When your car starts making a strange noise or the check engine light comes on, your first thought is usually, “Do I need to get this looked at right away, and how much is this going to cost?” At Total Automotive in Buffalo, NY, we hear these concerns every day, and we’re here to provide real answers you can trust.
Whether it’s a brake repair, NYS inspection, or strange engine noise, this guide walks you through the most common questions local drivers ask our ASE Blue Seal Certified team. Backed by real conversations and years of experience, these insights will help you feel confident about your car, and your choice of mechanic.
Not sure what to expect when visiting a mechanic? This guide answers the most common questions we hear from drivers across Buffalo, Tonawanda, Kenmore, and Amherst. Backed by real experience, we’ll help you understand your vehicle, your repair options, and why Total Automotive is one of Western New York’s most trusted names in auto repair.
1. “Can You Tell Me What’s Wrong With My Car Before I Bring It In?”
We get this one a lot, and we get it. Everyone wants a quick answer. But in truth, there’s no way to know exactly what’s wrong without a comprehensive vehicle diagnostic.
At Total Automotive, every repair starts with a custom Digital Vehicle Inspection (DVI). Our ASE Blue Seal Certified team uses state-of-the-art tools, including OEM scan tools for GM, Ford, and Chrysler, to provide a detailed overview of your vehicle’s condition.
Pro Tip: Avoid shops that diagnose over the phone without inspecting your vehicle. That often leads to misdiagnosis and wasted time and money.
2. “Do You Work on My Type of Car?”
Most customers are relieved to hear: Yes, we do.
At Total Automotive, we service all major domestic brands, especially GM, Ford, and Chrysler, as well as Asian models like Toyota, Honda, and Hyundai. We also offer limited services for hybrids and EVs, and our advanced scan tools and programming capabilities allow us to handle modern systems with ease.
3. “Can I Wait for My Vehicle or Do I Have to Drop It Off?”
We accommodate both! If your service is quick, like a brake repair, oil change, or NYS inspection, you’re welcome to stay in our waiting room. It’s clean, comfortable, and equipped with free WiFi, beverages, and even veteran discounts as a thank-you to those who’ve served.
For more complex jobs, like an engine replacement or car diagnostics session, we recommend a drop-off. Either way, we’ll keep you in the loop with updates and visuals from your DVI, so you’re never left wondering what’s going on with your vehicle.
4. “Do You Do New York State Inspections?”
Yes, we are a certified NYS inspection station serving Buffalo and the surrounding areas. We provide both safety and emissions testing and can flag any concerns that might prevent your car from passing.
Tip: Schedule early, especially near the end of the month when appointment slots tend to fill up quickly. If we catch any issues during the inspection, we’ll walk you through your options clearly and respectfully.
5. “Do You Offer Towing If My Car Breaks Down?”
Absolutely. If you’re stuck on the side of the road and looking for a reliable towing service in Buffalo, NY, we can help coordinate the tow and prioritize your car once it arrives. Our goal is to get you off the roadside and back on the road as quickly and safely as possible.
We understand how stressful a breakdown can be, and we’re here to take some of that weight off your shoulders, starting with clear communication and trustworthy care.
6. “What’s Covered Under Your Warranty?”
We proudly stand behind our work with a 24-month/24,000-mile TechNet warranty that covers both parts and labor on qualifying repairs. This means that whether we’re fixing your suspension, replacing your brakes, or performing in-depth diagnostics, your investment is protected.
Need help with the cost? We also offer flexible financing options, including Synchrony (6 months same as cash), Koalafi, and remote payments via 360, making it easier to get critical repairs done without delay.
7. “Why Do I Need a Diagnostic If I Just Want One Thing Fixed?”
Because what seems simple often isn’t. A squealing brake might be worn pads, or it could be rotors, calipers, or even a suspension issue that’s affecting how the brake system performs. Without a proper diagnosis, you risk guessing at the problem and potentially missing the real cause.
That’s why we always recommend starting with a thorough inspection. At Total Automotive, our diagnostics aren’t just about reading codes, they’re about understanding the full picture of your vehicle’s health. Our ASE-certified techs use OEM-level scan tools and hands-on testing to uncover the root cause, not just the symptoms. It’s the difference between a temporary fix and a long-term solution you can count on.
8. “Do You Do Alignments and Tire Work?”
Yes, and with equipment most shops don’t have. Our Autel extended rack alignment machine allows us to perform precise alignments on everything from daily drivers to larger trucks and small RVs, a big advantage for drivers with oversized vehicles.
We also sell and install Mastercraft tires, repair flats, and perform rotations and balancing. Whether you’re noticing uneven tire wear or just want a smoother ride, we’ll get your alignment and tire setup dialed in.
9. “What Makes You Different from Other Auto Repair Shops in Buffalo?”
We say: “All roads lead to Total Automotive.” Here’s why:
- Advanced services like ADAS calibration and diesel fuel injection cleaning
- ASE Blue Seal Certified team
- Nominated for the Buffalo Business Ethics Award
- Every job starts with a DVI and ends with confidence
We don’t chase the lowest price, we deliver the most value.
10. “Do You Work with Fleets or Businesses?”
Yes! We provide fleet maintenance services for local businesses, service vehicles, and even traveling professionals who rely on their cars every day. We understand the importance of uptime, so we work efficiently and communicate clearly.
We also offer pre-trip inspections (great before a family road trip) and pre-purchase inspections for anyone buying a used car. These extra steps can save you thousands and give you confidence in your investment.
Here’s What You Can Always Expect from Total Automotive:
- Transparent pricing and digital inspections
- Friendly, expert staff with real-world experience
- Full-service care for diagnostics, maintenance, and major repairs
- Financing options that work for real families
- Comfortable amenities while you wait
Most Requested Services:
Here are the services our customers ask for most often because they know they’ll get expert-level work and honest, transparent communication every time. These aren’t just popular for convenience, they’re essential to keeping your vehicle safe, reliable, and running at its best.
- Brake repair & suspension work: From brake pads and rotors to full suspension diagnostics, we make sure your car stops safely and rides smoothly, especially during Buffalo’s pothole season.
- NYS inspections: As a certified inspection station, we handle New York State safety and emissions tests efficiently. If something needs attention, we’ll explain why and show you what we found.
- Check engine light diagnostics: That warning light could mean dozens of things from a loose gas cap to a serious engine issue. Our technicians use advanced OEM-level diagnostic tools to pinpoint the cause.
- Engine replacement: When repair isn’t enough, we offer full engine replacements using reliable parts and manufacturer-level installation standards, backed by our 24-month/24,000-mile warranty.
- ADAS calibrations: After a collision or windshield replacement, your vehicle’s safety systems need recalibration. Our specialized ADAS equipment ensures your lane assist, adaptive cruise, and other features work exactly as they should.
- Diesel injection cleaning: We’re the only shop in the area with the equipment to properly clean diesel fuel injectors, improving performance, fuel efficiency, and long-term reliability for diesel drivers.
- Tires and alignments: We carry quality brands like Mastercraft and perform precision alignments with our extended Autel rack, perfect for standard vehicles and even small RVs or larger trucks.
Ready to Book? Let’s Get You Taken Care Of.
Whether you need a quick NYS inspection, help with a check engine light, or a full brake job, Total Automotive is here to make the process simple and stress-free. Our experienced team delivers honest answers, expert repairs, and real value, no guesswork, no pressure.
From diagnostics and tires to ADAS calibrations and engine replacement, we’ve got the tools and training to handle it all. We’ll keep you informed every step of the way, so you can make confident choices about your vehicle.
You can visit us at 2183 Sheridan Dr, Buffalo, NY 14223, call us at 716-834-2296, or schedule your appointment online anytime through our AutoOps tool.
Let’s get your car running right. Book your visit with Total Automotive today.
