Services

By P B Gill (over 40 years a dealer tech and licensed mechanic)

When you take your vehicle into the repair shop for service , are you getting your moneys worth . When you are told you need another service on your vehicle , do you know what that service is ? And do you really need it done ? This chapter of this website will explain what the most common services are and what should be done . It will help you to know if you really need it , and how to tell if it was done (right).

Lubrication service - Lubrication service (commonly called an oil change) is the most common service done on any vehicle . On a new vehicle the first lubrication service is very important to be done no later than at the recommended mileage . (3000 miles / 5000 km is most common) . Some people do the first service much sooner as on the first oil change , all the break-in debris is removed from the engine , with the old oil and filter.

- On a lubrication service the engine oil and the engine oil filter are replaced . It also includes lubrication of the steering and chassis components as needed

- Other things that should be done at this service are

- To Inspect under the vehicle for leaks , road damage , loose or worn components, tire condition ,etc . The tires should tested for proper inflation and the pressures , correct as needed . (32 to 35 PSI on most cars and 35 to 80 PSI on most light truck)

- Check all fluid levels , transmission fluid level , power steering fluid level , differential fluid level (on rear wheel drive vehicles), windshield washer fluid level , and coolant level.

- Check all lights for proper operation .

- Inspection of the windshield wipers and testing of the wiper and of the windshield washer system for proper operation should be done . The windshield washers should be topped up or filled at this time . (fluid may be extra cost but it is convenient to fill them at this time).

- Test the operation of all door , hood , and trunk , latches and hinges and lubricate as necessary .

Note! Do Not allow the use of white grease type products to lubricate hinges or latches . These products can harden and get very sticky . They tend to make latches stick and not close securely. (I have seen engine hoods and doors come open while driving because of the use of these products ).

- A sticker is also installed to keep track of the service so you know when the vehicle is due for the next service .

Note 2 ! Some service centers will try to sell parts or services to you when you have the lubrication service done . If you are questionable as to weather you need it , or not , you can ask to see the parts in question . You can decline , and get a second opinion . You can also ask for the old part back , to have some one you trust to check them . Common part pushed are , air filters , oil breather caps , cabin filters , and wiper blades . Some lube shops will try to sell you an engine flush ? If you change your oil at the proper interval and use the proper oil , the engine will stay clean inside , so why would it need to be flushed . Most auto manufacturers do NOT recommend , engine flush . In some cases , engine flush could be harmful to internal engine parts . If in question , check with the manufacturer of your vehicle (or the dealer).