Seeing the check engine light illuminate on your dashboard can be stressful for any driver. While the light doesn’t always signal an immediate emergency, it does mean your vehicle’s onboard computer has detected a problem that needs attention. Ignoring the warning can lead to reduced performance, poor fuel-economy, or costlier repairs down the road. Understanding some of the most common causes behind a check engine light can help you respond quickly and make informed decisions. At Mata Auto Repair, we provide expert check engine light diagnostics and repair in the greater Omaha area. Here are four frequent check engine light problems drivers encounter. Failing Oxygen Sensor Oxygen sensors monitor the amount of unburned oxygen in the exhaust and help the engine adjust the air-fuel mixture. When an oxygen sensor fails, the engine may run too rich, reducing fuel-efficiency and increasing emissions. Over time, a bad oxygen sensor can also damage the catalytic converter. Replacing a faulty sensor helps restore proper engine performance and fuel-economy. Malfunctioning Catalytic Converter The catalytic converter plays a critical role in reducing harmful exhaust emissions. When it begins to fail, you may notice poor acceleration, reduced power, or a sulfur-like smell. A malfunctioning catalytic converter often triggers the check engine light. Addressing related issues early, such as sensor failures, can help prevent converter damage. Ignition System Problems Worn spark plugs, damaged ignition coils, or faulty wiring can cause engine misfires that trigger the check engine light. Misfires may lead to rough idling, hesitation, or reduced power. Regular maintenance helps reduce the risk of these problems. Faulty Mass Air Flow Sensor The mass air flow (MAF) sensor measures how much air enters the engine so the computer can calculate the correct amount of fuel. When the MAF sensor fails, the engine may stall, idle roughly, or experience poor acceleration. This issue often results in decreased fuel-efficiency and increased emissions. Replacing the sensor can restore proper engine operation. Check Engine Light Repair in Omaha, NE For check engine light diagnostics and repair in Omaha, contact Mata Auto Repair at  (402) 205-8750  . At our nearby auto shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment for car care in Omaha!

Your vehicle’s braking system is one of its most essential safety components, allowing you to stop smoothly and avoid collisions. When the brakes begin to show signs of trouble—such as squealing noises, vibrations, or a soft pedal—it’s a warning that something isn’t working as it should. Unfortunately, many drivers ignore these early symptoms, assuming they can wait until the next service visit. Doing so can lead to dangerous situations and much more costly repairs. At Mata Auto Repair, we provide expert brake service in the greater Omaha area. Here are four reasons why you should never ignore signs of brake trouble. Ignoring Brake Issues Puts Your Safety at Risk The most important reason to address brake problems right away is safety. Faulty brakes can severely limit your stopping power and response time, making it harder to control your vehicle in emergencies. Whether it’s worn warped rotors, leaking fluid, or air in the brake lines, any problem that reduces braking performance increases your risk of accidents. Prompt inspection and repair helps ensure your brakes perform reliably when you need them most. Brake Problems Tend to Get Worse Over Time Brake issues rarely stay the same for long. What starts as a mild squeal or slight vibration can quickly develop into metal-on-metal grinding or a significant reduction in braking responsiveness. Worn brake pads can damage rotors, and contaminated brake fluid can corrode internal components. Addressing small issues early can save you from major repair costs and increasing safety risks. Delaying Repairs Can Lead to Expensive Damage Replacing worn brake pads is a relatively inexpensive fix, but waiting too long can cause damage to the rotors. Once rotors become warped, they may require resurfacing or full replacement, which costs more. By taking care of brake issues at the first sign of trouble, you’ll help protect your wallet, as well as your passengers. Peace of Mind and Confidence Behind the Wheel Knowing that your brakes are dependable gives you confidence behind the wheel, especially in wet or high-traffic conditions. If you notice any signs of brake trouble, such as squeaking, grinding, or vibrations, schedule service immediately—it’s one of the smartest and safest choices you can make for your vehicle. Brake Service in Omaha, NE For expert brake servic e in Omaha, NE and the surrounding area, contact Mata Auto Repair at  (402) 205-8750  . Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!

Winters in Omaha can bring bitter cold, icy roads, and heavy snow, making vehicle preparation an essential part of staying safe on the road. Cold temperatures take a toll on everything from your battery to your braking system, and visibility can be compromised when frost and snow build up. Taking time to inspect and maintain key components of your vehicle before winter hits helps ensure your car is ready to handle the challenges of the season. At Mata Auto Repair, we provide expert winter auto maintenance in the greater Omaha area. Here are four tips for preparing your car for winter in Omaha. Have Your Brakes Inspected Your brakes are one of your vehicle’s most critical safety systems, and they must be in top condition for winter driving. Slick roads require longer stopping distances, which means any weakness in your braking system can be dangerous. Have the mechanic inspect your brake pads, rotors, and fluid levels before winter begins. If you notice any squealing noises, grinding, or a soft brake pedal, it’s best to address the issue right away. Properly functioning brakes can help you maintain control and avoid accidents when road conditions are at their worst. Have Your Heater and Defroster Inspected A working heater is more than just a comfort during Omaha’s frigid winters—it’s a necessity. Beyond keeping you warm, your vehicle’s heating and defrosting systems are vital for maintaining clear visibility. A malfunctioning defroster can cause windows to fog up quickly, creating a safety hazard. Test Your Battery Cold weather can significantly reduce a car battery’s power output, and an older or weak battery may fail without much or any warning. To avoid being stranded in freezing temperatures, have your battery tested before the first major cold snap. The mechanic can check the charge level and overall condition, ensuring it’s strong enough to handle the extra strain. If your battery is nearing the end of its life, replacing it early is a smart investment for peace of mind. Replace Wiper Blades and Use Winter-Grade Wiper Fluid Visibility is crucial during snowstorms, and worn wiper blades can leave streaks or miss sections of your windshield. Replace your wiper blades with new ones designed to handle winter use. And be sure to use a winter-grade wiper fluid formula that won’t freeze in the reservoir. Clear vision makes a major difference when navigating slippery and snowy roads. Winter Auto Maintenance in Omaha, NE For auto maintenance in Omaha and the surrounding area, contact Mata Auto Repair at  (402) 205-8750  . Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!

Your brakes are one of the most important safety features on your vehicle, giving you the ability to stop quickly and avoid accidents. Because they are used every time you drive, your brakes naturally wear down over time. With consistent care, you can extend their lifespan and keep them working reliably. At Mata Auto Repair, we provide expert brake service in the greater Omaha area. Here are four tips for keeping your brakes in top condition for as long as possible. Get Regular Brake Inspections Routine brake inspections are essential for maintaining safety. During an inspection, a mechanic can check the brake pads, rotors, calipers, and fluid levels to make sure everything is working as it should. Even if you don’t notice obvious symptoms, hidden wear can cause problems down the road. Having your brakes checked at regular service intervals helps prevent sudden failures. Maintain Brake Fluid Brake fluid is what transmits the force from your foot on the pedal to the braking system itself. Over time, brake fluid can absorb moisture, which reduces braking performance. It’s important to have your fluid checked and replaced according to your manufacturer’s schedule. Keeping it topped off and fresh helps ensure that your brakes respond quickly and consistently when you need them most. Replace Brake Pads Before They Wear Out Completely Brake pads play a crucial role in your stopping power by pressing against the rotors to create friction. Over time, they wear down and need to be replaced. Driving with worn-out pads not only reduces your ability to stop effectively, but can also damage the rotors. If you hear squealing or grinding, it’s a sign that the pads are due for replacement. Taking care of this promptly can save you money and keep your braking system strong. Address Brake Problems Immediately If you notice warning signs like unusual noises, longer stopping distances, or dashboard alerts, don’t delay in getting your brakes checked. Ignoring these symptoms may lead to bigger issues, including brake failure. Promptly addressing small problems helps keep your vehicle safe and prevents more expensive repairs later. Brake Service in Omaha, NE When you need brake service in Omaha and the surrounding area, contact Mata Auto Repair at  (402) 205-8750  . At our local auto shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!

Your vehicle’s suspension system plays a vital role in providing a smooth ride, maintaining control, and keeping your tires in proper contact with the road. Over time, suspension components—such as shocks, struts, springs, and control arms—can wear down. Recognizing the early signs of trouble can help you address problems before they become more serious. At Mata Auto Repair, we provide expert suspension repair in the greater Omaha area. Here are four common indications that your suspension may need attention. Excessive Bouncing or Rough Ride One of the most obvious signs of suspension trouble is a ride that feels unusually harsh or bouncy. If you notice that your vehicle jolts over even small bumps or continues to bounce after hitting a pothole, it could mean your shocks or struts are worn out. These components are designed to absorb bumps in the road, and when they fail, you’ll feel every bump much more than you should. Uneven Tire Wear Your suspension helps ensure that your tires maintain consistent contact with the road and wear evenly. If you see bald spots or uneven tread wear, it could be a sign that your suspension is not properly aligning the wheels or distributing weight evenly. Addressing this problem quickly can save you from having to replace your tires prematurely. Pulling or Drifting During Turns If your vehicle pulls to one side or feels unstable when turning, it could be due to a suspension issue. Worn or damaged components can reduce the system’s ability to keep the car stable during cornering, increasing the risk of losing control. This is not just a comfort concern—it’s also a serious safety issue that should be inspected promptly. Nose Diving When Braking When the front of your car dips dramatically during braking, it’s often a sign of worn shocks. This problem can extend stopping distances and reduce braking efficiency, putting you at greater risk in emergency situations. A healthy suspension system should keep the vehicle level and stable when slowing down. Suspension Repair in Omaha, NE For auto repair in Omaha and the surrounding area, contact Mata Auto Repair at  (402) 205-8750  . At our local auto shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!

Your vehicle’s cooling system plays a crucial role in keeping the engine at a safe operating temperature. It works by circulating coolant through the engine and radiator to absorb and release heat. When any part of this system fails, it can lead to overheating and engine damage. Recognizing the early warning signs of cooling system trouble can help you prevent serious issues and expensive repairs. At Mata Auto Repair, we provide expert cooling system repair in the greater Omaha area. Here are four common signs that your car may need cooling system repair. Engine Temperature Gauge Running High One of the most obvious signs of a cooling system problem is a rising engine temperature gauge. If your temperature gauge consistently reads higher than normal or enters the red zone, it's a clear indication that your engine is overheating. This could be caused by issues such as low coolant levels, a failing thermostat, a clogged radiator, or a faulty water pump. Driving with an overheating engine can cause severe damage, so it's important to address the issue immediately. Coolant Leaks If you notice puddles of bright green, orange, or pink fluid (your coolant’s color might be different) under your car, there’s a good chance that coolant is leaking from the system. Coolant leaks can occur from hoses, the radiator, or the water pump. A leak reduces the amount of coolant available to regulate engine temperature and can lead to overheating. Even small leaks should be repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage. Steam Coming from Under the Hood If you see steam rising from under your hood while driving or idling, your engine may be overheating due to a cooling system failure. Steam often indicates that the coolant is boiling and not being properly circulated. If this occurs, pull over safely and turn off the engine to avoid additional damage. Sweet Smell Inside or Outside the Vehicle Coolant commonly has a distinct sweet smell. If you start noticing this odor inside the cabin or near the engine bay, it’s a good indication that there’s a leak somewhere in the system. Detecting this scent is often an early sign of trouble that should not be ignored. Cooling System Repair in Omaha, NE When you need auto repair in Omaha and the surrounding area, contact Mata Auto Repair at  (402) 205-8750  . At our local auto shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!

The alternator plays a critical role in your vehicle’s electrical system. It charges the battery while the engine is running and powers various electrical components, from the headlights to the dashboard instruments. When the alternator begins to fail, it can cause a wide range of issues that may leave you stranded if not addressed quickly. At Mata Auto Repair , we provide expert alternator replacement and auto electric repair in the greater Omaha area. Here are five signs of an alternator problem that require prompt attention. Battery Warning Light The battery warning light on your dashboard doesn’t necessarily only indicate a bad battery. It may also light up when there’s a problem with the charging system, including the alternator. If this light comes on while you’re driving, it’s a sign that your alternator may not be charging the battery properly. It’s important to have the system inspected immediately, as continuing to drive with a failing alternator can lead to complete battery drain. Dimming/Flickering Lights If your headlights or dashboard lights dim or flicker while you’re driving, it could mean the alternator isn’t providing a steady flow of electricity. This may be more noticeable at night or when using other electrical components like the radio or air conditioning. Dimming lights are often one of the first indications that the alternator isn’t performing as it should. Dead Battery While batteries do wear out over time, a frequently dead or weak battery may point to an alternator issue. If your battery is relatively new and you find yourself needing frequent jump-starts, the alternator might not be recharging it effectively. Replacing the battery without addressing the underlying alternator issue will only provide a temporary fix. A charging system test can determine the root cause. Electrical Accessories Malfunctioning Modern vehicles rely on the alternator to power electrical components such as power windows, heated seats, and infotainment systems. If these systems begin to act erratically, it could be due to an insufficient electrical supply from the alternator. Unusual Noises Under the Hood A failing alternator can produce strange sounds, such as grinding or whining, due to bearing or belt issues. If you hear unfamiliar noises coming from the engine bay, it could be your alternator on its way out. These sounds should not be ignored, as they can precede total alternator failure. Alternator Replacement & Auto Electric Repair in Omaha, NE For top-quality auto repair in Omaha and the surrounding area, contact Mata Auto Repair at  (402) 205-8750  . At our nearby auto shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!

Planning a road trip can be exciting, but it’s important to make sure your car is as ready for the journey as you are. Long hours on the road can put added stress on your vehicle, especially if it hasn’t been thoroughly checked in a while. A pre-trip inspection by a trusted mechanic can help ensure a safe and enjoyable travel experience. At Mata Auto Repair, we provide expert auto maintenance in the greater Omaha area. Here are four reasons to have your car inspected before hitting the road. Prevent Breakdowns in Remote Areas Breaking down on a quiet highway or in an unfamiliar town can quickly turn a fun road trip into a stressful ordeal. Issues like a failing alternator, worn belts, or a weak battery might not show obvious symptoms until they fail completely. The mechanic can identify and fix these problems ahead of time so you don’t get stranded far from help. Preventive maintenance reduces the chance of being caught off guard by a mechanical failure. Ensure Your Tires Are Ready for the Distance Tires are critical for both safety and fuel-efficiency, especially when covering hundreds or thousands of miles. A mechanic can check for proper inflation and signs of wear or damage that might not be visible to the untrained eye. Driving on faulty tires increases the risk of blowouts, which can be extremely dangerous at high speeds. Check the Brakes and Suspension Stopping power and ride quality are crucial for a safe and comfortable journey. Your mechanic can inspect the brake pads, rotors, and fluid lines to make sure everything is in working order. They can also evaluate your suspension system to confirm it can handle the weight of passengers and luggage. If anything seems worn or unstable, repairs can be made before it becomes a safety risk on the highway. Catch Small Problems Before They Become Big Ones Perhaps the greatest benefit of a pre-trip inspection is peace of mind. Seemingly minor issues like a loose belt might not seem urgent, but they could quickly escalate under long-distance driving conditions. By identifying and addressing minor problems early, you can avoid bigger, more expensive repairs later—and enjoy your road trip without interruptions. Auto Maintenance in Omaha, NE For auto maintenance in Omaha, NE and the surrounding area, contact Mata Auto Repair at  (402) 205-8750  . Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!

Your vehicle’s braking system is one of its most important safety features. When something seems wrong with your brakes, it's not to be ignored. Even minor brake issues can quickly become serious, potentially leading to dangerous situations on the road. At Mata Auto Repair, we provide expert brake repair in the greater Omaha area. Here are four common brake problems that need immediate attention. Squeaking or Squealing Sounds If you hear a high-pitched squealing or squeaking noise every time you apply the brakes, it’s often a sign that your brake pads are worn down. Modern brake pads are commonly designed with a built-in indicator that makes noise when it's time for a replacement. Ignoring this sound for too long can lead to metal-on-metal contact, which can damage your rotors and lead to more expensive repairs. Vibrations When Braking A vibrating sensation when applying the brakes usually means your brake rotors are warped. This can happen over time due to excessive heat caused by hard or frequent braking. Warped rotors reduce braking efficiency, making driving more hazardous, especially in emergency situations. If you notice this issue, it’s important to have your rotors inspected and replaced if needed. Spongy Brake Pedal If your brake pedal feels soft, spongy, or sinks too close to the floor when pressed, it could be a sign of air in the brake lines or a brake fluid leak. This issue compromises your ability to brake effectively and may lead to brake failure. With this symptom, it’s best to get your car towed to the shop instead of driving there. Brake Warning Light Your vehicle's dashboard is equipped with warning lights to alert you to potential problems. If your brake warning light turns on, it's a clear sign that something in your braking system isn't functioning properly. It could end up being a simple issue or it might be something more serious. Either way, this warning should never be ignored. Brake Repair in Omaha, NE When you need auto repair in Omaha and the surrounding area, contact Mata Auto Repair at  (402) 205-8750  . At our local auto shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!