Ken's Auto Center
Car Care: Auto Maintenance Services
Preventative Maintenance & Air Filter Replacement in San Diego
At Ken's Auto Center in San Diego, we specialize in preventative auto maintenance, including professional air filter replacement, including engine air and cabin air filter replacement. These services are key to maintaining engine efficiency, fuel economy, and interior air quality.
We handle a full range of repairs for domestic and import vehicles, ensuring each system-from filters to fuel lines-is operating as intended. Our certified techs use advanced diagnostics to catch issues early and keep you safely on the road.
Call 858-578-8200 or contact us online to book your next service at Ken's Auto Center. We proudly serve the San Diego community with honest, dependable car care.
Our basic auto maintenance services include:
30/60/90K Mileage Maintenance
Most automakers recommend car maintenance at 30,000-mile intervals, adhering to the 30/60/90K mile schedule provided to car owners. Our team can keep you on track, preserving your vehicle's condition, optimizing its performance, and enhancing its resale value. The 30/60/90K service covers:
- Fluid replacements
- Oil and Filter changes
- Tire rotation, spin balance, and pressure adjustments
- Inspection of parts and systems - gears, tires, brake pads, belts, hoses, etc.
- With higher mileage: spark plugs, belts, timing belts when applicable
Belt Replacement
Fan belts (or drive belts) dry out and crack over time. If you hear squealing or see wear, visit Ken's Auto Center in San Diego for expert belt inspection and replacement using quality parts.
Check Engine Light Diagnostics
It could be a loose gas cap-or something serious like a failing catalytic converter. Visit us in San Diego for quick code reading and diagnostics. At Ken's Auto Center, we can pull the code and diagnose the problem for you.
Factory Scheduled Maintenance
Automakers provide a service schedule for each vehicle. Our San Diego technicians follow this closely for gas and diesel vehicles, domestic or import, to ensure long-term performance.
Headlight and Bulb Replacement
If your bulbs are dim or out, it's time for a replacement. Our San Diego team installs high-quality bulbs to restore visibility and safety.
Hose Replacement
Cracked, dry hoses can leak coolant and cause overheating and prevent optimum performance. We inspect and replace worn hoses to keep your cooling system in top shape.
Oil, Lube & Filter Changes
Most vehicles need oil and filter changes every 3,000 to 7,500 miles. We provide full oil, lube, and filter service at Ken's Auto Center to prevent wear and overheating.
Wiper Blade Replacement
If your blades streak or skip, it's time for new ones. We install quality wipers in minutes at Ken's Auto Center for better road visibility during rain or snow. Give us a call at 858-578-8200 for more information.
FAQs About Automobile Squeaks, Squeals and Rattles
Why do my brakes squeak?
The most common reason brakes squeak is that they are worn out. The squeak is the sound of the metal wear indicator on the brake pad coming in contact with the metal rotor. Your brakes are the top safety feature on your vehicle, so come by Ken's Auto Center and get them replaced right away. If you hear a squeaking only when you press the brake pedal the first 2-3 times when you first start driving in the morning it is the result of overnight moisture build up and likely nothing to worry about.
Why does my car make a noise when I turn the steering wheel?
If your car makes strange sounds or clicks when you turn the steering wheel the most common cause is a low steering fluid. Over time the steering fluid decreases and air enters the steering mechanism causing unwanted noises. Come to Ken's Auto Center to top off your fluid reservoir with power steering fluid. The noises should start to go away immediately. If the sound returns quickly your car could be leaking steering fluid. Our professionals in San Diego can help you diagnose and repair leaks quickly and affordably.
Why does my car squeal when I start it in the morning?
A worn out cambelt (also known as a timing belt) will create a loud noise when you start your car's engine. The noise could range from squealing to hissing or rumbling. This is the sound of a cambelt that is about to break. If a cambelt breaks it can ruin your car's engine. Come to Ken's Auto Center and get it replaced right away.
Leaking Fluid FAQs
Why is water leaking on my foot on the driver's side?
The most common cause is a blocked air conditioning drain hose. This is a simple repair at Ken's Auto Center. There are other possible causes of water dripping on your foot on the driver's side of the car including a broken door seal or leaking heat exchanger.
What should I do if my car creates a small oil leak on my driveway?
If the spill is still wet, cover the stain with clay cat litter, sand, cornmeal, cornstarch or baking soda. This will help absorb the oil before it soaks into the cement. Once the spill has dried, sweep up the absorbent material. Then, wash away the remaining stain with water and soap. A small oil leak on your driveway is an indication that something is wrong with your car. Bring your car to Ken's Auto Center to get the problem diagnosed. Do not ignore an oil leak as it can seriously affect your car's engine.
Why is my car leaking a sweet-smelling fluid?
If there is a sweet-smelling fluid leaking from your car, the most likely culprit is leaking coolant or antifreeze. A coolant leak can become a serious problem. If your vehicle gets too low on coolant or antifreeze, it will overheat and may cause engine damage.
To learn more about our Car and Truck Care services, call us at 858-578-8200 or request a quote by clicking below:
Request Quote
Had a starter issue on my work van, had it towed here. Fast and affordable service with no bs. Highly recommend and will use again and again.
George K
I would recommend this place since they have great customer service and they will explain what needs to be fixed with a clear details information to the customer. Their service is a top notch and I would definitely coming back in the future.
Randy L
Discover More About Car & Truck Care Repair Services At Ken's Auto Center in San Diego
Undercar Services
Classic Car Repair
Inspections & Emissions
OUR REVIEWS
Bill Scannell, 02/05/2026Todd was knowledgeable and great to work with. I will absolutely come back to this shop.
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