Time for an Oil Change? Why Not Get a Check-Up Too?

Time for an Oil Change? Why Not Get a Check-Up Too?

by | Feb 22, 2019 | oil change, Uncategorized

Every vehicle owner knows, or at least should know, about the importance of regular maintenance for their automobiles.
It is a simple fact that well-maintained vehicles last longer, require less time and money at the mechanic, and preserve more value.
Oil changes are one of the most common types of upkeep needed to keep a car running well. Most car owners get their oil changed fairly consistently, at a bare minimum.
But there are other practices you could be treating your automobile to that will make things better and safer for the driver as well as the vehicle itself.

Other Services to Consider

When bringing your car in for an oil change, there are several other services and checks that should be carried out to make sure your car is in good working order.
Some of the things to keep an eye on are:

  • Change the oil filter
  • Change the air filter
  • Check the fluids
  • Check the engine
  • Tire rotation
  • Check the brakes
  • Check the wipers
  • Rust check

Change the Oil Filter

It is a good practice to get into to have your oil filter changed every time you go in for an oil change. It is acceptable to change the filter every other time, but for optimal results it is recommended to change the filter with every oil change.

Change the Air Filter

Changing the air filter in your engine should be done about once a year. If you do not change the air filter in your vehicle regularly, it just means that your engine has to work that much harder. This can lead to other, bigger problems if left too long.

Check the Fluids

Aside from the oil, there are several other fluids in your car that need regular attention.
Examples of fluids that need to beconsistently changed or topped up are:

  • Radiator fluid
  • Air conditioner fluid
  • Brake fluid
  • Power steering fluid
  • Transmission fluid
  • Wiper fluid

Consult your driver’s manual to get a better idea of the timeline for how often each fluid should be checked and maintained.

Check the Engine

The engine is obviously a tremendously important part of your vehicle. Without it, you wouldn’t be going anywhere. That is why it is a good idea to have your engine checked by a professional every so often for punctures or other irregularities.
It is much more practical to get a jump on any engine issues before they get out of hand.

Tire Rotation

Tires should be taken care of somewhere between every 3000 and 5000 kms. You can check the owner’s manual to see what is suggested for your particular vehicle.
Consistent tire rotation is important to make sure all tires wear at an even rate, so you get the most out of your tire set.

Check the Brakes

Depending on how much you drive, driving conditions, and the age of your car, you should have your brakes looked at every six months to a year.
Properly functioning brakes are crucial to keeping you and your passengers safe, as well as other drivers on the road.

Check Wipers

Another component of your car that can compromise the safety of you and your passengers is the windshield wipers. Damaged wipers can cause serious vision impairment while driving, leading to accidents and potential injury.

Rust Check

Getting your car inspected for signs of rust is essential to prolonging the life of your vehicle and keeping it running smoothly.
Rust can spread very quickly and do irreversible damage. It is critical to nip it in the bud.

Valvoline Express Care Brampton

For oil changes, check ups, and everything you need to keep your car performing at an optimal level, Valvoline Express Care in Brampton is a perfect one stop solution.
 
 

Are Emissions Tests Still Mandatory in Ontario?

Are Emissions Tests Still Mandatory in Ontario?

by | Feb 6, 2019 | Emission Test

You may have heard about the mandatory Drive Clean emissions test being cancelled in Ontario as of April 1st, 2019.
This doesn’t mean that drivers are no longer responsible for the emissions they are releasing into the environment from their automobiles.
The Drive Clean emissions test was basically cancelled due to inefficiency and tremendous expenses covered by Ontario tax payers.
Even though there will no longer be mandatory emissions tests after April 1st, drivers will still be held accountable for noxious substances emitted through their exhaust systems.
Instead of compulsory tests, random road-side inspections will be implemented to assess compliance.
This means that drivers will be expected to “drive clean” at all times, not jut when it is time to take an emissions test.

What is the purpose of an emissions test?

Emissions tests are performed on vehicles to determine the levels of hazardous substances being released into the atmosphere.

How is an emissions test performed?

An emissions test is routine check done to make sure your car is not discharging too many pollutants,further compromising the condition of our already tainted air supply.
The test is carried out by examining:

  • The catalytic converter on your automobile
  • Missing or faulty gas caps
  • On-board computer errors that may compromise test results
  • Defects in the fuel system
  • Excess smoke emitting from the exhaust or other components of the car
  • Any noticeable problems that lead to excessive polluting

Where can you get an emissions test done?

Emissions Test Brampton

An excellent option for a certified emissions test can be found at Valvoline Express Care in Brampton.
Valvoline Express Care has been authorized by the Ontario Ministry of Transport and the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change to perform official emissions tests in Ontario.
Some good reasons to choose Valvoline for your emissions test are:

  • Fast and efficient process
  • Thorough inspection
  • Discounts for other services

Speed and Convenience

The emissions test at Valvoline Express Care is quick and easy. The expert automotive technicians at Valvoline have performed the test hundreds of times, streamlining the process to get you back on the road as soon as possible.

Thorough Inspection

A comprehensive examination will be done on your vehicle to make sure there are no existing problems that would result in your vehicle being unsafe to drive.
Valvoline technicians will carry out a thorough inspection of:

  • The tailpipe – to get a reading of carbon dioxide and hydrocarbon emissions
  • On-board diagnostic system
  • Diesel testing for diesel fueled vehicles
  • Specialized testing for heavy-duty vehicles

Benefits of an Emissions Test in Brampton

There are a variety of great benefits for you and your vehicle when getting an emissions test performed at Valvoline Express Care Brampton.
Some of the advantages are:

  • Environmental Responsibility
  • Improved Performance
  • Legal Coverage

Environmental Responsibility

With all the air and water pollution on our planet today, each person has the responsibility to limit their carbon footprint as much as possible.
By limiting the pollution emanating from your car, you are benefitting the people around you, as well as the plants and wildlife in your area.
Global warming can only be controlled if everyone does their part.

Improved Performance

An emissions test can point out deficiencies in the performance of your vehicle. This is a good way to recognize big problems before they have a chance to develop.
An efficiently running vehicle also means better fuel economy and fewer repair bills.

Legal Coverage

Even after the Drive Clean emissions test no longer exists after April 1st, 2019, you still have a legal responsibility to make sure your car is up to standard.
If you are stopped by a road-side inspection testing for fuel emissions, and you fail, you will not be able to legally operate that vehicle until the problem is resolved.