Our Auto Repair Shop Can Answer Your Questions on Vehicle Care ➤

As your local auto repair shop serving Shaker Heights, OH and the surrounding areas, we do everything we can to ensure your vehicle is safe to drive on the road. That’s why we’ve answered some frequently asked questions. We want you to have all the information you need to maintain your vehicle. When it comes to your tires, brakes, oil, and wheel alignment, you may not notice an issue until the damage is already done. Instead of waiting and allowing the damage to worsen. Check out the following section to learn more.


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  • How long do tires last?

    The lifespan of your tires will depend on your driving habits, local climate, vehicle maintenance, and the type of tire you have. In general, all-season tires last between 40,000 and 50,000 miles. The average person drives between 12,000 and 15,000 miles a year. This equates to most tires lasting about 3 years.

  • How long do brakes last?

    Car brakes use friction to slow your vehicle and bring it to a stop. This takes a toll on your brakes over time, slowly wearing them down. Most brake pads last between 25,000 and 60,000 miles.

  • What is the best type of brake?

    There is no singular best type of brake to get for your vehicle. It all depends on your budget and driving habits. Drivers who care about performance tend to prefer metallic brake pads while ceramic brake pads are preferred by those who want quiet, durable brakes.

  • When should I change my oil?

    Engine oil reduces friction in the engine and helps keep it cool. However, motor oil does not last forever. Its chemicals and additives break down over time and collect dirt from the engine. That’s why your oil needs to be changed regularly, every 7,000 to 10,000 miles.

  • Why is my car’s air conditioning not working?

    Your car’s AC may not work properly due to a clogged filter, over-pressurization, radiator trouble, a cooling fan issue, or a need to be recharged.

  • How often should I have my car's air conditioning system serviced?

    When it comes to your AC system, you should have it serviced at least once a year as regular maintenance can help identify potential issues early enough for you to get the proper repairs before they turn into bigger, costly problems. 

  • How will I know my car's air conditioning system needs to be repaired?

    Some common signs include weak airflow, strange odors coming from the vents, unusual noises when the system is running, or the air conditioning not cooling as effectively as it used to.

  • How often should I get my vehicle's alignment checked?

    When it comes to your vehicle's alignment, you should have it checked at least once a year or when you notice signs of misalignment. Hitting a pothole or curb can throw off the alignment, so if you have done either, it might be a good idea to have your vehicle checked. 

  • How do I know if my wheel alignment is off?

    You can tell your wheel alignment is off when your car drifts to one particular side, you have uneven tire wear, your steering wheel is crooked when you’re driving straight, or your tires are squealing.

  • Can misaligned wheels cause other issues with my vehicle?

    Yes, misalignment can lead to other problems if left unaddressed. It can put additional stress on suspension components, cause premature wear on tires, and negatively impact fuel efficiency. It can also affect the vehicle's handling and stability, potentially compromising safety.

  • What is an engine diagnostic test?

    An engine diagnostic test is used to analyze issues with the vehicle's engine and related systems. The process is performed by a technician using diagnostic tools to retrieve error codes and gather data for troubleshooting.

  • When should I consider getting an engine diagnostic test?

    If you have warning lights on your dashboard or you are having issues with your vehicle, it's a good idea to have an engine diagnostic test performed.

  • What can an engine diagnostic test detect?

    An engine diagnostic test can detect a wide range of issues, including problems with the ignition system, fuel system, emissions system, sensors, and various engine components. It can identify faulty sensors, misfires, fuel delivery issues, exhaust system problems, and more.

If you have additional questions that aren’t answered on this page, we invite you to get in touch. Our mechanics would be happy to go over your specific concerns. Give our auto repair shop a call today!