Should I worry if my “check engine” light comes on?
Probably not, but it’s kind of like asking your doctor, “Do you think this cough is anything serious?” It’s hard to say for sure without running a few tests. The best thing to do is to have your vehicle checked by a professional. Visit our Services page to learn about the different auto repair solutions we offer.
How do I know when my car is ready for a tune-up? There are several things that could indicate the need for a tune-up, including rough idling or acceleration, a decrease in fuel efficiency, or even that “check engine” light we mentioned earlier. Also, your owner’s manual might suggest a kilometre marker for tune-ups. Do I really need to change my oil every 5,000 kilometres? Traditionally the 3 month / 5,000 kilometre mark has been considered a good interval for oil changes. However, with today’s more efficient engines, many people believe that marker should be extended. A good compromise might be to have your oil checked by a repair professional at the 5,000 kilometre mark to assess its cleanliness and viscosity. Be sure to always replace the oil filter when changing the oil. An oil filter holds about a quart of oil, and if left unchanged that deteriorated oil from the old filter will contaminate and lessen the effectiveness of the new oil. When should I replace my car’s belts and hoses? Belts and hoses generally need replacement every three to four years but if you notice cracks in your belts, it’s time to replace them, and a soft or swollen hose could be an indication of trouble. How often do I need to replace my timing belt? Depending upon what type of vehicle you drive, a timing belt is usually good for between 90,000 km and 110,000 km. How often should I replace my brakes? There is no set number of kilometres or weeks that would serve as an indicator of the need for brake repair or replacement because a number of factors can affect that determination. Whether your commute is mostly stop-and-go traffic or highway kilometres, the braking habits of the driver and the design of the braking system all play a big role in how quickly your brakes will wear out. Generally, if you notice grinding or squeaking noises, vibration, grabbing or pulling, you should have your brakes checked by an experienced technician. How do I know if my car needs a wheel alignment? Usually, your car will let you know. If you are experiencing any of the following conditions, you should have a qualified technician check your wheel alignment:
Excessive or uneven tire wear (check first to see if tires are properly inflated)
“Pulling” to the left or right (again, confirm tire pressure)
Steering wheel is not centred, or car tends to wander without turning the wheel
You experience shaking or vibration while driving
If you have any inquiries related to your vehicle that you’re concerned about, call us today at 780-436-9992 and we’ll be happy to answer your questions. Schedule an appointment at our shop if you experience any of these auto issues or if you would like one of our mechanics to inspect your vehicle.
