The manufacturer’s car maintenance schedule in the owner’s manual tells you what services your vehicle needs at regular intervals. These basic services are essential to keeping your vehicle in top shape and avoiding expensive repair costs down the road.
A well-maintained car is also more fuel-efficient, saving you money at the pump. And a well-maintained car is less likely to break down, saving you the hassle of being without transportation.
Oil is a crucial part of your car’s engine and needs to be changed regularly. Motor oil keeps moving parts lubricated, cools the engine, and helps it stay clean by removing harmful particles. If your car has an oil-change reminder or the onboard computer indicates it is time, listen to it and follow the schedule in your owner’s manual (or the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations).
During an oil change, your mechanic drains the old oil, then replaces it with new, clean oil according to your vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations. During this process, the mechanic will also change your car’s filter. If you prefer to do an oil change yourself, there are many options available. You can purchase conventional, high-mileage, synthetic blend, or full-synthetic motor oil from auto parts stores. Be sure to use a specialized oil-filter wrench and drain plug wrench, as well as a funnel and a pan to catch the used oil. You will also need a rag to wipe up any spilled oil. It’s important to dispose of used oil properly, either at a service station or a recycling center.
While you can top off your own oil between changes, the best way to keep your car in tip-top shape is to let an expert perform the task. Your dealer’s service department not only has the training and tools to do a quick and thorough job, but it is also familiar with your specific model and can advise you about other repairs or maintenance items that may be needed. The service department is also a great resource for information about open safety recalls that affect your vehicle. This can help prevent expensive repairs down the road.
Tires
The tires are the legs of your car, and they need to work well to get you where you want to go. Keeping them properly inflated, balanced, and rotating is a great way to extend their life and improve the performance of your vehicle.
Tire repairs or replacements are also common auto shop services and are an important part of a complete car service package. The mechanic can inspect your tires to make sure they are in good shape and, if needed, replace or repair them.
Having regular car service done is one of the best things you can do for your car. It will ensure that it runs at its optimum level and could even save you money on fuel. Additionally, if you ever plan on selling your car, having a full service history will add value.
The frequency of your car’s servicing will depend on your driving habits and the manufacturer’s recommendations. Most manufacturers recommend a service every 12 months, or 12,000 miles. However, if you drive a lot more than that, then you may want to consider an interim or major service instead.
Garages will often offer three different packages: interim, full, and major. The difference between them is the level of maintenance and inspection included. They will all include visual checks and manual tests of parts like the brakes and gearbox. They will also check the air conditioning and oil levels. However, the major service will have more extensive mechanical and electrical checks than an interim or full service.
Brakes
The brake system is one of the most important safety systems in your vehicle. The more you use the car, the more it requires regular brake maintenance. A quality brake inspection can detect problems before they cause serious stopping issues. Brake repair, replacement, and inspections all help to keep your car performing at its best and increase its resale value.
The most common type of brake service is a replacement of your car’s brake pads or shoes. These are the parts that generate friction to slow and stop your car in Gilbert, AZ. They are also consumable parts, meaning they wear down over time and need to be replaced.
Many cars today are fitted with brake pad wear indicators. These are small metal components that rub against the rotor when your pads wear down and create a high-pitched squeal to alert you of their condition. If you hear this squealing, make sure to take your car in for brake service soon.
There are no hard-and-fast rules on when you should have your car’s brakes repaired. However, it is a good idea to have a comprehensive brake inspection performed as part of your routine car service at least every two years or every 12,000 miles. This can reveal many potential problems, including a worn-out or damaged rotor, a loose brake drum, and more.
During a brake inspection, the service professional will check the level and condition of the brake fluid. If the fluid is low, they will add some. They may also inspect the brake fluid reservoir for leaks. They will also look for other brake issues like a shaky steering wheel, grinding noises, and more.
Check Engine Light
You’re driving down the road when, all of a sudden, your check engine light turns on. This is a universal symbol that your vehicle has detected a problem with one of its many systems. From a loose gas cap to a seriously misfiring engine, it’s important not to ignore this warning. Ignoring the light could result in more serious and expensive repairs down the road.
A qualified Sullivan Tire and Auto Service technician can connect a special diagnostic tool to your vehicle’s on-board computer system in order to read the code that turned on the check engine light. This will allow them to diagnose the exact problem that is causing the light to turn on.
The first step is usually to inspect your gas cap, spark plugs, mass air flow sensor, or catalytic converter for any problems that may have caused the check engine light to come on. A faulty gas cap, spark plugs, or mass air flow sensor can cause the car to lose power and fuel economy. In most cases, it’s recommended to replace the part that has gone bad.
Modern vehicles are built with a complex system of computers that monitor and control many aspects of the vehicle’s performance, from engine speed to ignition timing. These computers are also responsible for regulating things like the transmission’s automatic shift points.
As a result, when the check engine light comes on, it can be a very stressful time for drivers. Luckily, most issues that trigger the check engine light are relatively simple and inexpensive to fix. Getting these problems fixed can prevent the light from turning on again and help you pass state-mandated emissions tests or smog inspections.
Minor Service
The next level up in terms of regular maintenance is minor car services, which are carried out at a more frequent interval, around 10,000 km. Sometimes referred to as a “general” or “basic” service, it is an ideal option for those out of their logbook servicing schedule or who simply want to keep on top of their vehicle’s health.
This service checks all of your fluid levels, tops them up where necessary, and looks at the condition of your tires. Your technician will also inspect your exhaust, battery, cooling system, and transmission. In addition, they will check your tire pressure, test your tire tread depth, and rotate and balance your tires.
They will also conduct a safety inspection of your vehicle, checking all of the lights and sensors to ensure that they are in good working order. This is an important part of any service and will allow your technician to pick up any issues before they turn into bigger problems down the road.
Keeping your car up to date with its regular services is not only important for your vehicle’s health, but it will also save you money in the long run. If an issue is left unchecked, it can lead to more costly damage, repairs, and even a breakdown. Taking your vehicle in for regular service minimizes these risks, ensuring that you are safe and comfortable while driving on the road.
So when it comes time for your next car service, be sure to take a look at the many options available in your area. By finding a car service center that is convenient, provides excellent customer service, and offers competitive prices, you can rest assured that your vehicle is in good hands.
