Oil changes are one of the most frequent and common preventative maintenance services your vehicle will get. However, it’s not just your engine that benefits from an oil change, it’s your vehicle’s overall health that will as well.
By choosing to use a trusted auto repair center for all your vehicle’s maintenance and repairs, you’re opting for the peace of mind that an experienced mechanic can pick up a myriad of problems – or potential problems before it’s too late. A standard “quick lube” center or oil change facility can’t. When it’s time for an oil change, here are the questions you should be asking.
Is “quick lube” convenience worth it?
If you’re a regular visitor to a quick lube center – purely for the convenience factor – it might be time to make a change. While quick lube centers are fast, easy, and usually conveniently located, they only provide your car with consumables such as oil, filters, and wiper blades. Of course, these items do need to be frequently replaced, but the more pressing problems such as suspension and worn tires are not checked because they can’t sell these things to you. As such, you’re paying for your oil change, but you’re none the wiser to any problems that may have needed to take priority.
By visiting a professional auto repair center, you may pay a little more, but the mechanics will run through your OEM schedule based on your mileage, your service history, and can point out problems that could occur, or are sure to. A professional auto repair center will also use the correct oil and filter for your car to reduce the risk of internal wear and engine failure.
Should I use regular or synthetic oil?
If you’re unsure which type of oil is best for your car, ask for your mechanic’s advice. Many vehicle servicing professionals recommend synthetic oil as you’re able to get 5,000 miles to one oil change, opposed to less on regular oil. If you get an oil change every 5,000 miles, you’re also right on schedule to have your tires rotated at the same time. A good mechanic will also check whether you need new tires, or whether a tire purchase will be necessary for the near future.
Can a trusted mechanic pick up suspension issues?
While you might just be heading to an auto repair center for an oil change, you benefit from so much more. A trusted mechanic will go over your entire vehicle, picking up signs of wear and tear, including problems with your suspension. In fact, they can even find small issues that can turn into significant issues, such as loose tie rods or ball joints.
How do I know whether my battery is OK?
It can be hard to know whether you need a new battery, or whether your current battery will last the distance. At every oil change, you can request to have your battery tested, to ensure it will not fail at the most inconvenient time. Batteries only have a lifespan of around three years, so the more often you check it, the better.
Will a trusted mechanic point out wear and tear?
A good mechanic will check everything under the hood at every oil change – even your radiator in case coolant leaks can be spotted. The benefit of this is that you’re able to locate problems weeks or even months before they become a drivability issue. Wear and tear can be spotted – and fixed – by a competent mechanic with ease.
When it comes to the health of your vehicle, you don’t want to leave anything to chance. Therefore, you need a reliable, experienced team of technicians who care about your car as much as you do. That’s where AC Auto in Wakefield comes in. Locally owned and operated for more than 35 years, the team is dedicated to providing comprehensive auto repair service to see you traveling safely. From electrical, engines, and brakes through to AC, diagnostics, and suspension, there’s nothing they can’t do! Call 781-621-8151 to book your vehicle today!