Understand the conditions of your
warrantyAll new and many used vehicles
arrive with a warranty covering unexpected repairs. Be sure to understand the
duration and covered components of the warranty. A typical warranty might be
written "48/100,000" meaning that coverage lasts either 48 months
from the initial purchase or until the vehicle has 100,000 kilometres,
whichever comes first.
Why are
multiple warranty periods listed?Depending
on what is being repaired, the length of a factory warranty varies. Often a
comprehensive warranty covers everything outside of regular schedule
maintenance and items that wear over time such as tires. This is generally the
shortest warranty period. A usually longer powertrain warranty covers engine
and transmission defects. Anti-corrosion protection often lasts even longer.
Finally, some manufacturers offer roadside assistance for a limited
time.
Are used
vehicles still covered under factory
warranty?Warranties are often transferable,
meaning that a vehicle inside its mileage and duration limits will maintain its
factory warranty.
How does
one maintain the warranty?By performing
required service at the proper intervals and responding if something clearly
goes wrong. Your owner's manual explicitly lists service intervals, although
cars are often equipped with "check engine" dashboard lights that
signal needed maintenance.
What is the
owner's job?You just need to take the
vehicle in for service when the time arrives. Factory-authorized technicians
must perform service and any other outside maintenance can potentially void a
warranty.
Will a
warranty pay for all expenses?Many
warranties cover the parts and labor costs involved in fixing unexpected
repairs but place the burden of expected maintenance on the customer. As there
is not "one" answer it is best to speak with one of our friendly
staff about any questions you might have regarding the warranty for your
vehicle or one that you are interested in.
What
you should be aware of
Engine oil
Changing
your engine's oil and filter is one of the most vital maintenance procedures
possible. Oil keeps friction down in the engine and prevents the motor from
seizing up. Typical intervals for new cars are between 5,000 to 15,000
kilometres.
Engine
coolant
Water and antifreeze keep your
engine from overheating and freezing during extreme temperatures. Intervals for
flushing the system and replacing coolant vary, as some manufacturers promise
long lasting antifreeze good past 100,000 kilometres. A general rule of thumb
would be every few years or 30,000 to 40,000
kilometres.
Spark
plugs
Older vehicles required the
replacement or adjustment of spark plugs much more often than new vehicles do.
Manufacturers today promise over 100,000 kilometres before a tune-up that
includes changing the plugs. Still, checking the plugs at more regular
intervals, such as 50,000 to 60,000 kilometres, is always a good idea.
Air filter
The interval for
changing the filter depends on the quality of filter, type of vehicle and
environment in which most driving occurs. Travelling on dirt roads will clog a
filter much faster than paved highways. Due to their low cost, it is always
worth checking your air filter when your vehicle is in for
service.
Battery
The
interval of changing a battery depends on the type of battery, type of vehicle
and local climate. Very cold regions may require a more powerful battery for
cold starting. Vehicle batteries also have a limited life, those that have
completely lost their charge at some point often never reach full potential
again.
Hoses and
Belts
During scheduled maintenance it's a
good idea to inspect all hoses, belts and other connections under the hood to
be sure everything is in good shape and properly attached. These are the
connections that keep everything running together and move air and fluids
around to where they need to be.
Windshield
wipers
Wipers need to be replaced just like
any other part, especially in climates with unpredictable weather like BC.
Sometimes just the blade needs replacing, while other times the entire wiper
unit should go. A variety of wipers are typically available for your particular
vehicle, some of which offer superior performance and
longevity.
Tires
The type of
vehicle, specific tire and driving style determine the life of a tire. Many are
rated to last 30,000 to 70,000 kilometres, but an aggressive style can wear out
tires in as little as 15,000 kilometres. Also, a wide range of choices exist
for every vehicle allowing you to tailor your choice for your specific
performance or stylistic needs.
Brakes
Similar to
tires, brake life depends heavily on your individual driving style. Lots of
stressful braking will significantly shorten the life of your braking
components. Both pads and rotors often need to be replaced during the regular
life of a vehicle, especially if it is used for towing or other strenuous
activities.
The
'little' things
Light bulbs, exhaust
components, emission controls, and many other less noticeable items may require
replacement from time to time. These parts receive regular ware like all other
parts and are necessary for the optimum performance of your
vehicle.
Seasonal
Tires
Different seasons require different
types of tires. Many manufacturers sell vehicles with all-season tires that are
suitable for most conditions. However, if your vehicle arrived with performance
summer tires you should invest in a set of snow tires for safety in the bad
weather. Some drivers with all-season rubber may also purchase snow tires for
added security during our unpredictable winters.
Selecting the right
tire
No tire is perfect, as extra performance
in one category often means compromise in another. For example, a tire that is
great in snow may be so-so on dry pavement and average in the rain. Speak with
one our friendly staff to find the choice that best fits your individual
needs.
Other advice
Always
be sure to maintain the proper inflation for safety, performance and
longevity.
Buy four matching tires, for the most part. Some
rear-wheel-drive cars can get by with just rear winter tires, but
front-wheel-drive cars should never have winter tires in the front
and non-winter tires in the back. The inconsistency in grip during braking can
cause the rear end to slide out of the driver's control. All-wheel-drive
vehicles should have all tires replaced at the same time as
well.
When purchasing a set of winter tires select an extra
set of wheels on which the rubber can be mounted. Not having to mount/dismount
tires each season saves time and maximizes tire life. In most cases we carry
reasonably priced sets of steel wheels to match the winter
tires.
Seasonal
precautions
Be sure your engine oil is the
correct viscosity (ie. 5W30, 10W40). Different engines have different
requirements with some demanding a thinner oil to start, etc. Matching the
right oil to your vehicle is an essential part of your regular maintenance and
one that our staff are here to help with.
Verify that your
windshield wipers are operable and keep the washer fluid reservoir full. You
never know when it will be sunny in the morning and raining in the afternoon,
be prepared and stay safe.
Double-check hoses and belts
leading up to the Winter and Summer driving seasons. Cold temperatures can
cause rubber to shrink and crack, so be sure your hoses and belts have some
flexibility left.