Do you know What Does A Major Car Service Include?

There are some drivers on the road who don’t keep up the car repair and preventative maintenance needed to keep their vehicle in good operating condition.  It may be the farthest thing from their mind during their busy day.  Or it could be that they just don’t have the money in their budget for seemingly unnecessary items.  Though, the cost of repairs for the damage that could be taking place, such as in the engine, transmission, or suspension systems (just to name a few) will certainly be greater than really paying for the suggested maintenance.  It really is true—you don’t save money by extending the time between the suggested service intervals. 

The difference between major and minor service is significant. Usually, minor services are commonly performed at 7,500, 15,000, 45,000 and 75,000 miles while major services are performed at 30,000, 60,000 and 90,000-mile intervals.  Though the major car services are not performed as frequently, they need to be done to protect the warranty, maintain safety, and boost the resale value of your vehicle.

Minor car service normally includes the following:

• Changing the oil and filter
• Tire service--rotation, alignment, balancing, air pressure 
• Checking and cleaning the battery
• A checkup of all fluids, filters, belts, hoses, brakes, and emissions
• Windshield wipers
• Replacing burned out lights

What does a major car service include?  Depending on the make and model of your vehicle, a major car service normally includes the following:

• All the minor services listed above.
• Replacement of different filters, fluids and spark plugs.
• Replacing the timing belt and/or serpentine belt at the suggested mileage interval.
• Servicing the air conditioner/heater
• Other services related to the fuel delivery, emissions and ignition systems.

There are two main benefits of keeping up with vehicle maintenance.  First, your mechanic can let you know what is starting to wear out, what needs replacing right away, and what’s looking good. Secondly, you can drive your car with confidence knowing that you have a reliable and safe source of transportation. 

Want to know more about what does a major car service include?  Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Clausen Automotive, The Hybrid Shop, for more information about car repair and maintenance and to make an appointment. Since 1975, our family-owned auto repair shop has proudly served vehicle owners in Madison, WI, and the surrounding communities.

Are you wondering what are the Symptoms of a Bad Car Battery?

Are you worried about the condition of your car battery because of starting issues or dim lights?  Understanding how a car battery works might help you in diagnosing the issue.  

The typical battery is a “wet-cell” battery, a plastic cube containing sulfuric acid and lead, with two terminals on the top or side.  It stores electrical power generated from the alternator while your car is running. It also sends electrical currents to the engine and other electrical components. 

The first thing to do is to inspect the fluid level in your battery.  If the fluid is low and has been for a while, this will preclude your battery from generating power.  Then inspect the battery cables.  If the cable connections are loose or corroded, the electrical current cannot travel to from the battery to the other electrical components.

Wondering what are the symptoms of a bad car battery?

1. Your engine cranks but doesn't start.  If your engine cranks or turns over when you turn the key, but it won't start, the battery is probably the culprit.  It could be the starter, but possibly not. Even if an ammeter says the battery is good, it can still be a few volts short to start your vehicle efficiently.
2. There is no power at all to start the motor and lights don’t come on.  This is a major sign that the battery is faulty.  It could be a combination issue with the alternator not charging the battery.
3. Intermittent starting issues.  The engine may start one day, but not the next day. There are two issues to consider--the battery terminals are loose, broken, corroded, or calcified, or you have something drawing electrical power from the battery even when the key is out of the ignition.  

If you are noticing any of the signs above, ask your auto mechanic if it’s time for a car battery replacement.

Do you know the symptoms of a bad car battery? Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Clausen Automotive, The Hybrid Shop, for more information about a car battery replacement and to make an appointment. Since 1975, our family-owned auto repair shop has proudly served car owners in Madison, WI, and the surrounding communities.