Myth: Inflate tires to the pressure shown on the tire's sidewall. Reality: The pounds-per-square-inch figure on the side of the tire is the maximum pressure that the tire can safely hold, not the automaker's recommended pressure, which provides the best balance of braking, handling, gas mileage, and ride comfort. That figure is usually found on a door jamb sticker, in the glove box, or on the fuel-filler door. Perform a monthly pressure check when tires are cold or after the car has been parked for a few hours. Myth: If the brake fluid is low, topping it off will fix the problem. Reality: As brake pads wear, the level in the brake-fluid reservoir drops a bit. That helps you monitor brake wear. If the fluid level drops to or below the Low mark on the reservoir, then either your brakes are worn out or fluid is leaking. Either way, get the brake system serviced immediately. You should also get a routine brake inspection when you rotate the tires, about every 6,000 to 7,000 miles. Myth: If regular-grade fuel is good, premium must be better. Reality: Most vehicles run just fine on regular-grade (87 octane) fuel. Using premium in these cars won't hurt, but it won't improve performance, either. A higher-octane number simply means that the fuel is less prone to pre-ignition problems, so it's often specified for hotter running, high-compression engines. So if your car is designed for 87-octane fuel, don't waste money on premium. Myth: After a jump-start, your car will soon recharge the battery. Reality: It could take hours of driving to restore a battery's full charge, especially in the winter. That's because power accessories, such as heated seats, draw so much electricity that in some cars the alternator has little left over to recharge a run-down battery. A "load test" at a service station can determine whether the battery can still hold a charge. If so, some hours on a battery charger might be needed to revive the battery to its full potential. Myth: Let your engine warm up for several minutes before driving. Reality: That might have been good advice for yesteryear's cars but is less so today. Modern engines warm up more quickly when they're driven. And the sooner they warm up, the sooner they reach maximum efficiency and deliver the best fuel economy and performance. But don't rev the engine high over the first few miles while it's warming up. Myth: A dealership must perform regular maintenance to keep your car's factory warranty valid. Reality: As long as the maintenance items specified in the vehicle owner's manual are performed on schedule, the work can be done at any auto-repair shop. If you're knowledgeable, you can even do the work yourself. Just keep accurate records and receipts to back you up in case of a warranty dispute on a future repair. |
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unaware of how their vehicle's systems actually work. Although it is not important for drivers to completely understand these systems, it is important to have a basic understanding of the systems and components that have the greatest impact on safety, dependability and performance. Regular maintenance is the key to continued performance and safety, as well as protection from costly repairs. Below is a list of some of the important systems you should have serviced or inspected on a regular basis. Always refer to your vehicle's owner's manual for detailed recommended service intervals.
inspected as part of your routine service. Any sign of poor braking performance or noises should be addressed immediately. We recommend having your brakes checked every 15,000 Miles or once a year, whichever comes first. Also keep in mind, that brake fluid is just like every other fluid in your car and needs to be checked on a consistent basis.
program. Problems with your cooling system could lead to excessive engine wear. If cooling system problems are not addressed, it will lead to expensive repairs. Coolant should be flushed and changed every 2 years.
lead to poor fuel economy and performance. Any problems with this system in most cases turn on a check engine light.
regimen. Air and fuel filters should be examined on a regular basis and changed as required. We examine your air filter on every visit as part of our regular inspection.
You should also check engine coolant, transmission and power steering fluid, as well as brake fluid. We can customize a maintenance plan specific to your vehicle.
proper tire-to-road contact. Worn suspension components compromise steering control and may lead to premature tire wear.
fundamental component of safe driving, but also ensures optimum tire life. Damaged tires should be replaced immediately. We inspect your tires and tire pressure on every visit.
specified in your owner's manual. Worn spark plugs will result in poor engine performance and may cause excessive emission outputs.
windshield wiper blades will cause streaking that can impair visibility. Periodically walk around your vehicle to ensure all lights are working. This includes brake, tail, signal and headlights.
maintenance. The minor expense associated with regular service is by far, money well spent. A lack of maintenance will almost always ensure costly break downs. If you notice any problems with your vehicle, have a professional examine it. Small problems caught in time, could eliminate major and expensive repairs. |
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