FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
AAMCO Utah Frequently Asked Questions
Your Questions – Answered by Our Expert Mechanics
At AAMCO Utah our goal is to offer our customers the best possible service, we aim to make the car repair process as easy as possible. Along with that comes education – we want you to understand as much about your car as possible, we know it can be confusing when there is something wrong with your car so we are here to help.
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Jump to: General AAMCO Questions | General Car Questions | Car Maintenance Questions | Transmission Questions | Battery Questions | Brake System Questions | Air Conditioning Questions | Suspension System Questions
General AAMCO Questions
Q: Do you offer towing?
A: Yes we do. Check with your local AAMCO Utah location for more information.
Q: What is your warranty?
A: AAMCO Utah is backed by the nation wide AAMCO warranty.
Q: How long will my repair take?
A: The length of every repair is different depending on the repair needed, the make and model of the car, the facilities scheduling and the availability of parts.
Q: Do you offer financing?
A: Yes, all of our Utah locations have different financing options. Check with your local center to see what your options are – car repair doesn’t have to break the bank.
General Car Questions
Q: My check engine light is on, what do I do?
A: Your check engine light can indicate a wide range of problems with your car and is often one of the first indications our car’s give us that there is something wrong. Even if your car seems fine, we suggest bringing it into your nearest AAMCO Utah for an inspection.
We will scan the computer for the codes and do a thorough review of all major systems in your car. We will identify any issues and recommend the necessary repairs, but will never begin work without your approval.
Q: Why won’t my car start?
A: There could be a number of reasons why your car isn’t starting, or having trouble starting. Including:
- Faulty starter
- Failing alternator
- Worn out spark plugs
- Failing Engine Control Module (ECM)
- Fuel injectors are clogged
- Fuel pumps or fuel lines are failing or clogged
If you are experiencing trouble starting your car be sure to contact your local AAMCO Utah service center today – local towing options available.
Q: What should I do if my car is overheating?
A: Regular maintenance with a certified mechanic who is checking your cooling system should help avoid overheating. However, if you do find yourself in this situation try to pull over right away and let your car cool down. When you can get back up and driving again, it’s best to visit your neighborhood AAMCO Utah service center so we can quickly diagnose what’s wrong with your car and get you back on the road safely. Learn more about what to do if you car overheats here.
Q: How often should I replace my car’s fuel filter?
A: Replacing your fuel filter should occur every 30,000 miles or unless stated differently in your owner’s manual.
Q: My car is shaking when I idle. Is this bad?
A: A rough idle is a symptom of an engine issue that has yet be discovered. The rough idle could be because of various reasons. Your car could have bad fuel injectors, it could be time to change out your spark plugs, or it could even be your engine mounts. We recommend that you
Q: Does it matter what type of fuel I put in my car?
A: Yes. Your owner’s manual will recommend the best fuel you should use in your vehicle. While most cars operate on unleaded, it is best not to mix premium and unleaded together, as this can cause major problems with your performance.
Related: Tips For Better Gas Mileage
Car Maintenance Questions
Q: How often does my car need an oil change?
A: An oil change is typically recommended every 3,000 miles – but you should always consult your owners manual for what is best for your car and your driving habits. Learn more about AAMCO Utah oil change services.
Q: How often does my car need a tune-up?
A: Modern cars made after 1970 typically only need a tune-up once every 30,000 miles. A tune-up is an important part of a regular maintenance schedule and can help you get ahead of any major repairs. Learn more about tune-up services offered at AAMCO Utah.
Q: Should I take my car to the dealership?
A: Where you choose to take your car in for service is always your choice. However, dealerships tend to charge much higher rates. AAMCO Utah offers personalized service at all nine of our locally owned and operated service centers, something that you will typically not find at a dealership. Not to mention, all of our work is backed by the AAMCO nation-wide guarantee.
Q: What is preventative maintenance?
A: Following the regular maintenance schedule laid out in your cars owners manual will help you save money and avoid costly repairs before they happen, as well as ensure the longevity of your car. You can learn more about different car maintenance schedules here.
Q: Do I HAVE to replace my timing belt at the suggested interval?
A: YES. This is one of the most important pieces of car maintenance to follow. Your timing belt regulates the speed at which your engine runs. When the timing belt breaks, the engine can not run properly. The engine will seize and stops running. You will almost certainly have to have your car towed to the mechanic and will be facing a costly repair.
Q: How often should I have my car's alignment checked?
A: In order for your tires to have the longest life possible it is usually suggested to have alignment performed once a year or every 10,000-12,000 miles.
Q: How often do I need new spark plugs?
A: Typically spark plugs should be replaced every 30,000 miles in order for your car to get maximum fuel economy.
Transmission Questions
Q: How frequently should my transmission's fluid be changed?
A: Many modern cars can go for an initial 100,000 miles before needing a transmission fluid flush but many manuals recommend changing your transmission fluid every 30,000 to 50,000 miles for manual transmission and 60,000 to 100,000 miles for automatic transmission vehicles.
Q: Can driving condition's affect my transmission?
A: Absolutely. Cold weather can affect many things from your transmission, engine, battery, cooling, and more. However, you can prevent future breakdowns even in the harshest of conditions with our tune-up services offered at AAMCO Utah.
Q: What does a transmission slipping problem indicate?
A: Where you choose to take your car in for service is always your choice. However, dealerships tend to charge much higher rates. AAMCO Utah offers personalized service at all nine of our locally owned and operated service centers, something that you will typically not find at a dealership. Not to mention, all of our work is backed by the AAMCO nation-wide guarantee.
Q: My transmission is acting up. Do I need a new one?
A: In many cases, this is could be a case of low fluid levels. However, if you notice your transmission timing synchronization in between gears is off, we recommend that you get an inspection and a diagnostic as soon as possible to figure out what is truly wrong with your transmission.
Q: Do I need a transmission repair or a replacement?
A: Many who bring their car into AAMCO Utah for servicing will find out that repairs can be relatively inexpensive. The difference between a repair and a rebuild is entirely dependent on the issues detected with your transmission. For many, our diagnostics can catch problems early to save you money. For additional info please see here.
Q: How often should I service my transmission?
A: Your transmission should be serviced every 20,000 miles depending on what type of transmission you have and your driving habits. However, at AAMCO Utah we go the extra mile to ensure that your transmission is taken care of.
Q: I drive a manual transmisssion. Am I less prone to issues?
A: Not necessarily. We recommend that you also test out your clutch and ensure that it functions. If you can drive and do not stall out in a higher gear, you definitely need a professional to look at it. While CVT, Hybrid, and Manual transmissions have their distinct differences from automatics, our experienced mechanics can assist you by providing you with the correct serving schedules.
Related: Everything You Need To Know About CVT Transmissions
Battery Questions
Q: Why does my battery keep dying?
A: A dead or dying car battery is a terrible feeling. However, this could be caused by many things. Your battery could be dying because of your alternator and other electrical components. In addition to your battery and electrical system having issues, you may notice other areas of your car experiencing difficulties. See here.
Q: Can cold weather affect my battery?
A: Yes. Cold weather can absolutely affect your battery. The internal components of your battery are comprised of lead-acid and much more. Not only can the cold “freeze” your battery, but it can also lose the charge.
Q: Does my battery recharge itself?
A: Technically speaking, your car battery doesn’t recharge itself. However, your alternator the key part that assists with that. If your experiencing difficulties with your battery losing its charge, the issue is your alternator.
Q: My headlights still turn on, but it won’t start. Is my battery dead?
A: If you see that your headlights are still on then this is a sign that your battery still has a charge. However, it is not functioning as it should. Dim lights are an indication that your battery is on its way out. Likewise, if your car isn’t starting it is a clear sign that your starter and alternator have gone bad.
Q: How long does a car battery usually last?
A: Your car battery can last you from two-six years depending on your driving habits. There are many factors that can alter this lifespan as well. Things such as the type of vehicle, the weather, your driving habits, can play a big role in your battery’s lifespan,
Related: Battery Maintenance Infographic
Brake System Questions
Q: What makes up my brake system?
A: Your braking system is comprised of your brake pads, rotors, calipers, discs, lines, and several other parts that help make up the system.
Related: What’s In a Brake Inspection?
Q: What are the brake pads?
A: Brake pads are the main pieces of your braking system. These are metal, ceramic pieces that work with your caliper to create friction. This friction between your pads and rotors work together to stop your wheels from spinning. When you step on your brakes and hear grinding or squeaking noises, it is a clear indication that they are worn and in need of replacement.
Q: What is a brake rotor?
A: Brake rotors/Brake discs are often a circular metal parts that work in conjunction with your pads and caliper to stop your wheels from spinning. Your car will always come with 4 of these. Two in the front and two in the rear.
Q: How long do brake pads and rotors last in my car?
A: The lifespan of your pads and rotors will often vary depending on your own driving habits. Typically, your pads will last you from 30,000-70,000 miles while your rotors can last anywhere from 90,000-210,000. However, these are not guaranteed as the weather, your driving, and the car’s service schedule can affect these.
Q: Should my brake pedal be tight?
A: If you have a tight or stiff brake pedal, this is could be a sign of brake fluid buildup in the reservoir. While you can fix this issue at home, it is very risky and you can damage your braking system in the process of doing so. If you need help with your brake pedal feeling stiff, stop on into your local AAMCO location today.
Q: There is too much “give” in my brake pedal. Is this bad?
A: If you feel that your brake pedal is too light, has too much given, or feels, spongy, then this is a clear indication that your fluid is not flowing in your brake lines. This is the opposite of too you brake pedal feeling tight and is also caused by air being trapped in your brake lines. In order to get rid of the trapped air, you will need to “bleed your brakes.” If you need help bleeding your brake lines, trust in our expert mechanics to service it right the first time.
Q: I hear a grinding noise. What is wrong with my brakes?
A: When you step on the brakes and hear a grinding noise, this means that your brake pads are overdue for a change. Your brake pads or lack thereof, have disintegrated to the point the friction used to stop your car is being caused by metal on metal contact. This is not a good sign and could potentially damage your rotors and more. We suggest you immediately stop driving your vehicle and get your brakes serviced as soon as possible.
Related: Brakes Don’t Last Forever
Q: My car pulls to the left or right when I step on the brakes. What could this be?
A: If you’re experiencing your car pulling to one side, this means that your caliper is stuck and this is a very dangerous position to be in. If you are experiencing a stuck caliper, protect yourself and get help from your local AAMCO mechanic immediately.
Air Conditioning Questions
Q: Why is my car’s A/C blowing hot air?
A: If your A/C is blowing out hot air, then this could be for a variety of reasons. You could have a faulty fuse, an A/C leak, a bad compressor, or even have a clogged valve. The only way to know the true cause of your A/C issue is to get it inspected by a professional mechanic.
Q: There are horrible smells coming from my A/C. What could this be?
A: When you start your A/C and you smell something horrible, it could be because of dirty vents and air filters. These cabin filters should be replaced every 30,000 miles. Enlist the help of a professional to help you change these out here.
Q: When I turn on my A/C there is no air at all. What happened?
A: If you notice that your A/C isn’t producing any air at all, it could be because of a few things. You could have a loose hose, your fan unit could be faulty, or you could even have a broken seal. If your car is no longer producing air, get a diagnostic and help at your local AAMCO today.
Q: How do I know if there is an A/C leak?
A: Detecting an A/C is something that is best left for a professional. However, one clear sign that your cooling system has a potential leak is the amount of moisture coming from your vents. The moment you feel the moisture coming, please get help immediately. Harmful freons are present and not only are they bad for you, but they can also corrode your entire cooling system.
Suspension Questions
Q: What are shocks and struts?
A: Shocks and struts are important parts of your suspension system. These key parts are used in controlling your springs. While these look very similar to each other, they serve different purposes. A strut supports the weight of your car and helps you adapt to various road elements, while a shock is a piston-shaped tube that allows your wheels to absorb bumps and recover.
Q: When should I replace my shocks and struts?
A: Each car is different and the mileage may once again vary. However, the best timeframe to consider replacing these is around the 50,000-mile mark. By this point, your car has accumulated enough wear to swap out these parts.
Related: Suspension Services & Repair
Q: How often should I service my suspension?
A: You should get your suspension checked each time you bring your car in for maintenance. While you may not need major repairs, it is best to ensure that your springs, shocks, struts, and alignment are in order before you head out.
Q: How do I know if my suspension system has gone bad?
A: When your car is in need of suspension work, you can feel it. Often your car will have a sway/lean when you change lanes, scale ramps, or turn corners. Likewise, you can feel excessive bumping when you traverse bumps, dips, and stop.