Problems with Suspension Solved at Central Avenue Automotive in Kent

Posted by & filed under Suspension.

A vehicle’s suspension system is tough. It can last for years and tens of thousands of miles for Kent auto owners. But it can be damaged quickly by hitting a pothole, curb or rock, and it can wear more quickly if you frequently drive off-road or on bumpy roads. A workhorse vehicle — one that hauls heavy loads — is also going to be hard on its suspension system.

Because the useful life of your suspension system contains these elements of unpredictability, it is important for Kent car owners to have them inspected periodically. Worn, broken and missing parts can be identified during an automotive analysis. An ineffective suspension system will curtail the driver’s control over a vehicle, so when it is damaged it frequently leads to the worst kind of vehicular damage — dangerous and costly accidents.

The suspension system is composed of springs and shock absorbers (or shocks). Springs suspend the weight of the vehicle above its axles. They allow the vehicle to “bounce” over bumps, which reduces the force of the impact on the vehicle. Shocks cut down the rebound of the “bounce,” smoothing out the ride of the vehicle. They also force the tires to retain constant contact with the road. Shocks are responsible for “handling performance,” or the ease with which the driver controls the vehicle.

The springs in the suspension system are heavy-duty and rarely break or wear out. Shock absorbers are tough, too, but they will wear out.

Your SUV might be equipped with struts. Struts are a combination spring and shock absorber. Struts, like shocks, have a limited life span.

Inspecting shocks or struts for damage and wear should be part of your preventive maintenance routine. Since a good suspension system is ultimately a key safety feature of your vehicle, it’s always better to be proactive about its care. In this case, good car care can prevent accidents.

There are some signs that will warn you that your suspension system may be in need of critical attention. One of the signs might be a cupped wear pattern on your tires. This is caused by the shocks bouncing unevenly. Other important signs of bad shocks manifest themselves in the handling performance of your vehicle. You may notice a drifting sensation when cornering, often referred to as a “floaty” feeling. If the front of your vehicle dips significantly when you brake or if it rocks back and forth after stopping, it’s time for new shocks. Your considerate Central Avenue Automotive tech will check your shocks visually. If they’re leaking, they need to be replaced.

Any of these symptoms warrants an automotive analysis of the suspension system. You should also get your suspension system inspected if you are involved in an accident involving one of your wheels. Kent motorists should never put off suspension repairs. If you actually experience suspension system failure, it can cause a serious accident. If one of your shocks needs to be replaced, then replace all four of them. This allows for even handling of the vehicle. Replacing just one of the shocks is rarely good auto advice.

When you replace your shocks or struts, use parts that are equivalent to or better than the original shocks on the SUV. The original equipment was designed for the weight and expected use of the vehicle, and Kent auto owners should never downgrade.

Upgrading, however, is another matter for Kent motorists. If your suspension system gets a workout or you just want to improve your SUV’s handling performance, then you should consider upgrading to a better shock. If you haul heavy loads around Kent or tow a trailer, then you should definitely reflect on getting heavy-duty shocks.

Most Kent motorists are not likely to show off their suspension system to anyone admiring their SUV, but it’s essential just the same. In the end, it’s something all of us Kent drivers can be dedicated to.

What Are Service Center Standards?

Posted by & filed under Service Standards.

All pilots have checklists for every aspect of flying. They always use their checklists, even if they only have two steps on them. They do this simply because a checklist is a great way to not forget important steps. It is also how you can assure a predictable outcome.

That is why automotive shops have procedural service center standards for each service they perform. Technicians are trained step by step, and they perform the procedures the same way each time. By training to procedural standards, centers can assure a quality outcome. The job is done right every time, and you are happy with how your car performs.

service center standards

Each company trains its technicians to service center standards. The industry as a whole is very committed to standards of excellence and encourages individual service center operators to apply them to every vehicle they service.

An example is in the way service technicians grade problems and communicate their recommendations. If a technician tells you that a repair or replacement is required, it must meet the following criteria:

  1. The part no longer performs its intended purpose
  2. The part does not meet a design specification
  3. The part is missing

The technician may suggest repair or replacement if:

  1. The part is close to the end of its useful life – just above discard specifications or likely to fail soon
  2. They are addressing a customer need or request – like for better ride or increased performance
  3. They are complying with maintenance recommended by the vehicle’s manufacturer
  4. It’s advisable based on the technician’s informed experience

Here are some examples:

An exhaust pipe has rusted through and is leaking. Replacement is required because the part has failed. If the pipe were rusted, corroded, or weak, but not leaking, the technician may suggest it be replaced because it is near the end of its useful life and replacing it now may be more convenient for the customer.

Suppose a customer wants to improve his car’s handling, but his shocks haven’t failed. The technician may suggest replacement of the shocks to satisfy the customer’s wishes.

Under these guidelines, the service center must refuse partial service of a required repair if the repair creates or continues an unsafe condition. Let’s say a customer has a cracked brake rotor. This is a dangerous condition that must be repaired. If the customer does not want to replace the rotor, but instead just wants new brake pads installed, the shop must ethically refuse the partial repair. That can be an upsetting conversation, but understanding that service centers operate under service center standards and procedures is comforting. You want your service to be done right and to have confidence in your technician’s recommendations.

The automotive service industry and Central Avenue Automotive want the best for you and for you to keep coming back. AutoNetTV is committed to providing automotive maintenance information to help you be confident in your service decisions. For repairs and recommendations, make an appointment online or call Central Ave Auto at (253) 854-6762.

Is it Time to Replace the Rotors and Calipers?

Posted by & filed under Maintenance, Parts.

WHY DO I NEED TO REPLACE ROTORS AND CALIPERS WITH MY BRAKES AND BRAKE PAD REPLACEMENT?

Many of our customers assume that when the bring their vehicle in to Central Avenue Automotive for brake service and brake pad replacement that you can just resurface the rotors and install new pads. In some cases, this is what happens, but in other cases, you may have to replace the pads and the rotors. Other times, you may have to address the hydraulic system and replace the brake hoses and calipers. That’s why it’s important to have your brakes, rotors, brake pads, and calipers regularly inspected.

Replace Rotors With Brake Pads

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Here are several reasons why you should replace the rotors and calipers during your vehicle’s brake and brake pad replacement:

  1. On most new vehicles, the brake pads are made out of a ceramic material. These ceramic brake pads are almost as hard as the metal brake rotors, which wears them down at the same time as the brake pad.
  2. Brake rotors are much smaller than they used to be thanks to the gas mileage goals set by the government for the vehicle manufacturers. The lighter a car is, the better gas mileage it gets, so the brake rotors are smaller. Smaller rotors have less material, which does not allow it to dissipate heat as quickly as a larger rotor would. The heat can warp a rotor much more quickly, which can rattle the steering wheel or make the car shake when the brakes are applied. This is very common in Western Washington due to the number of hills and mountains that we drive down, and that tends to make the brakes hotter. The hotter a brake rotor gets, the more likely it is to warp. The thinner a brake rotor gets, thanks to the brake pads wearing them down, the less the rotor is able to dissipate heat. Over time, warped rotors seem to be inevitable in today’s vehicles.
  3. Calipers need to be replaced, too. Calipers are like big clamps that are used to apply pressure to the brake pad with the use of hydraulics. The brake pads grip the rotors and this action slows the vehicle down. However, this process creates a tremendous amount of heat — over 300 degrees Fahrenheit — and the brake calipers absorb this heat. As calipers heat up and cool down, over time there will be internal and external corrosion that builds up on the caliper, making them sticky. Sticking calipers can cause issues ranging from premature brake pad wear and tear to the vehicle pulling to the left or to the right when the brakes are applied.
  4. Brake fluid leaks can also cause problems with the calipers. Brake fluid absorbs about 10% of moisture per year by volume in the wet Northwestern weather. The brake water boils at about 220 degrees Fahrenheit, which means that the water boils in the caliper, too, turning to steam and water, and back to steam again as they are being used. This constant exposure to moisture allows the inside of the calipers to rust, which can cause problems. This is another reason to replace the calipers at the same time we replace the the brake pads.

Of course, there are exceptions to the caliper and the rotor replacement rule — vehicle type, year, make and model — just ask your service adviser. The next time you bring your vehicle into Central Avenue Automotive for brake service, chances are very high that our service advisers will recommend replacing your brake pads, your rotors and calipers. Now you know why!

If you want to know more about your vehicle’s brake service requirements, contact Central Avenue Automotive with questions, request an appointment online, or give us a call at (253) 854-6762.

Get Where You’re Going With Power Steering Service In Kent

Posted by & filed under Steering.

Today we’re going to talk about power steering service in Kent. If you took an informal poll around Kent you’d probably find that most have never heard of power steering service. That’s not surprising. Even though power steering is standard on every vehicle, most people in Kent aren’t aware that it needs periodic service.

If you’re younger than a certain age, you’ve probably never driven a car or truck without power steering. To get an idea of the difference; if you’ve ever cut a board with a hand saw, you know it’s a lot of work. Using a power saw is easy-peasy by comparison.

Without power steering, your arms have to do all the work to steer the wheels, and that’s hard, especially around downtown Kent. That’s why old cars had such big steering wheels; to get enough leverage to steer.

Steering Most vehicles in Kent have a hydraulic power steering system. The serpentine belt from the engine powers a pump. The pump pressurizes the power steering fluid. This actuates a hydraulic cylinder that provides power to help steer.

Some vehicles in Kent use an electric pump to pressurize the fluid rather than a belt driven pump. We’re also seeing vehicles with electric motors providing the power assist, not using power steering fluid at all. We’ll see a lot more electric systems as more hybrids and electric vehicles hit the market.

At least for now, the vast majority of power steering systems use power steering fluid that needs to be serviced. The fluid needs to be changed for a couple of reasons. For one, it attracts moisture. Water has different hydraulic qualities than power steering fluid, and that makes a difference in steering performance. Water is also corrosive and can damage power steering components. The fluid also just gets dirty and needs to be changed. Removing the old fluid and flushing out the system gets rid of dirt and deposits. The clean, fresh fluid lubricates and provides better corrosion protection.

So ask your Kent service advisor at Central Avenue Automotive or check your owner’s manual to see when power steering service is recommended. It’ll extend the life of your power steering components.

Does My Car Need Special Oil?

Posted by & filed under Fluids.

Why Does My Car Use Special Oil?

Most people know that they should use specific oil to lubricate the engine in their vehicles, but not many know why each car can use different types of oil. Though most of us use our vehicles to get to and from work, around town, and on extended road trips, not all cars are made the same, and neither is the oil. That is why each car manufacturer recommends a special oil type depending on your engine, the frequency with which you drive your vehicle, and the climate you live in.

Basically, there are several types of oil categories:

  • Ultra class full synthetic oil
  • Advanced full synthetic oil
  • Synthetic blend oil
  • High mileage oil
  • Conventional oil that comes in varying thicknesses

There are several differences between synthetic oils and conventional oils. Synthetic oils are designed for fuel economy, are chemically structured to lubricate the tiniest of spaces, and endure extreme temperatures better. Conventional oil is what we get from Mother Earth. It lubricates engines very well and is often more affordable. Conventional oil can come in different viscosities or thicknesses. An example is a 10W-40 oil, which acts like a 10-weight (thinner) oil when the outside temperature is low, and a 40-weight (thicker) oil when the outside temperature is high.

special oil

Regardless of whether you are using synthetic or conventional oil in your vehicle, it is important that the oil flow easily throughout the engine so it covers and protects everything in its path. Oil changes are required on a regular basis because dirty oil, or oil that has become too thick, breaks down and no longer protects your engine like fresh oil does.

Each vehicle make and model requires a special oil, and Central Avenue Automotive has several oil brands and types on-hand to service the unique needs of each engine. Here are some descriptions of how these special oil types lubricate and protect the vehicles we service and repair at Central Avenue Automotive:

Ultra class full synthetic oil — This special oil is designed for high performance vehicles, like race cars and exotic sports cars. A synthetic oil of this type keeps the engine super clean, helps engines perform well in hot or cold weather, and is the best oil for harsh driving conditions — like stop-and-go traffic, short drives, heavy loads, and unpaved roads.

Advanced full synthetic oil — This special oil is designed for high compression engines and helps to prevent oil burn-off and high oil consumption. A full synthetic oil also keeps the engine cleaner longer and can handle all types of climates. This oil is also great for harsh driving conditions, similar to the ultra class oil.

Synthetic blend oil — Bringing the best of both oils to your vehicle is a synthetic blend. With the synthetic blend, the engine remains cleaner a little longer, and it is also more affordable than full synthetic oils.

High mileage oil — High mileage oil is best used in older cars because it is designed to stop leaks and and reduce oil consumption.

Conventional oil — This oil is what most people use in their vehicles because it is affordable and keeps the engine working well. However, conventional oil will break down faster, so conventional oil needs to be changed more often than synthetic oils. Based on your vehicle’s needs, we could put conventional oils such as 10W-40, 5W-20, or 0W-20 into your vehicle.

According to the “Click and Clack Guys,” Tom and Ray Magliozzi, conventional oils with varying viscosities can be used in different situations. For example, “…most vehicles have ‘severe duty’ recommendations in the owner’s manual. They’ll tell you that if you’re planning to climb Pike’s Peak with a trailer, if you’re using your car as a taxi, or if you live where it’s regularly above 100 degrees out, you qualify for special maintenance procedures. Those can include more frequent oil changes and/or use of a different oil.”

If you’re uncertain as to which oil your vehicle needs, look to the experts at Central Avenue Automotive. Our team will verify factory recommendations and assess which oil should be used based on your driving habits and the condition of your vehicle.

The next time you need an oil change, contact Central Avenue Automotive with questions, request an appointment online, or give us a call at (253) 854-6762. We look forward to serving you with the best oil that meets your vehicle’s unique requirements.

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Higher Mileage Service Intervals For Kent

Posted by & filed under Fuel System.

Kent auto owners have probably noticed that the government mandates a lot of equipment on cars: emission devices and control computers; safety equipment like airbags; and crash worthiness requirements. All of this is great for the motoring public in Auburn but it does add quite a bit to the price of a new car in WA.

Because new cars are more expensive, Kent residents are driving their old cars longer. The average car is now over nine years old. 68% of vehicles on the road have more than 75,000 miles/120,000 kilometers. As cars age, their performance drops, they have difficulty idling for long periods and are more sensitive to weather extremes. Fortunately today’s cars are up to the challenge – but they need a little help to keep on going.

Some owner’s manuals don’t outline service requirements and schedules at higher mileage. Of course, that doesn’t mean it doesn’t have to be done. In fact, it’s more important than ever for Kent auto owners to stay on top of routine auto maintenance for cars with more than 120,000 miles/190,000 kilometers. Just extend regular service intervals out: for instance a service that’s recommended every 24,000 miles/38,000 kilometers should be performed at 24,000 mi/38,000 km; 48,000 mi/77,000 km; 72,000mi/116,000 km, 96,000 mi/154,000 km; and on and on.

Because of the additional stress older engines experience, the severe service maintenance schedule may be more appropriate than the regular schedule. Watch for leaks – seals and gaskets dry out over time and do not hold the fluids as well as they used to. If you don’t already have one, it is more important than ever to get a good service professional, like any one of the automotive professionals on our team at Central Avenue Automotive. There are some services and replacements that are scheduled after you put some clicks on the odometer, like timing belts, valve train adjustments, suspension, anti-lock brake service, air bags, etc. And unexpected repairs down the road are just par for the course.

Check for unusual sounds, smells or the way your car feels. These could be hints for Kent drivers that trouble is brewing. Better to catch it early before it turns into a steep repair. Regular wash and wax will help maintain your car’s appearance. One of the things Kent auto owners can do to really help a high mileage vehicle is to begin using high mileage formulation fluids. There are special engine oils, coolants, transmission fluids and power steering fluids that are formulated for cars that have higher mileage.

High mileage oil is designed to condition seals and gaskets, reduce wear and avoid premature burn off. Older SUV engines are dirtier inside – and dirty engines contaminate their oil faster. High mileage oil has special additives that clean the engine, removing sludge deposits over time. The result is less stress on the engine, better fuel economy and excellent wear protection. Come into Central Avenue Automotive in Kent for a checkup.

Studies have even shown that using high mileage fluids early will actually prevent some of the problems of high kilometer vehicles. So once you hit around 50,000 mi/80,000 km, consider stepping up to high mileage formulations. The fluids cost a bit more than standard fluids in Kent because of the additional additives, but they can be worth their weight in gold for Kent car owners in terms of preventing costly repair costs down the road.

It does cost more for auto owners to properly maintain a higher mileage vehicle in Kent – but it’s much cheaper than a new car payment!

Defensive Driving the Smart Way

Posted by & filed under Driving.

There was a man in Auburn who learned that most car accidents occur within a mile of home – so he moved. (Just Kidding!)

When we think of defensive driving, we often focus on our local WA highway situations. The fact of the matter is we need to be just as careful close to home because that’s where we do most of our driving. We can’t let our familiar surroundings keep us from driving defensively.

Defensive driving begins with the proper attitude. Keep in mind that no one can take your safety away from you. Be aware of your surroundings, road conditions, other vehicles, and hazards. The first person to be concerned with is you: start with your own environment.

defensive driving

Don’t leave without securing all occupants, including children and pets. Watch for loose items that can become projectiles during evasive maneuvers.

Driving too fast or too slow increases the chance of an accident.

Never drive impaired: alcohol is a factor in half of all fatal crashes. Never drink and drive.

Other impairments include being sleepy, angry, daydreaming, or talking. If you suddenly wonder how you got where you are – you’re not paying enough attention.

Keep your windows clean and uncluttered. No fuzzy dice and stickers.

Keep your car in good shape so that it handles properly: maintain tires, lights, brakes, suspension, wheel alignment, and steering.

Always use your turn signals while driving around the local area. Avoid other vehicles’ blind spots.

Don’t drive faster than your headlights – if you can’t stop within the distance you can see, you’re going too fast.

Avoid driving over debris in the road. Even harmless looking items can cause damage or an accident.

Keep your wheels straight when waiting to turn at an intersection. That way if you’re hit from behind, your car won’t be pushed into oncoming traffic.

My daddy always said that when you drive, you’re actually driving five cars: yours, the one in front, the one behind and the ones on either side. You can’t trust that other drivers will do the right thing, so you’ve got to be aware of what they’re doing at all times.

If you see another car driving erratically, weaving, crossing lanes, etc., stay back. Take the next right turn if you’re downtown Kent, or take the next exit on the WA highway. Notify the police if you see someone driving dangerously in our community.

Never follow too close. The minimum distance is the two second rule. Pick a landmark ahead, like a tree or road marker. When the car in front of you passes it, start counting: ‘one-one-thousand, two-one-thousand’. If you pass the landmark before reaching two-one-thousand, you’re following too close.

Remember that the two second rule is the minimum – it assumes you’re alert and aware. Three seconds is safer. Move out to five seconds or more if it’s foggy or rainy.

Someone will inevitably move into your forward safety zone – just drop back and keep a safe distance.

If someone follows you too closely, just move over.

Don’t play chicken by contesting your right of way or race to beat someone to a merge. Whoever loses that contest has the potential to lose big and you don’t want any part of that. So stay alert, constantly scan around your car, and arrive safely!

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A Cool and Smooth Transmission in Kent

Posted by & filed under Transmission.

When it comes to preventive maintenance on our vehicles, most of us Kent drivers remember to get our oil changed. But Central Avenue Automotive services that occur at longer intervals — like transmission service — sometimes get overlooked. Yet transmission service is a vital part of car care for Kent car owners. A poorly maintained transmission will reduce fuel economy and lead to costly repairs.

The transmission transfers power from the engine to the drive wheels. When it’s clean and well – lubricated, it gives maximum fuel efficiency. But when it gets dirty or worn down, your gas mileage will suffer. Your transmission relies on transmission fluid to keep everything running well.

Transmission fluid has two jobs: to cool and lubricate the transmission. The transmission operates at high temperatures. It can get 100-150°F degrees hotter inside your transmission than inside your engine. Transmission fluid transfers some of the heat away from the transmission. Transmissions work hard. Their parts need constant lubrication to prevent excessive wear and keep them running smoothly for Kent car owners.

The constant shifting and movement of gears inside the transmission cause bits of the gears and clutch material to wear off. These bits of detrimental grit get into the transmission fluid. This grit increases friction inside the transmission and causes even more wear – it’s like liquid sandpaper. Also, the high temperatures inside the transmission cause the transmission fluid to break down over time, making it a less effective lubricant. The fluid can actually become sludgy, which can gradually plug up the maze of passages inside the transmission. Gradually, the transmission loses efficiency and stops operating smoothly. Eventually, the transmission will be damaged or fail altogether.

This is why the transmission fluid must be changed periodically. Your owner’s manual will give you a recommended time schedule for this essential service. Or, you can communicate with your considerate Central Avenue Automotive service advisor. Generally, the interval is around 35,000 miles (55,000 km) or every two years. But the interval for your SUV may be shorter or longer.

Of course, if you give your transmission a real workout, you’re going to have to change the fluid more often than the car maker recommends. If you drive in hot, dusty WA conditions, if you tow a trailer around Kent, if you haul heavy loads or if you do a lot of stop-and-go Auburn driving, then you need to change transmission fluid more often. Also, if you demand frequent bursts of speed from your engine — especially shooting away from stops — your transmission is working harder and will need more frequent care. Check your owner’s manual for the “severe conditions” service interval.

Transmission fluids vary from vehicle to vehicle, so you’ll also need to check your owner’s manual to know what kind your SUV needs, or speak with your considerate Central Avenue Automotive service specialist.

At Central Avenue Automotive in Kent, transmission fluid can usually be changed while you wait and is simple and not particularly expensive. Compared to the cost of expensive transmission repairs or a new transmission, it’s downright cheap! So take some good auto advice from the team at Central Avenue Automotive and take care of your transmission. It will pay you back in improved MPG and a longer, smoother ride.

ICE – In Case Of Emergency In Kent WA

Posted by & filed under Monitoring System.

When accidents occur in Kent, WA, the victims’ emergency contacts are extremely important. Too often, those involved aren’t able to provide rescuers with phone numbers and essential medical information.

When WA police and rescue workers must sift through pockets, glove compartments, wallets, purses and cell phone directories they waste precious time.

In the unfortunate event that you are involved in an accident, you have people in the Kent, WA area who you’ll want to be contacted to arrange help, give consent to treatment, and inform Auburn paramedics of medical conditions, allergies or medications.

A brilliantly simple solution is now spreading through Auburn and around the globe: ICE. ICE – standing for In Case of Emergency, is a way to identify emergency contacts in your cell phone directory.

Simply put ‘ICE’ before a contact name in your cell phone, like ‘ICE – Dad’, ‘ICE – Nancy’, or ‘ICE – Doctor Roberts’. Rescuers will be able to quickly identify your emergency contacts, saving valuable time.

Bob Brotchie, a Cambridge, England paramedic came up with the idea and designed a promotional campaign in England in 2005. This powerful idea is gaining attention in Kent, WA and in other countries. Kent rescue workers all know of how many times they are unable to find a wallet or purse on an accident victim, yet most Auburn area folks over fourteen years of age are seldom without their cell phone.

There are national and worldwide disaster databases, but participation can cost up to two hundred dollars a year. ‘ICE’ is free to the 276 million cell phone users in the U.S.

It is easy for Kent auto owners and their families to designate some ICE contacts in their cell phone. Remember to keep the listings current.

Please join Central Avenue Automotive in getting the word out. Help us put Kent, WA on ICE!

Keep It Flowing: Fuel Filter Replacement

Posted by & filed under Fuel System.

The function of the fuel filter is pretty self-explanatory: it filters your fuel. The fuel filter is in the fuel line somewhere between the fuel tank and the engine. Both gas and diesel vehicles use fuel filters.

Generally speaking, there’s not a lot of dirt in our Kent WA auto fuel supply, but there is enough that you want to screen it out. The problem actually gets worse the older your vehicle becomes. That’s because dirt, rust, and other contaminants will settle out of the fuel and onto the bottom of the fuel tank. After your SUV is five years or older, it can actually have a fair amount of sediment built up.

That just means that the fuel filter has to work harder as your SUV ages. It’ll get clogged sooner and need to be replaced more often.

fuel filter replacement

A symptom of a clogged fuel filter is that the engine sputters at highway speeds or under hard acceleration. That’s because enough fuel is getting through around town, but when you need more fuel for speed, enough just can’t get through the filter. Obviously, that could be dangerous if your car or truck can’t get enough power to get you out of harm’s way.

For just that reason, fuel filters have a bypass valve. When the filter is severely clogged, some fuel can bypass the filter all together. Of course that means that dirty, unfiltered fuel is getting through to be burned in the engine.

This dirt can then clog and damage your fuel injectors. Now injectors are not cheap to replace, so you don’t want to cause them damage just because you didn’t spend a few bucks to replace a fuel filter.

You know, in a way, the fuel filter can be the poster child for preventive maintenance. It’s a little part, it’s simple, and it’s cheap to take care of. But if it’s neglected, it could lead to thousands of dollars of repair bills.

Those auto service schedules in your owner’s manual are there for a reason. If ever you don’t understand a recommended service, just ask your service adviser at Central Avenue Automotive. We’ll be happy to explain. For more information about maintenance recommendations, come by our shop located at 1514 Central Ave S Ste A in Kent, WA 98032. Please call 253.854.6762 to make an appointment.

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