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PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE

HOME > QUESTIONS? > PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE

Car Care Aware

Courtesy of the Automotive Service Association

The following simple and inexpensive preventive checks will greatly extend the life of the vehicle, ensure safer operation and even benefit the environment.

Always consult your owner's manual for individual service schedules because maintenance requirements vary by manufacturer.

  • Always consult your owner's manual, but a good rule of thumb is to have the oil filter changed regularly - every 3,000 to 4,000 miles.
  • Have all fluids checked, including brake, power steering, transmission/transaxle, windshield washer solvent and antifreeze. These fluids play a large role in the safety and performance of the vehicle.
  • Check tire inflation. Under-inflated tires can result in a loss of fuel efficiency. This is the least expensive form of preventive and safety maintenance. Tires should be checked once a month.
  • Keep your engine tuned. A fouled spark plug or plugged/restricted fuel injector can reduce fuel efficiency by as much as 30 percent.
  • Have the chassis lubricated frequently. This step extends the life of the moving components of the vehicle's suspension system.
  • Check battery cables and posts for corrosion and clean them as needed. The battery fluid also should be checked and filled if it is low, unless it is a maintenance-free battery.
  • Have the lighting system checked frequently, including headlights, turn signals, and brake and taillights.
  • Check windshield washer blades for cracks, tears and windshield contact. Replace them at least once a year, or sooner if streaking begins.
  • Inspect engine belts regularly. Worn belts will affect the engine performance. Look for cracks and missing sections or segments.
  • Have the air filtration system checked frequently. The air filter should be checked every other oil change for clogging or damage. This system ensures that the vehicle is performing at its peak condition.
Service Interval Schedule:

Vehicle System or Component

Check Monthly

Check Every 3,000 Miles

Automatic Transmission Fluid


Battery and Cables


Belts


Brakes and Brake Fluid


Cabin Air Filter


Chassis Lubrication


Check Engine Light On


Coolant (Antifreeze)


Engine Air Filter


Engine Oil and Filter

Exhaust


Fuel Filter


Hoses


Lights


Power Steering Fluid


Shock Absorbers and Struts


Tire Inflation and Condition


Windshield Washer Fluid


Wiper Blades


  • Working Hours
    Monday 7:30AM - 5:30PM
    Tuesday 7:30AM - 5:30PM
    Wednesday 7:30AM - 5:30PM
    Thursday 7:30AM - 5:30PM
    Friday 7:30AM - 5:30PM
    Saturday Closed
    Sunday Closed
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    550 China St
    Abilene, TX 79602

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    • Vehicle Tips

      According to recent studies, 5 percent of all motor vehicle fatalities are clearly caused by automobile maintenance neglect.

    • Vehicle Tips

      The cooling system should be completely flushed and refilled about every 24 months. The level, condition, and concentration of coolant should be checked. (A 50/50 mix of anti-freeze and water is usually recommended.)

    • Vehicle Tips

      Never remove the radiator cap until the engine has thoroughly cooled. The tightness and condition of drive belts, clamps and hoses should be checked by a pro.

    • Vehicle Tips

      Change your oil and oil filter as specified in your manual, or more often (every 3,000 miles) if you make frequent short jaunts, extended trips with lots of luggage or tow a trailer.

    • Vehicle Tips

      Replace other filters (air, fuel, PCV, etc.) as recommended, or more often in dusty conditions. Get engine drivability problems (hard stops, rough idling, stalling, diminished power, etc.) corrected at a good shop.

    • Vehicle Tips

      A dirty windshield causes eye fatigue and can pose a safety hazard. Replace worn blades and get plenty of windshield washer solvent.

    • Vehicle Tips

      Have your tires rotated about every 5,000 miles. Check tire pressures once a month; let the tires cool down first. Don't forget your spare and be sure your jack is in good condition.

    • Vehicle Tips

      Check your owner's manual to find out what fuel octane rating your car's engine needs then buy it.

    • Vehicle Tips

      Keep your tires inflated to the proper levels. Under-inflated tires make it harder for your car to move down the road, which means your engine uses more fuel to maintain speed.

    • Vehicle Tips

      Lighten the load. Heavier vehicles use more fuel, so clean out unnecessary weight in the passenger compartment or trunk before you hit the road.

    • Vehicle Tips

      Use the A/C sparingly. The air conditioner puts extra load on the engine forcing more fuel to be used.

    • Vehicle Tips

      Keep your windows closed. Wide-open windows, especially at highway speeds, increase aerodynamic drag and the result is up to a 10% decrease in fuel economy.

    • Vehicle Tips

      Avoid long idling. If you anticipate being stopped for more than one minute, shut off the car. Contrary to popular belief, restarting the car uses less fuel than letting it idle.

    • Vehicle Tips

      Stay within posted speed limits. The faster you drive, the more fuel you use. For example, driving at 65 miles per hour (mph) rather than 55 mph, increases fuel consumption by 20 percent.

    • Vehicle Tips

      Use cruise control. Using cruise control on highway trips can help you maintain a constant speed and, in most cases, reduce your fuel consumption.

    • Vehicle Tips

      Keep your engine tuned. A fouled spark plug or plugged/restricted fuel injector can reduce fuel efficiency as much as 30 percent.

    • Vehicle Tips

      Inspect the engine's belts regularly. Look for cracks or missing sections or segments. Worn belts will affect the engine performance.

    • Vehicle Tips

      Have the fuel filter changed every 10,000 miles to prevent rust, dirt and other impurities from entering the fuel system.

    • Vehicle Tips

      Change the transmission fluid and filter every 15,000 to 18,000 miles. This will protect the precision-crafted components of the transmission/transaxle.

    • Vehicle Tips

      Inspect the suspension system regularly. This will extend the life of the vehicle's tires.

What our clients say about us?

Reviews and comments from our satisfied customers

  • The only mechanic in town I trust to work on my car! Shawn is great at what he does and is always fast, affordable, and provides the best customer service.


    -Arielle A.

  • Can always depend on them for fast and reliable service. You wont ever meet more honest people I trust them completely with all my vehicles both personal and for my company Jolly Roofing.


    -Caleb J.

  • I have used Gary's Automotive ever since I moved to Abilene (5 years now). They are honest and I never worry about my vehicle or being ripped off! They're family run and are the type of people to show you and walk you through anything. I trust them to take care of me no matter the issue. They're so good at what they do, my mom drove 6 hrs to get her vehicle seen by them. I wouldn't recommend anyone else!


    -Abby B.

  • It is so hard to find a business today that is honest, demonstrates integrity and believes in doing the job right the first time with out cutting corners. BUT, that and more is exactly what I found at Gary's Automotive and Truck Service. I am beyond impressed with the service and customer care that I received. TO EACH OF YOU...THANK YOU!!! I will return as a customer and recommend your services to everyone!!!


    -Melody M.

  • My 04 Tahoe had been down for 4 months, and my husband finally took it in to have Gary?s look at it. I was very pleased with how fast my truck was back up and running, and the work was done correctly. Haven?t had any issues with it since. It?s incredibly hard to find an honest business in this line of work, but Gary?s tops them all. We will DEFINITELY be bringing all of our future vehicles to the shop!


    -Heather A.

  • With two cars, have always received prompt, courteous service. I am no car buff and have to have mechanical things explained to me; this was always done in an understandable, straightforward way. No price surprises and work done quickly and well. Overall, a good experience each time.


    -Doc S.

  • Gary's is one of the best in Taylor county. The work is performed quickly and professionally. Highly Recommend this shop and will continue to refer people to there as well. Thanks for the GREAT work.


    -Todd L.

  • My grandfather was a mechanic, and I have met with many more over the years over Texas. None have impressed me more than the folks at Gary's. This is the best mechanic shop in town, bar none.


    -Tomas Z.

  • They have an efficient and friendly staff and management team. I have tried other places, but I trust Gary's automotive to get the job done well and in a timely manner above any other place in town.


    -Clinton S.

  • They are so helpful and very reliable. They always fix the problem! I would highly recommend this business! I use this business for all service needed on my vehicles. I will continue to recommend them to others!


    -Ruth F.

  • Nice folks. Great business, very reputable in Abilene.


    -Len S.