Working Hours
  • Mon 8:00AM - 5:00PM
    Tue 8:00AM - 5:00PM
  • Wed 8:00AM - 5:00PM
    Thu 8:00AM - 5:00PM
  • Fri 8:00AM - 5:00PM
    Sat Closed
  • Sun Closed
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805-375-3117 | 300 Giant Oak Avenue unit A Newbury Park, CA 91320

Auto Electrical Repair & Maintenance

Comprehensive Auto Electrical Repair and Maintenance Services

Have a dead battery? Misfiring starter or alternator? For all of your auto electric repair and maintenance needs, come to Giant Oak Automotive in Newbury Park, CA. We service your vehicle with care, providing a high level of workmanship you can trust.

Our auto electrical repair and maintenance services include:

Alternators
An alternator is a crucial automotive component responsible for converting mechanical energy into electric energy (alternating current). It plays a pivotal role in your vehicle's engine, and any malfunction can result in your car's breakdown. If you encounter issues with your car's alternator, it is imperative to seek expert assistance.

Batteries
The battery is the powerhouse that supplies electrical energy to vital automotive systems such as the ignition system, starter motor, and lights. If you find yourself needing a jump-start to kickstart your vehicle in the morning, it may be a sign that your battery is deteriorating. Depending on the extent of damage, a failing battery can either be repaired or replaced. If you are experiencing battery-related issues, do not hesitate to contact us in Newbury Park, CA. We offer convenient battery testing and replacement services, designed to swiftly get you back on the road. From battery replacement and charging to installation, testing, and recycling, we cover it all.

Starters
The starter serves as the motor, whether electric, hydraulic, or pneumatic, responsible for initiating the operation of your internal combustion engine. Starters are vital components within your car's engine, and any malfunction can lead to your vehicle's failure to start. In the event of starter problems, it is crucial to seek professional assistance. Our team of experts is well-equipped to handle all your starter-related needs efficiently, ensuring you can resume your journey promptly. Visit Giant Oak Automotive today for expert starter services.


Battery FAQs


What are mistakes made when jumping a car?

Mixing up negative and positive cables is the most common mistake. When you mix up the negative and positive cable it ruins your car's alternator. Just remember black to negative and red to positive. Other common mistakes are using cheap cables that don't conduct properly, letting the cables swing and become detached, touching the clips together, and ignoring cracks in your battery or dirty battery terminals.

What should I be careful of when changing a car battery?

It may sound obvious but be sure that you do not drop the battery. Be careful not to let the tools touch both the negative and positive terminals simultaneously, as it could create a spark, cause the battery to short out, or even damage the vehicle's electrical components.

Make sure to separate the cables to the side so that they don't touch the battery until it is in place. Attach the negative cable first and then the positive cable. If have any doubts while you are trying to change your battery you should always call in an expert.

How do I replace my car battery without losing car memory?

Use a car memory saver or other secondary power source. If you don't own a car memory saver, come to Giant Oak Automotive and we can do this process for you. First, make sure to turn off your car before you unplug the battery. Next, plug the car memory saver into the cigarette lighter or the OBD2 connector. Remove the old battery and install the new battery and attach the connectors. Finally, unplug the memory saver from the car.

Why is my engine stalling after replacing my car battery?

If your car lost battery power completely then your car's computer system may have lost valuable information to regulate engine performance causing it to stall even after you replace the battery.

However, the car's system will quickly collect new data and engine performance should return to normal. In some case you may need to have the throttle body, or your idle air control valve cleaned out as carbon deposits can build up inside these parts, pushing them beyond the computer's ability to regulate engine performance.

Car Starting FAQs


How do I unlock my steering wheel?

Place your foot on the brake and turn the wheel in the direction in which it has a little range of motion. This should ease the tension in the steering column and allow you to turn the key. Turning the key unlocks the steering wheel. Do not try to unlock your steering wheel without a key or if the battery is dead. This should only be done by a professional auto repair technician.

How do I change my keyless entry remote battery?

This should work for most remotes:

  1. Remove the metal blade key from the remote.
  2. Use a standard (flat head) screwdriver to gently pry open the fob.
  3. Remove the battery. It is usually a small round lithium watch battery.
  4. Insert a new battery.
  5. Snap the key fob back together.
  6. Insert the metal blade key into the fob.

What does a dead starter sound like?

Clicking noises upon turning the key are a classic sign of starter failure. However, this isn't the only clue. A dying starter might remain completely silent or offer subtle warnings through whirring or grinding sounds before finally giving up the ghost.

Why won't my car start?

The most common reason why a car will not start is a bad or dead battery. However, there are several other possibilities too. If you are having trouble getting your vehicle started, give Giant Oak Automotive a call at 805-375-3117. Our auto repair professionals will try to help you diagnose the issue, which could be one of these problems:

  • Failing alternator
  • Starter motor
  • Ignition switch malfunction
  • Bad spark plugs
  • Cracked distributor cap
  • Broken timing belt

Headlight FAQs


What are the 3 situations where headlights are required?

First, you should make sure both of your headlights are in good working order before driving your car. Headlights must be in use from sunset to sunrise.

Secondly, headlights are also necessary when you cannot see more than 400 feet in front of you. You should also use your car's headlights whenever windshield wipers are in use.

Thirdly, some studies have shown that when drivers elect to always drive with their headlights on it can reduce automobile accidents.

Do parking lights and turn signals use the same bulb?

Yes, your car uses the same bulb for the front turn signal and parking lights. Side bulbs are located on the inside of the wheel wells. All lights on your car will eventually burn out and need to be replaced.


To learn more about our Electrical services, call us at 805-375-3117 or request a quote by clicking below:


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What Our Customers Are Saying

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I cracked a cylinder head in my engine in my beloved 4Runner after initially thinking it was just a clamp accidentally left on my fuel line after a smog check elsewhere. Mike is so honest and his prices are so fair and reasonable and he even gave me a ride home and dropped me off. He also straightened out my license plate for free. What a guy!!!

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This is the best place to take your vehicle for repairs. Mike is a straight shooter and made the process of dealing with my warranty company very simple and stress free. He was very responsive and kept me well informed throughout the process. I strongly recommend this place for any auto repairs you need!

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My wife and I have been taking our vehicles to Mike at Giant Oak Automotive for over 20 years. During that time Mike and his crew have consistently provided excellent service at very fair prices. He is honest, hard-working, knowledgeable, and will go the extra mile to get the job done, often without charging extra. I would recommend his shop without hesitation for anyone needing a reliable mechanic.

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Excellent service and the person that helped me was so helpful and honest. I will be going back to this mechanic from now on. Thank you for your help and for easing my mind by taking good care of me and my car.

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I did my homework...received quotes from two other local shops. I ended up here and what a great decision that was. Mike is such a great guy! His prices are more than fair and work and work ethics A+. Come to find out, my two brothers and nephew already use Giant Oak as their go to mechanic. You know the feeling when you really know you have found an honest mechanic...This is the place and Mike is the man!

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Best place in the world. Mike is a gem, honest, knowledgeable and a hellava,nice guy. This is the place for your car, they will not sell or fix anything that doesn't need fixing. Just like the old days, good price, great work.

  • ASE (Automotive Service Excellence)
  • Auto Value - CSC
  • BBB (Better Business Bureau)
  • BG Products
  • Enterprise
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  • Car Care Aware
  • Call Us For Service: 805-375-3117