Let’s talk about the service schedules for a minute. And particularly, the scheduled services that are sometimes forgotten.
At Douglas Automotive Repair, we have a list of 10 service items that are often overlooked. They’re all very important and need appropriate attention. So here we go, in no particular order.
1. Power Steering Service
Be honest – have you ever thought of this on your own? Your power steering fluid gets dirty and builds-up moisture over time. Cleaning out your power steering system means that dirt and gum are removed and your power steering parts are protected from corrosion. Ask us if it’s time for a power steering check-up.
2. Wheel Alignment
When your wheels are out of alignment, your vehicle pulls to one side. It’s pretty annoying, but it’s also dangerous. And it causes your tires to wear out really fast! Most owner’s manuals suggest that drivers get their alignment checked once or twice a year.
3. Differential Service
Okay, did you even know you had a differential? Well you do. One, two or three in fact. Differentials are often called gear boxes and they’re part of the drive-train that transfers power from the engine to your wheels. They don’t need service that often, but drivers can’t just ignore them. Check with us at Douglas Automotive Repair.
4. Cabin Air Filter
More and more cars these days have cabin air filters to clean the air in the passenger compartment. They filter out dust and pollen. When they’re clogged up, they can get smelly. Change your cabin air filter on schedule to enjoy fresh, clean air, which can also help with allergies.
5. Timing Belt Replacement Most cars and some vans and trucks have timing belts. Without going into a lot of detail, let’s just say that your vehicle won’t run without it – period. And if it breaks while you’re driving, it can do thousands of dollars worth of engine damage. Check your owner’s manual or ask us at Douglas Automotive Repair if you’re unsure about when this service is due.
6. Transmission Service
Transmission service is very basic, but it’s often forgotten. Your transmission needs clean fluid from time to time to keep running efficiently and avoid repairs.
7. Air Conditioning Service
Most of us don’t think about our air conditioning until it doesn’t work. Then if you’re lucky, you just need to add refrigerant. If you’re not, some of the components may have been ruined. Those components are not cheap. Regular air conditioning service adds clean refrigerant which cools and lubricates your air conditioner and conditions the seals.
8. Brake Service No we’re not talking about squealing, grinding brakes here. We’re talking brake fluid. Over time the fluid gets a lot of water in it. Because water compresses differently than the brake fluid, your brakes won’t work as well. It may even get dangerous. The water can also rust out brake system components and then your brakes can fail altogether. Check with us for recommendations.
9. Coolant System
Another thing that’s so easy for people to forget about. When you don’t change your antifreeze on schedule, it becomes corrosive. Fresh coolant contains additives that maintain the ph balance in the coolant. These additives wear out and the fluid in the radiator can actually eat holes in the radiator or hoses. Then you’re stranded.
10. Fuel System Cleaning
Fuel gums up a bunch of parts as it moves from the gas tank and through the engine. A thorough fuel system cleaning will keep clean gas flowing into the engine. Your fuel injectors get gunked up over time and need to be cleaned. Having your fuel system cleaned on schedule will really help your fuel economy.
And there we have it – 10 services that are often overlooked. Did you know that a recent survey showed that 90% of vehicles on the road have at least one scheduled maintenance service that hasn’t been performed? Based on our busy lives, we’re not surprised.
Give us a call to schedule today!
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