FAQS

The price of repairing your vehicle at Affordable Auto Sales & Repair can vary significantly based on multiple factors, such as:

• The type of repair: The cost will depend on what needs to be repaired or replaced. Routine maintenance, such as an oil change or brake pad replacements, is generally less expensive than major engine or transmission repairs.
• Vehicle make and model: Different makes and models of cars have different parts and labor costs. For example, luxury or imported cars may have more expensive replacement parts than domestic vehicles.
• Severity of the damage: The extent of the damage to your car or the complexity of the repair can significantly impact the cost. A minor dent in your door is less expensive to fix than major collision damage.
• New vs. used parts: Using brand-new, OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts is generally more expensive than installing used or aftermarket parts.
• You vehicle’s warranty: If your car is currently under warranty, some or all of the repair costs may be covered by the manufacturer.

There are multiple factors at play when it comes to your vehicle’s oil and how often it should be changed.

• Conventional oil: If your engine uses conventional (non-synthetic) oil, it's typically recommended to change your engine oil every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. However, many modern vehicles and oils can go longer between changes.
• Synthetic oil: If your car uses synthetic oil, you can often extend the amount of time between oil changes. Many synthetic oils allow for changes every 7,500 to 10,000 miles or even more. Check your vehicle's owner's manual for specific recommendations, as some vehicles are designed for longer intervals between oil changes.
• Oil life monitoring system: Some modern cars have an oil life monitoring system that tracks its driving conditions and engine stress. This system will alert you when it's time to change the oil. Follow the system's recommendations.
• Severe driving conditions: If you regularly drive in more severe conditions, such as stop-and-go traffic or extreme temperatures, or you tow heavy loads, you may need more frequent oil changes. In these cases, we recommend you follow the "severe service" maintenance schedule in your owner's manual.
• Older vehicles: Older cars or those with high mileage may benefit from more frequent oil changes. This is true even if you're using synthetic oil. Getting an oil change every 3,000 to 5,000 miles is a reasonable interval for such vehicles.

Be sure to check your car's owner's manual for the manufacturer's specific recommendations on oil changes, as they can vary from one vehicle to another. Additionally, consider the type of oil you use, your driving conditions, and the age of your vehicle when deciding the appropriate oil change interval. Regular oil changes are crucial when it comes to maintaining the health and longevity of your car's engine.

The maintenance your car needs and when it needs it can vary depending on its make and model, as well as the driving conditions and how often you drive it. Here are some general guidelines for car maintenance. Consult your car's owner's manual for manufacturer-specific recommendations.

• Oil change: Typically, you should change your engine’s oil every 3,000 to 5,000 miles (or as recommended by the manufacturer). Be sure to check your owner’s manual, as many newer cars have longer oil change intervals.
• Tire rotation: Rotate your tires every 6,000 to 8,000 miles to ensure even wear on them.
• Brake inspection: Get your brakes inspected during every oil change or every 10,000 miles and have the brake pads replaced as needed.
• Air filter: Replace your engine’s air filter every 15,000 to 30,000 miles.
• Cabin air filter: Replace the cabin air filter every 15,000 to 30,000 miles or as needed.
• Spark plugs: Replace your spark plugs every 30,000 to 100,000 miles, depending on the type of spark plugs and your vehicle.
• Transmission fluid: Replace your vehicle’s automatic transmission fluid every 30,000 to 60,000 miles or as recommended by the manufacturer. Cars with manual transmissions may have different intervals.
• Coolant (radiator fluid): Change the coolant in your radiator every 30,000 to 60,000 miles or as recommended by the manufacturer.
• Timing belt/chain: Replace the timing belt or chain as specified in your owner's manual or by the manufacturer. Typically, this is done between 60,000 and 100,000 miles.
• Battery: Test your car's battery on a regular basis and replace it when it's no longer effectively holding a charge. This can be done approximately every 3-5 years.
• Wheel alignment: Have your wheel alignment checked once a year or if you notice any steering issues or uneven wear on your tires.
• Suspension and shocks: Inspect your car’s suspension and shocks for any wear and replace them as needed.
• Exhaust system: Check for exhaust leaks and corrosion and have parts replaced as necessary.
• Wiper blades: Replace the windshield wiper blades when they no longer effectively clear your windshield.
• Fuel filter: Replace the fuel filter as recommended in your owner's manual. This is usually done between 30,000 and 60,000 miles.
• Power steering fluid: Replace your power steering fluid as recommended by the manufacturer, often every 30,000 to 60,000 miles.
• Belts and hoses: Inspect and replace your car’s serpentine belts and coolant hoses as needed.
• Check engine light: If your check engine light turns on, we can read the diagnostic codes and address any issues promptly.

These are general guidelines and your own car's maintenance schedule may differ. Reviewing your owner's manual and consulting our mechanics can help you determine the best maintenance schedule for your vehicle.