Engine oil not only loses its lubrication quality over time and mileage, but it also collects acids and other by products of combustion such as water. These substances are enemies of bearings, other mating surfaces, seals and gaskets. Even though oils are continuing to increase in lubrication quality, the substances in suspension do damage to the internal engine components.

Changing oil and filter on a 3 month or 3,000 mile schedule is just plain “good insurance” against the possible damage that can occur over time otherwise. If the facility that is performing the oil change is inspecting the items that we do each time, you will save money by identifying a need before it becomes an emergency.

It is typical that they not need replacement for at least 60,000 miles under normal driving conditions. Replacing worn belts reduces the chance of breakdowns, the chance of damaging other components when they break and insures that all belt-driven components operate normally. Replacing worn hoses reduces the chance of failure that could cause engine overheating, damage and allows for testing of the coolant.

It is best to have the cooling system flushed at the intervals recommended by the manufacturer. Coolant breaks down over time, becoming more and more acidic which can cause premature failure of gaskets and seals. The idea is to replace the coolant before it gets contaminated because otherwise the dirt particles cling to the metal inside the engine and the system will never be able to be cleaned properly again.

You would normally be able to tell if one or more of your tires is out of balance, but sometimes the imbalance comes on so slowly that you don’t notice it until it has caused tire damage (cupping), at which time you would hear it as well a feel it. Unless you pay close attention to the tread depth of your tires it is difficult to know when the fronts are worn more than the rears. A typical “rule of thumb” is that the tires should be rotated and balanced every 6,000 to 9,000 miles to get optimum wear from them.

It is best to have the differential and transfer case fluids replaced at the intervals recommended by the manufacturer under normal driving conditions. Under severe conditions it may be advisable to have the fluids changed more often. The fluids in these units do become contaminated over time, and during normal use can lose their lubrication qualities. The idea is to head off costly repairs by replacing the fluids before they can do damage to the internal components.

It is best to have the transmission fluid flushed at the intervals recommended by the manufacturer under normal driving conditions. Under severe service it may be advisable to have it flushed more often. Transmission fluid breaks down over time due to the extreme temperatures during operation. The idea is to replace the fluid before it looks dark or smells burned so the transmission can operate at its best. This will prolong the life of the transmission and head off costly repairs and inconvenience for you.