Vehicle Maintenance | Parkside Motors

Need to Know: Batteries

We like to say that knowledge is power, but in this case, knowledge about your car battery actually IS power. Let’s take a quick look at how batteries work, how to maintain them, and how to get out in front of a failing battery before you are left stranded.

Brakes: Round-Up

We were hard at work last month writing in-depth articles about all aspect of brake service. We learned how the brakes work, how we maintain and repair them, what to do when your brake light comes on, and when it is time for a brake fluid flush to keep everything working smoothly. Welcome to the Need To Know Brakes Round-Up.

Need to Know: ABS

When the ABS light is illuminated, it is a warning that the anti lock braking system is not working. The conventional braking system on your vehicle is still safe and fully functioning but once the light is displayed the anti-locking enhancement has been automatically disengaged. That is when a scan tool is required to interrogate the ABS computer to discover the fault codes associated with it.

Need to Know: Brake Fluid Flushes

Brake fluid is contaminated over time due to extreme pressure, heat, and exposure to moisture. Failing to replace the fluid can impair braking ability. Learn about how we diagnose the problem and how you can recognize the symptoms in this week's "Need to Know".

Need to Know: Brakes

Knowing that your brakes are in good working order brings peace of mind. This inspection helps identify parts that are worn or no longer meet design specifications before they damage other parts of the brake system.

The Tune-Up Round-Up

We have been hard at work over the last few months going in depth with every one of the services we offer at Parkside Motors. Once we get to the end of a series we put them all together in one place so new readers can have a look at what we have been up to. Last week we completed our series of articles on automobile maintenance and tune-ups so we are taking the opportunity to round them up and give them their due.

Need to Know: Clutches

On vehicles with standard transmissions, the clutch plays an important role in the operation of a vehicle in that it serves to connect the engine to the transmission. Clutches are no different than most other parts in your vehicle; they encounter a certain amount of wear and tear during normal driving circumstances and require replacement. Here we explain what a clutch does, how often they need replacement, and some tips on how to prolong the life of your clutch.

Need to Know: Exhaust

Your vehicle’s exhaust system is the piping used to guide reaction exhaust gases away from the controlled combustion inside your engine. A loud sounding exhaust is the easiest symptom to identify when your exhaust system needs maintenance or repair. Age and driving environment eventually wear these components out and develop leaks or they can fail internally as is the case with catalytic converters.

Need to Know: Fuel Injectors

Fuel injectors start and stop the flow of fuel into the engine. A clogged or dirty fuel injector will not deliver the optimal amount of fuel required for the air/fuel ratio – reducing your engine’s efficiency. Learn how fuel injector can help your engine running smoothly again.

ICBC Safety Inspections

Whether you're moving to B.C. (welcome!), leaving the province or just moving around the corner, here's what you need to know.

Need to Know: Fuel Filters

Let's not split hairs, your fuel filter passes gas. When it doesn't, that is when the problems begin. Below we take a look at the 3 key benefits of a clean fuel filter and its suggested replacement interval.

Need to Know: Timing Belts

One of the greatest dangers to high mileage cars is also one of the least well known. We all know how to maintain our engine oil and to prevent cases of transmission failure, but the death of many high mileage cars is cause by the failure of the timing belt. Lucky for us, its maintenance is predictable and can be scheduled far enough in advance to ensure your vehicle’s health.