Definitions of Five Common Auto Service Items!
27
Jun,
2022
When your mechanic starts describing the possible work that needs to be done on your vehicle, you may get a little anxious about the auto service that may be needed. Be sure to ask your mechanic what is included in each service, how long your vehicle will be at the auto center, and how much it will cost. Be sure to compare this information with the service items listed in your owner’s manual so that you are confident your vehicle is being taken care of correctly.
Knowing the following terms and what they involve can relieve your fears when visiting your auto center:
- “It’s time for an oil change” – It is vital that you know the oil change interval recommended for your vehicle as well as the best kind of oil to use. Replacing the oil filter will help keep the oil clean longer as it circulates through the engine.
- “Check the condition of the distributor” – The distributor is part of the ignition system that delivers an electrical voltage to each spark plug. If the timing of the spark is off or there isn’t enough voltage, you will begin to experience starting problems. However, starting problems can also be caused by a bad car battery, a failing alternator, or dirty spark plugs. To pinpoint the cause of the starting problem, your mechanic may recommend a diagnostic test.
- “Check the brake fluid” – Brake fluid should be checked at every oil change to make sure it remains pressurized so that it can do its job of squeezing the brake pads around the rotors, slowing or stopping your car when you step on the brake pedal.
- “Top-off the radiator” – The radiator is part of the cooling system and contains a mixture of coolant and water. This mixture circulates through the motor to keep it from overheating and then returns to the radiator to be cooled off again. If the ratio of coolant and water is off, your engine may start overheating.
- “It’s time for a tune up” – In today’s newer vehicles, this is often referred to as the “auto service schedule.” The “tune up” has four major benefits for your vehicle—it will start easier, power and performance are increased, fuel economy is increased, and the amount of toxic emissions emitted is reduced.
Looking for a full-service auto center? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Puleo’s Auto Clinic for more information about recommended auto services and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop serves vehicle owners in Washington, NJ, and the surrounding areas.
When your mechanic starts describing the possible work that needs to be done on your vehicle, you may get a little anxious about the auto service that may be needed. Be sure to ask your mechanic what is included in each service, how long your vehicle will be at the auto center, and how much it will cost. Be sure to compare this information with the service items listed in your owner’s manual so that you are confident your vehicle is being taken care of correctly.
Knowing the following terms and what they involve can relieve your fears when visiting your auto center:
- “It’s time for an oil change” – It is vital that you know the oil change interval recommended for your vehicle as well as the best kind of oil to use. Replacing the oil filter will help keep the oil clean longer as it circulates through the engine.
- “Check the condition of the distributor” – The distributor is part of the ignition system that delivers an electrical voltage to each spark plug. If the timing of the spark is off or there isn’t enough voltage, you will begin to experience starting problems. However, starting problems can also be caused by a bad car battery, a failing alternator, or dirty spark plugs. To pinpoint the cause of the starting problem, your mechanic may recommend a diagnostic test.
- “Check the brake fluid” – Brake fluid should be checked at every oil change to make sure it remains pressurized so that it can do its job of squeezing the brake pads around the rotors, slowing or stopping your car when you step on the brake pedal.
- “Top-off the radiator” – The radiator is part of the cooling system and contains a mixture of coolant and water. This mixture circulates through the motor to keep it from overheating and then returns to the radiator to be cooled off again. If the ratio of coolant and water is off, your engine may start overheating.
- “It’s time for a tune up” – In today’s newer vehicles, this is often referred to as the “auto service schedule.” The “tune up” has four major benefits for your vehicle—it will start easier, power and performance are increased, fuel economy is increased, and the amount of toxic emissions emitted is reduced.
Looking for a full-service auto center? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Puleo’s Auto Clinic for more information about recommended auto services and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop serves vehicle owners in Washington, NJ, and the surrounding areas.
John Puleo
John Puleo 