When it comes to wheel safety, lug nuts don’t always get the attention they deserve. These critical fasteners are what keep your wheels securely attached to your car, and they need to be tightened to a very specific level of force—known as torque. Get it wrong, and you're risking more than just a loose wheel.

Toole’s Garage is proud to announce opening of our Jackson, CA location - a family owned and operated full service auto repair shop that serves Jackson-Martell-Sutter Creek area.

It’s difficult to drive anywhere in the Bay Area and not see a lot of Subaru vehicles. Whether it’s the Subaru Crosstrek, WRX, Outback, Forester, or Ascend, Subaru vehicles are everywhere. At Toole’s Garage we are big Subaru fans. Subaru vehicles are built for the great outdoors, and of course California provides plenty of opportunity for on-road and off-road adventures. All wheel drive (AWD) comes standard on many Subaru models, and can provide consistent traction whether you are on a muddy road, or skiing in the Sierras. If a roof rack did not come standard with your model, it’s easy to add. And of course, interior space is pretty generous, especially if you drive an Outback or Ascent – you can stow plenty of camping and hiking gear. At Toole’s Garage we can provide your Subaru with the maintenance it needs to provide you with a reliable ride – wherever your adventures take you. We highly recommend regular oil change – it not only improves performance and extends engine life, but it also allows us to inspect various sub-systems of your Subaru to catch any impending problems (for example, older Subaru models were prone to oil leaks). And if a long summer trip is in the cards, we definitely suggest bringing it in for a checkup. Being a full service auto repair shop, Toole’s Garage can provide your Subaru with routine maintenance services, diagnostics, as well as major repairs. If your Subaru needs new brake pads, has the check engine light “on”, suffers from transmission problems, or needs major engine repairs – we can make your vehicle healthy again. Whether you have owned your Subaru for a long time, or have recently acquired one, bring it to our San Carlos auto repair shop – we will keep your vehicle in peak condition. Call us to make an appointment, or you can make an appointment online, on our website.

Noticing a strange electrical smell inside your car is never a good sign. Unlike spilled food or musty odors, a burning electrical smell often points to a more serious problem. Whether it happens occasionally or lingers every time you drive, it’s important to identify the cause before it turns into a costly repair—or worse, a potential fire hazard.

Thick exhaust smoke isn’t something you should ignore. While a little vapor on a cold morning is normal, persistent, thick smoke in unusual colors signals engine trouble. The color of the smoke—whether it's white, blue, black, or gray—can tell you a lot about what’s happening under the hood. Some causes are easy to fix, but others can indicate serious engine damage that needs immediate attention.

Does your Toyota Yaris need repair or maintenance? At Toole’s Garage in Valley Springs we we specialize in providing top-notch services for your Yaris. Whether your vehicle needs an oil change, brake repairs, A/C recharge, tune-up, check engine light diagnostic transmission service or electrical repairs, our ASE-certified technicians are ready to handle all your repair needs. With extensive training, years of experience, and state-of-the-art diagnostic tools, your vehicle is in capable hands. Although the Toyota Yaris is known for its reliability, some earlier models experienced well-known issues: 2007 Yaris had problems with air conditioning, vibrating brakes, and body paint issues were somewhat common with the 2007 and 2008 models. Despite these early challenges, Toyota Yaris is a popular and affordable vehicle. As your Yaris ages, you will need to plan for age-related maintenance items, like spark plugs replacement, or water pump replacement. We also recommend replacing brake fluid every two years, and transmission fluid replacement every 30,000-40,000 miles. If  you provide your Toyota Yaris with regular and timely maintenance, it will serve you well for many years. Our Valley Springs auto repair shop can provide your Yaris with everything it needs. So next time your Toyota needs maintenance or repairs, call Toole’s Garage in Valley Springs – we are looking forward to serving you and keeping your Yaris in top shape. All repairs performed by our technicians are covered by 36 months / 36,000 miles warranty.  

Toyota Previa minivan is a great choice for everyday driving that requires extra room not possible when driving a sedan. Sadly Toyota has ceased to manufacture Previa vehicles, but at Toole’s Garage in San Carlos we continue to support Previa owners. Whether your minivan needs new brake pads, transmission service, check engine light diagnostics or car ac repair, our nationally ASE certified technicians will take great care of your vehicle, and will get  it back on the road usually the same day. All work performed at our San Carlos auto repair shop is backed by 3 year / 36,000 mile warranty. Our San Carlos auto repair facility can provide full gamut of Toyota maintenance services, diagnostics and repairs that will keep your Previa performing at its best, for years to come. Whether your vehicle needs routine maintenance, faces difficult to diagnose condition, or needs major engine repair or engine replacement, our technicians can find the root cause of any problem and we will get it solved, often the same day. When you bring your Previa to our San Carlos car care facility you will find friendly and knowledgeable service advisors, technical excellence, free Wi-Fi, and staff that is passionate about auto repair. We can also provide your Previa with complete tires services, including tire rotation, and new tires as well. So whether your Previa needs manufacturer recommended maintenance, brake pads replacement, new car battery, a set of new tires, or major engine repairs, trust the professionals at Toole’s Garage in San Carlos to keep your vehicle in great shape. Call today to make an appointment.  

There’s something undeniably captivating about classic cars. They tell stories of a bygone era, showcasing a perfect blend of artistry and engineering. However, with the passage of time, even the most iconic vehicles can fall victim to rust, wear, and neglect. That’s where classic car restoration comes in—a meticulous process that brings vintage automobiles back to their former glory. But how does one transform a rusty relic into a head-turning masterpiece? Let’s explore the art and science behind classic car restoration.

Traffic signs provide order on our roads. They are designed to keep everyone safe and informed. However, not all drivers interpret them as intended. Misunderstandings can arise from unfamiliarity, poor visibility, or overconfidence. These misinterpretations can lead to frustration, unsafe driving behaviors, and, in the worst cases, accidents. Let's explore some of the most commonly misunderstood traffic signs and clarify their true meanings.