Auto Care Tips
Car Repair Tips
How often should I have my vehicle’s OIL CHANGED?
We recommend you change the oil and the oil filter in a vehicle every 3 – 5 months or every – 5,000 kilometers, depending upon your driving habits. When you have your oil changed at Dwayne’s Auto, we do an inspection of your other systems to be sure they are in good working order. We’ll alert you to any problems we find and let you know if they need to be fixed right away, or if you just need to keep an eye on them.
How often should I have my TRANSMISSION SERVICED?
Manufactures recommend transmission service every 2 years or 30,000 kilometers.
Replacing an AIR FILTER can improve gas mileage
Replacing a clogged air filter can improve your car’s gas mileage by as much as 10%! We recommend having your air filter checked every time you have an oil change. At Dwayne’s Auto, we not only perform a visual inspection, we also use an air gun to see how restricted the air flow is, which allows us to determine if it’s time for a new filter or if you can wait awhile.
RIGHT TIRE PRESSURE = Better Gas Mileage
Maintaining proper tire inflation pressure can reduce tire wear and increase gas mileage.
Check your GAS CAP
Be sure your gas cap is on tightly and in good working order. About 17% of the vehicles on the road have gas caps that are either damaged, loose or missing, causing 147 million gallons of gas to vaporize every year. In some vehicles a loose gas cap can cause the Check Engine light to turn on.
COOLING SYSTEM can cause breakdowns in any weather
Cooling systems can cause problems in all seasons, not just hot weather. Cooling system failure is the #1 cause of mechanical breakdowns on Canadian highways according to the Canadian Department of Transportation. When you have your oil changed at Dwayne’s Auto, we always do an inspection of your other systems to be sure they are in good working order. We’ll alert you to any problems we find and let you know if they need to be fixed right away, or if you just need to keep an eye on them.
Why isn’t my AIR CONDITIONING cooling like it used to?
It could be as simple as needing more Freon. Being just a few ounces low could cause your air conditioning system not to cool properly.
Is REGULAR MAINTENANCE really important?
Many people neglect having regular service or those pesky warning lights, which can lead to accidents or unexpected, and often expensive, repairs. Scheduled maintenance, such as a routine oil change or manufacturer’s recommended service, can uncover issues before they escalate. What might be a very minor problem now can quickly grow into a very expensive and time consuming one if not attended to promptly by a skilled mechanic.
Checking BRAKES frequently saves money and lives
When it comes to vehicle safety, the top of list is your brake system. They need to be routinely inspected and repaired immediately should motorists suspect any problems. According to the Car Care Council, a properly operating brake system helps to ensure safe vehicle operation and control under a variety of conditions. However, many people are unaware of the signs and symptoms that their brake system may need maintenance or repair.
When BRAKES talk, drivers should listen
When it comes to driving safely, it’s easy to take your vehicle’s ability to stop for granted – until you really need it. Your brakes often reveal possibly serious situations when they make noise. Smooth, quiet braking is determined in large part by the proper fit and compatibility of the brake caliper, pad and rotor. Having a brake certified technician install premium parts may cost a bit more up front, but they help provide noise- and vibration-free operation and longer pad life on today’s cars and trucks.
Myth: Only New Car Dealers Can Do Warranty Service
It’s a common misconception that only dealership can perform maintenance services on a newer vehicle that is under warranty. By law, consumers can have maintenance services done by a local independent service shop without affecting the vehicle’s warranty, even though dealers and manufacturers often suggest otherwise.
How do I know if my BELTS need to be REPLACED?
There are two types of belts on your vehicle. One is a set of serpentine belts that take care of your power steering, alternator, air conditioning, compressor and fan. If the serpentine belt breaks, your vehicle could overheat, causing other problems. The serpentine belt should be inspected with every service and replaced when necessary.
A CLICKING NOISE can be more than just annoying
Clicking noises are not only annoying, they can be serious and should be acted upon immediately.
In most cases a clicking noise is telling you something has failed or is failing. A clicking sound can be caused by low voltage, meaning your alternator is not charging your battery or your battery is not putting out enough voltage causing your starter to click. In most cases the battery needs to be replaced. Some systems that can cause clicking noises include: suspension system failures, a failed cooling fan motor, loose lug nuts, loose brake calipers or brake pads, or drive shaft U joints. All of these systems need to be checked as soon as possible while some clicking sounds are actually natural occurrences such as fuel injectors.
CHECK VEHICLE LIGHTS every fall
The end of Daylight Savings Time happens in most parts of Canada in early November and creates unfamiliar driving conditions that can be hazardous without proper vehicle lighting. The Car Care Council recommends vehicle lights be checked before the clocks “fall back” to help ensure safe driving, especially during dusk and peak evening traffic hours.
DRIVING IN WINTER Takes Preparation
Walking in a winter wonderland is a beautiful sight but safely driving through the glistening snow can rattle your nerves if you and your car aren’t prepared for winter. Be sure to have your vehicle winterized before harsh weather arrives and especially before embarking on road trips for the winter holidays.
Going GREEN can help save the environment and your pocket book
Someday all of us may be driving pollution-free, hydrogen-powered cars. But what’s a concerned consumer to do in the meantime?
You don’t have to wait to help the environment. By simply changing a few habits, you can begin helping the environment right away. Regular vehicle maintenance and better driving habits are two easy-to-implement strategies for helping the environment. What’s more, better automotive habits will help your vehicle last longer and command a better resale price.
Call us today at Dwayne’s Auto Service and have a professional look at your car to make sure it is in tip top shape. A car in good running condition will always get you to where you want to go and we at Dwayne’s Auto Service will make sure to fix your car right the first time and get you on your way.
Call today for all your car repairs.
Dwayne’s Auto Service
51 Oak Street East
Leamington, ON N8H 2C3
519-322-2622
Open Monday through Friday 8:AM – 5:PM
