Save Money and Keep Your Car Running with Regular Service Intervals and Our Digital Vehicle Inspections

March 27, 2025

Taking care of your car isn’t just about keeping it running—it also saves you money by preventing big, expensive repairs.

Person inspecting the engine of a gray car with the hood up at an auto shop. | Jim Brangham Auto Repair

At Jim Brangham Auto Repair, we help drivers keep their cars in top shape with regular service intervals and our very own digital vehicle inspections.

Why Are Service Intervals Important?

Every car has a schedule for maintenance, like changing fluids, replacing filters, checking brakes, and inspecting key parts. Sticking to this schedule helps prevent breakdowns and keeps your car running smoothly. Skipping maintenance can lead to worn-out parts, poor gas mileage, and costly repairs that could have been avoided.

The Benefits of Digital Vehicle Inspections

At Jim Brangham Auto Repair, we use Digital Vehicle Inspections (DVI) to give you a clear, easy-to-understand report on your car’s condition. With photos and simple explanations, you’ll see exactly what needs attention and what’s in good shape. This helps you make smart choices about your car’s care, so there are no surprises when it comes to repairs.

How Regular Maintenance Saves You Money

Fixing small problems early prevents them from turning into big, expensive ones. Changing a timing belt or water pump on time is much cheaper than dealing with a blown engine. Keeping up with oil changes, brake checks, and fluid flushes helps your car last longer and avoids costly breakdowns.

Keep Your Car in Great Shape

Regular maintenance and digital inspections take the guesswork out of car care. If you’re not sure when your next service is due, visit Jim Brangham Auto Repair in Cathedral City, CA. Our team will help keep your car safe, reliable, and running its best.

Call us at (760)321-7040 today to schedule your next service!

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Why Your Power Steering Pump Is So Important

October 28, 2025

When your power steering is working right, turning the wheel feels effortless. But if your wheel feels stiff or you hear a whining sound when turning, you may have low fluid or a worn-out pump. Why Low Power Steering Fluid Is Dangerous Driving with low or no power steering fluid can be unsafe. The pump needs that fluid to build pressure and help you steer. Without it, your wheel can become very hard to turn—especially when parking or driving slowly. That can make it harder to control your car in an emergency. Low fluid also causes damage inside the pump, since the fluid keeps it cool and lubricated. If the pump runs dry, it can wear out fast or even stop working completely. What could’ve been a small fix can turn into a much more expensive repair. The Difference with Electronic Power Steering Many newer vehicles use electronic power steering (EPS) instead of hydraulic. EPS uses an electric motor to help turn the wheels. These systems don’t need fluid and are more fuel efficient. Still, it’s important to have them checked now and then to make sure the sensors and motor are working correctly. Keep Your Steering Safe and Smooth No matter what kind of steering system your vehicle has, regular checks are important. If you notice stiff steering, whining noises, or see fluid under your car, don’t ignore it. At Jim Brangham Auto Repair in Cathedral City, CA , our ASE-certified team can inspect your power steering system, top off or replace the fluid if needed, and make sure everything is safe and working properly. Call Jim Brangham Auto Repair today at (760) 321-7040 to schedule your power steering inspection and service in Cathedral City, CA. We’ll help keep your car steering smoothly and safely for miles to come.

Why Differential Service Can Save You Money

October 16, 2025

What the Differential Does The differential is what helps your wheels turn smoothly when you go around corners. It lets each wheel move at a slightly different speed, which makes driving easier and safer. If your differential starts to wear out, you might hear grinding or whining sounds, or feel your car handle differently. It’s one of those parts you don’t think about until something goes wrong — and by then, it can get expensive to fix. Why Differential Fluid Service Is Important Inside your differential is fluid that keeps the gears cool and lubricated. Over time, that fluid breaks down from heat, friction, and dust — especially in California’s desert weather. When the fluid gets dirty, it can’t protect the parts anymore. If that happens, it can cause: Rough or noisy driving Gear damage Leaks or vibration Costly repairs down the road That’s why changing your differential fluid on time is so important. It’s a simple and affordable way to keep your car running smoothly. How Often Should You Change It? Most cars need differential service every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. If you tow, haul heavy loads, or drive in hot weather often, you might need it sooner. The good news? It’s quick, easy, and saves you a lot of money compared to replacing the whole differential. How It Saves You Money Fresh differential fluid reduces wear and helps prevent breakdowns. A full differential replacement can cost thousands, while a fluid service is just a small routine maintenance. Taking care of it early keeps your car safe and reliable — and helps your budget in the long run. Trust Jim Brangham Auto Repair At Jim Brangham Auto Repair, our ASE-certified team knows how to keep your car in top shape. We offer differential service, A/C repair, smog inspections, and more to help your vehicle last longer and run better. If your car feels different while turning, or it’s been a while since your last service, come see us today. We’ll make sure your differential — and the rest of your car — gets the care it deserves. Call Jim Brangham Auto Repair at (760)321-7040 in Cathedral City today for honest, expert car care you can trust!