Q: Is it really necessary to have auto services performed as frequently as my owner’s manual says?
A: The safest bet is to follow the recommendations you find in the maintenance section of your vehicle owner's manual regarding auto services for your
vehicle. Regular maintenance typically includes an oil change every 3,000 miles. This also provides the opportunity to make other checks including
transmission, radiator, brakes, battery and air conditioning system. It is always better to prevent problems rather than fix them.
Q: How frequently do my vehicle's tires need to be rotated?
A:T ire rotation is usually recommended every 5,000 to 10,000 miles. Scheduled tire rotation is an important maintenance step that will prolong tire life.
An inspection of the treads will indicate the best tire positioning to promote even wear. Tire rotation pattern is determined based the type of vehicle. A
front wheel drive car, for example, may not have the same rotation as a 4-wheel drive vehicle. Manufacturers have their own vehicle guidelines, so it is
recommended that you refer to your owner's manual for tire rotation recommendations.
Q: How regularly should I get a wheel alignment?
A: A wheel alignment check should be part of your regular maintenance plan. Check your owner's manual for specific recommendations. If your vehicle is
pulling to one side or if you notice unusual tread wear on a certain area of your tires, this could also signal the need for a wheel alignment. If you have
recently been involved in a collision, that is also a reason to get a wheel alignment.
Q: For oil changes, is it better to go by time between service appointments or mileage?
A: Every 3 months or 3,000 miles, whichever comes first, is usually the standard. Of course, your owner’s manual should be your ultimate authority for any
auto service. Many things may contribute to how often you’ll need an oil change, such as the way you drive, the oil you select, and the vehicle. Oil breaks
down over time, so it is important to not go too long between oil changes, no matter what the mileage on your vehicle.
Q: Do under inflated tires have an impact on gas mileage?
A: Since under inflated tires have to work against increased rolling resistance, the engine has to then work harder and use more fuel. Research shows that
correctly inflated tires can improve gas mileage.
Q: Is it okay to fix tires or should compromised tires be replaced?
A: Repairing a damaged tire can be perfectly find, depending on the nature of the damage. The age of the tires, the angle of the puncture, and the location
of the damage can also affect whether or not a repair may safely fix the tire. When punctures happen between the treads or a straight angle, they are
usually easier to plug.
Q: Are there ways I can get my vehicle for winter driving?
A: While winter weather produces hazardous road conditions, extreme cold can also affect vehicle performance. Prepare for winter driving by:
- If your area has a lot of snow and ice, have winter tires installed
- Have your vehicle inspected to check brakes, fluid levels, wipers, etc.
- Make sure tires have proper tread depth and inflation
- Have your battery tested before winter
- Make sure you have a set of jumper cables in the car
Q: What are the differences between winter tires and all season tires?
A: Winter tires have features that are specifically helpful for driving in cold and ice. They remain pliable at low temperatures and are developed to
provide handing and grip on icy road surfaces. All-season tires provide traction in a variety of milder weather conditions and have reinforced sidewalls to
keep tire shoulders on the road.
Q: Are wheel balancing and wheel alignment the same?
A: Wheel balancing and wheel alignment are not the same. Both of these services are necessary for proper tire maintenance. Wheel balancing and wheel
alignment usually checked when the vehicle begins to exhibit problems. Wheel balance issues are usually indicated by heavy vibration. Wheel alignment
issues are indicated by the vehicle pulling to one side, or by rapid or uneven tread wear. A vehicle showing any of these signs should have the wheel
alignment and wheel balance checked. An adjustment can pervent serious tire damage.