What Does a Full Car Service Consist of?

Many car owners may admit that at one time, they have put off the car maintenance services recommended by the vehicle manufacturer.  Not understanding what does a full car service consists of, they don’t want to take time out of their busy schedule, or their budget was too tight.  These car owners may be thinking that they are saving money, but in reality, they may actually be spending more, as the cost of an emergency car repair is much greater than the cost would have been for the routine car maintenance.  

There is a good reason that car manufacturers publish service guidelines—they understand what it takes to make sure that when their cars come off the assembly line, they operate as reliably and safely for as long as possible.  Regular maintenance not only helps drivers avoid urgent and expensive car repair, but it is also important in keeping your car driving as safe as possible on the road.  

So how does one find out what does a full car service consist of?  Many Car drivers know that their vehicle has a manual that lists the recommended mileage or time interval for each maintenance service item.  You should find it in the glove box of your car.  Or, you can ask your expert car repair mechanic for advice.

What does a full service consist of?  At least once a year:

• Inspect all lights (interior and exterior), warning lights, and horn.  
• Inspect windshield for cracks, condition of wiper blades and washer reservoir
• Drain the motor oil and refill with fresh oil.  Inspect for oil leakages.
• Replace air filter, 
• Inspect the radiator’s coolant level and top off as needed.  Also, inspect for leakages in connections and hoses.
• Inspect condition of belts, spark plugs, time belt, and gas cap.
• Inspect the brakes, including the condition of the brake fluid, brake pads, rotors and caliper for wear, and hand brake.
• Have the condition of the tire inspected, as well as tread wear, rotation, and air pressure.
• Inspect the suspension system, including shocks, struts, wheel bearing, and brake fluid.
• Inspect the condition of the exhaust system.

So if you want to know what does a full car service consist of, call our ASE Certified technicians at Proshop Automotive for more information about car repair and to make an appointment. Our auto repair shop proudly serves residents in Colton, CA, and the surrounding areas.

What Causes the “Check Engine” Light to Come On?

Many car owners know that if they want to keep their current car a trustworthy source of transportation, it is important to take care of their vehicle.  In spite of keeping up with routine engine service, when the “Check Engine” light starts to glow on their dash, anxiety starts to fill their mind.  What is happening under the hood?  And what causes the “check engine” light to come on? Their biggest fear is that a major engine repair could cost thousands of dollars.

Just remember that the “Check Engine” sensor is part of the on-board diagnostic system that is continuously monitoring engine performance, such as engine speed, air to fuel ratio, and ignition timing.  If a “fault” within the system is detected, whether big or small, the “check engine” light will illuminate.

So what causes the “Check Engine” light to come on?  Here are several of the main causes to consider:

1. Damaged Gas Cap – If the gas cap is loose, fuel vapors leak out and can throw the whole fuel system off, reducing gas mileage and increasing toxic emissions. Tightening or replacing the gas cap may resolve the issue.
2. Oxygen Sensor failure – The oxygen sensor monitors the unburned oxygen from the exhaust system, and how much fuel is burned. A faulty oxygen sensor doesn’t send the right data to the computer, which then reduces gas mileage and increases emissions.  
3. Catalytic Convertor Failure – The catalytic convertor reduces exhaust gases by converting carbon monoxide and other harmful materials into harmless compounds. If it fails, gas mileage wills reduction and loss of power when you try to accelerate. 
4. Faulty Mass Airflow Sensor – This sensor tells the car's computer to add the proper amount of fuel based on the air coming through to the engine. If the mass airflow sensor fails, toxic emission will increase, your car may stall, and gas mileage will decrease.
5. Dirty Spark Plugs and Wires – The spark plug provides a gap for a spark to jump across and initiates combustion in your engine.  If they are starting to go bad, replacing them is an easy fix

A word of advice:  Take care of recommended engine service items to help prevent small engine issues to turn into an expensive engine repair.  

Do you want to know more about what causes the “Check Engine” light to come on?  Contact our ASE Certified technicians at Proshop Automotive for more information about engine repair service and to make an appointment. Our auto repair shop proudly serves residents in Colton, CA, and the surrounding areas.