CAR TIPS
What does a brake inspection include?
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Check brake pedals - 3 things to check for include 1) the height (measurement of the brake pedal to the floor while at rest); 2) free play (measured by pedal movement from rest until brakes are applied); and 3) reserve distance (distance from the brake pedal to the floor when brakes are applied). Issues with your brakes will be determined if the brake pedal height is off, if there is too much free play, or if the reserve distance is incorrect. -
Check brake fluid - should be changed every 1 or 2 years to ensure proper working brakes. -
Check brake lines and hoses for cracks or leaks -
Check disc brakes or drum brakes -
Check parking (emergency) brakes
Check Engine Light On? We Can Help!
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Oxygen Sensor needs replacing - The oxygen sensor measures the amount of unburned oxygen in the exhaust system. If you don't replace your oxygen sensor as needed, you can expect to your vehicle to: burn more fuel than necessary; lose fuel economy; get less miles per gallon; and damage your spark plugs and catalytic converter. -
Gas cap is loose, damaged, or missing - Gas caps seal the fuel system to maintain pressure in the gas tank and prevent fumes from being released into the air. If you don't tighten or replace your gas cap, your vehicle can lose gas through evaporation. -
Failing Catalytic Converter - Catalytic converters protects the environment by converting harmful carbon monoxide into carbon dioxide. If you don't replace a bad catalytic converter, you can expect a failed smog test; reduced performance and fuel economy; and high temperatures while the vehicle is running. -
Mass Airflow Sensor (MAF) needs replacing - The MAF measures the amount of air entering your car's engine to determine how much gas is needed to run efficiently. If you don't replace the MAF as needed, faulty sensors can damage spark plugs, oxygen sensors, or the catalytic converter; and your vehicle will experience reduced performance and fuel economy. -
Spark plugs needs replacing - Spark plugs ignite the air and fuel mixture in the combustion chamber of your vehicle. If you don't replace your spark plugs as needed, your vehicle will experience poor performance; reduced fuel economy; clogged catalytic converters; or damage to ignition coils and oxygen sensors.
Winterize Your Vehicle
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Belts and Hoses - Check belts and hoses for wear and tear, cracks, and proper tension. -
Lights - Check all lights and replace any burned out bulbs. Keep head light and tail light lenses free of dirt. -
Battery - Test your battery at Menlo Park Chevron and remove any built up corrosion on the battery's posts and cables. -
Emergency Kit - Keep a roadside kit in your trunk just in case of emergencies. -
Tires - Check tires for worn tread, uneven wear, and proper tire inflation. Replace any tires if needed -
Windshield Wipers - Inspect wiper blades for wear and tear. Replace windshield wiper blades at least once a year.

What You Need To Know About Tires
What You Need To Know About Oil Changes
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