Auto Repair in Murray & Paducah

It might seem harmless to top off your windshield washer reservoir with plain water—but doing so can actually create bigger problems for your vehicle, especially during colder months. Here’s why it matters more than most drivers realize. First, water freezes, and that’s a major issue. When water freezes inside your washer reservoir, pump, or lines, it can crack components, clog the system, or completely disable your washer sprayers right when you need them the most. Windshield washer fluid is specially formulated with antifreeze properties, allowing it to function in cold weather while protecting the system from damage. Second, water doesn’t clean as effectively as washer fluid. Road grime, salt, bugs, oil film, and windshield haze won’t break down with plain water alone. Washer fluid contains detergents designed to cut through debris quickly, improving visibility and keeping your windshield clear. Clear visibility ... read more

Knowing when to use four-wheel drive (4WD) can make a big difference when driving in snow or wintry conditions. Four-wheel drive is helpful when roads are covered in snow, ice, or slush because it sends power to all four wheels, improving traction and helping your vehicle get moving more easily. It’s especially useful when starting from a stop, driving up hills, or navigating unplowed roads. However, 4WD does not help you stop faster, so it’s still important to slow down, leave extra space between vehicles, and drive cautiously in winter weather. Just as important as knowing when to use 4WD is knowing when not to use it. Four-wheel drive should be turned off when roads are dry or only wet, as using it on clear pavement can cause unnecessary wear on your drivetrain and reduce fuel efficiency. Driving in 4WD on dry roads can also make turning harder and may lead to costly repairs over time. At Harlan Automotive, we encourage ... read more

Regularly changing your cabin air filter is an easy but important part of keeping your vehicle comfortable and healthy. At Harlan Automotive, we often see cabin air filters that are clogged with dust, pollen, and debris, which can reduce airflow inside your car. A dirty cabin air filter can cause weak air conditioning and heating, making it harder to cool down in the summer or warm up in the winter. It can also allow allergens and odors to enter your vehicle, which may affect air quality and make driving less enjoyable, especially for those with allergies. Cabin Air Filter Replacement helps your HVAC system work more efficiently and puts less strain on other components. This simple maintenance service can improve airflow, keep the air inside your vehicle cleaner, and help prevent more expensive repairs over time. By changing your cabin air filter as recommended, you’re taking a small but important step toward better vehicle perfor ... read more

Keeping your wheels properly aligned helps your vehicle drive straight, feel smoother on the road, and stay safer day to day. At Harlan Automotive, we use a top-of-the-line Hunter Alignment machine to set your wheels exactly where the manufacturer says they should be. When an alignment is off, your tires can wear down unevenly, which often means replacing them sooner than you should have to. A proper wheel alignment helps your tires wear evenly, extending their life and helping you get the most value out of them.You may also notice signs like your vehicle pulling to one side or the steering wheel not feeling centered, which can make driving less comfortable. Keeping your alignment up to date helps your car handle better and makes everyday driving easier and more enjoyable. It’s a simple form of preventative maintenance that can help you avoid bigger problems and save mone ... read more

      If you’re wondering “why do my brakes squeak?”, you’re not alone—this is one of the most common questions drivers ask us. Brakes often squeak because the brake pads are worn, dust or moisture has built up, or the rotors have a light layer of rust from rain or overnight parking. Many brake pads are designed to make noise as they wear down, letting you know it’s time to have them checked. Squeaking can also be caused by loose brake hardware or missing lubrication, which can get worse if ignored. While a small squeak now and then may not be serious, constant or loud brake noise is a sign your vehicle needs our professional brake inspection. Putting off brake service can lead to damaged rotors, higher repair costs, and reduced stopping power.        At Harlan Autom ... read more