DELAWARE & PENNSYLVANIA AUTO REPAIR

European Auto Repair: 5 Key Differences Between Dealerships and Independent Shops While a dealership may seem like the best alternative for European auto repair, it’s not the only alternative. A car dealership, while it offers specialized care for your vehicle, is often unable to provide a fast or personalized experience. Building a relationship isn’t usually at the forefront of a high-volume business. Independent shops may not specialize in a specific vehicle, but there are key advantages to using them as your auto care provider. 1. Warranty Dealerships usually offer manufacturer-backed warranties that protect your newly-purchased vehicle from defects for a certain period of time. However, most service warranties from a manufacturer are honored at independent shops. Call a service advisor at Paul Campanella’s Auto & Tire Center for any questions about your vehicle’s warranty. Did you know? Paul Campanella’s Auto & Tire Center o ... read more

Changing a car's tires might seem like a straightforward task. After all, how hard can it be? Take off the old ones and put on new ones, right!?  While changing a tire isn't rocket science, there are several reasons why it's often better to leave this task to the professionals. If this isn't enough to convince you, continue reading to find out more. 1. Safety First First on our list is safety - and there is no surprise there. Changing tires involves lifting a vehicle, handling heavy equipment, and working in potentially precarious positions. Without proper training and equipment, there's a higher risk of accidents, such as the car falling off the jack or the tire not being securely fastened. Professional technicians are trained to prioritize safety and have the right tools to ensure a secure tire change. 2. Proper Equipment Matters Auto repair shops have specialized equipment designed to make tire changes safe and efficien ... read more

We're getting a makeover! From September 1-11, 2023, our Pike Creek shop is undergoing a major facelift to bring it up to our standard. Starting September 1st, our service team will be relocated temporarily to our locations in Hockessin and North Wilmington. Despite the temporary closure, our team is here to ensure you receive the services you need during this next week. Questions? We've Got Answers. What does this mean for my vehicle's service? Don't fret if you need an appointment next week! Our locations in North Wilmington and Hockessin are close by and ready to provide the same quality service for your vehicle during our renovation. Where are your other locations?Wilmington 1015 W. 28th Street Wilmington, DE 19802 Office: (302) 268-9434 Open Mon – Fri 8am – 5pm ... read more

Looking to ensure your safety and environmental responsibility while cruising around Pennsylvania? The PA State Inspection is a necessary annual practice for vehicle owners in Pennsylvania. Understanding PA State Inspections Now, what exactly are these PA State Inspections all about? Think of them as your vehicle's checkup to ensure it's up to snuff with safety and environmental standards. This not only amps up road safety but also cuts down on those not-so-great emissions, giving Mother Nature a breather. By getting your four-wheeler checked out yearly, you're stepping up for safer streets and fresher air quality. The Nitty-Gritty Inspection Bits: When you roll up to the inspection station for the PA State Inspection, your ride's going through a thorough once-over. Brakes, lights, tires, suspension–you name it, they're looking at it. And those emissions? Yep, they're measuring those too, making sure your vehicle isn't puffing out more than its fair ... read more

Navigating the Road of Transmission Repair In the world of automobiles, few components are as critical as the transmission. It's the powerhouse that translates the engine's power into the motion of your vehicle. But what happens when this vital system experiences a hiccup? Transmission issues can be a driver's worst nightmare, potentially leading to unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs. Fear not, for this guide is designed to empower you with knowledge about transmission repair, helping you steer clear of trouble and ensure a smooth ride. Understanding Your Transmission: A Brief Overview Your vehicle's transmission can be classified into two main types: automatic and manual. While the inner workings of each type differ, their purpose remains the same - to regulate the power generated by the engine and transfer it to the wheels efficiently. Whether you're a gear-shifting maestro or an automatic enthusiast, transmission troubles can affect everyone. Common Sign ... read more

With school starting in a few short weeks, it’s easy to put auto repair on the back burner. However, it's crucial not to overlook one essential aspect of back-to-school readiness - your car's condition. A reliable vehicle provides a safe and comfortable commute and prevents potential breakdowns and expensive repairs. Here’s an auto care checklist you may want to add to your school shopping list this fall: 1. Tire Inspection Your car's tires are a critical safety component since they make contact with the road. To look at your tire health, start by inspecting the tread depth; if it's worn out, consider replacing the tires. Properly inflated tires improve fuel efficiency and handling, so check the tire pressure regularly, including the spare tire.  Inspect your tires regularly for signs of damage, like bulges or cuts, that can lead to blowouts and accidents. 2. Routine Maintenance Check Before the school year kicks off, take your car for a thorough ins ... read more

A well-maintained car battery is crucial for ensuring your vehicle starts reliably and runs smoothly. We rely on our cars for our daily commutes, road trips, and errands, so taking care of the battery is essential to avoid unexpected breakdowns and costly replacements. At the very least, the battery is responsible for starting your car, so it should be able to do it at a minimum. 1. Keep Battery Terminals Clean Corrosion on the battery terminals can hinder the flow of electricity and impact your battery's performance. Every few months, inspect the terminals for any signs of corrosion, which typically appears as a white, ashy substance. To clean the terminals, create a mixture of baking soda and water, apply it to the affected areas, and scrub gently with a wire brush. Rinse with clean water and dry thoroughly. 2. Tighten Loose Connections Make it a habit to check the battery connections regularly, ensuring they are tight and secure. Loose conne ... read more

Summer is here and, as the temperatures rise, so do the challenges your vehicle faces. The scorching heat, long road trips, and increased demands on your car call for some essential auto maintenance to ensure your vehicle remains reliable and runs smoothly throughout the season. Here are auto repair tips that will keep your car cool in the summer heat.   1. Inspect and Replace the Cooling System As the mercury climbs, the cooling system becomes critical in preventing your engine from overheating. Regularly inspect the coolant levels and make sure the radiator, hoses, and reservoir are in good condition. Did you know? Paul Campanella's Auto & Tire Center provides a courtesy coolant inspection during your visit. Schedule yours here.   2. Check the Air Conditioning System: A well-functioning air conditioning system can make all the difference in your summer drives. Ensure the A ... read more

Have you ever experienced your car pulling to one side or felt a subtle vibration in the steering wheel? These could be signs that your car needs alignment. Proper wheel alignment is essential for optimal handling, tire wear, and overall vehicle performance. In this post, we share five common signs that indicate your vehicle’s wheels are misaligned. By learning to recognize these red flags, you can address alignment issues before they turn into a more expensive repair. Car Pulling to One Side: One of the most noticeable signs of misalignment is when your car pulls to the left or right while driving straight. This pulling sensation occurs because the wheels are not aligned, causing uneven tire wear. If you release your grip on the steering wheel and notice your car drifting to one side, it's time to have your alignment checked. Uneven Tire Wear: Take a moment to inspect the tread on your tires. Uneven wear patterns, such as excessive wear on the inner or outer edges, are lik ... read more

With auto parts pricing skyrocketing, along with everything else, ordering cheap parts for your vehicle may seem like a financially-sound alternative. In a tumultuous economy, “price-shopping” is tempting, especially if you’ve experienced poor customer service in the past. However, the initial savings from purchasing cheap parts can quickly turn into a financial burden in the long run. Before you spend valuable time browsing the Internet for auto parts, let's take a look at hidden costs associated with cheap parts. You may find that investing in quality parts is a wise decision for both your wallet and your vehicle's longevity. 1. Reduced Quality and Reliability You get what you pay for. Reducing costs also means sacrificing a product’s quality and reliability. Bargain auto parts sold on e-commerce sites like Amazon are often produced using substandard materials and manufacturing processes, leading to decreased durability and a higher likelihood of ... read more