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Welcome to Local Automotive.
Serving all your Automotive needs. Locally.
Open 7 Days, 8.00am to 6.00pm
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YOUR SAFETY ON THE ROAD IS
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New at Local Automotive
Local Automotive has committed itself to achieving a reputation for honesty, straightforward advice and customer-oriented service. It is committed to high-quality craftsmanship and customer satisfaction.
Owner Steven Turner believes that business is built on these fundamental principles and because of this he has built a service department known for its expertise, proficiency, and friendly service.
Established in 1993
Whistler's only Authorised AUTOPRO Service Centre.
Local Automotive is 1 of 600 Autopro Service centers located in Canada backed by over 25 years of experience.
We’re more than just the one of largest identified network of locally owned and operated service facilities in Canada. Together with our NAPA affiliates in the US, we have over 11,000 locations to ensure your Peace of Mind travel… wherever you may go!
Local Automotive install top quality NAPA Parts and we back our service and parts with a Nationwide 12 Month, 20,000 km Warranty! See our AUTOPRO page for more details....
Services
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for more details about the services that Local Automotive have to offer
Battery
Did you Know?
Most people may be surprised to learn that warm temperatures are harder on batteries than cold weather. The extra heat can come from stop-and-go traffic.
At local Automotive when servicing a battery,A visual inspection of the battery and date.Then removal of battery clamps and thoroughly clean and reconnect. Inspect the drive belt and tensionor, we will perform a alternator load out put test, and load test of the battery. As well test for par-acidic drain. In order to retain the vehicles memory an substitute power source may be required.
Belts
Most of todays vehicles are equipped with anti-lock brakes (ABS) that use sensors to monitor the speed of a turning wheel. If the ABS determines the wheels are slowing too fast and are about to lock up, ABS will cycle the hydraulic brake pressure to create a pumping action where the brake pad contacts the rotor surface.
If you notice a squeal from beneath the hood of your vehicle, chances are you have a loose or damaged drive belt. They power the water pump, air conditioning, power steering, alternator, power brakes, and other accessories. Some vehicles operate on one long serpentine belt, while others run on a two-belt system. Whether your vehicle runs on one or two, if a drive belt should happen to break, certain components may fail to operate. Check your belts on a regular basis and replace them when necessary to keep your vehicle and its components running smoothly at all times.
Brakes
The most common type of service required for brakes is changing the pads. Disc brake pads usually have a piece of metal on them called a wear indicator. When enough of the friction material is worn away, the wear indicator will contact the disc and make a squealing sound. This means it is time for new brake pads.
There is also an inspection opening in the caliper so you can see how much friction material is left on your brake pads.
Sometimes, deep scores get worn into brake rotors. This can happen if a worn-out brake pad is left on the car for too long. Brake rotors can also warp; that is, lose their flatness. If this happens, the brakes may shudder or vibrate when you stop. Both of these problems can sometimes be fixed by refinishing (also called turning or machining) the rotors. Some material is removed from both sides of the rotors to restore the flat, smooth surface.
Refinishing is not required every time your brake shoes are replaced. You need it only if they are warped or badly scored. In fact, refinishing the rotors more often than is necessary will reduce their life. Because the process removes material, brake rotors get thinner every time they are refinished. All brake rotors have a specification for the minimum allowable thickness before they need to be replaced. This spec can be found in the shop manual for each vehicle accessories. Some vehicles operate on one long serpentine belt, while others run on a two-belt system. Whether your vehicle runs on one or two, if a drive belt should happen to break, certain components may fail to operate. Check your belts on a regular basis and replace them when necessary to keep your vehicle and its components running smoothly at all times.
Cooling System
Cooling systems should never be topped up with pure water or antifreeze – they require a 50/50 solution. Pre-mixed solutions are widely available.
Myth: Warm weather means less car worries
Cooling system neglect is cited as a principal reason for mechanical failure of a vehicle. In addition to the danger and inconvenience of a breakdown, the damage to the engine and transmission can add up to thousands of dollars. Discovering a leaking radiator, hose connection, a sticking thermostat or other cooling system component that's on "borrowed time" can save the life of your engine.
A professional strength cooling system flush, engineered to safely and effectively remove scale and corrosion build up, is added to the cooling system. A reverse coolant exchange machine is used to completely remove contaminated coolant, while simultaneously filling the system with new coolant. A high performance conditioner is added to prolong the life of the radiator, water pump, heater core and all other cooling system components.
Differential
Differentials are not completely sealed from the elements and water can find its way inside if the component is submerged. Its a common problem if you tow a boat or go off-roading in an SUV. If youre driving in these environments, replace the differential on an annual basis.
Positive-lock differentials can shift torque from a slipping wheel to one that still has traction.
With our complete differential fluid exchange service, a professional strength cleaner, engineered to quickly and safely remove gum and varnish deposits off of all gears and other components in rear ends.
Diagnostics & Electrical
Automotive diagnostics software, or auto diagnostics software for short, interfaces with your vehicle's engine control computer (ECU) to provide real-time diagnostics and troubleshooting data. Auto diagnostics software can reset the check engine light (CEL) in the dash, pull trouble codes stored in the ECU, and narrow down potential causes for problems.
There are four elements an engine needs to operate: fuel, air, spark and compression. . A vehicle's electrical system can be broken down into subcategories, or systems, including: cranking; ignition; charging; computer and sensors; emissions; accessory circuits; lighting, signaling and dash instruments; and audio. When it comes to engine performance, it's the first four we care about.
Filters
If an air filter becomes too dirty, your fuel economy or performance may suffer. It should be replaced every 12 months/24,000kms or more often if you drive through dirty / dusty environments.
Any part of the car that takes in fluids or air from the environment should have a way of separating the good from the bad, of taking in only what benefits the mechanism and leaving the rest behind. This is why cars have air filters and fuel filters. True, they require regular looking after but this is one of the simplest and least expensive — and most important — maintenance procedures you can perform for your car. Changing your car's filters on a regular basis can have a significant impact on engine life and performance.
Fuel System
The fuel filter should also be replaced whenever a new fuel pump is installed or work is conducted on the fuel system, because dirt can be dislodged in the process.
Consistent use of cheap gas and poor adherence to an auto maintenance schedule, as well as certain driving styles can significantly increase the accumulation of carbon deposits. Thus the possibility of poor fuel efficiency, decreased horsepower, and performance issues increases--all of which could be helped by injector maintenance.
Suspension
Check coil spring
Remove the tire and wheel assembly to gain better working access. Check the coils for any signs of cracks or fatigue, such as any nicks or scores on any of the coils. Also check the insulating block between the top of the spring and the vehicle body for signs of splitting and chaffing. Any deterioration should be reported.
Check McPherson strut upper mounting point
Check the upper mounting point of the McPherson strut for tightness. Ensure the spring insulator is in position. With the vehicle on the ground, ask an assistant to turn the steering wheel from lock to lock. Place your hand on the top of the strut mounting as it is turning, and note any noise or feeling of roughness from the top bearing
Check leaf spring
Check to see if there are any leaves of the spring that are cracked or broken. Also if the spring has noise deadening inserts between the leaves, make sure they are in place. Check the security of the spring center bolt and that the U bolts are tight. At the ends of the spring eyes are used to locate the springs in position. Check the condition of the bushes or mountings and spring shackles. You can check these by putting a lever in between them and levering against the spring.
Tires
The following recommendation applies to passenger car and light truck tires. Tires are composed of various types of material and rubber compounds, having performance properties essential to the proper functioning of the tire itself. These component properties evolve over time. For each tire, this evolution depends upon many factors such as weather, storage conditions, and conditions of use (load, speed, inflation pressure, maintenance etc.) to which the tire is subjected throughout its life. This service-related evolution varies widely so that accurately predicting the serviceable life of any specific tire in advance is not possible.
That it is why, in addition to regular inspections and inflation pressure maintenance by consumers, it is recommended to have passenger car and light truck tires, including spare tires, inspected regularly by a qualified tire specialist, such as a tire dealer, who will assess the tire's suitability for continued service. Tires which have been in use for 5 years or more should continue to be inspected by a specialist at least annually.
Consumers are strongly encouraged to be aware not only of their tires' visual condition and inflation pressure but also of any change in dynamic performance such as increased air loss, noise or vibration, which could be an indication that the tires need to be removed from service to prevent tire failure.
Transmission
If you experience any problems with your transmission such as leaks, noises, problems with shifting, etc, don't wait until the problem will become worse and car will finally stop somewhere on a highway, visit your trusted Local Automotive . Automatic transmission problems never disappear by themselves., try to explain to service person more detailed - what problem exactly you experience, when it happens. It will be easier for them to repair the transmission.
Windscreen
Your windscreen plays a vital role in safety, accounting for up to 30% of your vehicles structural strength. Damage lowers the strength of the windscreen and can reduce the effectiveness of passenger airbags which rely on the support of the windscreen to deploy correctly.
There was a time when a chip or crack in your windshield meant certain replacement. That's no longer the case. Modern technology makes it possible to repair windshields that would have previously been scrapped. Not only does this save your windshield, it also saves you money.
But be aware that even the most advanced glass repair techniques have their limits. So if your windshield is severely damaged, new glass may still be in your future.
Wheel Alignment
Most alignment work will not require new parts, although steering and suspension components all need to be in good repair for it to be effective and all tires need to be the same size, style and be properly inflated.
While the rear suspension typically cant be adjusted on a rear-wheel-drive vehicle, front-wheel-drive models should always get four-wheel alignment service
A proper wheel alignment should always start and end with a test drive.
The front end and steering linkage should be checked for wear before performing an alignment.
The tires should all be in good shape with even wear patterns. If you have a tire with excessive camber wear, for instance, and you correct the alignment problem that caused that wear, the tire will now be making only partial contact with the road. (see illustration on right)
Pulling problems are not always related to wheel alignment. Problems with tires (especially unequal air pressure), brakes and power steering can also be responsible.A QUICK stop at Local Automotive will determine the cause.
Wiper Blades
Not all wipers are created equal. Choose replacement blades appropriate for the season. Winter blades incorporate special boots to keep ice and snow out of the wipers joints.
Ninety percent of all driving decisions are based on a clear unobstructed view of the road, which means good visibility is absolutely essential especially during wet weather when vision may be obscured by water, road splash, sleet or snow on the windshield.
But good visibility requires wipers that are in good condition. If the wipers are chattering, streaking or otherwise failing to wipe cleanly and consistently, you need new blades -- NOW
: As well as having his journeyman qualifications and interprovincial certification Steven is qualified to inspect out-of-province vehicles coming into B.C. He is fully trained in the use of the most up to date diagnostic tools used to diagnose todays computer-controlled cars. An expert in four-wheel drive vehicles he also loves to look after todays luxury cars and SUVs.
He is married with two kids and is excited to call Whistler home.
Service: As well as having his journeyman qualifications and interprovincial certification Steven is qualified to inspect out-of-province vehicles coming into B.C. He is fully trained in the use of the most up to date diagnostic tools used to diagnose todays computer-controlled cars. An expert in four-wheel drive vehicles he also loves to look after todays luxury cars and SUVs.
MAINTENANCE SERVICES
Scheduled preventive maintenance is the key to your car's long life. Local Automotives certified, highly skilled technicians offer you seven maintenance services to keep your car young and on the road-all covered by the NAPA AUTOPROs industry-leading 12 Month/20,000 Km Peace of Mind Warranty.
Myth: To maintain my warranty I can only have my car serviced at a dealership
Service at a dealer is not mandatory to keep your warranties in effect. Maintenance may be done by any qualified service facility or person who is skilled in automotive service. Keep all receipts as proof of completion, and have the service provider fill out the Maintenance Record.
Myth: I get my vehicle serviced twice/year, so I dont need a pre-trip vehicle inspection
Vehicles need to be properly maintained year round. But a pre-vacation inspection performed by a qualified automotive technician can avoid costly repairs and inconvenience.
Myth: The service schedule is just a way for service people to make money
Your vehicles service schedule was designed by automotive engineers, not service technicians. Maintaining your car according to the schedules given in your owners manual helps to keep your driving trouble-free while it preserves your investment.
Myth: If its not broke, dont fix it or No news is good news
Vehicles need to be serviced even when the Check Engine Light isnt on. You should be following the Maintenance Schedule as outlined in your vehicle owners manual.
SPRING SERVICE
Before spring comes, make an appointment with us to help ensure the proper operation, safety and performance of your vehicle.
LUBE, OIL, AND FILTER
MULTI-POINT VISUAL INSPECTION
VISUAL BRAKE INSPECTION
SUMMER SERVICE
This spring season, make an appointment with us to help ensure the proper operation, safety and performance of your vehicle during the summer.
WINTER SERVICE
This fall season, make an appointment with us to help ensure the proper operation, safety and performance of your vehicle during the winter.
Our Winter Service Includes the following:-
6,000 KM MAINTENANCE SERVICE
Our technicians will:-
Cooling system
Brake
Power steering
Windshield washer
24,000 KM ANNUAL MAINTENANCE SERVICE or 12 Months
Perform 6,000 KM Maintenance Service, plus:
Disassemble and inspect primary components at all four wheels
Clean
Lubricate/reassemble, adjust brake shoes (if necessary)
Inspect flexible and rigid brake lines
Test pressure
Check pH
Inspect hoses and clamps
Steering system
Suspension components
Power train
Accelerator linkages
Shifter linkages
Space tire retractor (below vehicle)
Parking brake cables and linkages
48,000 KM PLUS SERVICE or 24 months
Perform 6,000 Km Maintenance Service and 24,000 Km Annual Maintenance Service, plus:
Inspect ignition system
Inspect and replace (if necessary) spark plugs
Performance test heating and air conditioning systems
Replace fuel filter
96,000 KM SUPREME SERVICE or 48 Months
Perform 6,000 Km Maintenance Service , 24,000 Km Annual Maintenance Service and 48,000 Km Plus Service, plus:
For more than 25 years, millions of Canadians have trusted NAPA AUTOPRO for their vehicles service and maintenance care. With close to 600 service centres nationwide, NAPA AUTOPRO has built a reputation on quality and trust.
When it comes to customer service, no one beats NAPA AUTOPRO. A fact proven in 2009 when J.D. Power ranked NAPA AUTOPRO as Highest Overall Customer Satisfaction* among Canadas top service centres. We are proud of this award and stand by our commitment to satisfy your vehicle repair and maintenance needs as best we can.
Whether its a routine maintenance visit or a major repair, our locally owned and operated facilities have the training and expertise to get the job done right—the first time. We even have locations that offer collision and bodywork service for more extensive repairs and insurance-related work.
Most NAPA AUTOPRO service outlets provide a full scope of mechanical repair and maintenance services, including:
At NAPA AUTOPRO, our certified technicians and professional service advisors work hard to keep your car young a long time.
The NAPA AUTOPRO Peace of Mind Warranty provides you with 12 months/12,000 Kilometres of worry-free protection on qualifying parts and labour. Our warranty is honoured at over 13,000 NAPA AUTOPRO and NAPA AutoCare locations across North America.
WHO MAKES THIS LIMITED WARRANTY
This limited warranty is extended only to you, the original purchaser and not to anyone who may purchase your vehicle from you during the term of the warranty. This limited warranty is made by the Independent Repair Facility (NAPA Dealer) who is so named on the original repair order and whom performed the service/repairs on your vehicle. This warranty will be honoured by any NAPA AUTOPRO or NAPA AUTOCARE Dealer (NAPA Dealer) participating in this program or any other authorized repair facility anywhere in Canada or the United States. This warranty is not a warranty by National Automotive Parts Association (NAPA), UAP Inc. (UAP), its employees, jobbers, member companies or the administrator, Matthew Scott Data Marketing Solutions Inc. (Warranty Administrator), its affiliates, subscribers or any of their employees, or member companies. In addition, Matthew. Scott Data Marketing Solutions Inc. serves as the warranty administrator only.
WHAT IS COVERED BY THE WARRANTY
A.Air Conditioning, heating and climate control systems
B.Engine cooling systems
C.Engine performance, drivability services and repairs
D.Emission control system
E.Fuel systems
F.Electronic engine management system and other onboard computer systems (engine, body, brake and suspension computers), cruise control systems
G.Brake system
H.Starting and Charging systems
I.Electrical systems
J.Exhaust system
K.Ignition system
L.Steering/suspension systems, wheel bearings, CV joints/U-joints, half-shafts and drive shafts
M.Clutches - clutch component or assembly repair and replacement
N.Other minor repairs
The NAPA Dealer warrants that the above repairs and services performed at their location will be free from defects in materials and workmanship for 12 months or 20,000 Kilometres of use, whichever comes first, measured from the date of the first repair and the odometer reading shown on the original repair order. This warranty is conditioned on the vehicle being subjected only to normal, non-commercial use and receiving reasonable and necessary maintenance during the warranty period. Warranty repair costs shall in no case exceed the costs of the original related repair or service. If there is a defect in either materials or workmanship within the warranty period, the NAPA Dealer shall have the option to either perform remedial service work at no charge to you, replace the defective warranted part(s) without charge to you or refund to you the entire charge for the warranted repairs, minus any previous refunds or credits.
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WHAT IS NOT COVERED BY THE WARRANTY
You must pay for any non-warranty service you order to be performed at the same time as the warranty service. If any customer declines necessary services or repairs when these services or repairs were recommended in writing by the servicing Facility and are deemed necessary by the manufacturer in the proper completion of the original work undertaken, no warranty shall apply. This warranty will not apply to your repaired vehicle if it has been damaged by abnormal use, misuse, neglect, accident, alteration or "tampering with" (by other than the NAPA Dealer or Facility or NAPA Dealer and/or Facility Employees). The NAPA Dealer and Facility's employees and/or agents do not have authority to modify the terms of this warranty nor to make any promises in addition to those contained in this warranty. This warranty does not in any way include INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES (additional expenses which you may incur as the result of faulty repair or service).
AUTOMOTIVE REPAIRS EXCLUDED FROM WARRANTY
This warranty does not cover repair(s) or replacement(s) except as listed in the section, "What is Covered by this Warranty", even though the NAPA Dealer or Facility may offer other services. Specifically excluded are any repairs involving replacement or removal of internally lubricated parts and other such repairs as listed below. Automotive repairs excluded from the Limited Nationwide Warranty include:
I. ENGINE
Any internal repairs or replacement of internal components or replacement of engine assembly including heads & head gaskets.
II. TRANSMISSION, TRANSAXLES
Automatic - any internal repair or component replacement requiring the removal of the automatic transmission or transaxle from the vehicle or disassembly of same.
Manual - any repair to a manual transmission requiring the removal of the transmission for the repair to be performed
III. DRIVE AXLE/DIFFERENTIAL ASSEMBLY
Any repair or component replacement requiring the removal of internally lubricated components or replacement of the drive axle/differential assembly.
Ring gear, pinion shaft and related gears
Associated bearing with above
Pinion seal
Hubs, hub assemblies on worn shaft ends
IV. AUTO BODY, PAINT, INTERIOR, MOULDING REPAIR
Any repair or materials related to auto body repair work.
Glass related repairs.
V. COMMERCIAL (CONSTRUCTION, FLEET), OFF-ROAD, RACING, RECREATIONAL AND HEAVY-DUTY (3/4 TON and UP) VEHICLES
Soon!!
BATTERY & ELECTRICAL CARE
All batteries are not created equal and price will usually determine everything from the batterys capacity to the length of the warranty
MAINTENANCE TIPS
Recommended maintenance
•Inspect batteries , cables and belts every 3 months / 6000kms
•Test battery every spring and fall
•Replace battery after 3 years if required
When selecting a new battery, choose one that:
•Meets or exceeds the Cold Cranking Amps (CCA) rating recommended in the vehicle owners manual
•Will be properly held down in the battery tray. A proper fit will prevent damaging vibration
•Offers the largest possible capacity if you drive in the extreme cold. A battery will loose about 40% of its cranking power in the drop from 27ºC to -18ºC even if its fully charged.
•Has a sufficient Reserve Capacity (RC), which indicates how long accessories can run while leaving enough power to start the engine.
BELT & HOSE CARE
The tooth-lined strip of rubber known as the timing belt, which synchronises the motion of valves and pistons, was introduced as a quieter and lighter alternative to a timing chain. But if its allowed to break, you could be facing a disasterand a very costly repair.
At best, a broken timing belt can bring your engine to a sudden stop. At worst, it can cause pistons and valves to collide, bending the valves and breaking the pistons.
Be sure to replace this belt every 100,000kms. At the same time, change any related idlers, tensioners and pulleys to do a complete job. If you only change the belt, you could be ignoring the original cause of the failure or wear.
While the replacement is labour intensive work, it will still be less expensive than rebuilding your engine!
Recommended Maintenance
•Inspect belts and hoses every 3 months / 6000kms
•Replace every 3 5 years
Belt Care
Accessory or serpentine belts transfer the power of your engine to a wide array components. They turn the alternator that charges your battery, drive the water pump that circulates your coolant and spin the fan that draws air through your radiator.
In general, they should be replaced every three to five years even if there is no visible sign of wear while tensioners should be replaced at the same time. Belts that are too tight can damage bearings in the alternator and water pump, while stretched belts could fail to move components at the proper speed.
And never use a belt dressing to eliminate noise
Hose Care
The hoses that deliver antifreeze/coolant from your engine to your radiator will degrade from the inside out over time, through a process known as electrochemical degradation. And it wont matter how many kilometres are on the odometer.
When its time to replace your hoses, be sure to replace them all at once. If one hose failed, chances are pretty good the others are not far off.
And be sure to change your hoses, radiator cap and hose clamps whenever you change antifreeze or a radiator
BRAKE SYSTEM
Few vehicle components can have a bigger impact on your safety than your brakes and they should be inspected every 24,000 or 12 months because of it. Not only will this ensure that brakes are there when you need them, but it will spot worn components before they lead to costlier repairs.
If your brakes are dragging, squealing, grinding, or pull your vehicle to one side or the other, or if the brake pedal seems low, come in for a service right away!
•Inspect brake system, including brake linings, parking brake, rotors and drums every year / 24,000kms
Do you brakes need servicing?
•Noises Squealing can indicate brake pads that have worn down to the indicators and a grinding sound can mean pads have worn down to their backings, which are coming in contact with rotors.
•Warning lights BRAKE, ABS, or ANTILOCK, warning lights will briefly turn on when you first start your vehicle. If they stay on or continue to flash, there may be a fault in the anti-lock braking system.
•Pedal sensations A pulsing pedal can indicate rotors that are out of round, while a low pedal can indicate the need to adjust rear brakes.
•Performance Spongy brakes can indicate air is entering the brake system. A vehicle that pulls to the side may indicate brakes are not balanced or there may be calliper problems.
•Low brake fluids Dropping levels of brake fluid can indicate wearing disc brakes. The fluid fills the space left by the calliper pistons as they are required to move outward. Frequent top-ups can be a sign of a leak in the hydraulic system that should be addressed by a qualified technician. Only use the type of fluid recommended in your owners manual.
Did you know?
CABIN AIR FILTER
The air circulating inside your vehicle can be six times dirtier than the outside air thanks to the pollen, mould, exhaust gases and dust flowing through your Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning system. But breathe easy. Cabin air filters have been introduced in vehicles over the past few years to trap these contaminants.
These filters should be replaced every year more often if you drive in areas with a lot of contaminants, such as new construction sites.
MAINTENANCE
•Replace every 12 months more often in areas with heavy contaminants or when HVAC efficiency is reduced
Old, Clogged Cabin Air Filters
•Block the flow of air through your vents, reducing the performance of your cooling and heating system
•Force Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) components to work harder, accelerating the wear on components
•Trap moisture, allowing mould to form and creating odours
• Are not as effective at removing dust, pollen and odours
Think of the Cabin Air Filter as a HEPA filter for your vehicle.
While Cabin Air Filters were first introduced in European vehicles in the late 1990s, Cabin Air Filters are also emerging in popular North American and Japanese designs.
Never attempt to clean an old Cabin Air Filter and put it back in place. This will damage the filter and reduce its effectiveness
COOLING SYSTEM
Your vehicles cooling system is responsible for controlling the heat generated by burning fuel
The antifreeze / coolant that flows through these systems should be changed according to recommendations in your owners manual. Older fluids may not be able to regulate temperatures and could allow components to corrode. Theyll also degrade the hoses that deliver the fluid from your engine to you radiator.
•,Inspect coolant every 12 months/ 24,000kms
•Inspect hoses every 3 months/6000kms
•Top up with 50/50 mix of coolant/antifreeze and distilled water
When changing the coolant, you should change these components at the same time:
•The Thermostat that regulates the flow of coolant from the engine to the radiator. This ensures that hot coolant goes to the radiator.
•The spring-loaded pressure cap that retains the coolant and raises the boiling point of the fluid. A cap that can withstand 15 psi will raise the coolants operating range by 45º Fahrenheit (The boiling point rises 3º Fahrenheit for every 1 psi of extra pressure)
•The Hoses should be replaced every four years, regardless of how they appear on the outside, since antifreeze/coolant chemicals break down hoses from the inside out. And if one hose failed, chances are pretty good that the other hoses have also weakened.
•The Radiator clamp and hose clamps that hold everything in place
Engine coolant can come in a variety of colours such as yellow, green, orange, blue and red. While the colour doesnt affect the performance of the coolant, it will identify the formula that should be used with your engine or the period of time that it will last.
DIFFERENTIAL
The differential which houses an array of gears and bearings is used to transform the twisting power of your driveshafts torque into the spinning motion of your wheels. It gets its name from its ability to allow inner and outer wheels to turn at different speeds. (The outer wheel needs to turn faster than the inner wheel when you make a turn.)
If properly lubricated, a differential will offer many years of trouble free operation.
•Replace every 24 months / 48,000kms
Rear- wheel-drive or four-wheel-drive vehicles should have their differential lubes changed on a regular basis. (Consult your owners manual for the specific schedule)
All lubes are not created equal. Synthetic formulas will do a better job at lubricating parts in cold weather and handling extreme heat as when turning. Positive-lock differentials typically known by brand names such as Positraction or Traction-Lock can require a special lubricant or the use of an additive.
Four-wheel-drive vehicles also have a separate differential for each axle.
Trouble-Signs
•A high pitched sound when accelerating or slowing
•A howling sound
•A clunking when accelerating or shifting between reverse and drive
•Hopping when turning in one direction only
FILTERS
Your engine relies on steady supplies of air and oil, but components can also be damaged by the dirt and debris that can come along for the ride. Remember to change your filter and inspect your air filter during every scheduled oil change.
•Replace oil filters at every oil change after 3 months/6000kms
•Replace air filters every 12 months/24,000kms but more often in diry environments
Oil Filters
Oil is responsible for protecting internal engine components by keeping everything clean, lubricated and running cool. But its the oil filter that cleans this all important lubricant.
Oil filters are responsible for trapping dirt and metal particles that may be smaller than the diameter of a human hair, but can grind away at expensive components and lead to costly repair.
Replace these filters every time you change your oil, but dont be fooled by their common appearance. Internal filter structures can vary significantly premium filters trap and hold more contaminants.
Air Filters
Your engine may thirst for fuel, but it is also needs to breathe 10,000 litres of air for every litre of gasoline it consumes.
The air filter incorporates a gasket and pleated paper that traps the dirt that would otherwise damage internal engine components such as cylinders and pistons.
FUEL SYSTEM
Todays vehicles include injectors that feed precise amounts of fuel into engine cylinders, maximising performance and fuel economy. But a clogged injector can affect the spray of fuel just like the clogged nozzle on a can of spray paint.
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Fuel system components such as the intake manifold, injectors, combustion chamber and throttle valve should be cleaned whenever fuel economy or performance begins to suffer.
•Check fuel filter every 3 months/6000kms
•Replace at least every 2 years/48,000kms
•Clean entire fuel system every 12 months/24,000kms
Keep it clean
Fuel filters are responsible for capturing dirt and rust from your fuel tank, and clean a pressurized supply of fuel whenever your fuel pump is running (on most fuel injected engines). If the filter is contaminated, the fuel pump will need to work harder to deliver your gasoline.
If your vehicle is suffering symptoms such as hard starts, a complete fuel system cleaning should remedy the problem, provided the vehicle is in good mechanical condition.
Cars equipped with carburettors should have their fuel filters replaced every year. And while filters on fuel-injected vehicles could last as long as 170,000km under normal driving conditions, Canadians tend to face severe conditions such as stop-and-go traffic. In most cases, fuel filters on fuel-injected vehicles should be replaced every 2 years or 40,000kms
SUSPENSION
Shocks and struts help your tires stay in contact with the road as you travel through bumps and dips. Worn shocks and struts can also cause other components to wear out prematurely.
Its little surprise that shocks wear out as they move up and down 1,050 times every kilometre and thats on a smooth road!
Shocks and struts should typically be replaced in pairs.
If you carry a lot of cargo or tow a trailer, consider selecting speciality shocks that are designed to respond to different vehicle ride heights.
•Inspect shock absorbers, struts and chassis parts annually
•Replace if damaged
Do your shocks & struts need service?
Here are some signs of trouble with your shocks and struts:
•Hopping wheels or a nose-diving front end during sudden stops
•Vehicle continues to rock after stopping
•Excessive serving when you pass
•Failed bounce tests if you bounce your car up and down, it should stop bouncing as you step away from the vehicle.
•Oil seeping from shock absorbers and struts
•A floating sensation during turns
•Premature tire wearing such as cupping
TRANSMISSION
An automatic transmission relies on Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) to cool, lubricate and clean internal components, as well as deliver the force that makes it possible to shift gears in the first place.
The fluid should typically be replaced every two years or 48,000km in severe conditions.
•Replace automatic transmission fluid and filter every 2 years /48,000kms
• Flushing and filling the transmission will remove more contaminants than a simple draining
•Transmission fluids are designed for specific vehicles
•Towing and severe driving conditions such as quick stops and starts, steep hills and spinning wheels can all generate heat- and the heat is the transmission fluids biggest enemy.
Replace your transmission filter whenever you change your transmission fluid.
WHEEL ALIGNMENT
If your vehicle is pulling from one side to another or if one or more tires are showing signs of premature or uneven wear, you may have an alignment problem. Regular checks can insure proper alignment and avoid costly repairs. Be sure to have it checked every six months or after you travel 10,000kms
•Inspect steering and suspension components every year/24,000kms
•Inspect tire inflation and condition every month
•Check alignment whenever replacing tires
You may require an alignment if:
•You need to hold onto the steering wheel to drive straight ahead
•Youve just changed the tires
•Youve been involved in a collision
•Steering or suspension parts such as the tie rods, control arms, bushings or idler arm have been changed
•Youve driven the first 3000kms in a new car
•You front-wheel-drive car has just had a trans-axial repair
WIPER BLADE
Windshield wipers ensure your safety on the road you cant avoid a hazard that you cannot see. But they will wear out over time.
To ensure that your wipers are in good working condition when you need them most, replace the blades every spring and fall.
Wiper Warnings
•Streaking Tree sap, road tar or other grime can harden and crack the rubber, leading to streaks
•Chattering Wipers will form a permanent curve if theyre parked in one position for an extended period of time, causing them to skip across the windshield.
•Worn rubber Wipers require a defined edge to do their job
•Split rubber Old wiper blades, or those exposed to excessive ultraviolet rays, can split along their length
•Bent refill vertebra or wiper frames The backbone of the blade applies pressure against the windshield, but it can be damaged by vandals or car washes
Contact us:
Email: info_localautomotive.com
Address: 1090 Millar Creek Road
Function Junction
Whistler. BC.
Canada
Tel: +1 604 932 5790
Fax: +1 604 932 2649
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