Yes, providing you go slowly, and the water does not cover the tires at the bottom of the rims. Drive close to the center of the road and watch ahead for water levels. Never enter water you cannot cross on foot or water 6 inches or midway up your tires.

Get the vehicle rocking and resist spinning the tires, especially in the snow. Clear debris from in front of all tires to make it easier to drive out.

If the lamination on your plate(s) is peeling or bubbling, please visit a Service Ontario Centre to get them replaced. You must bring both plates in for replacement, even if only one has peeling or bubbling.

A fast-blinking turn signal usually indicates that a turn-signal bulb is burned out on that side. Get the lights checked and repaired.

No. Most manufacturers want proof of service at a reputable shop for warranty purposes.

No, but keep all maintenance receipts showing oil type quantity and filters used. You can have your car serviced anywhere and still maintain the manufacturer’s warranty. You can bring the car to an independent shop, or even another dealership that’s not the same car brand as your car.

1. Get it inspected by a trusted technician for rust or paint damage, inspection of the frame
2. Look for recalls
3. Get a buyers package from the MTO
4. Look into reviews for the vehicle
5. Check for any service records and repairs done
6. Check insurance rates and are there any insurance claims
7. How long have they owned it and why are they selling it
8. CARFAX Report

When temperatures drop during winter, it’s a good idea to let the car run for about a minute. In terms of comfort, when you drive the car, it’s going to warm up in just a few minutes vs. idling for 15 or 20 minutes. Extended idling just wastes gas.

In short, yes. Air conditioning requires energy to operate. Everything you use in your car needs the energy to run. If your car doesn’t have a hybrid drive system, that energy is coming from your gas tank via your engine.

Sturdy ice scraper and snow brush, Shovel, Gloves and other winter clothing, Blanket, Emergency flares or reflectors, Rock salt, sand, or kitty litter (non-clumping) First aid kit, Extra windshield washer fluid, Flashlight, Rope or chain, Jumper cables, Cell phone charger, Sunglasses, Water, and non-perishable snacks.

If you’d like to own your vehicle for a long time – or if you plan on selling it soon – rustproofing your car will make it last for years and give it more curb appeal. That’ll increase its resale value if you ever decide to sell your car. Regular washes remove harmful salt and debris to protect the finish.

When a recall goes out, the manufacturer will typically provide the necessary repairs free of charge. The owner, however, is responsible for scheduling the repair and bringing the car to an authorized mechanic.

No, because it puts a strain on the wiper arm and exposes the plastic gears and other mechanical components that could be weakened or damaged by forceful wind gusts. A popular trick that can be used anytime, is plastic bags. You will need about two bags to cover each windshield wiper. Bags can also be tied around your side mirrors to prevent them from freezing over.

For most vehicles, it makes no difference. For vehicles where it is recommended, it should be used, or performance issues will appear. Premium fuel does not have ethanol and does have more additives for performance. Using regular unleaded gas in a car that requires premium fuel reduces engine performance and can cause damage over time.

A steady check engine light indicates a non-emergency issue, such as a loose gas cap. Flashing check engine lights warn of severe situations requiring immediate attention. Standardized diagnostic codes help identify the trouble.

It is recommended every 1- 2 years. Remember to replace them in pairs. If one is worn out, its mate can’t be far behind. Don’t forget to check the rear wiper blade if your vehicle has one. Even though it may not get as much use as the front wipers, it is exposed to the elements. Cleaning them with rubbing alcohol will prolong them by removing dirt and chemicals.

The best time is before the temperature drops below 7 C, or before the first snowfall. Many motorists install winter tires in October. I encourage people to go that route and make it an annual routine.

They are not mandatory but are proven to improve handling in the winter. Ontario also offers an incentive to get you driving on winter tires. This could be as much as a 5% reduction in your insurance premium.

Engine Air, Cabin Air Transmission Filter Fuel Filter, Power Steering Filter, and Diesel Filter Water.
Separator in diesel vehicles.

Engine oil, transmission, transfer case, differential, power steering, brake fluid, coolant, and air conditioning refrigerant, window washer fluid, and diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) in diesel vehicles.

Ideally, you should have your brakes inspected once every six months. Most people have this done at the same time as they have their tires rotated, so they don’t forget.

If your vehicle has a dipstick (yellow or orange handle) make sure the vehicle is on level ground, the engine is off and has sat for 2 – 3 minutes. The stick should be wiped clean and put back in the engine. The correct level will be between low and high. Do not overfill.

You can usually find the oil grade stamped on the engine oil cap, or you can find the type and grade in your car’s owner’s manual or maintenance guide. Use the proper grade and type, either conventional or synthetic.

Most can last 3-5 years but need to be tested every oil change. If they are weak, the charging system must work harder, so don’t put off a replacement. Always use the recommended type for your vehicle.

Get your tire balance checked when the tires are rotated (10,000 – 15,000 km).
Alignments are recommended yearly or 25,000 km.

A general rule of thumb is:
Conventional oil – 5,000 -7,000 km
Synthetic oil – 7,000 — 10,000 KM

A premium fluid rated at -40 or better is best. These have good cleaners that clear dirt and salt from your windshield.

On the driver’s door pillar, there is a decal showing recommended pressures and tire size. Pressure should be checked cold.

This light comes on when the engine management computer gets a bad signal from one of many sensors on the engine, exhaust system and fuel system. Have it inspected right away to ensure maximum performance and fuel economy.

All vehicles need specific tire pressures. When the Driver’s door is open there should be a decal showing the recommended tire size and tire pressures recommended by the manufacturer. Use a good quality tire pressure gauge to set the pressure. Pressures should be checked monthly.

You do not need to have your vehicle serviced at the dealer to maintain your warranty. This is where documentation is very important showing the type of oil, quantity, and approved oil filter.

If you are leasing the vehicle only go by the manufacturer’s recommended intervals because you will be turning the vehicle back in.

Regular service prevents early engine failure and oil leaks so you may want to shorten the intervals. Oil changes are a good investment in prolonging engine life. There are other fluids that need regular changes as well.

The coolant level should be visible in the reservoir in the engine bay. If you need the level in the radiator checked bring it to us.

Brakes need annual inspections to monitor wear. Regular servicing will prolong the life of the brakes. Call us to schedule an appointment if the brakes have not been inspected for a while.

Reputable shops that use quality products that are warranty approved can perform most maintenance services.

Most often it is because the refrigerant has leaked out causing the system to shut down. A proper inspection will find the reason. Call us to make an appointment.

Regular maintenance and undercoating will prolong your vehicle life.

We service the London, Belmont, St. Thomas, Pt. Stanley and Aylmer areas. We are also the only CAA approved facility in the St. Thomas area.

Most tires can be repaired as long as the puncture is in the main tread area. Sometimes there are leaks around the valve stem or bead which can easily be repaired.