Frequently Asked Questions

Aside from engine oil, many other fluids are vital to the health of your vehicle. Some examples include the transmission fluid, brake fluid, engine coolant, and power-steering fluid. Their levels are not only affected by how frequently you drive but extreme temperatures as well. As such, specialists advise checking them at the same time as your oil change or every month or two.

Typically, there are two filters in a vehicle. One is for the engine and the other is for the cabin. A dirty filter can prevent airflow, limiting the engine’s ability to expend hot air and inhibiting clean air from passing through. How often you need to change it varies, though the conventional timeframe is about 30,000 miles, which is why the best way to determine that it needs a replacement is to check it periodically. Fortunately, replacing a filter is a quick and easy process.

The standard battery is projected to last three to five years, but variables like hot and cold weather can influence its longevity, so it is best to keep an eye out for signs your battery power is declining. If your headlights and dashboard lights are starting to dim or if your vehicle has difficulty starting, these are clues that your vehicle may be due for a battery replacement.

The amount of pressure a tire requires depends on its type and the vehicle. You can find out the optimum air pressure either printed on the door jamb, the side wall of the tires, or in your owner’s manual. Too much pressure can make it difficult for you to maneuver your vehicle while too little pressure can result in a blow-out. You can always speak with a product expert to determine what pressure levels are most appropriate.

Engine oil not only loses its lubrication quality or viscosity over time, but it also collects acids and other by-products of combustion such as water. These substances are enemies of bearings, other metal surfaces, seals and gaskets. Even though oils are continuing to increase in lubrication quality, the substances in suspension do damage to the internal engine components.

Changing oil and filters on a 3-month or 3,000-mile schedule is “good insurance” against the possible damage that can occur. If the facility that is performing the oil change is inspecting the vehicle properly, you will save money by identifying a need before it becomes an emergency. It is always wise to make sure a certified technician is handling your vehicle.

Typically, they do not need a replacement for at least 60,000 miles under normal driving conditions. Replacing worn belts reduces the chance of breakdowns and the chance of damaging other components when they break and ensures that all belt-driven components operate normally. Replacing worn hoses reduces the chance of failure that could cause engine overheating, and allows for testing of the coolant.

It is best to have the differential and transfer case fluids replaced at the intervals recommended by the manufacturer under normal driving conditions. Under severe conditions, it may be advisable to have the fluids changed more often. The fluids in these units do become contaminated over time, and during normal use can lose their lubrication qualities.

It is best to have the transmission fluid flushed at the intervals recommended by the manufacturer under normal driving conditions. Under severe service, it may be advisable to have it flushed more often. Transmission fluid breaks down over time due to the extreme temperatures during operation. The idea is to replace the fluid before it looks dark or smells burned so the transmission can operate at its best. This will prolong the life of the transmission and head off costly repairs and inconvenience for you.