– by Ed Wignall –
There are four services a vehicle service facility should provide: diagnostic, inspection, maintenance and repair. In this article we will concentrate on the maintenance of your vehicle. As space does not provide for a complete list of all requirements, the following is a general guideline only.
As reported by Lloyd Robertson on CTV News, the average Canadian family spends $35.71 of every $100 of net income on their vehicle. This number includes all costs including purchase, fuel and insurance as well as regular maintenance. As this is a significant amount, it makes sense to properly maintain a vehicle to make it last as long as possible.
Regular maintenance as listed in your owner’s manual provides a guideline to procedures required for your specific vehicle’s good health. To maintain a new vehicle warranty, you must be able to prove that these services have been performed. Returning to the dealership is not required, as most reputable service facilities keep a computer record of services performed. As you would try to remain with one doctor for consistency of diagnoses, you should also remain with one service provider for the life of your vehicle. By doing so, a history of repairs can be maintained and future repairs can often be predicted. Most repair shops have required warranty services on their computer program. A reputable shop will represent the customer’s best interest, thus saving the vehicle owner time and money.
With proper maintenance, modern vehicles last much longer than vehicles of old. The average Canadian vehicle is over 11 years old, with owners spending an average of $1,384 per year on maintenance.
With the current trend to self serve fuel, the regular check of fluids like oil is often ignored. Regular maintenance by changing the oil and oil filter every 5,000 km or three months only partially fulfills warranty requirement for most manufacturers. Additional routine checks should also be performed to assure safety as well as warranty requirements. Other items inspected may include fluid levels, brake condition, tire condition, suspension and drive train. An inspection report should be provided upon completion of the service and a discussion on possible further repairs needed should be had.
Most reputable service providers can take the stress out of vehicle ownership with consistent reliable service to maintain the vehicle, whether in warranty or long after the warranty has expired.
Ed Wignall is a retired automotive teacher and service writer at OK Tire. Questions or feedback? Contact him via abrepair@telus.net.
