Repairs : If you are an automotive enthusiast, the chances are that you have felt ‘ripped off by a car-servicing centre at some stage. The good news is that it doesn’t have to be this way. Here’s our guide on what to look out for – and what questions to ask.
1:-How often should I change my oil?
Not as frequently as garage chains would have you believe — six months or every 10,000 kilometres is fine in most cases. Some cars never need an oil change, while others can go 25,000km between services (Toyota claims its new engines don’t even require servicing). If your vehicle needs attention more often than once every six months, then something is wrong with it.
2:-How long will an oil change take?
The key is to ask the question of the person who is doing the job, not somebody at the reception — after all; they are likely to be on commission (but do make sure you tip them well). By law, garages must only use approved oils and lubricants, which means that if your car’s manufacturer recommends an interval between services of six months or 10,000km (whichever comes first), then this is what must be done. It may cost more than you were expecting but will save you money in the long term because your engine will last longer before requiring a rebuild. Once again, though, don’t just take anybody’s word for it. With almost half of motorists putting up with substandard cheap tyres Newbury repairs, ask for a printout confirming the oil used and the number of litres.
3:-How much should it cost?
Asking prices vary so much between garages that it’s worth shopping around, but don’t expect them all to charge you a few hundred euros either. The average price in Europe varies from £50 to more than £90 — on top of which there will be fees for parts and labour on top of that. One thing is sure: the manufacturers’ recommended retail price on items such as oil is costly compared with buying from car parts suppliers directly online or at trade outlets. Some lubricants can often be sourced 50 per cent less than the garage. It may be cheaper to service your car yourself in some cases; if you’re not confident about doing it yourself, then some companies will do the job for you (but make sure they use genuine parts when they do).
4:-Why do garages recommend new brake pads when they still have plenty of life left?
Some garages will try and sell you ‘new’ brake discs when all your car needs is a simple resurfacing. Where the discs create a clean, smooth surface for new pads to grip onto again. This couldn’t be easier to carry out either: most modern cars can be done at home using third-party tools, which can cost as little as €100 to buy (though you’ll need to get an expert to show you how it’s done first). If the brake discs are worn, then replacement is required. Also, make sure that new pads come with sensors that will alert your computer if they start getting too thin. Again, using third-party tools won’t hamper your warranty.
5:-How can I tell when my Car tyres are ready for replacement?
The standard rule of thumb says replace car tyres after six years regardless of their condition because rubber deteriorates over time. Still, manufacturers say this varies depending on conditions experienced by each tyre. Needs such as the car’s weight and the road surface on which they run will significantly affect tyre deterioration rates. It means that your car tyres may last longer than this under one set of conditions and fail sooner under another. Also, make sure you check the tread and sidewall before paying for new tyres. If it doesn’t fit, then chances are it’s time to get new rubber. If there’s any doubt, take it back to where you bought it from and explain why.
6:-Why is no oil coming out when I change my engine oil?
If you see little or no oil comes out after changing your engine oil. There are chances an additive was not there to free up any engine or other problems. That was caused by years of neglecting to change it. In this case, chances are people will charge you for rectifying it. So make sure you change your oil on time. And if there’s no oil coming out of your sump plug when the new one goes in. Ask for an additive to be used with subsequent changes.
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