Our Services & Expertise

General Maintenance

The technicians at Joy Automotive have years of experience working on standard 4-wheel drive (4×4) vehicles as well as all-wheel drive (AWD) vehicles. AWD is a full-time 4-wheel-drive system (all four wheels receive torque from the engine simultaneously) that employs a center differential that allows each tire to rotate at different speeds.

General maintenance is the routine upkeep of your vehicle. It can include things like changing the oil or replacing a battery, and it’s an essential part of keeping your car running smoothly for years to come.

There are many reasons you should have a mechanic perform general maintenance on your car for your safety. If you neglect the small things that can cause significant problems with your vehicle, you are putting yourself or others at risk if something goes wrong. For example, if you don’t change your windshield wipers often enough, they won’t work properly when you need it the most.

Another way general maintenance helps keep you safe is by ensuring that your car runs at optimal levels. If you neglect certain aspects of our vehicles’ care, they may not run as efficiently as possible, which will mean less fuel efficiency.

Choosing the right general maintenance expert is essential to keeping your car running smoothly.

Many drivers don’t know how to maintain their vehicles. They don’t know when the oil needs to be changed or if their tires should be rotated. They may not even know where to start.

This is where a general maintenance expert can help you choose the right services for your car. An expert should be honest and effective in the work they do. They will also fix your vehicle’s problem the first time instead of taking multiple tries to get it right.

An expert will ensure that all parts are correctly aligned when they do an alignment, which helps keep your tires from wearing out prematurely and saves you money on new tires. An expert can also check for leaks in your car’s cooling system, which could indicate a more significant problem with your car’s engine or transmission that needs immediate attention.

When you need excellent general maintenance, Joy Automotive is the smart choice.

When you choose Joy Automotive for your general maintenance, you know you’re getting the best.

We’ve been serving the community since 1995. And we continuously learn what it takes to keep you on the road and happy. Our ASE-Certified auto repair technicians are experts in every type of vehicle, and we use only the highest quality parts and fluids when we perform your service.

Our honest and effective services are backed by the highest customer satisfaction ratings in the industry—and you’ll see why when you get behind the wheel of your car after one of our visits.

Schedule your visit today and drive further with your car.

We know that you have many auto repair and maintenance options, and we are grateful for the opportunity to earn your business. We want you to be confident that we can deliver exceptional service at a reasonable price. That’s why we offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee policy on all our work.

If you have any concerns about the quality of our work or our staff, please let us know so we can address them. We will do whatever it takes to ensure you are happy with your experience at Joy Automotive.

Joy Automotive.
Your Trustworthy Auto Repair Experts in Santa Monica, CA

We know that your vehicle is a precious asset that you want to keep durable for years to come. Our full-service auto repair shop in California offers all the services you need from bumper-to-bumper.

Moreover, both existing and first-time customers in Santa Monica say that we have the best technicians in town – and we agree.

As noted by some of our satisfied clients:

“It’s a joy working with Joy,” said Jamie A. “They’ve done all the repairs on my truck for the past 10 years, and I won’t take it anywhere else. They are professional, friendly, and efficient.”

“They are the best mechanics I’ve known in Santa Monica,” added Allison B. “They explained my car's issues well and discussed all possible options. The staff provided excellent service and charged a fair price.”

VEHICLES

We know that your vehicle is a precious asset that you want to keep durable for years to come.

BUY TIRES

We know that your vehicle is a precious asset that you want to keep durable for years to come.

REPAIR TIPS

We know that your vehicle is a precious asset that you want to keep durable for years to come.

Your Trusted Auto Repair Experts in Santa Monica, CA

For all your car repair and maintenance needs, do not hesitate to call Joy Automotive Service & Repair.
Our skilled and honest mechanics in Santa Monica are your partners in keeping your
vehicle reliable for years to come.

Please schedule an appointment online or visit our auto repair shop at 1325 Pico Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90405.

LET'S FIX YOUR AUTO Today

(310) 450-1712

The classic “tune-up” was once the heart of the automotive business and contrary to some beliefs, today’s modern vehicles still need tune-ups to keep them performing at the most efficient levels.

As the pace of technology quickened, the procedures required to perform a traditional tune-up changed dramatically. Highly sophisticated ignition and fuel systems are now the norm, using one or more onboard computers to control critical engine and transmission management functions.

If the vehicle isn’t being properly maintained, you’re not going to get where you want to go. As part of the 21st Century Tune-up on today’s modern vehicles, the following systems should be inspected: battery, charging and starting engine, mechanical powertrain control (including onboard diagnostic checks), fuel ignition, and emissions.

To help ensure good performance, fuel economy and emissions, the Car Care Council also recommends that motorists take the time necessary to become familiar with their vehicle. Study the owner’s manual to become thoroughly acquainted with the operation of all systems. Pay special attention to the indicator lights and instruments.

Getting Your Vehicle Ready for Winter

Mechanical failure – an inconvenience anytime it occurs – can be deadly in the winter. Preventive maintenance is a must. A well-maintained vehicle is more enjoyable to drive, lasts longer, and could command a higher resale price.

Some of the following tips can be performed by any do-it-yourselfer; others require the skilled hands of a professional auto technician.

Engine Performance – Get engine driveability problems (hard starts, rough idling, stalling, diminished power, etc.) corrected at a good repair shop. Cold weather makes existing problems worse. Replace dirty filters – air, fuel, etc.

Fuel – Put a bottle of fuel de-icer in your tank once a month to help keep moisture from freezing in the fuel line. Note that a full gas tank helps keep moisture from forming.

Oil – Change your oil and oil filter as specified in your manual – more often (every 3,000 miles) if your driving is mostly stop-and-go or consists of frequent short trips.

Cooling Systems – The cooling system should be completely flushed and refilled about every 24 months. The level, condition, and concentration of the coolant should be checked periodically. (A 50/50 mix of anti-freeze and water is usually recommended.) DIYers, never remove the radiator cap until the engine has thoroughly cooled! The tightness and condition of drive belts, clamps, and hoses should be checked by a pro.

Windshield Wipers – Replace old blades. If your climate is harsh, purchase rubber-clad (winter) blades to fight ice build-up. Stock up on windshield washer solvent – you’ll be surprised how much you use. Carry an ice-scraper.

Heater/Defroster – The heater and defroster must be in good working condition for passenger comfort and driver visibility. Newer models have a cabin air filter that should be replaced periodically. Check your owner’s manual for the location and replacement interval.

Battery – The only accurate way to detect a weak battery is with professional equipment. Routine care: Scrape away corrosion from posts and cable connections; clean all surfaces; re-tighten all connections. If battery caps are removable, check fluid level monthly. Avoid contact with corrosive deposits and battery acid. Wear eye protection and rubber gloves.

Lights – Inspect all lights and bulbs; replace burned out bulbs; periodically clean road grime from all lenses. To prevent scratching, never use a dry rag.

Exhaust System – Your vehicle should be placed on a lift and the exhaust system examined for leaks. The trunk and floor boards should be inspected for small holes. Exhaust fumes can be deadly.

Tires – Worn tires will be of little use in winter weather. Examine tires for remaining tread life, uneven wearing, and cupping; check the sidewalls for cuts and nicks. Check tire pressures once a month. Check the tires when they are cold, before driving for any distance. Rotate as recommended. Don’t forget your spare, and be sure the jack is in good condition.

Carry emergency gear – gloves, boots, blankets, flares, a small shovel, sand or kitty litter, tire chains, and a flash light. Put a few “high-energy” snacks in your glove box.

Getting Your Vehicle Ready For Summer

Summer’s heat, dust, and stop-and-go traffic, will take their toll on your vehicle. Add the effects of last winter, and you could be poised for a breakdown. You can lessen the odds of mechanical failure through periodic maintenance. Your vehicle should last longer and command a higher resale price, too! Some of the following tips are easy to do; others require a skilled auto technician.

Air Conditioning – A marginally operating system will fail in hot weather. Have the system examined by a qualified technician. Newer models have cabin air filters that clean the air entering the heating and air conditioning system. Check your owner’s manual for location and replacement interval.

Cooling System – The greatest cause of summer breakdowns is overheating. The cooling system should be completely flushed and refilled about every 24 months. The level, condition, and concentration of the coolant should be checked periodically. (A 50/50 mix of anti-freeze and water is usually recommended.) DIYers, never remove the radiator cap until the engine has thoroughly cooled! The tightness and condition of drive belts, clamps, and hoses should be checked by a pro.

Oil – Change your oil and oil filter as specified in your manual – more often (every 3,000 miles) if you make frequent short jaunts, extended trips with lots of luggage, or tow a trailer.

Engine Performance – Replace other filters (air, fuel, PCV, etc.) as recommended – more often in dusty conditions. Get engine driveability problems (hard starts, rough idling, stalling, diminished power, etc.) corrected at a good shop.

Windshield Wipers – A dirty windshield causes eye fatigue and can pose a safety hazard. Replace worn blades and get plenty of windshield washer solvent.

Lights – Inspect all lights and bulbs; replace burned out bulbs; periodically clean dirt and insects from all lenses. To prevent scratching, never use a dry rag.

Tires – Have your tires rotated about every 5,000 miles. Check tire pressures once a month; check them while they’re cold before driving for any distance. Don’t forget to check your spare as well and be sure the jack is in good condition. Examine tires for tread life, uneven wearing, and cupping; check the sidewalls for cuts and nicks. An alignment is warranted if there’s uneven tread wear or if your vehicle pulls to one side.

Brakes – Brakes should be inspected as recommended in your manual, or sooner if you notice pulsations, grabbing, noises, or longer stopping distance. Minor brake problems should be corrected promptly.

Battery – Batteries can fail any time of year. The only accurate way to detect a weak battery is with professional equipment. Routine care: Scrape away corrosion from posts and cable connections; clean all surfaces; re-tighten all connections. If battery caps are removable, check the fluid level monthly. Avoid contact with corrosive deposits and battery acid. Wear eye protection and rubber gloves.

Emergencies – Carry some basic tools – ask a technician for suggestions. Also include a first-aid kit, flares, and a flashlight. Consider buying a cellular phone.

Keeping your vehicle in tune with the environment is definitely a win-win situation. Besides helping the environment, a properly maintained and operated vehicle will run more efficiently, will be safer, and will last longer – up to 50% longer, according to a survey of ASE-certified Master Auto Technicians.

The following tips should put you on the road to environmentally conscious car care.

Keep your engine tuned. A misfiring spark plug can reduce fuel efficiency as much as 30%.
Follow the service schedules listed in your owner’s manual. Replace filters and fluids as recommended.
Check your tires for proper inflation. Underinflation wastes fuel – your engine has to work harder to push the vehicle.
Wheels that are out-of-line (as evidenced by uneven tread wear or vehicle pulling) make the engine work harder, too. Properly maintained tires will last longer, meaning fewer scrap tires have to be disposed.
Drive gently. Avoid sudden accelerations and jerky stop-and-go’s. Use cruise control on open highways to keep your speed as steady as possible.
Avoid excessive idling. Shut off the engine while waiting for friends and family.
Today’s vehicles are designed to “warm up” fast, so forget about those five-minute warm-ups on cold winter mornings.
Remove excess items from the vehicle. Less weight means better mileage.
Store luggage/cargo in the trunk rather than on the roof to reduce air drag.
Plan trips. Consolidate your daily errands to eliminate unnecessary driving. Try to travel when traffic is light to avoid stop-and-go conditions.
Join a car pool.

Remember, how your car runs, how you drive it, and how its fluids, old parts, and tires are disposed of all have serious consequences on the environment.

Discover More About Maintenance and Repair Services At Joy Automotive in Santa Monica