Extend The Life Of Your Vehicle With These Essential Services

Whether it’s your first automobile or your 10th, cars are a lot like people: they need regular check-ups and lots of TLC. And like people, early detection is key: It can be tempting to ignore that small patch of rust or that strange sound or weird smell. After all, you’re busy, the kids have to get to school, and you’re late for work. But waiting until your automobile breaks down before you get an oil change in Longmont, CO, is a bad idea and will cost you more money in the long run. Stay on top of the following services to keep your wheels running smoothly.

Oil Change In Longmont, CO

Getting a regular oil change in Longmont, CO, is as basic as drinking 8 cups of water a day. Without it, your vehicle risks breaking down on the road. Many people avoid addressing this essential service because they don’t know the exact role it plays in their automobile life. Think of it this way: your vehicle’s parts are constantly rubbing together, which causes friction. Using a lubricant reduces the wear and tear of your parts. It also cools your engine, prevents build-up, and lets your vehicle operate more efficiently. 

How Often?

How often you go for an oil change in Longmont, CO, depends on several factors. If your vehicle is under warranty, for example, you’ll want to follow all recommendations in your owner’s manual—if you’ve misplaced it, you can likely find one online. Of course, newer models have a built-in monitor to alert drivers that it’s time to visit the mechanic. Using algorithm sensors and software, it tracks data like drive temperatures, cold starts and driving hours and how much you rev your engine, and calculates the best intervals to preserve your warranty.   

Auto Repair In Longmont

Cars can be finicky. Multiple factors can affect how their functioning, including weather, collisions, and everyday wear and tear. If there’s nothing glaringly wrong with your vehicle, how often do you take it in? In general, it’s best to go by the maintenance schedule recommended for your particular make. Of course, at times, you’re not given a choice. If you have an automobile collision, you’ll have to get to a mechanic right away, even if you think the damage is negligible. 

Your vehicle will also need general maintenance every so often. Common repairs include brake work and repairs to your coolant system, ignition system, and air conditioning system. You might also need front and rear end diagnostics services. Additionally, tires commonly need to be patched or replaced completely. You might also require work on your vehicle’s electrical system. Problems with your electrical system can be straight forward like blowing a fuse, or more complicated so it’s always prudent to seek auto repair in Longmont to get a proper assessment. 

Wheel Alignment in Longmont

On top of making you safe, getting a regular wheel alignment in Longmont can extend the life of your vehicle as well as your tires. Unless you have more serious issues or an unusual car design, this service shouldn’t be costly. Many drivers aren’t aware that this service is often covered under their warranty or extended warranty, so check your terms to see if you qualify. 

Typically a mechanic will check 3 areas during an alignment in Longmont: 

• The caster: this part impacts steering and is located between the ball joints of the steering mechanism.
• The camber: this process examines the angle at which your tires connect with the road. It provides an accurate measure of how quickly they will wear down. 
• The toe: this process looks at the angle between the tires. It has a direct impact on driver safety.

Before starting any work, your mechanic might also observe how your vehicle performs on the road. If they detect a vibrating steering wheel or notice that your automobile veers to one side, they will most likely suspect you need an alignment in Longmont. This service shouldn’t take much more than an hour. Of course, if your mechanic notices something else is wrong with your vehicle—say, you require an oil change in Longmont, for example, the process will take longer.   

Import Repairs 

People buy imports over domestic vehicles for different reasons, including cost and style. When your imported vehicle requires parts, they must be sourced through the manufacturer. An imported vehicle also requires service practices specific to the manufacturer. For example, transmission systems are built according to a particular feel and performance. 

When you investigate car service in Longmont, ask your mechanic to walk you through typical warning signs that signal a transmission problem with your import. Low transmission is something else you’ll want to stay on top of with your imported vehicle. If you notice the transmission fluid is on the low side, you might have a leak in the system. This is dangerous for your import and can leave it vulnerable to more extensive damage. For these reasons, it’s prudent to check in with your mechanic regularly.  

Another potential problem with imports is rough shifting. Shifting should always feel smooth. You should never experience a delayed response, nor should you experience a shudder. Both of these things point to something more serious with your vehicle and serve as a warning that it’s time to get your import checked out. If you experience either of these issues, always ensure your vehicle is fully in the stop position before you shift from Drive to Park or Reverse. When you shift your car while it’s still moving, you put extra strain on the system. Not only does this action stress your import, but it is also entirely avoidable. 

Chances are you’ve already invested quite a bit in your imported vehicle. By taking the time to schedule regular check-ups and car service in Longmont, you will protect this valuable possession and save money in the long run.