FAQs

1. Can I go longer on an oil change if I use Synthetic Oil?

Answer:
All oils should be used for the service interval determined by the manufacturer and not any longer. When deciding what interval to use, you need to consider the effects the heat from your engine has on the oil. And, think about our climate here in Central Texas-with the endless days of summer here, that's hard on your engine. That's why people often change their oil at 3,000 miles.

When your oil is changed it has a very high degree of integrity, because it is new. As you drive, the integrity of the oil decreases. Synthetic or Synthetic Blend oils contain additives designed to prolong the "life" of the oil. This means is that the oil is designed to maintain a higher degree of integrity at high temperatures or during the vehicle's use over thousands of miles.

Conventional oil will start in a good condition and decrease to a bad condition over time or miles driven. When the oil is changed, the cycle begins again. Synthetic Oil will maintain a good condition for the duration of the service interval and will not decrease to a bad condition unless used beyond the recommended interval.

2. My "Check Engine Light" is on. Isn't there a computer you can plug in and tell me what's wrong with my car?

Answer:
When the "Check Engine Light" comes on, a Trouble Code will be stored in the vehicle's computer. This code can only be retrieved with a diagnostic computer. The code will only provide a general description of what failure occurred. Although some codes are straightforward and require very little diagnosis, most codes do require extra time to decipher-the computer may record a symptom, but not the cause. This extra time also requires a small charge for the time to diagnose the actual problem. So, a skilled technician with the right diagnostic equipment in his/her hands can tell you what's wrong with your vehicle, but not one without the other.

3. How long should brake pads last?

Answer:
As all vehicles are different, and drivers treat them differently, so the useful "life" of brake pads can vary widely. Brake pads also come in many degrees of quality. First, make sure you are using an OE (Original Equipment) quality brake pad.

Brake pad life can be determined by three factors: 1. The vehicle type is a big factor. Are you driving a small car, sports car or a pickup truck? All vehicles are designed to do different things, therefore they have brake systems designed for that function. 2. In what environment are you driving? A vehicle that is primarily on the highway will have brake pads that last 2 to 3 times longer than an a vehicle in the city. Heat is a factor of environment as well. 3. YOU. The person driving this vehicle is the biggest factor. Everyone has different driving styles. An experienced driver may not wear out brake pads as fast a teenage driver. A construction worker will work the brakes with heavy loads while a soccer mom will not. The driver will make the most impact on brake pad "life".

4. How do I know if I need a Tune Up?

Answer
A "Tune Up" is really a thing of the past, but vehicles do require service on a set interval to maintain the proper working condition. The best way to maintain your vehicle is to be sure you are having your vehicle serviced as your Manufacturer suggests in the Service Book provided when you bought the vehicle. You do not need to have the service done at a dealership, it can be performed at any repair facility. Refer to your manual and make sure you replace the parts and fluids at the intervals recommended, in order to keep your vehicle performing the way it should.

5. How do I know when I need a new belt?

Answer:
Belts, like hoses on any vehicle, are rubber and are designed to take a lot of abuse. The biggest factor affecting their life is heat. Many vehicles today only have one belt doing all the work, and if it breaks it will leave you stranded. The best thing to do is to have your belts and hoses inspected at every oil change and service interval. When a belt starts to show signs of cracking, due to the rubber getting hard and less elastic from the heat, it is time to replace the belt or belts.

6. When do I change my brake fluid?

Answer:
Brake fluid should be changed every 24 months or 24,000 miles. Unlike most hydraulic fluids, brake fluid absorbs moisture. Due to the amount of heat that brake fluid has to endure, condensation collects in the brake system and breaks down the brake fluid over time. "Dot 3" brake fluid has a boiling point of 400 degrees. As it accumulates moisture, its boiling point decreases. The extreme heat then causes the brake fluid to turn a dark color. Furthermore, it causes the brake pedal to become "soft" and can even cause total failure during frequent stops. Brake fluid can be tested with numerous types of tools on the market, but it's best to change it when you have a brake service performed and/or use the recommended 24/24,000 service interval.