FAQ’s
Why use synthetic oils?
Synthetic oils offer superior protection for your engine, particularly in the extremely cold temperatures we face in the winter months. Easier engine starting also helps prolong battery and starter life.
What is preventative maintenance and how does it improve the life of my car?
Preventative maintenance is work done to vehicles before there is a problem with the vehicle. Having preventative maintenance done to your vehicle can usually help to reduce the effects of normal wear and tear. Having routine maintenance done to your vehicle on a regular basis can also spot small problems before they become big (and usually more expensive) problems.
What are the recommended points of mileage to perform various services?
Mileage intervals for service vary greatly from 3,000 miles for engine oil changes to 120,000 miles for gearbox oil changes. These intervals vary greatly between vehicle makes and models. Your owner’s manual should indicate mileage intervals for your particular vehicle. Our lube techs can also answer these questions upon arrival or over the phone.
What does oil do for my car?
Your engine oil performs many different functions. Most people know that oil lubricates the moving parts of the engine, but it also helps to cool the engine. Your motor oil helps keep the engine clean by holding dirt particles in suspension until they can be drained out at your next oil change.
Where are the differentials and how do I know if I have one on my car?
Differentials (also referred to as pumpkins, boxes or cases) are basically a housing for gears that take power generated from the engine and send it to the wheels. Most rear wheel drive, all wheel drive, and 4wheel drive vehicles have a differential of some sort (although different manufactures may call them by different names). Front wheel drive vehicles have a gearbox (often called a transaxle) which will act in a similar way.
Do I have to prepare my vehicle for winter driving? If I do how do I do it?
Yes, it is important to have your vehicle in good shape for the winter.
While the colder weather can be harder on your vehicle, the same basic maintenance for the summer can be applied for winter driving. Good clean oil is important and while some vehicles may use a lighter viscosity of oil in the winter, most vehicles today can run a viscosity of 5w-30 or 5w-20 motor oil year round (check your owner’s manual to verify the viscosity for the temperatures that you will be driving in).
While a change in viscosity may not be necessary, switching to synthetic oil may be a worthwhile choice. To prepare your vehicle for winter make sure that your oil and other fluids are in good shape, your coolant is rated for the proper temps, and check your belts and hoses. Also check the condition of the battery.
