No one will argue that regular car maintenance is essential.  Although most car shops follow a regular protocol for service, there have been many reports of car dealers adding unnecessary maintenance procedures to the recommended list by the auto manufacturer.  During a visit to a mechanic, you might be told that something extra needs to be done or that something new is now on the market to improve car performance.  But are all these items necessary?

Engine Flush

Many car mechanics routinely insist that the car owner get an engine flush to remove all the collected sludge in the engine.  It is well known that cars that have been too hot, functioning at high speeds or standing still for a long time can build up sludge and, in that case, a purge is necessary.

One quick way to tell if sludge is present is to open the oil cap and assess the surface surrounding the lid.  In many cases sludge buildup takes years and therefore, engine flushes are not a part of regular maintenance.  The cost to get it done is an additional $150.

Fuel Injection Cleaning

Another maintenance procedure that may not be necessary is the fuel injection cleaning.  Buildup of fuel deposits and carbon can definitely occur and block the fuel injector.  This can sometimes starve the engine for fuel and cause vacillations in acceleration.  Sometimes the car’s performance becomes erratic.

However, if your car is driving fine and smooth, and the warning light is not on, you may choose to say no to this maintenance routine that can cost anywhere from $150 to $250.

Designer Oils

Some car mechanics even recommend changing your oil to one that contains more additives.  Reasons may include saving money and fuel, improved performance and decreased wear and tear.  However, in most cases, these newer oils are gimmicks.

For the average car owner who drives their car back and forth to work or shopping, there is no such need.  Stick to the oil recommended in your car manufacturer’s handout.  Fancy oils will usually clean out just one thing:  your wallet.

Gas Saving Gizmos

With everyone worrying about gas prices, there has been a surge in the promotion of gadgets that claim to help save gas or help decrease pollution.  These include magnets, vortex generators, water injectors and more, all with exorbitant claims of how much gas one can save.  So many of these devices are simply junk.  In fact, some claim that these devices can even impair your car’s performance.

While many shops endorse them forcefully, be forewarned.  These devices have been thoroughly tested by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the verdict is that they’re useless.

Be Prepared

The best way to avoid unnecessary car repairs is to be knowledgeable.  The onus is on the car owner to avoid being ripped off.  Know your car.  Try to identify the problem beforehand.  Prior to visiting a garage, get some references and ask people who have been there.  Know what type of questions to ask.  Organizations like the Better Business Bureau (BBB), American Automobile Association (AAA) and Canadian Automobile Association (CAA) do supply information about automobiles that may help you in keeping the repairs to a minimum and to avoid unscrupulous shops.

Look for a shop that is approved by the CAA and check whether the technicians are certified.  Most shops have the certificates hanging on the wall.  Always assess the shop and determine if the place is organized, clean and if customer service is pleasant.  Talk to your friends, colleagues or your neighbours.  Do a search on the internet and see if any complaints pop up.  In many cases, the internet is the first place people will talk about the service they received.

Just like you would select a doctor before getting sick, do the research while your car is in good condition.  Do your shopping ahead of time.  Compare prices between shops and ask around.  Never deal with a shop that does not explain to you what is going to happen.  If there is too much mechanical jargon in what the technician is describing, it may be a con game; go elsewhere.

Always get an estimate and the itemized list of possible repairs.  Make sure that there is a warranty on the repairs.  Insist that any parts replaced be saved along with an explanation of why they were replaced.  This way if you have doubts, you can take the parts elsewhere for a second opinion.

The Right Shop

There are many good and decent shops out there. Be sure the one you choose has your best interests at heart.

Related Articles
9 Essential Ways to Prep for Winter Driving
Can your Car Keep you from Crashing?
How the Road Tricks you into Slowing Down
Are Winter Tires a Waste of Time?