Auto repair tips

Answer: This is a very serious problem – if your car overheats for too long, you can damage your engine. As soon as possible, find a safe place to pull off the road and shut the engine off! Do not attempt to check the fluid level in the radiator as it can burn you. The best thing to do is have your car towed to a repair shop.

Answer: There are many sensors and computerized components that manage your vehicle’s engine performance and emissions. When one of these fails, the “check engine” light is illuminated. Although your car may seem to run fine, it is important to have the issue addressed to prevent long-term problems.

Answer: YES! The failure of a timing belt in most cars can result in serious engine damage. The cost of repairing an engine with a broken timing belt is much greater than the cost of a timing belt replacement. Timing belts also deteriorate over time regardless of mileage. Even if your vehicle gets little use the materials used in the belts ages and should be changed. Oil and coolant leaks can accelerate belt deterioration and failure.

Answer: Your tires should be rotated every other oil change, or every 6000 miles. Neglecting to rotate tires is a major cause of premature tire wear.

Short answer: every 3,000 to 5,000 miles or 3 - 6 months depending on the type of driving you do.

Long answer: When to change your oil varies with driving habits & type of vehicle. I’m assuming we share the goal to minimize the need for major auto repairs. If you’re driving 20 miles one way to work & 15 of those miles are on the highway, most vehicles should have the oil changed every 5000 miles. If you’re like me, drive 8 miles to work, never go more than 2 miles without stopping, most vehicles should have the oil changed every 3000 miles or every 3-4 months. If you ride the bus to work and only drive your car to run a few errands on the weekend, that is the hardest type of driving on an engine. You may need to change your vehicles oil every 3-6 months regardless of the mileage.