Q. My “Check Engine” light is on, is it safe to drive?

A. Today’s vehicles have become more efficient and sophisticated in the last 15 years. computer controls, monitors and sensors have become increasingly durable and dependable than the first electronic designs of the mid 70’s and early 80’s. The check engine light should not be neglected. Decreased fuel economy, decreased engine performance and increased exhaust emissions are the usual result of glowing check engine light. Although your vehicle is safe to drive with an illuminated check engine lamp, it is in your best interest , and your vehicles benefit, to have the cause of a check engine light be diagnosed by a qualified technician.

Q. What is a timing belt and how often should it be replaced?

A. The timing belt keeps the internal moving parts of the engine working in sync with each other. Consider as an example, the chain on your bike. If the chain breaks or falls off, your transportation mode is lost. You can pedal all you want and not go anywhere. Your timing belt is similar. Your engines reciprocating pistons must move in conjunction with the opening and closing of your intake and exhaust valves. If your timing belt breaks, the valves cease to open and close, yet when you engage the ignition switch, the starter motor will crank the engine over, just like your legs pedal the bike pedals. Consult with your technician when yours should be replaced.

Q. How often should I change my Oil?

A. It really depends on your driving habits and conditions. The rule of thumb used to be 3 months or 3,000 miles. While many still feel this is true, today’s vehicles, improved designs, oil additive packages, and oil filter media have allowed some extension to the recommended service intervals. Your owners manual will outline what is classified as severe driving conditions. The color and viscosity of the oil will indicate when your oil needs to be changed. Just remember this, changing your oil and filter is an important preventative maintenance procedure to insure a properly running vehicle.

Q. How often should I check my brakes?

A. Your safety and those on the road rely on the proper operation of your braking system. A thorough inspection of your brakes should be an annual procedure of your preventative maintenance routine. Not only should the brake linings be inspected, but your master cylinder, brake hoses, brake lines and associated hardware should be thoroughly inspected by your qualified technician. Brake fluid should be changed at least every 3 years or 30,000 miles.

Q. Do I have to perform the Manufacture Recommended Service and do the repairs have to be performed at the dealership?

A. In order to maintain a manufacturers warranty, the scheduled service must be followed, but your maintenance service doesn’t have to be performed at the dealership. As long as you maintain your records and use products that meet the manufacturers criteria, your warranty will be maintained. But what about if your car is out of warranty? It is still an excellent idea to follow the scheduled service outlined in your owners manual and programs provided by your local repair facility. Routine, scheduled and preventative maintenance provides peace of mind for trouble free driving. Repair costs are typically lower on vehicles with proper maintenance. If you plan on trading in or selling your vehicle, a clean, properly running vehicle will give you a bigger return on your investment.