How to Keep Your Car Running at its Very Best
Routine car maintenance is important in order to keep a car running properly. Oil changes and air filters are very important parts of engine maintenance; however, a thorough inspection of all engine, transmission, cooling, brakes and suspension components should also be performed regularly. The owner’s manual provides a routine auto maintenance schedule based on engine mileage for most cars.
At Melvins Service Center we pride ourselves on being a complete service repair center. That is why with every oil change we include a courtesy inspection to ensure your vehicle is in top notch shape!
What is included with your Courtesy inspection?
Maintenance
We check the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule, to make sure you haven’t missed any important preventative maintenance.
Lighting:
Headlights, brake lights, turn signals
We visually inspect all of your vehicle’s external lights to make sure everything is working properly. Ensuring your lights are properly working doesn’t just keep you safe, it can prevent you from getting a ticket as well!
Under the Hood
Batteries, cables, filters, belts, and hoses
There’s a lot going on under your engine’s hood! We check for wear and tear, leaks, and any other signs of damage or potential issues.
Fluids: Oil, Transmission, Brake, Radiator
Your car requires a variety of fluids to keep it running smoothly and prevent damage. We check to make sure all of your fluid levels are adequate, and check the condition of the fluids to see if they need to be replaced.
Brake System: Pads, rotors, drums hoses, cylinder
There are a lot of components to your car’s braking system. We check to make sure nothing is worn or damaged. We can also help you determine when you might need to replace brake components, so you can plan ahead!
Suspension:
Your car’s suspension is a system of springs, shock absorbers, and linkages that connect your car to the wheels. We’ll check your shocks, struts, and steering systems to make sure your car is safe and comfortable.
Exhaust System:
Your car’s exhaust system directs burnt and toxic gases away from the engine and passengers, and also helps alleviate the amount of noise created by the engine. We check your muffler and exhaust pipe for leaks, rattling, and loose fittings.
Tires:
Getting a flat tire is frustrating and time consuming. We check your tire pressure to make sure your tires are properly inflated. We also check tired depth and wear patterns. Your tires should be rotated at regular intervals to distribute the wear between the tires, making the tires last longer.
This inspection will be sent to you through either a text message or Email with pictures included so you can see what we are taking about from home or work.
When Cars Need Preventative Maintenance
Manufacturers know that a properly maintained car will be more dependable, safer, longer-lasting, and increase your satisfaction with their product. Car makers and owners also have a responsibility to make sure emission controls receive regular service and are functioning properly. Regular maintenance helps accomplish these goals by keeping your engine running efficiently and eliminating potential problems that may leave you stranded.
So, what’s in it for you?
- A more dependable car
- A car that retains the “new car feel”
- Less chance of a costly breakdown
- A safer car for you and your family
- Doing your part for cleaner air
- A car worth more at trade-in or sale
- An intact warranty
Manufacturer Maintenance Schedules
The manufacturer creates detailed maintenance schedules outlining specific operations to be performed on various components and systems. This is done at different mileage intervals to ensure proper operation and prevent premature wear. The manufacturer also indicates what services must be done to maintain the factory and extend warranties.
AllData Automotive Information System
Melvin’s is equipped with an automotive system that provides detail automotive information about every car built in the last 20 years. The AllData system even lists high-tech specialty lubricants required for your particular car. Other information includes vehicle-specific repair and diagnostic information and factor issues Technical Service Bulletins, including ‘silent’ recalls.
The bottom line is efficient, dependable and cost effective service for you.
Why Timing Belts Need to be Replaced
Timing belts have replaced timing chains on many of today’s engines. Both belts and chains ensure that the crankshaft, pistons and valves operate together in proper sequence. Belts are lighter, quieter and more efficient than chains. Like other components, timing belts wear out. Proper maintenance requires belt replacement at regular intervals – before they break. Timing belts are on the front of the engine, protected by a plastic or metal cover. When a timing belt breaks the engine stops. Replace belts before this occurs. Most manufacturers provide a suggested service life and replacement schedule for this critical component. You should ask a technician if your car has a timing belt instead of a timing chain.
What is a Free-Running Engine?
If the timing belt breaks on a free-running engine, the engine stops and you will need a tow to the repair shop. No mechanical damage occurs and the installation of the new belt is usually all that is needed to get you on your way.
What is an Interference Engine?
If the timing belt breaks on an interference engine, mechanical engine damage occurs. It most commonly involves open valves being struck by pistons, resulting in the need for expensive repairs. In extreme cases a replacement engine my be required.
Emissions Check
Thirty-five states do not have some type of annual vehicle emissions inspection program, and all but two include a tailpipe emission check. Our mechanics will check EGR valve operation, the PCV valve, and make a visual inspection of other emission and control components and plumbing. Unless an actual emissions performance check is made at the tailpipe, there is no way to know whether the vehicle will meet applicable emission standards. An emission check is a must.; The best guide to tune-up frequency is the recommended spark plug replacement interval found in the vehicle owner’s manual.; AllData Automotive Information System Melvin’s is equipped with an automotive system that provides detailed automotive information about every car built in the last 20 years.
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(302) 678-9978