-Oil change, conventional oil replace every 3k miles, synthetic blend at 5k and full-synthetic around 10K miles. I believe a good full-synthetic oil is beneficial to your engine, I will discuss the benefits of synthetic oil in another article. Change your vehicles oil at the recommended mileage, this will prevent engine sludge and oil seal problems. Oil sludge causes engine damage and oil leaks. Many of the cars I diagnose for oil leaks reveal the leak is due to not changing the oil on time. Regardless of your oil change habits, your vehicle needs other services.

-Fuel system service, advanced engineering is making the in-line fuel filter obsolete. In the instance your car has an in-line fuel filter, it should be replace roughly between 19 to 29K miles. Replacing it at the mentioned interval, will add life to the fuel pump. The filter in the tank (Not serviceable), just use some good fuel injector cleaner, this should clean the in-tank fuel filter and injectors, “two for one”. Fuel injector cleaner, does well on vehicles with an in-line filter, just make sure you replace the filter, before using the cleaner.

-Cooling system service, this service is due in conjunction with the type of antifreeze your vehicle requires. Reference your vehicle owners manual for the type recommended. Dex-Cool is a common type, it is rated to last up to 5 years. Again review your manuals recommended interval, for replacement.

-Belts and hoses, these items, I will normally replace when needed, unless instructed otherwise. The recommended replacement by most belts & hoses manufacturers is 2 years. A quick inspection and analysis of these parts, will prove beneficial.

General auto repair service is a must to keep you on the road. Failure to service your vehicle will leave you stranded. This means expensive auto repairs. Remember the service recommendation is provided by manufacturer for a reason. Utilizing this information will help you financially. This article was intended to briefly educate the reader on auto service for the purpose of maintaining a reliable automobile.

First of all, check if your vehicle is still under warranty. If so, do not waste the benefits that you can get out of that warranty. It may cover a wide range of tune ups and auto repair, and even the replacement of car parts. Read your vehicle warranty closely and know your rights well. Make sure that you do not waste your money by taking your vehicle to another mechanic or auto service shop when you can get free service and car parts from your warranty. Take your car to the appropriate dealership, whether Cadillac, Chevrolet, GM, Pontiac, Oldsmobile, Ford, Lincoln, Mercury, Dodge, Jeep, Plymouth, Chrysler, Daewoo, Audi, BMW, Mercedes, Jaguar, Volkswagen,Volvo, Acura, Honda, Lexus, Scion, Toyota, Nissan, Infiniti, Mitsubishi, Hyundia, Mazda, or Suzuki. They have all the necessary expertise to make an accurate diagnostic check up on your vehicle and do all major or minor repairs necessary, including computer diagnostics and computer reprogramming.

If your vehicle is no longer under warranty, then you do not have to pay top dollar for the more expensive services of a dealership. Find a professional, experienced and reputable auto service shop with equally professional, experienced and reputable mechanics. Make sure they are certified by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). In such good hands you will get top notch service at a more reasonable price.

It should be a given that they have expertise on engines, including engine rebuild or engine replacement. At this level, such shops should also have the ability to repair brakes and tractions control systems including the antilock brake systems (ABS). Their transmission service and maintenance should include the transmission flush, the repair of any oil leaks and oil change service. They should be handling radiators, cooling systems and auto air conditioner (A/C) repair routinely.

They are expected to have the capability to repair electronic steering, power steering, power brakes, power windows, power convertible tops, power sunroofs and power locks, as well as do electrical troubleshooting for all types of electrical shorts and problems with alternators, hoses and belts such as timing belts.

The shop should also be equipped to do work on body systems and suspensions, including front suspension, rear suspension and air suspension.

Ask if they know how to repair air bag systems. It would be a big plus if they also know how to install and repair automotive anti theft systems, such as remote starters, and do key reprogramming.

Another good gauge of a reputable auto service shop is its ability to supply you with automotive parts of the highest quality at competitive prices. Recognized brands are AC Delco, Bosch, Remy, Motorcraft, Mopar, Goodyear, Dayco, Echlin, Standard, Cardone, Autolite, NGK, Akebono, Nipedenso, and Denso.

If your auto service shop and its mechanics are truly reliable and trustworthy, they would also help you cut costs by providing you with cheaper yet safe alternatives to brand new automotive parts. In many instances, remanufactured automotive parts may be had for much less than, as in the case of automotive transmissions.

Of course you can save most if you do all the necessary automotive maintenance and repair yourself. This requires a definite commitment on your part to do your research and learn about all general automotive repairs, including both minor repairs and major repairs. If you cannot cover all these, you can still take on simpler tasks such changing our vehicle’s oil and rotating your vehicle’s tires.

You can potentially save a bundle, with a little time, patience and hard work. I will explain the three-biased automotive repairs done by your own at home.

1. Replacing a bad fuse

Over time, the fuse will be bad and needs replacing. Many electrical systems in your vehicle managed by the fuse. To solve electrical problems many drivers who bring vehicles to a mechanic. Mechanic will do the test and will usually cost a pretty expensive to just replace the fuse that exploded into a problem. You can replace it yourself by using tweezers and costs much cheaper.

2. Replacing a bad spark plug

Although during the last decades the complexity of the car increases, the gas engine 4-stroke internal combustion process remains the same. Important process of the part it is the spark plug. Bad spark plug can cause your machine failure and dramatically reduce the performance and efficiency of your vehicle.
If you have a gapping, socket, and ratchet you can change your own spark plugs in the house with a cost saving up to $ 80 for the mechanic. By buying their own spark plugs and cheaper costs.

3. Changing the fuel filter

This repair work is the most labor-intensive of the three ways. You can complete this work within one hour by using a few keys, cloth lapa, jack, and a pan to catch fuel. With do it yourself you will only cost you $ 20 to purchase filter itself den save a lot of money for a mechanic.

Some important steps to take reasonable precautions and ensure your safety, because you are working with gasoline. Take off your car battery to prevent fire and do not forget to wear gloves. Finally, make sure you use jack to lift vehicle are sturdy and strong.