Car repairs can be inconvenient as well as expensive. With all the complex computer and mechanical systems included in many newer cars, it can be confusing to know what a dashboard indicator light means or whether the repairs that are suggested by your auto shop are really necessary. To help guide you through the auto repair maze, some answers to a few common questions may be of help.
When you take your car in for a specific repair, the service adviser will often point out other items that may need attention. Keep in mind that service advisers typically receive additional income based on their ability to make these "add-on" sales. If the suggested repair isn't vital or is not a regularly scheduled maintenance item listed in your owner's manual, you can probably get by without it.
Your service adviser should provide you a written repair estimate before any work begins. The estimate will include a part-by-part list and the cost of each, as well as the projected labor costs. Because labor costs are usually based on a per-hour rate, the estimate will also give you an idea of how long the repair will take once the work begins.
Your 'check engine' light is a signal generated by your car's computer system that something may be wrong. The only way to determine the exact problem is to take your car to the dealer or a mechanic. The mechanic will use diagnostic equipment to scan the computer for codes that will pinpoint the problem. In many cases, the problem isn't urgent, but will need to be corrected at some point in the future.
There are several signs that indicate it's time for new tires. If you can see cords showing through the rubber, your tires are worn and need to be replaced. You should also look for any bumps, bulges or punctures. If your tires have 1/16-inch or less of tread remaining, this indicates excessive tread wear as well as time for a new tire.
Many newer cars are equipped with an anti-lock braking system (ABS) that prevents the brakes from locking up during sudden, hard stops. When the ABS indicator light on your dashboard comes on, it usually means that your ABS system isn't working properly and needs to be checked. However, your normal, non-ABS braking system should still be functioning.
