What affects Oil Change Intervals?

The interval between oil changes relies on various factors. You may have received several recommendations as to when an oil change service is needed for your vehicle. How do you know which recommendation is correct? By understanding the factors that affect the cleanliness of your oil will help you make an informed decision. In a recent survey conducted by AAA, it was found that more than 50% of all motorists follow the wrong oil change schedule because they assume they typically drive in "normal" conditions, and not "severe."

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Which one are you -- "normal" or "severe?"

The first place to check as a reliable source for the answer is your owner's manual. Most vehicle manufacturers will show two sets of maintenance schedules, one for "normal" driving and one for "severe" driving.

    * For "normal" driving conditions, your owner's manual will probably recommend an oil change every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. This schedule is based on ideal driving conditions – driving short distances, never over the speed limit, level roads, no load, that kind of thing – something the average driver would be hard-pressed to accomplish.

    * For "severe" driving conditions, your owner's manual will typically recommend more frequent oil changes, including a filter change, about every 3,000 miles. If you are the average driver, frequently making short trips, driving in hot weather, stop-and-go traffic, or transporting items on a roof-top carrier, then your vehicle would be better off using the "severe" maintenance schedule for oil changes. You will find that most auto shops offer oil change coupons to make these frequent services more affordable for their customers.

Of course, if you don't drive many miles at all, you'll be able to get away with longer periods in between oil changes. The smart driver will err on the side of caution and follow a regular oil change schedule of about every 3,000 miles, thus enhancing the performance and longevity of your vehicle.

Looking for an affordable and quality oil change? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Wentland Diesel Service, the Diesel Fuel Injection Specialists, by calling 541-938-3875 or go on-line at http://www.wentlanddiesel.com/ for more information and to find our oil change coupons. Our auto and light truck repair and diesel service shop serves vehicle owners in Milton-Freewater, OR, Walla Walla, WA, Pendleton, OR and surrounding areas.

Auto Repair Services: What should you do about a flashing Check Engine light?

Oh no, my check engine light is on! If you've said that before, you know it's time to enlist the help of an auto repair mechanic. Schedule an appointment for diagnostic auto repair services as soon as possible. There could be a number of things going on under the hood--a major engine repair, or simply a gas cap that is loose. Whatever it is, you will want to take care of those two scary words illuminated on your dash—Check Engine.

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 Unfortunately, it seems that a Check Engine light problem usually ends up with professional auto repair time. But don't mortgage the house just yet. There are some fairly common issues that can make the "Check Engine" light come on. The good news is that these issues can be corrected without a lot of time or money

    * Loose gas cap -- Some cars measure how much pressure is building up inside the gas tank by tracking your driving style together with how much pressure is in the tank, then setting off an alarm if it varies a certain 

percentage from the average. The sensor thinks something is wrong and triggers the Check Engine light. You can try to tighten the gas cap and then wait about a week. If the light hasn't gone out by then, call your auto repair specialist for help.

    * Wet Engine -- An electrical disturbance under the hood can cause a sensor to take a funny reading, triggering the Check Engine light. Even water dripping onto a spark plug wire can set it off. However, the most common occurrence is the vehicle owner who sprays his engine down at the high pressure car wash, shooting water into every crevice, triggering the light.

    * Bad spark plug wires -- As spark plug wires age and wear out, they may develop tiny cracks which can let little bursts of electricity out. This electricity was supposed to be going to a spark plug, and since it didn't, the engine will misfire slightly, meaning one of the spark plugs didn't spark enough, causing the Check Engine light to come on. If your spark plug wires are looking frayed and worn, schedule an auto repair service to check them out and have them replaced if necessary.

Need expert auto repair services? We will be happy to help you. Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Wentland Diesel Service, the Diesel Fuel Injection Specialists, by calling 541-938-3875 or go on-line at http://www.wentlanddiesel.com/ for more information. Our auto and light truck repair and diesel service shop serves vehicle owners in Milton-Freewater, OR, Walla Walla, WA, Pendleton, OR and surrounding areas.

Wheel Alignment or Wheel Balancing? What’s the Difference?

Many people often get confused as to what service is actually needed when they hear the terms wheel alignment or wheel balancing. These conditions are actually miles apart with basically not much in common except a wheel, and that both conditions affect the forward motion and drivability of the vehicle.  Simply stated, a wheel alignment is a vital part of car maintenance  to keep your vehicle going straight down the road without drifting side to side. Wheel balancing will smooth out a vibrating or pulsating steering wheel caused by unbalanced tires.

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How do I know whether I need wheel alignment or wheel balancing?

The most common symptoms that signal that your vehicle needs a wheel alignment is...

    * Severe wear on the inside or outside edge of your tires; and
    * Drifting problems when you let go of the steering wheel.

However, there are a few other conditions that may cause the same results and require car repair:

    * low tire pressure
    * worn out brakes,
    * front end problems

Even though every vehicle has a unique setting established by the respective automaker for a specific alignment, i.e., factory default settings, these default settings will unfortunately be compromised due to the unevenness of the pavement, the crown of the highways, vehicle accidents, and daily driving in general.

Auto manufacturers recommend that you have a wheel alignment every time you have your tires replaced, notice uneven wear, or if the ball joints, tie rods or suspension has been replaced. However, if the front end of your car is under repair, hold off on an alignment until the new parts are replaced. A wheel alignment may be necessary after many types of vehicle repairs as they may interfere with the wheel alignment. There is no need to pay for a second alignment.

If you need expert advice on wheel alignment and/or wheel balancing, contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Wentland Diesel Service by calling 541-938-3875 or go on-line at http://www.wentlanddiesel.com/ for more information. Our auto and light truck repair and diesel service shop serves vehicle owners in Milton-Freewater, OR, Walla Walla, WA, Pendleton, OR and surrounding areas.

5 Warning Signs of a Needed Truck or Car Service

In order to keep your vehicle in optimum running condition, it requires regular truck or car service. There are particular warning signs and symptoms that indicate when a certain type of car repair is required.

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Here are a few warning signs to be on the lookout for:

   1. Leaking Fluids

      If you notice leaking fluid, have it checked immediately. It's usually an indication that hoses have broken, gaskets have lost their seals or fluid containers have cracked or come unattached altogether. Leaks also pollute the environment.

   2. Poor Fuel Economy

      If your vehicle has noticeably poorer gas mileage, it is usually an indication of poor engine performance. It may simply need a car service tune up or a carburetor or fuel line cleaning. If this is ignored it could lead to a more expensive truck or car repair to be fixed at a later time.

   3. Screeching Brakes

      This is one of the most obvious warning signs that something is wrong. Take it to a professional car repair specialist. Typically, screeching noises usually come from brakes that are wearing out. Consider the way your brakes feel when you step on them. They should be easy to push and feel soft. Sometimes, the brakes may feel as if they are grinding, or they may cause you to stop with a jerk. In some instances, your brakes may feel mushy, or they may feel hard to push down. All these may be signs that a vehicle's brake system is not working properly and you should schedule a truck and car repair.

   4. Excessive Engine Noise and Vibration

      A certain amount of vehicle vibration and shaking is typical with most cars and trucks. However, if it is excessive, it can be caused by wheels out of alignment or improper balancing of tires. Serious shaking and vibration is detrimental to the proper operation of your vehicle and can lead to other serious problems.

   5. Sluggish or Restrictive Gear Shifting

      When you shift gears, they should shift almost instantly. When transmissions take longer than usual to shift from one gear to the other, it typically indicates a problem with the transmission. Transmission systems are typically expensive to repair and replace. Address this problem as soon as possible to avoid a more serious and costly truck or car repair.

Noticing any of the above problems? Visit the nearest truck and car service center. Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Wentland Diesel Service by calling 541-938-3875 or go on-line at http://www.wentlanddiesel.com/ for more information about truck and car repair. Our auto and light truck repair and diesel service shop serves vehicle owners in Milton-Freewater, OR, Walla Walla, WA, Pendleton, OR and surrounding areas.

Engine Rebuild? What are your Choices?

When it comes to either keeping your vehicle with a major engine repair on the horizon or purchasing a new vehicle, the best choice for the economically conscious driver is an engine rebuild or installing a used one.

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What will it Cost?

 

The installation of a used engine is generally less expensive than an engine rebuild as it typically requires less labor. It doesn't have to be stripped all the way down to the bare short-block and head(s) when transferring parts, especially in lower-mileage examples. It won't have to be in the shop quite as long as used engines are typically sold with the accessory components attached. That is especially cost effective if there are other components in question that will require more than a basic engine service.

What kind of Quality is needed?

 

If money is not object, the quality of a brand new OEM replacement or a custom-built crate motor are your best choices. But, a used engine with low mileage should give many reliable miles of transportation with possibly just minor engine service.

Engine Repair Tips:

 

These tips will help an engine repair be a positive experience:

 

• Obtain an engine of the exact make and model of your current vehicle.
• Don't use an engine that doesn't meet acceptable standards. Ask a certified auto mechanic to inspect it to make sure it is compatible with your vehicle.
• Select and understand the warranty that best meets your needs. It will be money well spent.

Your vehicle will provide you with outstanding performance, if you give consideration to following these tips. That's making good cents!

If you need help in making a decision as to the type of needed engine service, whether a minor engine repair or a major engine rebuild, contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Wentland Diesel Service by calling 541-938-3875 or go on-line at http://www.wentlanddiesel.com/ for more information. Our auto and light truck repair and diesel service shop serves vehicle owners in Milton-Freewater, OR, Walla Walla, WA, Pendleton, OR and surrounding areas.

Car Tune Up: A New Year’s Resolution!

While it might seem overly cliché, the end of the holiday season always brings with it resolutions for the coming year. For many of us, 2013 presents a unique challenge as the economy continues to fight a stubborn financial crisis. Budgets are tight and, as a result, you'll probably be holding onto your current car a little longer than you expected. It's easy to overlook the small responsibilities as a vehicle owner, which includes a car tune up. We all know that a regular car tune-up and engine maintenance services are investments that pay off with improved fuel economy, longer engine life and cleaner air.

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To help keep you up to date on your vehicle's needs, save you money, and keep you and your family safe in the New Year, we've suggested three resolutions below:

• Resolution #1 -- Schedule a tune up with a mechanic and know your maintenance history. Regardless of how well you think you know your vehicle, a well-trained, trustworthy mechanic can spot things ahead of time that you might miss. Taking the time to schedule a tune up with a good mechanic twice a year may seem obsessive, but preventative maintenance is cheap insurance. There are many components of an engine that require attention and maintenance. Having a quality tune up performed by a certified auto service center restore new life into your tired car or truck.

• Resolution #2 - Keep up with fluid and filter changes. Checking on your vehicle's fluids and filters are crucial to its longevity. While some fluids like brake fluid, clutch fluid and coolant may not require attention as often as oil or transmission fluid, they're just as important and are generally considered part of a tune up. Mark one day on your calendar each month to make sure all of your fluids are topped off and filters clean. It's quick, easy and can save you some serious repair dollars down the road.

• Resolution #3 - Address minor problems early. This is perhaps the easiest responsibility to overlook, but the potential consequences of doing so can be hazardous. It's easy to hear a strange noise in your vehicle and hope that it will go away. Unfortunately, there aren't any cars out there that can heal themselves. Don't put off minor maintenance or easy repair work, such as a car tuneup. Doing so can lead to larger problems and larger repair bills in the end. Schedule a tune up, fix what's wrong, and your car will last a lot longer.

A tip to remember: Keep all the documentation; being able to provide a potential buyer with all of your service records is a major buying incentive.

Need a car tune up? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Wentland Diesel Service by calling 541-938-3875 or go on-line at http://www.wentlanddiesel.com/ for more information about our tune up services. Our auto and light truck repair and diesel service shop serves vehicle owners in Milton-Freewater, OR, Walla Walla, WA, Pendleton, OR and surrounding areas.

Got Slipping Gears? You need a Transmission Repair!

Although there is a big difference between a transmission service and a transmission repair, until the problem can be isolated and defined, vehicle owners tend to hold their breath! The most breathtaking aspect for most of us is the potential financial outlay that typically accompanies a transmission repair. And that cost usually increases if you choose to prolong having the vehicle checked out by a professional. Worse-case scenario, it can be dangerous if your transmission fails.

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Most modern vehicles alert drivers when a transmission begins to fail with unusual shifting symptoms or possibly a check engine light that comes one and won’t go off. When these appear, it’s time for an inspection performed by an auto technician as soon as possible. To prevent a premature and major transmission repair, most vehicle manufacturers recommend a transmission service at least once a year depending upon the miles driven and the type of miles. A typical transmission service consists of changing the transmission filters and fluid.

In addition to regular scheduled service, drivers should be careful to avoid hard accelerations. Drivers with manual vehicles should be careful to shift gears smoothly. Unfortunately, sometimes it doesn’t seem to matter how conscientious a driver is in servicing and driving properly, transmissions sometimes wear out and fail, it’s just their nature.

If a (relatively) simple transmission repair does not fix the problem, your mechanic may suggest an entire transmission rebuild or replacement. Obviously, this is not something that a typical vehicle owner can undertake. Some vehicle owners may be able to check for leaks or pay attention to strange shifting patterns or noises, but this should only be done in order to provide needed information to your mechanic. So, if your gears are slipping, get to a transmission repair center and leave it in the trained and skilled hands of a trusted professional.

Need quality transmission repair? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Wentland Diesel Service by calling 541-938-3875 or go on-line at http://www.wentlanddiesel.com/ for more information. Our auto and light truck repair and diesel service shop serves vehicle owners in Milton-Freewater, OR, Walla Walla, WA, Pendleton, OR and surrounding areas.