Burnt Hills Auto Repair

That little amber ABS light on your dashboard isn’t just a suggestion—it’s a warning. When it comes on, your car is telling you that something’s not right with the anti-lock braking system. But does it mean your brakes are going to fail? Not necessarily—but it does mean your car won’t stop the way it’s supposed to in an emergency. We'll review what the ABS light really means, why it turns on, and whether it’s safe to continue driving with it glowing on your dash. What the ABS System Does ABS stands for Anti-lock Braking System, and it’s designed to prevent your wheels from locking up under hard braking. Instead of letting your tires skid on the pavement, ABS rapidly pulses the brake pressure to each wheel, helping you maintain steering control during a panic stop. This system kicks in only under specific conditio ... read more

Have you ever wondered how a gas pump knows exactly when to stop filling your tank? You hold the nozzle, the gas flows, and just when the tank reaches capacity, the pump shuts off—without spilling a drop. It seems automatic, but there’s actually a clever mechanical system at work inside the fuel nozzle. While many assume this process relies on sensors in the car or an electronic connection between the gas pump and the fuel tank, the reality is much simpler. Gas station pumps use a vacuum-based system built into the nozzle itself, allowing them to detect when your tank is full. The Simple Mechanism Behind Automatic Shut-Off At the tip of every gas pump nozzle, there’s a small hole connected to a tube inside the handle. While fuel is flowing, air continuously moves through this hole, creating a vacuum effect inside the nozzle’s venturi tube. As long as air is flowing freely, fuel continues to pump. But once the gas level in your tank rises hig ... read more

BMWs are known for their performance, precision engineering, and luxury features, but like any vehicle, they have their share of common issues that owners should be aware of. At Gil’s Garage Burnt Hills, we’ve worked on countless BMWs over the years and have seen patterns in the most frequent repairs and maintenance needs. BMWs are known for their great qualities, but keeping an eye out for potential issues can help you avoid unexpected breakdowns and save you from costly repairs. 1. Oil Leaks One of the most frequent issues we see in BMWs, especially in models with higher mileage, is oil leaks. The valve cover gasket and oil filter housing gasket are particularly prone to deterioration over time, leading to leaks that can drip onto engine components. If you notice a burning oil smell, oil spots under the car, or a drop in oil levels, it’s worth having the gaskets checked and replaced before the leak worsens. 2. Coolant System Failures ... read more

Tires set the right path for your vehicle's overall performance and safety. Despite this, they often don’t receive the attention they deserve. Regular tire balancing and rotation are crucial for maintaining optimal driving conditions, prolonging the lifespan of your tires, and ensuring a safe ride. We'll explain why these services are indispensable for your vehicle and what benefits you can expect when you make them part of your regular maintenance routine. What Is Tire Balancing Tire balancing ensures that the weight of the wheel-tire combination is evenly distributed around the axle. Over time, daily driving causes uneven weight distribution, which can lead to vibrations, uneven tire wear, and even potential damage to suspension components. Have you ever noticed your steering wheel shaking at certain speeds? This is often a telltale sign that your tires are out of balance. Unbalanced tires can also reduce fuel efficiency since your engine has to work ... read more