Folks rightly assume that routine auto service improves the performance of their vehicle and contributes to better fuel economy and long-term reliability.
It turns out, though, that getting vehicle service at the service intervals outlined in your owner’s manual can bolster the resale value of your vehicle when it comes time to sell.
A reputable auto shop like All Around Auto Repair will record every service that you get throughout the years and record everything in a service book to show the next owner. That kind of buyer confidence improves resale value.
Long story short, you’ll realize a ton of benefits by getting regular oil changes and changing out, say, the brake pads on your vehicle every 60,000 miles or so: Simple steps taken today can lead to big rewards tomorrow!
Quick and Easy Auto Service
Coming in for service is usually far, far less painful than people make it out to be in their minds beforehand.
In most cases, vehicle service will take between one and three hours – coffee, a magazine, or even running some errands make that time go by shockingly quickly.
Interim Versus Full Auto Service
Here’s the deal – the reason that there’s a fairly wide range of one to three hours, on average, for most service is that interim service is less involved than full auto service.
Interim auto service is usually intended for drivers who put more than the average on their vehicle’s odometer every year (e.g., 20,000 miles per year instead of the average ~13,000 miles per year). At any rate, interim service is normally performed every 6,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Because the average American puts about 12,000 or 13,000 miles on their vehicle per year (per year!), full service is recommended every 12,000 miles or 12 months. You might have already noticed that’s double the miles and time interval for an interim auto service.
If there aren’t any major issues with your vehicle, though, then interim service should take about 90 minutes, on average, and full auto service should take about three hours. Ninety minutes is pretty brief: About the running time of a Woody Allen movie!
What Happens at a Full Service Pit Stop?
If you’re thinking about taking your vehicle in for a pit stop at All Around Auto Repair, then you might well want to know what that entails.
Full service typically involves the following services: new air filter, motor oil and oil filter change, wheel alignment, tire rotation, new fuel filter, new spark plugs, suspension check, wheel bearing check, exhaust system check, brake cylinder check, and service light reset.
This really only scratches the surface on all of the checks that will accompany service since a diagnostic tool will be hooked up to your vehicle to determine any problems that aren’t immediately apparent.
Auto Shops Have All The Tools Needed
Getting in there with a diagnostic tool is critical because the problem could be as simple as popping back on a gas cap or as complicated as internal engine repair.
The only way to definitively determine the issue is by taking your vehicle in for a diagnostic test and auto service.
Most modern cars come equipped with on-board computers that can be scanned by the technicians at All Around Auto Repair. They’ll look for diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) before fixing the issue, resetting your service light, and sending you on your way.
Testing is critical because it can quickly clue technicians in to issues. A fuel pressure test, visual inspection, and road test are frequently all critical pieces needed for solving the jigsaw puzzle of vehicle issues.
Sometimes the fix is easier. Changing or flushing out your vehicle’s fluids (brake fluid, transmission fluid, power steering fluid) and replacing or repairing worn parts (e.g., brake pads and brake rotors) can vastly improve the safety and efficiency of your ride.
So, what are you waiting for? Contact All Around Auto Repair to schedule interim or full auto service today. Remember, auto service only takes, on average, about one to three hours. Nip any problems in the bud and improve the efficiency and resale value of your vehicle today by getting your vehicle serviced.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How often should you change your oil to maintain engine performance?
Regular oil changes are crucial for keeping your engine running smoothly. Experts recommend changing your oil every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, depending on your vehicle type and oil used. Synthetic oils may extend this interval to 7,500 miles. Keeping up with oil changes can improve fuel efficiency by up to 2%, saving you about 7-8 gallons of gas annually.
2. What are the signs that your brakes need replacing?
Squealing or grinding noises when you brake often indicate worn brake pads. If you notice vibrations or longer stopping distances, it’s time for a brake check. Worn brake pads can increase stopping distance by 25%, making timely replacement critical for safety.
3. Is it necessary to rotate tires, and how often should it be done?
Yes, rotating your tires every 5,000 to 7,000 miles can extend their life and improve handling. Uneven tire wear can lead to poor fuel economy and a less comfortable ride. Tire rotation helps ensure even wear, which can save you money on replacements.
4. Why is regular vehicle maintenance important for resale value?
Documenting regular vehicle maintenance, like oil changes and brake checks, can significantly boost resale value. Buyers are willing to pay up to 20% more for a vehicle with a complete maintenance history. Keep your service records intact to showcase a well-maintained vehicle to potential buyers.
5. What’s the difference between interim and full auto service?
Interim services focus on essential maintenance, such as oil changes and tire checks, every 6,000 miles. Full auto services, recommended every 12,000 miles, are more comprehensive, including inspections of your engine, brakes, and suspension. Interim services usually take around 90 minutes, while full services may take up to three hours.
6. How do diagnostic tests help identify vehicle issues?
Modern vehicles are equipped with on-board diagnostics (OBD) systems that help identify issues. A diagnostic test can quickly detect problems with the engine, transmission, exhaust, and more. This proactive approach can save you money by preventing major repairs down the line.
7. How does getting regular auto service improve fuel economy?
Routine maintenance, like changing air filters and ensuring proper tire inflation, can improve fuel efficiency by 4-10%. Studies show that maintaining your vehicle can save you up to $0.10 per gallon at the pump, translating to significant savings over time.
8. What happens if you skip routine vehicle maintenance?
Neglecting routine maintenance can lead to bigger issues, such as engine overheating, poor fuel economy, or even complete engine failure. Studies indicate that regular maintenance can extend the life of your vehicle by up to 50%, making it a long-term cost-saving measure.
9. How can regular tune-ups extend your vehicle’s life?
A tune-up checks critical components like spark plugs, ignition coils, and filters. Ignoring tune-ups can lead to decreased performance and costly repairs. Regular tune-ups improve your vehicle’s reliability, fuel economy, and reduce the risk of a breakdown.
10. What are the most common causes of vehicle breakdowns?
Battery issues, engine overheating, and flat tires are some of the most common reasons for vehicle breakdowns. Regularly checking your battery and coolant levels, as well as ensuring your tires are in good condition, can reduce the risk of an unexpected breakdown by over 80%.
