Caring for the car you own can sometimes be bothersome, between work and family life, finding the time to set aside maintenance for your vehicle can often times fall to the bottom of the list. If you are a new owner or even if you have had a import vehicle for several years – you may think the dealer is the only place to bring your car in for service. Believe us, that is not the case! Japanese Auto Repair is the neighborhood dealer alternative you can trust to service the vehicle you trust to keep you and your family safe.
What is important for car owners to know about servicing their car? Here are three suggestions from our highly skilled team of trained technicians.
Service Intervals
In the auto repair industry, an “oil change” is commonly performed in lieu of a service interval against manufacturer recommendations. A standard “oil change” includes draining the used oil and replacing the oil filter and oil fluids – that’s it. Every manufacturer has a service interval that is to be performed for each manufactured vehicle. Automotive manufacturers model such services after what has been implemented in the field of aviation aeronautics. The recommended maintenance of the interval service exceeds a typical “oil change.” In addition to the oil change service, a complete inspection is performed. This is performed as a preventive safety measure and is most cost effective in the long run. Service inspections provide the opportunity for intervention prior to costly repair. During a service interval, a trained technician educated on the vehicle’s manufacturer standards will inspect the tires, measure their tread depth, and rotate the tires if indicated. Break measurements will be notated and a thorough visual inspection will be conducted. All fluid levels (breaks, washer, power steering, transmission, etc.) will be measured to assess for apparent leaks or excess use. Then, a visual inspection of all suspension components and any belts, hoses, and lines is performed. Finally, the service light reminder light is re-set.
Customer Education
Once a person becomes an automotive owner, it is imperative for them to understand how their investment operates and exactly how to maintain it. Each vehicle is issued a service manual and an operator manual by the manufacturer. These manuals explain in detail what each service interval consists of. The service interval is the most important service that should be performed according to the vehicle’s protocol at a specific point of mileage and/or age. Dealerships follow these protocols. At “service stations,” they do not perform a comprehensive service interval; rather they perform a basic service. At first glance this may appear to be the best value; however, basic services, even if performed at regular intervals, do not add up to a comprehensive evaluation. Incomplete service performance is what allows them to pass on savings to their customers, but this does the vehicle owner a great disservice. Unlike the service station, JAR does not use “aftermarket” products or parts to cut costs. Generic automotive equivalents tend to be of inferior quality. Moreover, JAR has qualified and competent level A ASE automotive technicians performing and supervising these crucial services. Customers should only ever entrust their vehicle to someone who is educated and expertly trained.
Quality and Continuity of Care
Owners need to be aware of where they take their vehicles for their service and repair needs. A fair amount of time should be spent researching a reputable business and developing rapport with a trustworthy and knowledgeable service advisor. An advisor should have a good “car-side” manner and be able to keep you informed of all technical aspects in a timely fashion. Your vehicle should have a record of every service/repair recommended or performed in a single location.
We service all Japanese Import Cars and have been established in the Gwinnett Area for over 15 years. Contact us today to schedule your appointment with our friendly team of technicians.
