Foreign Car Repair FAQ's

These are things we recommend based on time or mileage and not that of visual appearance or any measurements.  The purpose of these maintenance tips is to prolong the life of your foreign car and to prevent any breakdowns in the future.  Your European vehicles maintenance requirements may differ depending on your driving habits or the recommendations found within the vehicles owner’s manual.

Tire Rotation – Every 3,000-5,000 miles depending on your style of tire.

Oil Lube & Filter – Every 3,000, 5,000 or 10,000 miles depending on the type of oil your import vehicle takes.

Battery Service – Check yearly or as needed.

Power Steering Flush – Every 2 years or 24,000 miles.

Brake System Flush – Every year

Power Steering Flush – Every 2 years or 24,000 miles.

Radiator Coolant – Flush and refill every 2 years.

Radiator Cap – Replace every 2 years as the seal goes bad.

Radiator & Heater Hoses – Every 4 years or 60,000 miles.

Engine Oil Flush – Every 2 years or 30,000 miles.

Clutch System Flush – Every year.

4×4 Transfer Case – Every 15,000-50,000 miles.

Timing Belt – Every 4 years or 60,000 miles.

Drive Belts – Every 4 years or 60,000 miles.

Valves – Adjust per owner’s manual.

Oxygen Sensor – Per owner’s manual or as needed.

 

 

One of the first indications that your vehicle needs a tune-up is if the check engine light is on.  Another symptom you may notice is a decrease in your normal gas mileage. If your vehicle is running rough, then something is wrong. Your owner’s manual may also suggest tune ups at certain mileage points.

Tire wear is usually caused by either your vehicle not being properly aligned, your tires are either underinflated or overinflated, or your suspension is worn out.  Your tires are a very important part of your vehicle and it is a very good idea to check them periodically to see how they are holding up.

To keep your vehicle dependable and ensure it’s performing at it’s peak performance level you can replace your fuel filter every 30,000 miles or what is recommended in your owner’s manual.

This will depend on the type of spark plugs that are being used within your foreign car.  If you have standard spark plugs, those last anywhere between 12,000-15,000 miles.  Platinum tipped spark plugs can last up to 30,000 miles while the newest iridium spark plugs can last between 90,000-100,000 miles.

We suggest you check your anti-freeze at least every other time you fill your newer vehicle up with gas. For older vehicles, with more mileage check it every time you fill up with gas.  We recommend you flush and refill your anti-freeze every 2 years as over time it may rust the inside of your radiator and will not be as effective in keeping your engine cool.

Even if you lease your vehicle, you are responsible for all maintenance and any necessary repairs to keep the vehicle in working condition as outlined in the owner’s manual.

No, at this time we do not fix any recalls related to your vehicle.  You will have to go to the dealership.

Some of the after market auto parts are made by the same supplier as the OEM (original equipment manufacturer) and the after market parts may even have a longer warranty.  In many cases after market parts not only meet, but even exceed the manufacturer’s specifications.

Why pay more at a dealership?