Help Preserve the Value of your Vehicle with Regular Rust Proofing

Help Preserve the Value of your Vehicle with Regular Rust Proofing

by | Mar 8, 2019 | rust proofing

Retaining the value of a vehicle is one of the most difficult tasks a lot of car owners face. Buying a new automobile is a significant purchase, and you likely want to do all you can to protect that investment.
One of the main obstacles to preserving vehicle value is that it begins to depreciate the instant you drive it off the lot.
From there, the way you care for your new vehicle will play a big role on how much it keeps its value.
Considering all the money it takes just to keep the average vehicle running, it makes sense to take preventative measures to avoid damage to your vehicle that will result in massive mechanic bills.
How can that be accomplished?
The best approach you can take is to keep up with all recommended routine maintenance. You should consult the owner’s manual to get the details for your specific vehicle, but there are some aspects of consistent upkeep that every car should get.
Some of these tasks include:

  • Rust proofing
  • Oil changes
  • Tire rotation
  • Brake checks and servicing
  • Battery inspection
  • Fluid top ups and replacements
  • Fuel system checks
  • Auto detailing

When it comes to preserving value and preventing serious damage to your vehicle, rust proofing is extremely important.

Rust Proofing Brampton

Drivers in Ontario need to be especially wary of the dangers of rust and corrosion. The extreme weather swings in Canada can create the ideal circumstances for rust to develop and spread throughout your vehicle.
An excellent source of effective protection can be found at Valvoline Express Care in Brampton.
Valvoline Express Care can help protect your vehicle from severe Canadian weather, which in turn serves to preserve the value of your automobile.
The expert auto detailers at Valvoline use the tried and tested Rust Check rust proofing method to provide the ultimate in rust protection.
A two-step system is used to ensure all surface areas on your vehicle are rust protected, even those hard to reach nooks and crannies.

How does rust form?

Rust is formed when metal is exposed to oxygen and moisture for an extended period of time. This process is expedited when salt and sand get into the mix.
So, if you are driving your car on the salt and sand coated roads all winter, there is likely some debris that is lodged in the cracks and undercarriage of your car.
If your vehicle has not been properly rust protected, once the weather starts to warm up an ideal breading ground for rust occurs.
You can negate this worry with regular rust protection at Valvoline Express Care.

How often is rust proofing required?

The frequency required for rust proofing services depends on a variety of factors. It is commonly accepted that rust proofing should be performed once or twice a year for optimal protection.
Some factors that determine how often you should get rust protection include:

  • How often you drive
  • Conditions you drive in
  • Warranty conditions
  • How serious you are about preserving the value of your vehicle

Driving Frequency

If you drive every day, especially in Ontario, then rust proofing at least once a year is highly recommended.
Regular wear and tear, plus stones and pebbles coming off the road, can chip the protective outer layer leaving the metal exposed for rust to form.

Driving Conditions

The more severe the driving conditions your vehicle is exposed to on a consistent basis, the greater the need for rust protection.
Severe conditions include things like ice, snow, salt, sand, extreme heat or cold, humidity, and precipitation.

Warranty Conditions

Some warranties stipulate that certain steps must be taken to maintain your vehicle in order for the warranty to remain valid. Rust protection may be included in these requirements. Check the details of your warranty to be sure.

Preserving Value

The more you care about preserving the value of your vehicle, the more you are likely willing to do to protect it.
Rust proofing is one of the most effective preventative measures for sustaining vehicle value.

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.

Fluid Maintenance for Your Vehicle

Fluid Maintenance for Your Vehicle

by | Jan 18, 2019 | oil change brampton

Every car owner is aware of the need for regular oil changes to prevent engine damage, and to keep your vehicle running smoothly.
There are many other important fluids in your vehicle as well, that also require regular attention. These fluids should be checked on a consistent basis to make sure they are at the collect level, and not filthy.

Fluid Maintenance Brampton

Take care of all your automotive fluid needs at Valvoline Express Care in Brampton. Come in a get a full tune up, no appointment necessary.
A few of the fluids to keep an eye on are:

  • Oil
  • Brake fluid
  • Wiper fluid
  • Transmission fluid
  • Power steering fluid
  • Coolants/antifreeze/rad fluid
  • Air conditioning fluid

Oil

This is obviously the most widely recognized automotive fluid that requires routine maintenance. It is also the most essential for your vehicle’s performance.
Oil is necessary for lubricating the parts of the engine to reduce friction, wear and tear, and over-heating. The longer your oil goes unchanged, the dirtier it becomes. The dirtier is gets, the thicker it gets, and the less lubrication it provides for the engine.

Brake Fluid

When pressure is applied to the brakes in your car, brake fluid is essential to ensure your car stops in a timely fashion. Putting your foot on the brake pedal triggers the brake fluid to move through the brake system to cause your vehicle to slow down and eventually stop. Overtime the brake fluid takes in moisture, causing it to be less effective. Brake fluid should be checked as part of routine maintenance.

Wiper Fluid

Wiper fluid is an example of a fluid that gets used up and will need to be replaced. How often wiper fluid needs to be refilled will depend on how much you drive, and the driving conditions you are exposed to.
Keeping your wiper fluid topped up provides peace of mind, knowing you can maintain optimal visibility through your windshield.

Transmission Fluid

If you don’t take of your car’s transmission, it can be an absolute nightmare to fix. An expensive nightmare at that.
Transmission fluid drives the transmission system and helps keep it lubricated. The power generated by the engine is carried to the wheels through the transmission system to get your car moving.
If transmission fluid is not changed it begins to accumulate dirt and grime that can inhibit function and eventually cause seizure.

Power Steering Fluid

Power steering fluid is required to facilitate turning a corner in your vehicle. If your power steering fluid runs out, it will be pretty easy to tell. You will likely feel like you need to start lifting weights just to make a turn in your car.
Power steering fluid should be changed every two years or so, to keep the system lubricated and working efficiently.

Coolants

Coolants are necessary to help regulate the temperature of your vehicle. For example, rad fluid is needed to prevent the engine from overheating. If you live in area that experiences colder temperatures, antifreeze will be required as well. This can be achieved with one fluid that has both antifreeze and cooling capabilities.

Air Conditioning Fluid

In preparation for the summer season, it is a good idea to have your air conditioner fluid checked. This fluid is responsible for operating the air conditioning unit in your car, and is also known as refrigerant or freon. It should be topped up to allow for optimal performance.

5 Reasons Not to Neglect Oil Changes

5 Reasons Not to Neglect Oil Changes

by | Jan 7, 2019 | oil change

Getting regular oil changes for your vehicle may seem like a hassle, but neglecting to have your oil changed can cause serious long-term problems for your car.
Clean oil is necessary to keep your car operating efficiently and safely. Skipping oil changes may not only be bad for your vehicle, but you and your passengers as well.
If you keep putting off oil changes, again and again, it could eventually lead to engine seizure when you are out on the road.
For instance, you may be driving home with your kids in the car and the engine decides to quit on you. Depending on where this seizure occurs, you may be stranded in the middle of nowhere.
Then, there is not only the issue of getting your car towed to a mechanic, but also the massive cost of repairing or replacing the engine.
Regular oil changes can help give you peace of mind, while also preserving the value of your vehicle.

Where can I do dependable and affordable oil change services?

Oil Change Brampton

If your are looking for a reliable automotive service provider for oil changes and vehicle maintenance in Brampton, or the surrounding GTA, then Valvoline Express Care is an enlightened choice.
With well over 20 years of experience in the automotive industry, you can anticipate the same excellent and efficient service each time you visit.
You can even access a free coupon for a discount on your next oil change here.
This kind of experience indicates streamlined processes and outstanding results to have you in and out in no time with the great results you are looking for.
One of the areas of specialization at Valvoline Express Care is oil changes. Skipping routine oil changes is not a good idea for many reasons.

5 Reasons Not to Miss Regular Oil Changes

There are all kinds of reasons not to neglect oil changes, some are more compelling than others.
Here are 5 of the most important reasons not to skip an oil change:

  • Oil goes bad
  • Engine damage
  • Poor gas mileage
  • Regular maintenance is necessary
  • Hefty mechanic bills

Oil Goes Bad

Just like milk goes bad when it’s left in the fridge too long, oil also goes bad when it’s left in the tank too long.
The quality and viscosity of the oil in your car will deteriorate over time. When this happens, the oil no longer has the lubricating properties needed to prevent friction in the engine.
As this friction increases, so does damage to your engine.

Engine Damage

Friction caused by metal scraping against metal is a serious concern for an engine that is not properly lubricated.
Increased friction can even cause the engine to overheat and seize up entirely.

Poor Gas Mileage

Neglecting oil changes can eventually compromise the overall performance of your vehicle. If the oil in your engine is old and dirty, your engine has to work that much harder.
A harder working engine means you are spending more money on fuel to make it run.

Part of Regular Maintenance

Oil changes are part of routine maintenance that is required to keep your car running at an optimal level.
You may think you are saving money by avoiding paying for routine maintenance. This may be true in the short-term, but eventually it will end up costing you so much more.

Hefty Mechanic Bills

Do you have any idea how much it costs to replace a car engine? A lot. Of course, it depends on the make and model of your vehicle, but I can guarantee you it will not be cheap.
Why not avoid the nightmare of serious engine damage by keeping up with routine oil changes?