Every car needs to be serviced regularly. They are complex machines, which could be damaged at any time. Especially if you use your vehicle on a daily basis.
When we go to a mechanic, we want it to be a garage that complies with what is necessary to provide a good service. Have you ever thought about what characteristics a garage has to have to be trustworthy? What should the mechanic check in your car? Find out the answers to these questions below.
How often do you have to take your car to the mechanic? Every vehicle comes with a manual or warranty policy recommending when to have it serviced. This frequency can vary between models, as well as the use of the car (personal, family, cargo, etc.). Normally, the minimum is every year, or when a certain mileage is reached.
GENERAL CONDITION OF THE CAR
Typically, a routine service will include a general service of the vehicle. Normally, the professional will focus on the performance and condition of the engine, as well as some important parts. This way, you can be sure that your car will continue to perform optimally.
A competent, quality repair shop will go further. It will also look at details that make both the safety and the appearance of your car. We are talking about aspects such as the braking system, the condition of the paintwork, the electrical system, among others.
VEHICLE SUSPENSION
Shock absorbers provide comfort and safety in driving as they help to control the car at high speeds and in risky situations.
The correct functioning of the suspension depends on several factors. As the wear and tear is not very noticeable to the driver, it is advisable to carry out periodic checks every 20,000 kilometres. Although your manufacturer may indicate a lower mileage for each service.
EXHAUST SYSTEM
Exhaust systems should reduce pollutant emissions and the noise of gases released by the engine. Deterioration is inevitable, especially when driving extensively in cities or on rough roads.
When you take your car to the repair shop, the professionals who service it should check the condition of the exhaust system. They may notice leaks or corrosion that can affect engine power or increase lubricant consumption, as well as increase pollutant emissions.
CHECKING THE INTERIOR OF THE CAR
Inside the vehicle, the mechanic must check the cabin air filter, also known as the pollen filter. This ensures clean air for the passengers and should be changed every year or every 15,000 kilometres.
A good garage should also check the safety features of the vehicle. Only a professional and dedicated mechanic can pay close attention to all these components and make you safer.
HEADLIGHT CHECK
Your vehicle’s headlights allow you to see the road and be seen. That’s why it’s essential to keep the lighting and signalling system in top condition, preferably with the standard lights with no changes in colour, intensity or operation, along with the overall electrical system including wiring and battery. A garage specialist should then check that all of your car’s lights are in good working order.
TIRES CHECK
Several factors influence the service life of a tyre. From the tyre components themselves, to driving habits and the characteristics of the road surface you drive on. As the link between the car and the surface, their role in safety is crucial. Check for cracks, bulges or bumps, wires coming out of the sidewalls, tread depth, air pressure and axle rotation.
When visiting a workshop, you should tell the professional if you have noticed vibrations and noises when driving. This may be a sign of abnormal tyre wear. The specialist will then know how to proceed with regard to the wheels.
OIL CHECK
Oil lubricates and minimises wear on engine parts. It also helps cooling and cleaning of combustion residues. The service life of lubricants has become much longer in modern cars.
At this point you should inform your garage of the number of kilometres travelled since the last oil change. The service technician will have to top up if necessary. To do this, you will have to use the type of lubricant recommended by the vehicle manufacturer.
ENGINE OVERHAUL
When the workshop professionals check the engine, the first thing they should check is the oil, air and fuel filters. They should also check the timing belt. As a component that wears out, a broken timing belt can lead to a serious – and expensive – engine failure.
Another aspect that should be checked is the functioning of the brake system (pads, belts, drums, discs and fluid). Wear and tear depends on the driving characteristics and the environment in which the vehicle is driven. It is therefore very important to have this system checked by a professional at least once a year.
IMPORTANCE OF AN AUTHORISED WORKSHOP
Having your car serviced and repaired by an authorised repair shop is the best way to avoid losing your warranty. In addition, an authorised repair shop will provide you with 3 very important aspects:
ATTENTION BY SPECIALISED PERSONNEL.
REPLACEMENT OF ORIGINAL PARTS.
RELIABILITY IN REPAIRS DUE TO THE EXISTING WARRANTY.
In short, the maintenance will be better and more in accordance with the instructions for use of your vehicle. These are the advantages of an authorised car workshop.
CONCLUSION
For safety and proper operation, every vehicle should be serviced regularly. This will allow you to avoid more serious and expensive breakdowns, or even losing your car’s warranty coverage.