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FAQ

My vehicle is still under warranty. Do I have to take it to the dealer for maintenance?

It used to be that manufacturers would sometimes void your warranty if you didn’t have your service done at the dealership. However, with the passage of the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act of 1975, it is illegal for a dealership to deny warranty repairs if you service your vehicle outside of the dealership.

It is still possible for a manufacturer to deny warranty claims if you do not follow their recommended service intervals, so make sure to perform the proper maintenance as required by the manufacturer.

At Wrench Works, we have access to the manufacturers’ recommended service intervals, so we’ll set you up on a schedule that does not compromise your warranty.

For more information, visit: http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/alerts/alt192.shtm

How often should I change my oil?

There is no one size fits all oil change interval. The days of the 3,000 mile oil change are long gone. With advancements in engine, oil, and filter technology, today’s vehicles will go anywhere from 5,000 to 10,000 miles or more between oil changes. Many newer cars will alert you when it’s time to change your oil based on your driving characteristics. If not, consult your owner’s manual for the proper oil change interval and oil type.

At Wrench Works, we have access to the manufacturer’s recommended intervals for your car and driving conditions, so we’ll set you up on a schedule that doesn’t needlessly waste your money.

My Check Engine light is on, what should I do?

More often than not, the Check Engine light gets illuminated by a malfunction in the emissions system. One of the most common causes is a loose or leaking gas cap. Pull the gas cap off and inspect the rubber ring seal for damage. Also ensure that the cap is tight when putting it back on. You can also check under the hood for any vacuum or air hoses that may have cracked or come loose. If you fixed the issue, the Check Engine light should turn off on its own after a few drive cycles.

If you notice any driveability concerns, like engine missing/hesitation or transmission shifting issues, you should stop driving the car and tow it to have it checked out. Continued driving could cause costly damage.

Do you offer engine and transmission flushes?

What is commonly referred to as flushing can really cover two things. One type of flush uses a machine to get all of the old fluid out and the new fluid in, ensuring a more effective fluid change than a normal drain and fill. These machines apply to transmissions, cooling systems, brakes, and power steering.

The other type of flush uses chemicals and/or high pressures to try and clean the inside of engines, transmissions, and cooling systems of solid deposits.

We don’t believe in the use of the flushing machines that clean out old deposits. The problem with doing this is that you can never ensure that the pieces of deposits that you break free will make their way out of the engine or transmission. These bits of debris could end up getting stuck somewhere else, where they may inhibit the flow of fluid and cause expensive mechanical damage. In fact, many manufacturers discourage the use of such machines and may even void warranty coverage if you use them on your car.

The best way to combat sludge/deposits is prevention. Change your fluids with quality fluids at the manufacturer’s recommended intervals to prevent these deposits from forming in the first place.

Why do I need to change my brake fluid?

Brake fluid is hygroscopic, meaning that it absorbs water. Moisture can enter the braking system through microscopic pores in rubber lines and seals, as well as through the opening on the brake fluid reservoir.

Water in your brake fluid is a problem for two reasons. One, water causes corrosion. Corrosion can cause leaks, moving parts to seize, and ABS passageways to clog.

The other problem water causes is that it lowers the boiling point of the brake fluid. Frequent or panic braking can greatly increase the temperature of the brake fluid. If the brake fluid gets hot enough to boil, you get what is known as brake pedal fade. What happens is that when you depress the brake pedal, instead of actuating your brake calipers to stop the car, you instead compress the vapor in your brake system. Your brake pedal may go to the floor and you will get reduced or no braking.

The other reason to change your brake fluid is that rubber seals, lines, and plungers degrade over time. Particles from these eroding rubber components become suspended in the fluid and can clog small ABS passageways. They can also accelerate wear on rubber seals and plungers due to the increased friction of the suspended particles. When you see your brake fluid turn from clear or light yellow to brown or black, it is time to change it.

Many manufacturers recommend a brake fluid change every 2 years. At Wrench Works, we visually check your fluid during our standard inspection. We also check the moisture content, and recommend a change if moisture content rises above 3%.

Why do I need to change my coolant?

Coolant is in constant contact with the metal parts of your engine and cooling system. Over time, coolant breaks down and becomes acidic. Acids will eat away at metal, and especially aluminium through electrolysis. Corrosion can cause coolant leaks and clogged passageways. Coolant normally contains additives to keep it alkaline, but over time, heat, dissolved oxygen, and minerals cause these additives to be used up and the coolant becomes acidic.

Coolant should be changed periodically to prevent cooling system damage. Follow your manufacturer’s recommended intervals. During our normal inspection, we check your coolant using Ph test strips and multimeters to determine your coolant’s condition.

How much air pressure should I put in my tires?

It is important to set your tire pressure to the proper level. Too much tire pressure can cause a rough ride and make your tire more susceptible to tire damage from potholes. Too little can cause increased tread wear.

Many people make the mistake of inflating their tires to the pressure marked on the sidewall of the tire. This is the MAXIMUM pressure that the tire is rated at, and rarely the recommended tire pressure for your vehicle.

To find the proper inflation pressure, there is usually a sticker on the inside of the driver’s door on the door jamb. Sometimes it is located inside the glove box. If not, check your owner’s manual for the proper pressure.