Tips and Advice

YES. The failure of a timing belt in many cars can result in major engine damage. The cost of repairing an engine with a broken timing belt is much greater than the cost of a timing belt replacement.

There are many sensors and computerized components that manage your vehicle’s engine performance and emissions. When one of these fails, the “check engine” light is illuminated. Although your car may seem to run fine, it is important to have the issue addressed to prevent long-term problems or failure of emission tests.

This is a very serious problem – if your car overheats for too long, you can damage your engine. As soon as possible, find a safe place to pull off the road and shut off the engine! Do not attempt to check the fluid level in the radiator as it can burn you. The best thing to do is have your car towed to a repair shop.

You should get your oil changed every 3,000 miles or as recommended in your vehicle’s owner’s manual. If intervals are extended, ensure you use oil that is capable of extended mileage changes.

Milky brown engine oil is an indication of coolant in the oil. This can be caused by a blown head gasket (other gasket), a failed transmission cooler or cracked casings. This condition is very serious and needs to be checked by a professional technician quickly.

Battery cables and terminals should be cleaned and inspected to make sure they provide a good electrical connection.

Synthetic motor oils can be a good choice for high output, turbocharged or supercharged engines, vehicles that are used for towing (especially during hot weather) or vehicles that are operated in extremely cold or hot climates. Synthetic motor oils, though several times more expensive than mineral-based motor oils, can improve fuel economy and provide longer intervals between changes. They also provide instant lubrication on start-up.

Fuel filters play an important role in keeping your car’s engine clean. Over time, they can become clogged with dirt and debris, which can restrict fuel flow and cause performance problems. Most carmakers recommend replacing the fuel filter every 30,000 miles or so, but this may vary depending on your vehicle’s make and model. If you notice any of the following symptoms, it may be time to replace your fuel filter:

– Decreased gas mileage
– Reduced power
– Engine sputtering
– Stalling
– Check engine light is on

If you’re unsure about when to replace your fuel filter, consult your car’s owner’s manual or ask a qualified mechanic. Fuel filters are relatively inexpensive, so it’s generally a good idea to err on the side of caution and replace them more often than recommended. That way, you can be sure your car’s engine is always running smoothly.

For maximum fuel economy and peak engine performance, your spark plugs should be replaced every 30 months or 30,000 miles, unless your vehicle is equipped with 100,000-mile platinum-tipped spark plugs.

Always replace burned-out fuses with ones of the same amperage (printed on the fuse) and note that if a fuse continues to “blow,” you should have the circuit checked professionally by one of our technicians for defects.