Spark plugs

Tune-ups/ Spark plugs

*** Bad spark plugs have an impact on fuel economy, engine performance and engine longevity***

# of cylinders = # of spark plugs

Depending on driving habits and environmental conditions, along with the type of vehicle, spark plugs will generally last between 30,000-80,000 miles. (Check owners manual for specifications) Another term used to replacing old spark plugs is a tune-up which sometimes will include other service such as topping fluids and basic inspection depending on the auto repair shop you go to.

What to watch for if spark plugs need replacing:

• Ignition problems
• Hesitation
• Lower gas mileage
• Misfires (which could also be many other issues)

 Note: A misfire is read from a computer diagnostic when the check engine light is on.

 
For a general idea of what spark plugs look like when they are old compared to new see the images below.

Old and used spark plugs

New spark plugs

Struts and Shocks

***For safety reasons, it is important to have properly working struts and shocks, which play a huge role in suspension for dampening movement when your car reacts to new surfaces and environmental conditions.***

Replace shocks and struts when you find wear, damage, rust or leaking.

-The general life expectancy for shocks is about 30,000 to 40,000 miles while struts is about 50,000 to 60,000 miles. This also depends on road condition and driving habits. (Also refer to vehicle owners manual)

-You can also tell if you need to replace shocks and struts by considering how your vehicle handles.
What to watch for:

• Excessive bouncing
• Dipping when braking
• Rolling or swaying
• Tough suspension handling
• Uneven tread on tires
• Bottoming out at dips in the road

Dangers of failing to replace damaged struts or shocks:

• Increase swaying and sliding in ice and rain
• Increase stop time
• Suspension and tire tread wear
• Decreased overall driving and suspension quality

"The Bounce Test"

Another way to see if you need to replace your shocks and struts is by doing a bounce test.

Push down on each corner of the bumper and let up quickly.

If it comes up once and stops the shocks and struts are good, if the bumper bounces they probably need to be replaced. 

The image below gives a general idea of what to look for.

auto-repair-help.com

Brakes

A recommended brake job is based on the condition of the brake pads and rotors.
Brake jobs are generally done about every 30,000 miles which is equal to about two years, depending on driving habits.

How to know when you need a brake job:

• Pulsating or grinding when you brake
• Strange noises when braking or difficulty braking
• Thin, worn or rusted rotors
• 0%-25% remaining material on brake pads (30% or more could mean about 5,000 miles for safe driving)

Tips:
1. The more stop and go driving or city road driving you do, the faster brakes will wear, which will allow for less then the average 30,000 miles life expectancy of the brakes. 
2. When you get to the auto repair shop for a brake job you can ask the technician to show you the pads and rotors to see the width, ware or if there is any rust. The images below give a general idea of what you will be looking at.

Suggested monthly auto repair maintenance for any vehicle includes the following:

(These are things you can check yourself otherwise bring vehicle to a professional mechanic to check for you)

• Check oil level
• Check tire pressure (most tires avg 35 lbs.)  
• Check tire tread (worn tires should be replaced)
• Check belts for any tears or browning
• Check fluids