If your vehicle is older or you're driving something a bit more vintage, your engine likely relies on a carburetor. When it's working right, you probably don’t give it a second thought. But when things go sideways, your carburetor has a sneaky way of letting you know. When you need carburetor repair in Fredericksburg, VA, contact Lee Hill Auto Service. What Does Your Carburetor Do? A carburetor is a mechanical component in older gasoline engines that mixes air and fuel in just the right ratio before delivering it to the engine’s cylinders for combustion. Its main job is to ensure the engine gets the proper blend depending on factors like throttle position and engine speed. Too much fuel or too much air can affect performance, efficiency, and emissions. Starting Woes A common early red flag is a stubborn start. If your engine cranks but doesn’t turn over, or needs excessive pumping of the gas pedal, you might be dealing with a fuel-air mix that’s out of whack. Carburetors are all about balance, and even small imbalances can mess with startup reliability. Rough Idling or Stalling If your engine sounds like it’s having a moody day, chugging, sputtering, or shaking at idle, that’s a sign your carburetor may need attention. Similarly, if your car stalls at a stoplight or right after starting, the carb could be feeding too little fuel or flooding the engine entirely. Black Smoke from the Exhaust Black smoke belching from the tailpipe is a big clue that your carburetor is delivering too much fuel (a rich mixture). This hurts your fuel economy and can cause carbon buildup in the engine over time. If the smoke smells like gasoline, don’t ignore it. Sluggish Acceleration or Poor Performance When you press the gas pedal and the car hesitates, or worse, bogs down, it’s a clear signal that the carburetor isn’t delivering the right mix. You might also notice decreased power or poor fuel economy, both of which can be traced back to a struggling carb. Auto Repair in Fredericksburg, VA For auto repair in Fredericksburg and the surrounding area, contact Lee Hill Auto Service at  540-824-3730  . At our local auto shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s carburetor repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call today to schedule an appointment for car care in Fredericksburg!

As winter fades and warmer weather rolls in, your car deserves a little attention to shake off the cold-weather wear and tear. A spring tune-up gets your vehicle ready for road trips, daily commutes, and sunny weekend drives. But what exactly does it involve? We break it down. When it’s time to schedule spring maintenance in Fredericksburg, VA, contact Lee Hill Auto Service. Fresh Fluids for a Smooth Ride Winter can take a toll on your vehicle’s fluids, so spring is the perfect time to check and top them off. That includes engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and windshield washer fluid. If it’s been a while, consider an oil change to keep your engine running efficiently as temperatures rise. Battery Check-Up Cold weather can drain your battery’s power, and you don’t want to get stranded with a dead one just as spring road trips begin. A quick battery test will ensure it's holding a charge, and cleaning off corrosion from the terminals can improve performance. If your battery is more than three years old, it may be time to replace it. Tire Inspection and Rotation Temperature shifts can affect tire pressure, so check and adjust it to match manufacturer recommendations. Also, look for signs of wear, like uneven tread or cracks in the rubber. Rotating your tires can help them wear evenly, improving handling and extending their lifespan. Brake System Check After a season of stopping on icy roads, your brakes deserve some attention. Listen for squeaking or grinding sounds, which could indicate worn pads. A mechanic can inspect the brake system and replace anything that’s showing excessive wear. Air Filter and Cabin Filter Replacement Springtime means pollen and dust, and a dirty air filter can hurt engine performance and fuel efficiency. Swapping out the engine air filter and the cabin filter will keep your car running smoothly and help you breathe easier. Wiper Blades and Lights Winter conditions can wear down wiper blades, leaving streaks or missing spots. Replacing them ensures clear visibility during spring showers. Also, check all exterior lights, including headlights, brake lights, and turn signals, to make sure they’re working properly. Auto Maintenance in Fredericksburg When it comes to keeping your car running and driving like new, preventative maintenance is key. At Lee Hill Auto Service, we offer dealer alternative auto maintenance in Fredericksburg for all makes and models. Using factory-correct parts, fluids, and practices, our local auto mechanics will ensure your car remains safe and reliable. Our services are also qualified to maintain your existing warranty. When your car is due for an oil change, belt and hose replacement, or other car maintenance, make our nearby auto shop your next stop. Give us a call at  540-824-3730  to request an appointment or a quote for auto maintenance costs for your car.