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Frequently Asked Questions

  • Oil Changes
  • Suspension
  • Brakes And Rotors
  • Fluid Flushes
  • General Diagnostics
  • How often should I get an oil change?
    Most vehicles require an oil change every 3,000 to 5,000 miles for conventional oil or 7,500 to 10,000 miles for synthetic oil. However, always follow your vehicle manufacturer's recommended schedule found in your owner's manual.
  • What happens if I don’t change my oil regularly?
    Old or dirty oil can cause increased engine wear, reduced performance, and even complete engine failure over time. Regular oil changes keep your engine lubricated and running efficiently.
  • What type of oil does my car need?
    The correct oil type (conventional, synthetic blend, or full synthetic) and viscosity (e.g., 5W-30) depend on your vehicle’s make and model. This information is typically found in the owner’s manual or on the oil cap.
  • Can I switch between conventional and synthetic oil?
    Yes, you can switch between conventional and synthetic oil. Synthetic oil offers better performance and protection, especially in extreme temperatures or high-mileage engines.
  • How long does an oil change take?
    An oil change usually takes 20 to 45 minutes, depending on the vehicle and if additional maintenance is performed during the visit.
  • What are the signs I need an oil change?
    Common signs include dark or dirty oil, engine noise or knocking, the oil change light or check engine light coming on, or if it’s been a long time or high mileage since your last change.
  • What does my vehicle’s suspension system do?
    The suspension system supports vehicle weight, absorbs road shocks, and helps maintain tire contact with the road for safe handling and a smooth ride.
  • How do I know if my suspension needs maintenance or repair?
    Common signs include a rough or bouncy ride, uneven tire wear, nose-diving when braking, pulling to one side, or clunking noises when going over bumps.
  • How often should I have my suspension system checked?
    It’s a good idea to have your suspension inspected at least once a year or every 12,000 miles, and anytime you notice unusual handling or noises.
  • What parts are typically replaced in a suspension repair?
    Common components include shocks, struts, control arms, bushings, ball joints, sway bar links, and tie rods, depending on wear and the specific issue.
  • Can I drive with a bad suspension?
    Driving with a worn or damaged suspension can be dangerous. It affects handling, braking, and tire wear, and can lead to further damage if not addressed promptly.
  • What causes suspension components to wear out?
    Normal wear and tear, potholes, rough roads, heavy loads, and lack of regular maintenance are common causes of suspension damage.
  • How often should I replace my brake pads and rotors?
    Brake pads typically need replacing every 25,000 to 70,000 miles, while rotors can last up to 70,000 miles or more. However, driving habits, vehicle type, and road conditions can affect these intervals.
  • What are the signs that my brakes need attention?
    Common signs include squeaking or grinding noises, a soft or spongy brake pedal, vibrations when braking, longer stopping distances, or a brake warning light on the dashboard.
  • Can I just replace the brake pads without replacing the rotors?
    Sometimes, yes. If the rotors are still within the manufacturer’s thickness specification and are not warped or damaged, they can be resurfaced or reused. Otherwise, replacing both is recommended for optimal performance.
  • What causes rotors to warp or wear unevenly?
    Warping is often caused by excessive heat from heavy braking or riding the brakes. Uneven wear can also result from poor-quality parts, improper installation, or sticking calipers.
  • Why do my brakes squeak?
    Squeaking can be due to worn brake pads, lack of lubrication on the caliper contact points, moisture, or high-performance pads that make noise even when functioning properly.
  • How can I make my brakes last longer?
    Avoid hard braking when possible, don't overload your vehicle, have your brakes inspected regularly, and replace pads before they’re completely worn to prevent rotor damage.
  • What is a fluid flush, and why is it important?
    A fluid flush involves completely draining and replacing old fluid (like transmission, coolant, brake, or power steering fluid) to remove contaminants and keep systems running smoothly and efficiently.
  • How often should I get fluid flushes done?
    It depends on the fluid type and your vehicle. Coolant is typically flushed every 30,000–60,000 miles, transmission fluid every 30,000–100,000 miles, brake fluid every 2–3 years, and power steering fluid every 50,000–75,000 miles. Always check your owner’s manual for specifics.
  • What are the signs I need a fluid flush?
    Dirty or discolored fluid, unusual noises, poor system performance (e.g., slipping transmission or soft brake pedal), or manufacturer-recommended intervals are common indicators.
  • Can I just top off fluids instead of getting a flush?
    Topping off adds fluid but doesn’t remove old, contaminated fluid. A full flush ensures harmful deposits and debris are cleared out, which helps protect your vehicle’s systems.
  • Is a fluid flush the same as a fluid change?
    No. A fluid change replaces only part of the old fluid (like draining a portion of transmission fluid), while a flush replaces all of it, including what’s in lines and components, for a more thorough service.
  • What happens if I skip recommended fluid flushes?
    Skipping fluid flushes can lead to system overheating, corrosion, premature wear, and potential failure of components like the radiator, transmission, or brake system.
  • What is a vehicle diagnostic service?
    A diagnostic service uses specialized tools to scan your vehicle’s onboard computer for error codes and system data to identify issues with the engine, transmission, brakes, and other components.
  • When should I get a diagnostic check?
    You should get a diagnostic check if your check engine light is on, you notice strange noises, decreased performance, poor fuel economy, or just to stay ahead of potential issues during routine maintenance.
  • What can a diagnostic test detect?
    It can detect problems with the engine, transmission, exhaust system, sensors, ignition coils, fuel injectors, and other key components—often before they cause major damage.
  • How long does a diagnostic test take?
    A basic diagnostic scan usually takes 30 to 60 minutes. However, deeper troubleshooting for complex issues may take longer depending on the symptoms and systems involved.
  • Do I need a diagnostic test even if there are no warning lights?
    Yes, especially if you’re experiencing performance issues or strange sounds. Some problems don’t trigger a warning light right away but can still be detected during a diagnostic inspection.
  • Is a diagnostic test the same as a repair?
    No. A diagnostic test identifies the issue, but repairs are a separate service. Once the problem is found, your mechanic will recommend the necessary repairs or parts replacement.
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