Automotive Service FAQs

You drive a luxury brand like Lexus because you enjoy the best. Unfortunately, having discerning taste doesn’t always mean you’re an automotive guru. Understanding the ins and outs of your vehicle’s service program can be challenging if you’re unfamiliar with the process. If cars are a mystery to you, keep reading. Here are the answers to your most frequently asked questions about routine maintenance.

How Often Should You Change the Oil?

One of the best ways to protect your vehicle’s performance and resale value is to follow its regularly scheduled maintenance program, like changing the oil. Motor oil is essential to your car’s performance because it lubricates your engine’s internal components. This substance wears down over time and needs to be periodically changed. If you wait too long between services, you could face costly repairs, like a blown head gasket or even complete engine failure.

Most mechanics recommend replacing your conventional oil every three months or 3,000 miles. Some automotive manufacturers, like Lexus, suggest 5,000-mile intervals for many of their newer models. Vehicles that use synthetic oil can go as far as 10,000 miles between services.

The Lexus Oil Life Monitor system will notify you when it’s time to head to the dealership for service. This smart technology keeps an eye on your oil’s life using an advanced algorithm. When it determines it’s time for an oil change, an onboard computer alerts you so you can have it taken care of promptly. If the factory didn’t outfit your car with this feature, refer to your owner’s manual to determine how often you should change your car’s oil.

When Do You Check Fluid Levels?

In addition to engine oil, your vehicle depends on other fluids to run properly. How often you replace these products is also affected by how frequently you drive. Following a regular fluid service schedule will protect your vehicle from preventable — and potentially expensive — damage. The most common fluid levels your automotive technician will check include:

• Brake Fluid (every 30,000 miles).
• Transmission Fluid (every 60,000 miles).
• Power Steering Fluid (every 30,000 to 60,000 miles).
• Differential Fluid (every 60,000 miles).
• Engine Coolant Fluid (every 60,000 to 100,000 miles).

When Do Air Filters Need Replacing?

Most vehicles have two types of air filters, one for the engine and one for the cabin. The interior unit cleans the air you breathe, keeping out pollutants like allergens and exhaust. The engine option prevents dirt and debris from getting inside the motor. When this filter becomes clogged, you’ll notice issues like poor engine performance and reduced fuel efficiency.

Both air filters have an ideal life of 15,000 to 20,000 miles. Fortunately, replacing them is a quick and straightforward process. You can access the cabin filter inside the glove box of most Lexus models, then pop the hood and look for the engine air filter on top or along the side of the motor.

When Do I Need to Replace Brake Pads?

Brake pads begin to wear out around the 30,000-mile mark, although that figure varies widely based on numerous factors. Sudden braking is one of the most common culprits for premature breakdown. When driving in rush hour traffic, leave plenty of room between yourself and the car ahead and don’t rush. Traveling at a high rate of speed in this situation is also bad for your brake pads, as you’ll have to brake harder to stop in time.

Recognizing the signs of worn brake pads is essential to your safety on the go. You’ll know it’s time to replace them when you hear a squealing and grinding noise when you press the pedal. If it takes longer for your vehicle to stop than usual, you should schedule a service appointment as soon as possible.

Your mechanic will visually inspect brake pads, calipers, and rotors and let you know if they recommend a repair. Driving with worn brake pads will damage your rotors, and replacing this essential component can be costly. Taking a proactive approach to your brake system will keep you safe and save you money.

Is It Time for a New Battery?

Most standard car batteries last three to five years. However, some factors can shorten that duration, like extreme temperatures, extended periods of inactivity, water loss, and terminal corrosion. So keep an eye out for signs that your battery is failing, and replace it before your car leaves you stranded. Some common indicators that your vehicle may be due for a battery replacement are dim headlights, blinking lights on your dashboard, and a strange clicking noise when you try to start the engine.

When To Rotate Your Tires

You service your luxury vehicle to protect not just its performance but its passengers too. Your tire tread is your car’s main point of contact with the pavement, which means your tires are subjected to incredible wear and tear. Front and rear-wheel drive automobiles put more stress on the tires of the driving axle, making that set wear away even faster.

Having your tires rotated ensures your rubber wears evenly, helping them last longer. This economical and routine service often takes less than an hour at a qualified shop and is well worth your time. Your automotive expert will check the tire pressure and examine each wheel for damage. Things like punctures, cracks, and bulges could cause a blowout, so have them rotated regularly and relax knowing you’re riding on safe tires.

While all makes and models vary, having your tires rotated every six months, or every 6,000 to 8,000 miles, is a good habit to practice. However, your rubber will deteriorate even faster if you’re a spirited driver. In addition, habits like high-speed driving, taking corners too fast, and slamming on the brakes could cause your tires to wear even quicker.

Now that you understand the nuts and bolts of some of the most common automotive services, you’ll be able to spot minor issues before they become a concern. Let us know if we forgot to explain a service topic you don’t understand. The friendly and knowledgeable staff at Eskridge Lexus are happy to explain how to keep your luxury automobile out of the shop and on the road.