Bell Road Automotive repair experts blog

Air Conditioning System Maintenance

By Ian Shere , on February 21 2026 11:53
2 min read

For residents of the Phoenix metropolitan area, a functioning air conditioning system is far more than a simple convenience. As the desert sun intensifies, the climate inside a stationary vehicle can quickly reach life-threatening temperatures. In this month’s blog post, we stress the importance of proactively getting your vehicle’s A/C serviced before the warmer weather arrives in Arizona so you and your occupants can remain comfortable and safe in hotter driving temperatures.

The Danger of Procrastination

While February temperatures in the Valley remain pleasant, the first ninety-degree day is always closer than it appears. Many vehicle owners make the mistake of waiting until May or June to test their cooling systems. By the time the extreme heat arrives, repair shops experience a massive surge in service requests. This seasonal rush results in significantly longer wait times and, frequently, higher prices for parts due to increased regional demand. By addressing your vehicle maintenance in February, you ensure your cooling system is operational before you use it in a few months.

Essential Pre-Summer Inspections

A proactive inspection involves more than just ensuring the air feels cold. Our technicians focus on several critical areas to guarantee reliability:

Refrigerant Levels: Even a small drop

By Andy Remillard , on January 17 2026 09:16
2 min read

Living in the Phoenix metro area presents unique challenges for vehicle maintenance. While many drivers focus on tire pressure or cooling systems during the blistering summer months, one critical component often escapes notice until it begins to fail: the power steering system. In the Valley of the Sun, steering hydraulics face an accelerated aging process that does not conclude when the calendar turns to January. In this blog, we examine how the desert climate impacts your vehicle's steering system, the warning signs of issues, and maintenance tips to keep your vehicle's steering system healthy.

Common Power Steering Issues in Arid Climates

Power steering systems rely on hydraulic fluid to transfer power from the pump to the steering gear. In Arizona, the primary enemy is thermal oxidation. When power steering fluid is subjected to consistent heat, it undergoes a chemical breakdown that changes its viscosity.

As the fluid thins and degrades, it can no longer protect the internal metal components of the pump. This leads to increased friction, which generates even more heat, creating a destructive cycle. Over time, this heat also causes the rubber hoses and O-rings within the system to become brittle and prone to leaks, potentially leaving

By Andy Remillard , on December 21 2025 10:02
2 min read

Your vehicle's braking system is arguably its most vital safety feature. While many components work together to bring your vehicle to a safe stop, the brake pad performs the critical, high friction work often taken for granted. In this month's blog, we review how these components function, how to recognize when they need attention, and good maintenance habits crucial for road safety.

How Brake Pads Bring You to a Stop

The entire braking process hinges on converting movement (kinetic energy) into heat (thermal energy) using friction.

1. Driver Action: When you press the brake pedal, it initiates a hydraulic sequence.

2. Force Application: Pressurized brake fluid activates the calipers, which act like a clamp.

3. Friction: The calipers forcefully press the attached brake pads against the spinning rotors (discs). This contact generates the friction needed to slow or stop the wheels.

Common Brake Pad Signs and Issues

High-Pitched Squeal: The pad is nearing its replacement limit. Most modern pads have a built-in metal wear indicator that makes this noise when the material is critically thin.
Deep Grinding Noise: The pad material is completely gone. The metal backing plate of the pad is now grinding directly against the metal