Frequently Asked Questions – Affordable Automotive (Chico)

Many local drivers trust Affordable Automotive in Chico as their go-to auto repair shop. Family-owned and serving the community since 1996, we bring dealership-level expertise with a friendly local touch. Our technicians are excellence-driven, and we’re proud to be recognized as a NAPA Gold AutoCare Center and “Best of Chico” award winner.

Your brakes are your vehicle’s most important safety feature. If you notice squeaking, grinding, or vibration when stopping, bring your car or truck into Affordable Automotive before the issue becomes more serious. We specialize in brake inspections, pad and rotor replacement, and full brake-system repairs for all makes and models. Drivers in Oroville, Paradise, and beyond count on us to keep their vehicles stopping safely.

Trust is earned. At Affordable Automotive, we:

• Provide detailed written estimates before any work begins
• Explain repairs in plain language so you know what’s needed and why
• Use quality OEM and brand-name parts
• Show you what’s wrong before we start any repair

That’s why so many drivers across Chico and the surrounding area rely on us for honest, transparent auto service.

Yes. Staying on top of maintenance—oil changes, fluid checks, filter replacements, inspections—prevents breakdowns and keeps your car running efficiently. Think of it like a health check-up for your vehicle. Our team will review your manufacturer’s recommendations and help you plan service intervals that match your driving habits around Chico and the region.

How often depends on your vehicle and driving conditions, but many modern vehicles require an oil change every 5,000 to 7,500 miles under normal driving. At Affordable Automotive, we’ll check your owner’s manual and recommend what’s best for your specific car. Whether you’re commuting locally or driving longer distances around Glenn County, we’ll make sure your engine gets the protection it needs.

That little light could mean many things—from a loose gas cap to a serious engine or emissions problem. Don’t ignore it. Bring your vehicle to Affordable Automotive in Chico and we’ll run a computerized diagnostic scan to pinpoint the issue, explain what’s going on, and recommend the right repair. Acting early can prevent more costly problems down the road.

Don’t wait. Squeaking usually signals worn brake pads; grinding often means the pads are gone and metal is contacting the rotors—both serious safety issues. Our certified technicians in Chico will perform a full brake‐system inspection, replace necessary components, and get you back on the road safely and quickly.

Cost differences often come down to labor rates, parts quality, and warranty coverage. At Affordable Automotive, we believe in fair, transparent pricing. You’ll always know what you’re paying for and why. We take the time to explain every estimate and use only trusted parts so you get value and reliability each visit.

It depends on the job:

• Oil changes and brake jobs: typically same day
• Diagnostics: depends on how complex the issue is
• Engine or transmission work: may take longer if special parts are required

We’ll always provide an upfront estimate and keep you updated. Our goal is to get you back on the road safely and efficiently, with as little downtime as possible.

Yes. All repairs at Affordable Automotive come with a warranty that gives you peace of mind long after you leave our shop. If something isn’t right, we’ll make it right. That’s our promise to every customer in Chico and the surrounding area.