What Happens During The Basic Car Servicing Process?
Over a century of automotive innovation has passed, and people are still learning to break the ice on appropriate car servicing. Some people focus on the oil change, some consider their tires too late, and some get duped into paying for 'blinker fluid'.
If only everyone read their car owner's manual, but alas, the world is just as flawed as some peoples' commitment to basic car servicing. Jim Norton Toyota will be providing you with a step-by-step guide to basic service in the hopes you reconsider your car's health and visit our dedicated auto shop!
Oh, and the service doesn't need to be carried out in the same order, as suggested in your car owner's manual, but it's recommended that you acquaint yourself with the manual to recognize the servicing entailed!
Oil Change
The auto mechanic begins by checking the oil level & color using the dipstick. If the level is low, but the color is a clear golden, the amount required is topped up. Ensure you keep tabs on the grade of engine oil last poured in your car to inform the mechanic. If the oil is too sooty, the mechanic will drain it away, change the oil filter, & pour in the new oil. A good mechanic will always rev the car for a few minutes to let the oil permeate the engine.
Battery Check
Winters can disrupt car battery performance and the temperatures in Piedmont, OK, are enough to have that effect. If you have difficulty starting your car, your battery might be old or simply lacking the charge. At the auto shop, the auto technician will check your battery, refill the electrolyte, possibly charge it, and clean the terminals to allow conduction. Poor charge retention might warrant a change.
Tires & Wheels
Your tire treads can wear out, develop cracks & bulges, get punctured, & might need replacement. They also lose pressure, especially during the winter months. While a pressure check is ideal twice a month, tire rotation is best around every 6,000 miles or 6-months apart. During the tire service, it's best to have the wheels aligned to the steering coupling and checked for balance to ensure a stable drive. Ensure your spare tire gets the same treatment!
Brakes
The brake pads are way more important than a handbrake; so, don't forget their service. If your car's braking is delayed more than usual or often accompanied by a low squeal, your brake pads have worn out. Don't risk the drive with eroded brakes; book for a service and the auto mechanic will take care of it!
Essential Fluids Check
Since the mechanic has dealt with the engine oil & the battery electrolyte, the radiator coolant, the windshield wiper fluid, and the power steering fluid are next in line. You risk your engine overheating with the HVAC bailing out explosively if you ignore the coolant. If you ignore the wiper fluid & forget the wipers altogether, bye-bye scratch-free windshield! And if you forget the power steering fluid check or the flushing every 30,000 miles, you are in for some expensive repairs!
Conclusive Documentation
It's good practice to have your car servicing recorded because it assists with validating car health and makes availing warranties & insurance convenient. If you decide to sell your car, flawless service history records will enhance the value of your car and accommodate a much better trade-in vehicle!
Jim Norton Toyota, serving Piedmont, OK, not only deals in new Toyota & used models but also boasts a robust service center, complete with specials & parts to boost your car onto the next level in maintenance. If your Toyota has had a long trip, you should check with our express maintenance for optimal car performance.
