- Delayed or no response when shifting from neutral to drive or reverse.
- Failure to shift during normal acceleration.
- Slippage during acceleration. The engine speeds up, but the vehicle does not respond.
- Fluid leaks. Look for pinkish or brown puddles under your car.
- Warning light. Your dash should also alert you with a warning light if the transmission is in need of repair.
Under the hood
If you have a suspicion that your transmission isn’t working right, you can take a peek under the hood. The fluid of the transmission should be a healthy, vibrant red or pink color. If it is dark or has a burned odor, this is a sign something could be wrong.
Transmission Mechanic in West Chester
Our experienced mechanics will diagnose the problem and get your transmission back in driving order. Schedule a transmission repair today.
Brake Repair
After some time, a brake change is inevitable. Brake pads and rotors wear out from intense friction and heat. Also, depending on your driving patterns, vehicle, and climate, your brake pads can last anywhere between 20,000 to 80,000 miles. Brake fluid normally lasts anywhere from 2-5 years. With such a wide range, it’s essential to get a regular brake inspection, especially if you notice one of the following:
- The vehicle pulls to one side when the brakes are applied.
- The brake pedal sinks to the floor when pressure is maintained.
- You hear or feel scraping or grinding during braking.
- The “brake” light on the instrument panel is lit.
- The steering wheel or car shakes during braking.
Engine Repair
Engine issues can happen at any time, anywhere and they require immediate attention to prevent long-lasting damage. This is why it’s extremely important to have an accurate diagnosis to prevent unnecessary repair costs and excessive time. Like any other car part, preventative maintenance is critical to the engine’s lifespan. Be sure to bring your car into the shop if you noticed any of the following:
- Difficulty starting the engine.
- The “check engine” light on the instrument panel is lit.
- Rough idling or stalling.
- Poor acceleration.
- Poor fuel economy.
- Excessive oil use (more than one quart between changes).
- The engine continues running after the key is removed.
Suspension Repair
Difficult handling, a rough ride, vibration and irregular tire wear are often signs of a problem with your vehicle’s suspension. Because it’s so vital for safe steering, be sure to bring your vehicle to an auto repair shop for suspension repair as soon as you notice the warning signs.
Why Your Suspension Matters
It isn’t just the rougher ride that you have to deal with if your suspension is shot – worn out or damaged suspension can cause a lot of trouble for your car and your pocket book.
See how the following troubles could greatly affect your ride:
- Steering issues. Misaligned front wheels and/or worn steering components can cause wandering or difficulty steering in a straight line.
- Pulling. While this can be caused by something as routine as under-inflated tires or as serious as a damaged or misaligned front end, a damaged suspension will contribute to these issues.
- Poor cornering. Worn shock absorbers or other suspension components can contribute to this.
- Uneven wear and tear on the tires. If suspension components are damaged, it can lead to excessive wear on specific parts of the tires, reducing their lifespan.
- Increased braking distance. A compromised suspension system may affect the distribution of weight during braking. This can result in an increase in braking distance, reducing the vehicle’s ability to stop quickly in emergency situations.
Car Suspension Repair in West Chester
The biggest risk of driving with a damaged or worn suspension is your safety. Not only will your suspension affect the way your car’s steering handles, the way it brakes, and how your tires wear, but a poor suspension can affect how quickly the car responds to road conditions. The best way to stay safe on the road is to make sure your automobile is in the best shape it can be – so schedule your routine maintenance or repair at Tommy’s today.
Wheel & Tire Repair
If you are putting off rotating, balancing, or replacing your tires you could be costing yourself more money in the long run. Tommy’s Automotive can handle all of your tire service needs.
Common Problems with Tires
Every person who drives a car will need to think about tire replacement, rotation, and alignment at some point. In fact, if a driver isn’t thinking about their tires, it can be very dangerous for them, their passengers, and others on the road. Here are some common tire problems that can damage your car or cause further issues.
- Overinflation. Can put the car at risk of blow out.
- Hole, Bulge, or Puncture. This can cause a slow leak or flat.
- Dry, Rotting, or Cracking. A vehicle that is exposed to constant elements like the sun or weather extremes may be at risk for rotting or cracking.
- Bead Leaks. A tire may go flat from the bead itself and not a hole.
Wheel and Tire Repair in West Chester
Our mechanics can fix your tire problems! Here are a few scenarios we have seen:
- An unbalanced or improperly balanced tire causing a vehicle to vibrate and impact steering leading to the wearing of suspension components prematurely.
- Defective or improperly inflated tires causing a vehicle to wander or pull to one side of the road.
- Driver not rotating their tires causing them to wear unevenly resulting in the need for early replacement (costing them more money).
Whether your tire has a hole, a leak, or is causing the vehicle to pull or wobble – our skilled mechanics and techs at Tommy’s can help. We provide tire repair service, wheel and tire alignment, and tire balancing and rotation. Schedule a tire repair appointment today.
Exhaust Repair
Both regular and performance exhausts require maintenance to ensure your car is running optimally. Many auto exhaust problems are easy to diagnose because your car is louder than it once was. This could be at fault for a rusty muffler, a leaking manifold gasket, or cracks in the pipe.
Repair or Replace Your Auto Exhaust
Tommy’s Automotive will also make sure you are not harming the environment or your brain cells with a faulty exhaust system. We repair and replace:
- Catalytic Converters
- Mufflers
- Exhaust Manifolds
- Headers
- Rusted or Corroded Pipes
Upgrade Your Exhaust
Tommy’s Automotive offers upgrades for exhaust and can install performance exhaust systems. Although it’s important to regularly check and maintain your auto exhaust system, upgrading your current system has some benefits.
Upgrading to a performance exhaust system will allow you to receive extra power. It will make the airflow faster and in turn, increase the high-end power of the car’s engine. It will also improve your car’s fuel economy as it takes less throttle to maintain any given speed, which means less fuel is burned. Lastly, a performance exhaust system will give your car a nicer sound, and extend the life of your car.
For more information about our repair services, call (610) 696-2633.
Car Electrical Repair
Car electrical problems can be frustrating and disruptive – not just to the car but to your life. Several factors can contribute to electrical issues in a car. Many issues with your vehicle’s electrical system are caused by classic problems like a bad alternator, battery, starter, or wiring, but newer cars and trucks have increasingly complex electrical systems. Tommy’s Automotive maintains the latest scanners and other equipment to find the problem. We’re even able to track down any short circuits within your electrical system.
What Causes Car Electrical Problems?
There can be many reasons why your car is having electrical problems. While some are straightforward, others may require a scanner and a mechanic to diagnose. Fortunately, Tommy’s has the experience and the tech to find the problem and get you back on the road fast! Here are a few issues we see regularly in our shop:
- Battery Issues. Dead or weak batteries are a frequent cause of electrical problems. It can result from old age, a faulty charging system, or leaving lights and accessories on when the engine is off.
- Faulty Alternator. The alternator charges the battery while the engine is running. A malfunctioning alternator can lead to a discharged battery and various electrical issues.
- Starter Motor Problems. The starter motor is responsible for initiating the engine’s cranking process. If the starter motor fails, the engine may not start or may start intermittently.
- Faulty Ignition Switch. The ignition switch is crucial for the proper functioning of various electrical components, including the starter motor and accessories. A malfunctioning ignition switch can lead to issues like failure to start or unexpected stalling.
- Blown Fuses. Fuses protect electrical circuits from overloads. If a fuse blows, it interrupts the flow of electricity to a specific component, causing it to malfunction. Common causes include short circuits or electrical overloads.
- Bad Wiring or Connections. Damaged or corroded wiring can disrupt the flow of electricity. Loose or corroded electrical connections, such as battery terminals or ground connections, can also lead to problems.
- Faulty Sensors. Modern vehicles rely on various sensors for functions like engine management, fuel injection, and emissions control. Malfunctioning sensors can lead to poor engine performance and other electrical issues.
- Faulty Spark Plugs or Ignition Coils. Spark plugs and ignition coils are essential for the combustion process in the engine. If these components fail, it can result in misfires, poor engine performance, and potential starting issues.
- Malfunctioning Computer Modules. Modern vehicles have multiple electronic control modules that manage different systems. A malfunction in one of these modules can lead to erratic behavior in associated components.
- Parasitic Drain. Parasitic drain occurs when electrical components draw power from the battery when the vehicle is off. Common culprits include malfunctioning accessories or components that should power down when the vehicle is not in use.
- Water Intrusion. Water entering the electrical system, such as through a leaky windshield or damaged seals, can lead to corrosion and electrical malfunctions.
- Accessory Add-Ons or Modifications. Poorly installed aftermarket accessories or modifications to the electrical system can cause issues if not installed correctly.
Find the Source of Your Car Electrical Problem
To diagnose and address electrical problems in a car, schedule an appointment with Tommy’s Automotive. We use diagnostic tools to identify the root cause of the issue and perform necessary repairs or replacements. Regular vehicle maintenance and prompt attention to warning signs can help prevent many electrical problems. We are here for your automotive needs!
Fleet & Truck Service
Keeping your commercial trucks in top shape is key to maintaining your business. At Tommy’s Automotive, we understand that any time off the road is money out of your pocket. We offer prompt service for your fleet with quality work to ensure you won’t be back in the shop unexpectedly. The team at Tommy’s can offer the following as part of our fleet and truck service:
- Powerstroke Diesel Repair Specialists
- Wheel Alignment
- Factory Scheduled Maintenance
- Transmission Flushes
- Brakes Service
- Electrical Repair
- Engine Repair
Diesel Mechanics
Diesel engines are common in fleet vehicles, pickups, and even some family vehicles. Whether used for work or play, you need your diesel truck to ride safely and reliably. Because diesel vehicles are more complex than typical gas trucks, you need a mechanic with the specialized knowledge and skillset to hand your maintenance and repairs.
At Tommy’s Automotive, our diesel truck repair shop offers exactly that. Members of our team have earned the Powerstroke Diesel Repair Specialist certification from Ford. Our team is also ASE certified and we maintain the latest in diagnostic tools to keep your engine running at its best.
- FICM
- Transmission Flushes, Repair & Replacement
- Cooling Systems
- Turbo Repair & Replacement
- Rebuilding & Repairs
Honda Repair
The mechanics of Tommy’s Automotive have experience working on almost all makes of vehicles, including Hondas. We can repair engines, wheels, suspensions, transmissions, programming, and exhausts on all Honda models.
If you keep up with regular maintenance, your Honda will thank you with a longer life and increased reliability. The team at Tommy’s has been a trusted fixture in the community since 2008, known for efficient and transparent service.
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Volvo Repair
Tommy’s Automotive can handle any type of repair from faulty transmissions to squealing brakes and more. Over the years, we’ve become a reputable repair shop because of skill and dedication to the customer. Our knowledgeable team of Chester County Mechanics is especially educated in Volvo repair.
We have the latest diagnostic equipment to identify and repair any type of problem. Additionally, we use state-of-the-art tools and parts to perform repairs to the highest standards. Our West Chester garage is a trustworthy spot for all of your maintenance needs.
BMW Repair
While Tommy’s Automotive can handle any make or model car, we specialize in BMW repair. We repair transmissions, brakes, engines, suspensions, wheels, exhausts, and more. We also perform programming for BMWs.
BMWs are some of the most respected automobiles, craft with luxury in mind. That’s why it’s important to keep yours running properly, and Tommy’s Automotive has experience handling all models. We have the latest diagnostic equipment to ensure your car receives proper care.
Mercedes Repair
Tommy’s Automotive is experienced and highly recommended for repairing all makes and models. If you own a luxury vehicle that you think deserves a little extra attention, then we also offer Mercedes repairs right from our garage.
Mercedes are high-end cars that require service to match. If you are in need of any of the following repairs, then Tommy’s can help.
Audi Repair
Tommy’s Automotive comes highly recommended by drivers all across the area. While we confidently can handle any make or model, we pride ourselves on our abilities to repair high quality repairs to cars of superior performance, which includes Audi repairs.
We have the proper diagnostic equipment and tools to handle your Audi repair in our West Chester garage. From aging brakes to a electrical problems, we have a full list of repair services to offer you for your Audi. Tommy’s provides top-of-the-line service to our customers, and we set high standards for each and every repair.
Toyota Repair
At Tommy’s Automotive we can handle just about any make and model car, including Toyota repair. Tommy himself has owned two Toyota Trucks, one of which is pictured here. We are able to repair transmissions, brakes, engines, suspensions, wheels, exhausts, and programming.
Toyotas are known for their reliability, which is why it is important to keep your machinery running smoothly. You can trust our Toyota experts, to execute efficient and attentive service.
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Volkswagen Repair
Tommy’s Automotive employs an experienced team of mechanics that can handle any make or model repair. If you own a Volkswagen, then you want a repair shop that uses quality parts and can take great care of your car.
Our Volkswagen repairs are done with your vehicle in mind. From compact cars, to SUVs, we understand that these German engineered cars may require a little extra attention. We have the proper advanced diagnostic tools to make sure your car is serviced correctly. From electrical issues to brake repairs, we handle all types of Volkswagen repair–and we do it right.
Tommy’s provides top-of-the-line service to our customers, and we set high standards for each and every repair.
Mini Cooper Repair
Tommy’s Automotive can handle any make or model car, but we specialize in Mini Coopers. We can handle it all, including repair transmissions, brakes, engines, exhausts, wheels, suspensions, and more.
Minis have an iconic British look that never goes out of style. But if you want to keep your car looking timeless then you need to keep up with regular maintenance and sure your vehicle receives proper care.