You have automotive questions, and we have answers! Check out the most common auto-related questions and answers we're often asked below.
1. Do I need to make an appointment for service?
A: We encourage scheduling an appointment ahead of time -- but we’ll always try to help in a pinch if we can! To schedule an appointment online click HERE.
2. My check engine light is on, what do I do?
A: If the check engine light is on but not flashing, schedule an appointment to have a diagnostic performed to identify the cause of the issue (if any). If the check engine light is blinking and/or the vehicle is not functioning normally, we recommend you do not operate the vehicle and call us to get your vehicle towed into the shop for diagnosis, an estimate, and if approved - the required repair(s).
3. My car is pulling to one side, what do I do?
A: In most cases, a vehicle pulling to one side is the symptom of tire wear, worn tires, or incorrect wheel alignment. When left unchecked, it can cause severe damage to other components and become a costly ordeal.
We service all tire and wheel alignment services, book an appointment, and our team will identify the concern, provide the estimate, and if approved - resolve the problem.
4. How often do I need a wheel alignment?
A: We recommend your wheel alignment be checked at least twice per year and performed at least once a year as a preventative maintenance measure for your vehicle. A minor misalignment, if left unresolved, can easily lead to premature tire wear and costly repair bills.
5. How often should I have my brakes checked?
A: We recommend checking your brakes every 6 months or 5,000 miles. Our technicians will perform a free visual inspection with the mention of this blog post and show you the state of your brake components.
6. How often should I change my oil?
A: If your vehicle uses conventional oil, you should have it replaced every 3 months or 3,000 miles. If your vehicle uses full synthetic oil, you should have it replaced every 6 months or 5,000 miles.
7. My car is overheating, what do I do?
A: The most common causes for vehicle overheating are related to your antifreeze and/or cooling systems. Fortunately, our technicians will quickly identify the problem and resolve it for you. In the meantime, it is best for you to turn off any air conditioning and instead turn on the heater. By doing this, it will help remove heat from the engine.
8. Do you provide vehicle towing?
A: Yes, give call us with the location of the vehicle and provide us with a few details and we will arrange the tow for you.
9. Do you offer a Warranty and use OEM parts?
A: Yes we use OEM (Original Equipment) parts and we offer a 12-monthcost-effective/12,000 warranty on parts and labor!
10. Should I use synthetic or conventional oil on my vehicle?
A: Modern vehicles almost all require (or recommend) the use of full synthetic oil; as time passes, the use of conventional oil is being diminished entirely. Full synthetic oil is more durable and cost effective, and is ideal to ensure the preventative maintenance of your vehicle! With that being said our technicians will be sure to recommend the appropriate oil for your vehicle based on the year, make, model, and maintenance history.
11. Do you sell and install tires? A. WE DO! Give us a call today-- we can give you a quote for almost every brand. We are also a Falken Tire Distributor!
12. How often should I rotate my tires?
A: You rotate tires to help maximize the life of your tires caused by natural uneven wearing. While all vehicle makes and models vary, it's recommended to rotate tires every 5,000 - 8,000 miles or with each oil change to keep it simple!
12. How often should I inflate my tires?
A: It's important that you check your tire pressure once every three months. Ignoring low tire pressure causes issues with handling, fuel economy, tire wear, and safety on the freeway! If it's been awhile since you've last checked, or if temperatures have dropped, stop by the shop and we can make sure the pressure in all your tires is where it needs to be!
13. How often should I change my fluids? A: (There's a few here!) Transmission fluid should be exchanged every 30,000-60,000 miles. By following your vehicle's manufacturer recommendations on transmission fluid exchanges, you are truly protecting your vehicle from preventable (and expensive) transmission damage! Brake fluid should be exchanged every 30,000 miles. By following your vehicle's manufacturer recommendations on brake fluid exchanges, you are truly protecting your vehicle from preventable damage to your brake components and preventing moisture buildup! Power Steering fluid should be exchanged every 30,000-60,000 miles. By following your vehicle's manufacturer recommendations on power steering fluid exchanges, you are truly protecting your vehicle from preventable steering component damage! Differential fluid should be exchanged every 30,000-60,000 miles. By following your vehicle's manufacturer recommendations on differential fluid exchanges, you are truly protecting your vehicle from preventable component damage! Engine Coolant should be exchanged every 30,000-60,000 miles. By following your vehicle's manufacturer recommendations on engine coolant fluid exchanges, you are truly protecting your vehicle from preventable engine damage, rust, and performance issues! WE USE BG PRODUCTS!
Lifetime Protection Plan at no extra charge! To learn more about BG Products, click HERE.
14. What is the difference between the cabin and engine air filters?
A: The cabin air filter is used to filter the air you breathe from the air conditioning unit. As with all filters, they have an ideal life of 15,000-20,000 miles from which they lose their ability to filter the impurities in the air and should be changed.
The engine air filter is used to filter air going into your motor. They too have an ideal life of 15,000-20,000 miles and then they lose their ability to effectively filter out debris and other impurities. Failing to replace your engine air filter can affect engine longevity, performance, and gas mileage.
15. How often should I change my spark plugs?
A: Spark plugs should be changed every 100,000 miles (for most vehicles) and it should be coupled with a fuel injection cleaning service. By performing this preventative maintenance you will remove any carbon buildup and more importantly, protect yourself against engine misfires!
16. How often should I replace my car battery?
A: Car batteries ideally last between 3-5 years depending on a number of factors. To ensure optimal performance and maintenance, we do a complimentary battery test during every oil change.
17. Does Peterson Automotive offer Engine & Transmission Replacement?
A: We do! We are a proud installer of Jasper Engines & Transmissions. Give us a call today for an estimate!
18. What type of vehicles do you service and repair?
A: All makes and models including diesel engines! Give us a call today!
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