How Often Should You Service Your Car?

Knowing the right kind of vehicle maintenance your car needs is the first step in making sure it will keep running stronger and longer than usual.  Just how often should you service your car, you ask?  Typically, a full service is suggested about every 12,000 miles, or every 12 months, whichever comes first.  The purpose of this service is to evaluate the components and the operating systems for general wear and tear, which includes the condition of the fluids, brakes, engine, tires, and more. 

In addition to the advice of your trust auto mechanic, your vehicle’s service manual outlines a recommended schedule of vehicle maintenance. This schedule typically includes:

• Oil changes, including filter replacement
• Lights, tires, exhaust systems
• Brakes and steering systems
• Tune up, including spark plugs, fuses, wiring 
• When to replace fluids, such as hydraulic fluid, transmission, and coolant
• Air Conditioner system, including the radiator, belts, and hoses
• Suspension system--shocks, struts, axles
• Wheel alignment and tire balancing
• Car Battery-including the alternator and starter

Many of today’s newer vehicles have an in-vehicle service reminder system for some of these maintenance services. Though, for older vehicles, service intervals are still based on the number of miles driven within a certain time period so it is vital to know what your owner’s manual recommends.

Taking care of the suggested vehicle maintenance items before they turn into expensive repairs will save you time and money later down the road.  A well-maintained vehicle can also help prevent an accident and even save lives!

Are you wondering how often should you service your car? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Gary’s Quality Automotive for more information about vehicle maintenance and to make an appointment.  Our auto repair shop proudly serves vehicle owners in Grand Island, NE, Wood River, NE, and Doniphan, NE.

What Happens When You Rebuild an Engine?

Are you worried that the engine on your vehicle is damaged beyond repair?  Even just usual mileage wear and tear, lack of service, and lubrication issues could cause signs of engine damage, such as:

• Excessive smoke coming from the tailpipe
• Knocking sounds
• Oil burning up faster than normal
• Excessive overheating

However, this does not necessarily mean the end of your vehicle.  When many vehicle owners hear the term “engine repair,” they rush out to buy a new vehicle.   This may not be the best decision.  If you consider the cost of engine repair versus purchasing a new vehicle, the economic benefit of keeping your current vehicle would be the better decision, either with a rebuilt engine or a replacement.

So what happens when you rebuild an engine?  A rebuilt engine involves removing the engine block from the vehicle and totally disassembling it.  Once it has been cleaned and checked, damaged parts are replaced with new or refurbished parts.  All new gaskets, seals and lubricants are used that will meet OEM standards.  Major parts are replaced only as needed, such as camshafts, crankshafts and pistons.

There are normally only two scenarios in which an engine cannot be rebuilt.  First, the engine block has been damaged internally due to broken connecting crankshaft. Second, the exterior of the engine block has been cracked.  Otherwise, a rebuild is the best engine repair option.

Once the engine is rebuilt, you can be confident in knowing that everything has been closely checked and now has new parts.  You will be able to keep driving for many more miles!  It has been said that rebuilt engines are better than the engines originally installed at the factory—dependable, reliable and backed by warranties. Inspect with your auto shop on their guarantee for rebuilt engines before making a final decision.

Of course, not all engine issues require an engine rebuild.  Many times the issues are not serious and may only require relatively minor engine repair, such as a simple fan belt adjustment.  

Are you wondering what happens when you rebuild an engine?  Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Gary’s Quality Automotive for more information about engine repair and to make an appointment.  Our auto repair shop proudly serves vehicle owners in Grand Island, NE, Wood River, NE, and Doniphan, NE.

What is involved in a Major Car Service?

If you ask many vehicle owners, they might admit that at one time, they have procrastinated when it came time to take care of a required maintenance service.  They may blame it on their busy schedule. Some may think that they are saving cash, but in reality, they may really spend more on an emergency car repair than the cost would have been for the regular maintenance service.  

Vehicle manufacturers publish a service schedule for a good reason—they want to make sure that the car operates dependably and safely for the vehicle owner.  Not only does regular maintenance help drivers avoid expensive car repair, it is essential for keeping your car roadworthy, protecting yourself, your passengers, as well as other drivers.

So how do know where to find what is involved in a major car service?  If you said your owner’s manual, you are right!  It lists the recommended mileage or time interval for every maintenance service, as well as the relevant details.   You can also ask your trusted car repair mechanic for expert advice.

There are three general levels of car service:

• Basic Service - This Basic service usually includes simple oil and filter change and a visual check up of the key components of your vehicle to ensure that everything is in the best condition possible.  Fluids will also be topped-off.    
• Full Service - This service usually consists of basic service plus additional 15-30 checks on the components of your vehicle.
• Major Service - This is the most comprehensive service available.  It not only includes the whole thing covered in the basic and full services described, but it also includes wear, service, and repair of all vehicle components and operating systems as recommended by the manufacturer.

So if you want to know what is involved in a major car service and how much it will cost, your car repair technician can help you determine what is needed and then give you an estimate of the cost before beginning work.

Are you looking for quality car repair?  Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Gary’s Quality Automotive for more information about what is involved in a major car service and to make an appointment.  Our auto repair shop proudly serves vehicle owners in Grand Island, NE, Wood River, NE, and Doniphan, NE.

What are the Symptoms of a Bad Radiator?

An important vehicle maintenance problem to take care of after making it through the harsh winter weather is the radiator, especially if you have not yet had it inspected.   Freezing temperatures cause the coolant in the radiator to freeze and expand, putting stress on the radiator.  If this is a constant issue, the radiator will crack, resulting in coolant leaking out, which can then lead to extensive damage to the engine and transmission.

So if you’re wondering what are the symptoms of a bad radiator, here are five common issues that could develop: 

• Overheating of the engine –There is not enough flow of coolant to the engine. 
• Leaking coolant– There may be cracks in the radiator unit.
• Cracked hose – The hose connecting the radiator to the engine has developed a crack. 
• Thermostat Failure– A failing thermostat prevents the flow coolant to the engine.
• A smoking muffler – It’s possible the head gasket has been damaged from a hot engine.

What does basic radiator service include?

• Make sure the coolant (radiator fluid) is at the proper level.
• Make sure the radiator cap on tight and not cracked.  It keeps the entire coolant chamber pressurized.
• Clean sludge out of the radiator (about twice a year).
• Have a radiator flush and fill (at least once a year). 

Are you looking for quality radiator service?  Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Gary’s Quality Automotive for more information about what are the symptoms of a bad radiator and to make an appointment.  Our auto repair shop proudly serves vehicle owners in Grand Island, NE, Wood River, NE, and Doniphan, NE.

How Many Miles Do New Tires Last?

Purchasing a complete set of tires is a big investment in your vehicle.  So a common question to ask is how many miles do new tires last?  Normally, most new tires are rated to last for about 50,000 miles.  When purchasing new tires, you will find that most manufacturers list the specific lifespan so that you will know about how long you can expect your tires to last.  

Just as important as it is to have a regular oil change, it is important to take good care of your tires. The cost of regular tire service is relatively inexpensive when compared to the cost of new tires.

So just what is regular tire service?    

• Visual Inspection – Tires may sustain damage or significant wear without you even realizing it.  Look for excessive tread wear, nicks in the rubber, or nails or punctures.
• Inspect Inflation Pressure – This will ensure optimal contact with the road; increasing fuel economy and helping the tread wear more evenly.  Cold weather causes tire pressure to fluctuate more rapidly so keep an eye on the pressure level.
• Load Index – Tires are designed to withstand so much weight so consult your owner’s manual.  Overloading tires can lead to overheating and damage to your tires.
• Tire Rotations – Moving tires around to a different position prevents against uneven wear of your tire tread. Have a tire rotation about every 6 months, or 6,000 to 8,000 miles, or about every other oil change.  
• Wheel Alignment – Alignment refers to an adjustment of the vehicle’s suspension so that the angles of the tires affect how they make contact with the road.  
• Tire Balancing – Keep your tires in balance (weights added to particular areas of the tire) for smooth rolling of the tire. 

Regular tire service will ensure that you get the most miles out of your tires while maximizing the safety of your vehicle.

Are you wondering how many miles do new tires last?  Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Gary’s Quality Automotive for more information about tire repair service and to make an appointment.  Our auto shop proudly serves vehicle owners in Grand Island, NE, Wood River, NE, and Doniphan, NE.

Wondering How Often Should Brake Pads Be Replaced?

Do you know your vehicle?  Inappropriately, not every driver pays attention to how their vehicle performs in several situations.  Knowing what to listen for and understanding how your vehicle operates will help you maintain your vehicle so you are driving as safe as possible.  One of the biggest safety problems is fully functioning brakes.  How do you know when brake rotors want to be replaced?  How often should brake pads be replaced?  Do you want to replace the calipers? A brake repair expert will be happy to answer your questions.

How do brakes work, you ask?  When you step on the brake pedal, the calipers cause the brake pads to clamp down on the brake rotors. As pressure and friction is applied to the brake rotors, it prevents them from spinning, bringing your car to a stop.  Most brake rotors are made from gray iron because it disperses heat well—vital for preventing overheating and brake fade. Ceramic rotors are lighter and more stable for higher speeds and temperatures but are more costly.  Some brake rotors have a special rust-inhibiting coating that helps them last longer.

So how often should brake pads be replaced?  Normally, brake pads need to be replaced after about 50,000 miles. Some need to be replaced after 25,000, while others can last for 70,000 miles, Of course, this will depend on your style of driving, the weight of your vehicle, the quality of the braking components, and the use of your vehicle. Both brake pads and rotors should be replaced in pairs for even stopping performance. 

Here are some signs of brake issues to watch for:

• There are grooves worn into the rotor by the brake pads
• You hear squealing, squeaking, or grinding sounds when braking
• You feel vibration or wobbling when braking.

Are you wondering how often should brake pads be replaced?  Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Gary’s Quality Automotive for more information about brake repair service and to make an appointment.  Our auto repair shop proudly serves vehicle owners in Grand Island, NE,  Wood River, NE, and Doniphan, NE.

Wondering what causes a broken axle?

The answer to this question is relatively simple.  If your car shocks are becoming worn, hitting any bump or pothole in the road could cause damage to your car axles.  Because the axle is continually rotating and flexing to accommodate different road conditions, it can wear out and fail, resulting in a broken axle.  

The performance of your vehicle's wheel and suspension systems is essentially dependent on the condition of the car axles. Axles are involved in the steering, driving, and braking of the vehicle, linking the power from the engine to the tires, plus carrying the whole weight of the vehicle and its components.

If an axle is bad, it puts extra stress on the car shocks, causing them to wear out prematurely, resulting in expensive repair bills. Bad axles can also result in excessive wear to your tires, costing you even more money in replacing your tires. 

Most people don’t keep a vehicle long enough for a car axle to break, though, it’s vital to know the indicators of failing car axles:

• A sudden clunking sound heard when you put your vehicle into gear
• Vibrations felt in the car when driving, braking, or going around a bend.
• Power is not being transferred from the engine to the wheels.

Also, it’s good to be aware of what causes a broken axle:

• Overload. When there is too much load, such as too much cargo or too many passengers, the axles may not have sufficient strength to hold the weight of the vehicle.
• Metal fatigue. This is especially prevalent in older vehicle models, high mileage vehicles, or vehicles that carry excessively weighty loads. As cars age, axles become more brittle, reducing their strength.
• Off-road conditions. Too much stress and force caused by bumps in the road or potholes are being put on the axles in carrying the weight of the vehicle.

Are you wondering what causes a broken axle?  Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Gary’s Quality Automotive for more information about the suspension system and to make an appointment.  Our auto repair shop proudly serves vehicle owners in Grand Island, NE, Wood River, NE and Doniphan, NE.