Call us: 0113 318 0495
MAINTENANCE
BATTERIES
With all the computers and technology loaded into today’s cars, the car battery has never been more important. In recent years we see more and more cars that have a battery that will still crank the vehicle but will cause other problems because of its poor condition.
Years ago, when a battery failed, you usually realized it when the vehicle didn’t start. You replaced it, reset the clock and radio stations and you were back on the road. Today we see cars come in to our shop with symptoms of stalling, check engine lights, memory loss, and antitheft no-start problems all that have a relationship to a weak car battery.
When you get in your car and start the engine, the starter motor puts a huge load on the electrical system. Even though the car may sound normal as it starts, it’s that load of the starter can make the system voltage drop well below normal if the battery is getting weak. The low voltage is what causes issues with the many computers and modules that depend on a stable voltage. Because of this, we recommend replacing more car batteries today as preventive maintenance than ever before.
CAR SERVICING
A full service will include fluid level checks and or changes depending on the system. Hydraulic fluid is hydroscopic (attracts and absorbs water) and should be changed at regular intervals. Water in hydraulic fluid has the potential to corrode the system from the inside with predictable results. Coolant is another critical fluid to a car's performance and engine longevity. Coolant degrades over time and loses its ability to inhibit corrosion inside the engine and also its cooling efficiency.
A full service will pick up any potential cooling system problem including leaks from the radiator, cap, water pump, cylinder head or gasket and hoses. A full service will also among other things, tell you the condition of the brake pads, battery condition, steering alignment, tyre tread depth, suspension condition, oil leaks of any sort, exhaust leaks or corrosion, even how well the door locks are working.
WHEELS & SUSPENSION
Wheel alignment, or tracking, is the process of ensuring your vehicle’s wheels are set to the optimum position, as per the car manufacturer’s specifications.
Incorrect alignment can result in rapid irregular tyre wear and can even affect the handling and safety of the vehicle.
Wheel alignment problems can be caused by hitting a kerb, driving into a pothole in the road or by excessive wear to steering or suspension components. It is important to get your wheel alignment checked annually to ensure you get the most out of your tyres.
Checking your wheel alignment regularly can prolong the life of your tyres by up to 12,000 miles and increase fuel efficiency due to the reduced rolling resistance with the road – saving you pounds at the pump.
Keep an eye out for unusual wear on your tyres, such as premature wear on the inside or outside shoulder, which could be a sign of incorrect alignment. Leister's Garage offers a free wheel alignment check so stop in if you need any help.
There is much more to servicing a modern car than simply giving it an oil change. Car servicing can involve up to 50 or more component and system checks and adjustments. Maintaining the engine in peak economy, performance and emissions condition requires electronic monitoring and fine adjustment according to the diagnostic computer read out.
A correctly serviced engine will have a longer, more economical service life than one that is run into the ground with minimal or inappropriate attention. It can also pre-warn or potentially major problems with the engine and transmission.
And the best thing apart from having a fully functional, safe car is that with a complete service history, the car will be worth more when you sell it.