Brake Service & Repair in Tempe, AZ

Brake Service & Repair

Your brakes are one of the most important safety systems on your vehicle. At American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission in Tempe, AZ, our ASE-certified technicians provide complete brake inspections, diagnostics, maintenance, and repair to help ensure your vehicle stops safely and confidently.

Whether you’re hearing a small squeak or experiencing a serious braking problem, our goal is to properly diagnose the cause before recommending repairs.

Complete Brake Inspection & Diagnosis

Brake problems aren’t always caused by worn brake pads. Our Tempe, AZ technicians inspect the complete braking system to determine what your vehicle actually needs.

Our brake services include:

  • Brake pad inspection and replacement
  • Brake rotor inspection, resurfacing, and replacement
  • Brake caliper inspection and replacement
  • Brake fluid testing and service
  • Brake hose and line inspection
  • Master cylinder diagnosis and replacement
  • ABS and brake warning light diagnostics
  • Parking brake inspection and repair
  • Complete brake system safety inspection

Don’t Ignore the Warning Signs

If your brakes are making noise, vibrating, pulling, or simply don’t feel right, have them inspected.

Your vehicle should stop as confidently as it starts.

Signs Your Brakes Need Attention

If you notice any of the following symptoms, it’s time to have your brakes inspected:

  • Squealing, scraping, or grinding noises
  • Pulsing or vibration when braking
  • Soft, spongy, or unusually hard brake pedal
  • Vehicle pulling to one side while braking
  • Longer stopping distances
  • Brake pedal traveling farther than normal
  • ABS or brake warning light illuminated
  • Burning smell after braking
  • Brake fluid leaking or repeatedly becoming low

More Than Just Brake Pads

Replacing brake pads without determining why they wore out can leave the real problem unresolved.

Our technicians evaluate the condition of the pads, rotors, calipers, brake fluid, hoses, hydraulic components, and related systems. We look for uneven wear, overheating, sticking calipers, fluid contamination, leaks, and other conditions that can affect braking performance.

We’ll show you what we find and explain what needs attention so you can make an informed decision about your vehicle.

Don’t wait for a minor brake problem to become a major repair. Worn brake components can affect other parts of the braking system and, most importantly, your ability to stop safely.

Your Dealer Alternative for Brake Service in Tempe

You don’t have to go to the dealership for professional brake service.

At American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission, you receive experienced technicians, professional diagnostic equipment, quality replacement parts, and straightforward recommendations—all from a locally operated repair facility that has been serving Tempe drivers for decades.

Maintain it. Protect it. Keep it longer.

American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission

ASE Certified Technicians • Complete Brake Repair • Diagnostics • Maintenance • Dealer Alternative

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Our Tempe Auto Repair Services

Transmission Repair

Transmission Repair

Suspension & Steering

Suspension & Steering

A/C Repair

A/C Repair

Brake Services

Brake Services

Regular Maintenance

Regular Maintenance

Gas & Diesel Engines

Gas & Diesel Engines

Protect Your Vehicle and Maximize Reliability

Following your vehicle’s factory maintenance schedule is one of the best ways to prevent breakdowns, maintain warranty coverage, and extend the life of your car. Learn why scheduled maintenance is essential for long-term vehicle performance and value.

Regular factory scheduled maintenance is critical for keeping your vehicle reliable, safe, and operating at peak performance. Following manufacturer-recommended service intervals helps prevent unexpected repairs, extend vehicle lifespan, and protect your investment.

At American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission, ASE Certified technicians perform comprehensive maintenance services based on your vehicle’s make, model, mileage, and driving conditions. Scheduled maintenance may include oil and filter changes, fluid services, computer diagnostics, brake inspections, suspension checks, transmission maintenance, cooling system service, tire rotations, filter replacements, battery testing, and complete vehicle safety inspections.

For vehicles still under factory warranty, adhering to the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule helps ensure warranty compliance while maintaining optimal performance and reliability.

By conducting thorough inspections and providing clear maintenance recommendations, American Five Star helps drivers plan for future service needs and avoid costly breakdowns. Regular maintenance not only improves reliability but also enhances vehicle value and longevity.

Proper wheel alignment is key to comfortable, safe and fuel efficient driving. If you feel your steering wheel shaking back and forth or if your car drifts or pulls to one side of the road or the other, it’s likely time for a wheel alignment. American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission can perform fast wheel alignment services that will maximize tire life, fuel efficiency and overall performance.

Pre-Purchase & Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspections in Tempe, AZ
Whether you are buying a used car or packing up for a long road trip, knowing the true condition of your vehicle gives you peace of mind. At American Five Star Transmission, our certified technicians provide comprehensive vehicle inspections to help you avoid costly breakdowns and make smart, informed decisions. 
Certified Pre-Purchase Used Car Inspections
Buying a used vehicle is a major investment, but hidden mechanical issues can quickly turn a good deal into an expensive mistake. Our detailed pre-purchase inspection provides an unbiased evaluation of the car’s current health. We provide you with a clear digital report outlining: 
    • Immediate Needs: Any critical safety issues or broken components that require urgent repair.
    • Upcoming Maintenance: Wearable items like brakes, tires, and fluids that will need attention in the near future.
    • Negotiating Leverage: A professional health check gives you the documentation you need to negotiate a fair buying price.

Comprehensive Pre-Trip Inspections 
Don’t let a preventable mechanical failure ruin your vacation. Our pre-trip inspection is designed to catch small issues before they turn into major roadside emergencies. Before you head out on a long journey, our team checks all vital systems, including: 
    • Fluid Levels & Quality: Inspecting engine oil, transmission fluid, coolant, and brake fluid.
    • Belts & Hoses: Checking for cracks, leaks, or signs of wear that could cause overheating.
    • Brakes & Tires: Ensuring adequate brake pad thickness, even tire wear, and correct tire pressure.
    • Battery & Charging System: Testing your battery health so you don’t get stranded far from home.

Drive with Confidence with American Five Star Transmission
    • Unbiased Evaluations: We do not sell cars, so our only priority is giving you an honest, objective look at the vehicle’s condition.
    • Transmission Specialists: We pay extra attention to the transmission and drivetrain—the most expensive components to fix if they fail.
    • Detailed Digital Reports: Receive an easy-to-read breakdown of our findings so you can plan your next steps.

Belt & Hose Replacement Services in Tempe, AZ
The rubber belts and hoses under your hood operate under extreme heat, constant vibration, and high pressure. Over time, this intense environment causes rubber to dry out, crack, and weaken.
If a belt snaps or a hose bursts while you are driving, it can lead to immediate engine failure and thousands of dollars in repairs.
At American Five Star Transmission, we provide expert inspection and replacement services to keep your engine running safely and reliably.

Keeping up with scheduled vehicle maintenance is the easiest way to protect your investment. At American Five Star Transmission, we provide comprehensive care to extend your car’s life by tens of thousands of miles.

From fast oil changes to precision tune-ups, our certified technicians ensure your vehicle runs smoothly, safely, and efficiently. 
Premium Oil Change Services
Regular oil changes prevent friction, reduce engine wear, and clear out harmful debris. Our full-service oil change is tailored to your vehicle’s specific manufacturer guidelines and includes: 
  • Premium Oil Options: Your choice of conventional, semi-synthetic, or high-mileage full synthetic oil.
  • Filter Replacement: Installation of a brand-new, high-quality oil filter.
  • Fluid Top-Offs: Checking and filling essential fluids under the hood.

Fuel Injector Repair & Service in Tempe, AZ

Faulty fuel injectors can lead to hard starts, poor fuel economy, rough idling, engine misfires, reduced power, and overall poor vehicle performance.

At American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission, our ASE-certified technicians use advanced diagnostic equipment to quickly identify fuel injector problems and recommend the right solution.

Whether your vehicle needs fuel injector cleaning, repair, or replacement, we’ll restore proper fuel delivery to help your engine run smoothly and efficiently. Ignoring fuel injector issues can lead to decreased performance and costly engine damage over time.

If you’re experiencing engine performance problems, check engine light concerns, or difficulty starting your vehicle, trust the experts at American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission. We’ll accurately diagnose the issue, perform the necessary repairs, and get you safely back on the road as quickly as possible.

Vehicle Diagnostics & Repair Services
If your check engine light is on, warning lights have appeared on your dashboard, or your vehicle just isn’t running like it should, the team at American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission is here to help.
Our Diagnostic Process: No Guesswork, Just Proof
We do not believe in guessing or replacing parts that aren’t needed. Our approach saves you time, money, and frustration by finding the root cause of the issue the first time.
  • Advanced Computer Diagnostics: Pinpointing hidden mechanical and electrical issues.
  • Factory-Level Scan Tools: Utilizing dealership-grade technology for precise error-code reading.
  • Digital Testing Equipment: Verifying system health with modern, accurate data tools.
  • ASE Certified Technicians: Ensuring your vehicle is handled by top-tier, industry-validated experts.

The American Five Star Transparency Promise
We believe you should always be in control of your auto repair decisions. Once our technical diagnosis is complete, we provide a fully transparent review:
  • See for Yourself: We bring you right into the shop to show you exactly what we found.
  • Plain English Explanations: We translate complex mechanical jargon into clear, everyday terms.
  • No Pressure, Clear Pricing: You receive honest recommendations and upfront costs so you can make the best choice for your budget and vehicle.

Professional Ignition Repair & Car Starting Diagnostics in Tempe.

Nothing is more frustrating than a car that will not start. If your engine is cranking slowly, stalling unexpectedly, or refusing to turn over, it may be time for professional ignition repair. 
At American Five Star Transmission, we use advanced diagnostic equipment to pinpoint the exact cause of your starting trouble and perform precise repairs to get you back on the road safely. 
Advanced Diagnostic Starting Checks
Ignition problems can stem from mechanical wear, electrical failures, or faulty electronic components. We perform a thorough system analysis to ensure an accurate fix the first time. We test and inspect: 
  • The Ignition Switch: Checking for worn mechanical components or loose internal wiring.
  • The Starter Motor: Testing electrical draw and mechanical engagement with the engine flywheel.
  • The Vehicle Battery: Measuring voltage and cold cranking amps (CCA) to ensure it holds a charge.
Once we identify the root cause of your starting issues, our certified mechanics deliver high-quality repairs using premium replacement parts.

Radiator Repair & Cooling System Service in Tempe, AZ 

An overheating engine can cause severe, irreversible damage to your vehicle in a matter of minutes. To protect your engine from extreme heat, your radiator and cooling system must remain in peak condition. 
At American Five Star Transmission, we provide comprehensive cooling system diagnostics, maintenance, and repairs. Whether you need a simple fluid flush or a complete radiator replacement, our certified technicians will keep your engine running cool. 

Exhaust System Repair & Catalytic Converter Service in Tempe, AZ

Your car’s exhaust system is one of its hardest-working components. It is responsible for directing toxic fumes away from the cabin, dampening engine noise, and converting harmful gasses into safer emissions. 
Driving with a damaged exhaust is a safety hazard and can cause your vehicle to fail state emissions testing. At American Five Star Transmission, we provide complete exhaust system diagnostics and repairs to keep your vehicle quiet, efficient, and safe. 
Signs You Need Exhaust or Catalytic Converter Repair
Exhaust issues rarely stay hidden. Bring your vehicle in for a professional inspection if you notice any of these common warning signs:
  • Loud Engine Noises: A deep rumbling, popping, or hissing sound, especially during acceleration, indicates a muffler or pipe leak. 
  • Check Engine Light: Modern vehicles use oxygen sensors to monitor exhaust efficiency; a fault often points to catalytic converter trouble.
  • Dropping Fuel Economy: A restricted or leaking exhaust system disrupts engine backpressure, causing your car to burn more gas. 
  • Vibrations & Shaking: A shaking gas pedal, steering wheel, or floorboard often signals a broken exhaust hanger or a severe system restriction. 
  • Pungent Odors: Smelling sulfur (a rotten egg smell) or heavy exhaust fumes inside the cabin is a dangerous sign of a failing catalytic converter or exhaust leak.

Complete Muffler, Exhaust, & Emission Services

We repair and replace all components of your vehicle’s emission network to ensure optimal performance. Our services include: 
  • Catalytic Converter Replacement: Installing high-quality, emissions-compliant converters to clear check engine lights and reduce pollution.
  • Muffler & Resonator Repair: Replacing rusted or damaged mufflers to eliminate loud exhaust noise and restore quiet operation.
  • Exhaust Manifold & Pipe Service: Fixing cracked manifolds and leaking pipes to prevent toxic carbon monoxide from entering your car.
  • Oxygen (O2) Sensor Replacement: Swapping out faulty sensors to restore proper air-fuel ratios and maximize your miles per gallon (MPG).

Improve Safety, Comfort, and Vehicle Control

Your vehicle’s steering and suspension systems are essential for safe handling, ride comfort, and overall driving performance. Learn the warning signs of steering and suspension problems and why timely repairs can prevent costly damage.

The steering and suspension systems work together to provide stability, control, and a smooth ride. If your vehicle pulls to one side, feels unstable, produces clunking noises over bumps, or experiences loose or stiff steering, these are signs that professional inspection may be needed.

At American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission, ASE Certified technicians diagnose and repair a wide range of steering and suspension components, including steering racks, tie rods, ball joints, control arms, shocks, struts, sway bars, bushings, and power steering systems. Whether your vehicle uses hydraulic or electric power steering technology, proper diagnosis is essential for safe and accurate repairs.

Delaying steering or suspension repairs can lead to uneven tire wear, compromised handling, reduced braking performance, and more expensive repairs in the future. A comprehensive inspection can identify worn or damaged components before they affect vehicle safety and reliability.

Diesel Engine Diagnostics, Repair & Replacement Services

From advanced diesel diagnostics to complete engine replacements, American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission provides expert diesel engine repair services backed by ASE-certified technicians, factory-level diagnostic equipment, and a nationwide warranty.

Diesel engines are built for power, durability, and performance, but when problems arise, accurate diagnosis is critical. American Five Star Auto Repair & Transmission specializes in diagnosing and repairing diesel engine issues for light, medium, and heavy-duty diesel vehicles using factory-level diagnostic tools and ASE-certified technicians.

Common diesel engine problems include clogged fuel injectors, turbocharger failures, blown head gaskets, electrical system faults, cooling system issues, and performance-related drivability concerns. Through advanced testing and diagnostic procedures, technicians identify the root cause of engine problems before recommending repairs, helping vehicle owners avoid unnecessary costs.

When severe engine damage or catastrophic failure occurs, American Five Star offers complete diesel engine rebuilds and replacements.

Services include:

  • removing the damaged engine
  • evaluating associated systems
  • installing high-quality replacement or remanufactured engines

Critical systems such as cooling, exhaust, fuel delivery, and electronics are properly inspected and calibrated to ensure long-term reliability, performance, and towing capability.

To provide additional peace of mind, diesel engine services are backed by a nationwide 24-month/24,000-mile warranty, helping customers protect their investment and maintain confidence on the road.

Auto Repair Services in Tempe, AZ | American Five Star
Auto Repair Services in Tempe, AZ
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Call us if you have any vehicle issues and don’t know where to turn.