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Service Tips
All you diesel guys, this one's for you. You may have noticed the signs on the diesel fuel
dispensers that tell you not to use this fuel in a 2007 model year vehicle. This is due to a ultra low sulpher requirement
for these new diesel engine emission requirements. As I understand it, the new systems will not tolerate our current level
of sulpher, ie Catalytic Converters and Particulate Traps. Conoco tells us they are shipping the ultra low sulpher through
the pipeline now. We have been assured that the new fuel will be compatible with all of the older diesel engines currently
on the road. They are making up for the lack of sulpher with lubricity additives and the new fuel should be less corrosive
on fuel system components.
Alert!!! If you plan on buying a used car in the near future watch for flood damaged vehicles. There may be many vehicles brought in from the areas affected by the hurricanes. While these vehicles may appear to operate fine and look great there may be trouble ahead. Today's cars may have multiple computers that don't tolerate water or mud very well. Mold and mildew can be covered up but are almost impossible to eliminate. There are some ways you can protect yourself; have the vehicle inspected (we would suggest a thorough inspection of the trunk and passenger compartment, this includes pulling up the carpet to see what lies below). Get a Car Fax. If the vehicle is from one of the affected areas-run. Watch for salvage titles or flood titles, watch for the title being washed (run from state to state to delete the "salvage" from the title. As always do your homework, be an informed consumer. If you have any questions give us a call anytime. . This summer we have had a few clients that have neglected to check their oil between service visits.
Most have avoided major repairs; one damaged an engine and traded off the car. Remember, you should check your oil and all
fluid levels once a month. You should also check your tire inflation pressure once a month. This can help maximize fuel economy
and vehicle longevity. If you are not comfortable doing this yourself, we do offer Full Service Gasoline and can check all
of this for you. Yes it does cost more, but it could save you a lot in the long run. We are more than willing to show you
how to do this yourself, just ask. If you have a new driver, bring them by and we can teach them how to look after their vehicle. We have replaced several timing belts recently that have failed. This is not the way it is supposed to work. When timing
belts fail, other parts may be damaged. Timing belts should be changed as a maintenance procedure at the manufacturers recommended
interval. This flyer describes this well. Call us if you have any further questions.
 We are going to start out with the basics. First, check your oil level at least once a month. Cars today don't consume
much oil, but don't get caught running low, as serious engine damage may result. Check the coolant level. Today's engines
with aluminum components don't tolerate overheating well. Check your tire pressure; low tires can waste fuel, wear tires and
cause handling problems. Most tires are low when we check them. If you are not inclined to do so yourself, stop in at our
Full-Service Island and fill-up. Ask us, and we will check these items for you. Sure it costs more, but how much could it
save you in the long run?
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