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Why Spring Is One of the Most Important Times to Service Your Vehicle

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Winter driving is demanding on vehicles. Cold starts, potholes, road salt, moisture, changing temperatures, and long stretches of stop-and-go driving all add up. By the time spring arrives, many vehicles are due for more than just a tire swap.

For most drivers, spring is one of the best times of year to reset the vehicle, catch up on maintenance, and deal with wear before it becomes a bigger and more expensive problem.

At Downtown Automotive, spring appointments usually involve two things: getting winter tires off at the right time, and checking the vehicle over carefully for the wear winter leaves behind. The goal is not to sell work for the sake of it. The goal is to help clients understand what their vehicle needs now, what can wait, and what should be planned for next.

That is especially important when you are trying to protect reliability, reduce surprises, and keep your vehicle in good condition long term.

Why spring maintenance matters

A lot of vehicle problems do not begin in spring. Spring is simply when they become easier to spot.

Winter tends to accelerate wear in a few predictable areas:

tires
brakes
suspension and steering components
batteries
wiper blades
fluid condition and levels
alignment-related issues
undercar corrosion and damage

In colder climates, vehicles often spend months being exposed to slush, salt, freeze-thaw cycles, and rough road conditions. Even if everything still feels “fine,” that does not always mean everything is in good shape.

This is why a proper spring visit should go beyond changing the tires. It is a good time to inspect the vehicle as a whole and identify anything that could affect safety, drivability, or operating cost heading into the warmer months.

When should winter tires come off?

This is one of the most common spring questions, and for good reason.

Winter tires are designed to perform best in colder temperatures. Once the weather warms up consistently, they wear faster and do not handle the same way they do in winter conditions. Running them too long into spring can shorten their lifespan and reduce the value you get from them.

As a general rule, once temperatures are staying consistently above about 7°C and winter driving conditions have largely passed, it is time to plan the changeover.

Waiting too long can create two problems: first, winter tires wear prematurely in warmer weather. Second, spring schedules fill up quickly, especially when many drivers are trying to book at the same time.

Booking ahead matters. In a seasonal market, tire season compresses demand into a relatively short window. Leaving it to the last minute usually means fewer appointment options and more inconvenience.

Why driving on winter tires too long costs more

A lot of people think leaving winter tires on a little longer is harmless. Usually it is not catastrophic, but it is often expensive in subtle ways.

Winter tires use a softer rubber compound. That is what helps them grip in cold weather, but it is also what makes them wear faster in warm conditions. As temperatures rise, the tires can feel less stable, wear more quickly, and lose the sharpness you want in braking and cornering.

That means delayed changeover can lead to:

faster tread wear
reduced handling precision
less effective braking response in warmer conditions
shorter total life from a good set of winter tires

If you invested in winter tires to protect your vehicle and drive safely through winter, it makes sense to protect that investment by taking them off at the right time.

Spring is also the right time to inspect your all-season or summer tires

Spring changeover is not just about removing winters. It is also the best time to assess the tires going back on the vehicle.

Before reinstalling seasonal tires, it makes sense to check:

tread depth
age and general condition
cracking or sidewall damage
irregular wear patterns
previous repairs
whether the tires are still appropriate for your driving needs

Uneven wear can point to underlying issues such as alignment problems, worn suspension parts, or inflation issues. Those are the kinds of things that often get missed when a tire swap is treated like a simple in-and-out appointment.

A more thorough process helps catch those patterns early, while there is still time to correct the root cause and avoid destroying a set of tires prematurely.

What winter does to brakes, suspension, and steering

Not every spring concern is visible from the outside.

Brakes can take a beating over winter. Moisture, road debris, rust buildup, and stop-and-go driving all contribute to wear. Sometimes a client notices a change in feel or sound. Sometimes the system looks fine from a distance but tells a different story when inspected properly.

Suspension and steering components also deserve attention in spring. Rough winter roads and potholes can accelerate wear in shocks, struts, bushings, ball joints, and related components. Small issues often show up first as:

a vehicle that feels less stable
uneven tire wear
clunks or rattles
steering that feels loose or inconsistent
the vehicle pulling to one side

These problems do not always become serious overnight, but they tend to get worse when ignored. Catching them early usually means better planning, fewer surprises, and lower total repair cost over time.

The battery and charging system deserve a spring check too

Cold weather is hard on batteries. A battery that barely made it through winter may still start the vehicle in spring, but that does not always mean it is healthy.

Spring is a practical time to assess battery condition and charging performance, especially if you noticed:

slower cranking during cold mornings
a battery that is a few years old
intermittent warning lights
electronic systems acting inconsistently

Battery issues are a common source of inconvenience because they often fail with little warning. If the battery is marginal, finding that out during a planned appointment is much better than finding out in a parking lot or driveway.

Spring fluids and filters: small items that matter

When people think about seasonal maintenance, they often focus on tires first. That makes sense. But spring is also a good time to look at the basics that protect reliability and efficiency.

Depending on the vehicle, the mileage, and the service history, spring may be the right time to review:

engine oil condition and service interval
brake fluid condition
coolant condition and level
washer fluid
engine air filter
cabin air filter

These are not glamorous items, but they matter. A vehicle that is well maintained tends to be more reliable, more predictable, and less expensive to own over the long term than one that only gets attention when something fails.

The value of a proper inspection, not just a tire swap

There is a big difference between changing tires and using the appointment as a smart seasonal inspection point.

A quick tire swap gets the tires on and off. A proper spring visit helps answer the bigger questions:

Is the vehicle in good shape after winter?
Are the tires wearing properly?
Are the brakes still safe and serviceable?
Is there anything starting to fail that should be planned for now?
What is urgent, and what can wait?

That distinction matters. The best service experience is not just about completing the work. It is about helping our clients understand the condition of the vehicle and make informed decisions.

This is one reason digital inspections are so valuable. When findings are clearly documented with notes and photos, clients can see what we see. That creates better conversations, better decisions, and a more transparent process overall.

Why spring planning reduces stress later

Many repair decisions become stressful because they happen too late.

When maintenance is delayed, small issues can stack up. Eventually you’re dealing with:

a larger repair bill
more downtime
fewer scheduling options
a more urgent decision than they wanted

Spring is a good chance to avoid that pattern.

If your vehicle needs attention, it is usually better to identify it early, prioritize it properly, and make a plan. Sometimes the right answer is to handle it now. Sometimes the right answer is to monitor it and schedule it later. What matters is having a clear picture.

That is how you reduce surprises.

Tire storage can make spring easier

One part of spring changeover that gets overlooked is logistics.

Transporting tires, finding space at home, and coordinating seasonal changeovers can become a hassle, especially for busy families or clients with limited storage. Tire storage can simplify that process substantially.

For many clients, the benefit is not just convenience. It is also better organization, easier scheduling, and less friction when the next seasonal appointment comes around.

When the tires are already where they need to be, the next changeover tends to be simpler and easier to plan.

What clients should expect from a spring maintenance visit

A good spring visit should leave you with clarity.

You should know:

the condition of the tires coming off and going on
whether the brakes are wearing normally
whether there are signs of suspension or steering wear
whether your battery and basic maintenance items need attention
what is due now, what is coming soon, and what can reasonably wait

You should not leave wondering what was found or whether recommendations were based on guesswork.

The right process is one that makes the condition of the vehicle understandable and gives you a practical path forward.

A practical approach to spring maintenance

Every vehicle is different. Mileage, age, driving habits, and service history all matter. There is no one-size-fits-all spring checklist that applies equally to every driver.

That said, this season is one of the best opportunities all year to:

remove winter tires before they wear prematurely
inspect your summer or all-season tires before reinstalling them
assess wear caused by winter driving
catch small issues before they become more disruptive
plan maintenance proactively instead of reactively

That is ultimately what good vehicle care is about. Not doing everything at once. Not overselling. Just knowing the condition of the vehicle, understanding priorities, and making sound decisions at the right time.

How to Be a Great Client

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 00:00:00 GMT

How to Be a Great Client for Your Automotive Shop

Running a modern repair shop is a partnership between the client and the team that services their vehicle. At Downtown Automotive, we’ve built our business around transparency, communication, and trust. We invest in digital tools to keep you informed and in people who genuinely care about your experience.

And just like great clients are looking for great shops, great shops are looking for great clients. The most rewarding relationships happen when both sides share mutual respect, clear communication, and a commitment to doing things right the first time.

We take pride in the quality of our work and stand behind every repair we perform. When you partner with a shop that owns its craftsmanship, you gain peace of mind knowing that your vehicle has been cared for to the highest standard — and that we’ll always make things right if something doesn’t meet expectations.

Here’s what that partnership looks like — and why it matters.

1. Be on Time for Drop-Offs and Pickups

When you arrive on time, you’re helping more than just your own repair go smoothly — you’re helping the entire day’s schedule stay on track. Each technician’s time is carefully planned around booked vehicles, test drives, and parts deliveries. When a vehicle shows up late, it can create a domino effect that impacts everyone after you.

If you’re running behind, just let us know. We can often rearrange the workflow or reschedule to a better time. Communication keeps your repair moving and ensures every vehicle receives the full attention it deserves.

2. Keep Communication Lines Open

Automotive service involves decisions — sometimes quickly. When we uncover additional findings during an inspection or repair, we may need your approval to move forward. If we can’t reach you, your vehicle sits idle until we hear back, extending your turnaround time.

A great client responds promptly to calls, texts, or inspection messages and ensures we have the best number to reach them during the day. That responsiveness allows us to work efficiently and return your car as promised.

3. Review and Approve Proposals Promptly

Every digital inspection and estimate we send is designed to educate, not pressure. You’ll see photos, technician notes, and recommendations so you can make informed decisions. But if those proposals go unread, your vehicle can’t move forward — and our workflow stalls.

Taking a few minutes to review and approve work quickly keeps your vehicle’s progress smooth and predictable. If you have questions, reach out — we’re always happy to explain the what and why behind our recommendations.

4. Understand That Time Is Reserved for You

When you book with us, we set aside dedicated time, a technician, and often parts for your specific vehicle. A missed appointment or last-minute cancellation is more than just an empty spot on the schedule — it’s lost productivity that can’t always be filled.

If something changes, let us know early. It allows us to reassign that time and helps keep the shop operating efficiently for everyone.

5. Build a Relationship — Don’t Spread Work Around

We go the extra mile for our top clients — those who trust us with all their maintenance and repairs. That loyalty goes both ways. We track your full service history, warranty coverage, and previous inspection notes to make smart, data-backed recommendations.

When you spread your service work between multiple shops, that continuity is lost. It becomes harder for any shop to track maintenance intervals, warranty status, or long-term issues developing over time.

By keeping your service under one roof, we can plan proactively, prioritize your appointments, and accommodate you faster when unexpected issues arise. In short — we take care of the clients who trust us to take care of everything.

6. Think of It as a Partnership

Being a great client isn’t about spending more — it’s about participating. Show up on time, stay in touch, and engage with the process. In return, you’ll get faster service, clearer communication, and a shop that truly knows your vehicle.

At Downtown Automotive, we don’t see service as a transaction — we see it as an ongoing relationship built on trust, education, and mutual respect. Great shops want great clients who value quality, consistency, and collaboration. When both sides invest in that partnership, everyone wins: your car, your schedule, and your peace of mind.

Ready to experience the difference? Book your next appointment online at www.downtownautonelson.com .

How to Save Gas!

Tue, 19 Dec 2023 00:00:00 GMT

High BC fuel prices hit most of our budgets here. If increased fuel costs are consuming a bigger portion of your budget, you may be tempted to skimp in some other areas – like scheduled maintenance.

According to news reports and industry studies, you’re not alone. Nine out of ten personal vehicles on the road have at least one maintenance or repair item that hasn’t been repaired. Some of these items are serious safety concerns. Others are just more likely to affect the cost of operating your vehicle.

In this area, we can take a lesson from professional vehicle owners: fleet owners and operators like trucking companies and delivery services. Because their livelihood depends on it, they have gotten scheduled maintenance down to a science. And the last thing they skimp on is regular maintenance.

Why is that? Well, for one thing, they know that routine maintenance prevents expensive repairs and costly breakdowns. They also know that a well-maintained vehicle uses less fuel. For them, even a small decrease in fuel economy may mean not being profitable.

Here are some vital services that could potentially save you some fuel :

* Fuel System Cleaning

* Transmission Service

* Differential Service

* Wheel Alignment

* Oil Change

* Tune-Up

Ring any bells? Is there at least one thing on the list that hasn’t been done on your vehicle? Let’s suppose you chose to spend one hundred and fifty dollars at Downtown Automotive and got caught up on some of these vital services and this maintenance improved your fuel economy by fifteen percent. What would that mean to your pocketbook? The more fuel costs, the more it pays to take care of your vehicle. Some of us drivers drive trucks for work or recreation – or want a large SUV for family needs. A fifteen percent improvement in fuel economy can generate huge savings.

Catch up on those services at Downtown Automotive. Talk with your Downtown Automotive Service Advisor about your vehicle’s needs. Get a couple done now and a couple done next time. You’ll save a lot of cash on fuel this year – and a lot more on repairs in years to come.

Stop by or give us a call!

Fuel System

Tue, 12 Dec 2023 00:00:00 GMT

Here’s a quick overview of the fuel system: It starts with the fuel pump. The fuel pump is located inside the tank and pumps fuel out to the engine. Somewhere along the way is a fuel filter whose job is to filter out dirt before it hits the engine. Then there's the fuel intake system and the fuel injectors that deliver the fuel to be burned in the engine.

Our focus is to discuss how to make the various components of your fuel system work well and last as long as possible!

The best thing you can do for your fuel pump is to use good quality fuel. Top tier fuel typically has fewer contaminants and more detergents to keep things clean. Using good fuel, or adding a fuel system cleaner to your tank, can prolong the life of your fuel pump. Because the fuel pump lives inside your tank, it's pretty expensive to replace, so helping it last as long as possible is a worthwhile goal.

The fuel filter catches dirt and contaminants. When it's clogged, your engine may not be able to get enough fuel and could sputter. Many fuel filters have a bypass valve that allows unfiltered fuel past when the filter is clogged. That prevents your engine from dying while you're driving, but it can't protect your engine from dirty fuel. Check your owner's manual or talk with your Service Advisor at Downtown Automotive about when you should replace your fuel filter.

Now, fuel will cause gum and varnish to build up in the fuel intake system. A professional fuel system cleaning will remove the gunk to keep fuel flowing freely and help prevent contamination from reaching your fuel injectors and your engine.

Fuel injectors squirt fuel into the engine. The fuel must be delivered in a precise amount, at a precise time, under precise pressure and in a precise pattern. As you may guess, fuel injectors cost a lot. Allowing them to get gummed up will not only hurt your performance and fuel economy, it will cause the injectors to wear out much more quickly than they should.

A professional fuel system cleaning will keep injectors clean and working correctly. It'll also clean deposits from the inside of the combustion chamber and off the intake valves giving you optimum performance and fuel economy.

Check with your Service Advisor at Downtown Automotive and see when he recommends you get a fuel system cleaning.

Stop by or give us a call.

Fuel Saving Tip: Fuel System Cleaning at Downtown Automotive

Tue, 05 Dec 2023 00:00:00 GMT

A lot of fuel is wasted by drivers from driving with dirty fuel systems. Let’s start at the tank. The fuel tank gathers lots of dirt, rust and sediment over the years of driving. That’s why there’s a fuel filter to clean the fuel after it leaves the tank. A dirty filter will rob the engine of the clean fuel it needs to run efficiently.

The fuel intake components get coated with gum and varnish over time. This results in fuel being delivered inefficiently and some of that gunk getting into the engine. A fuel system service at Downtown Automotive in Nelson, BC will leave your intake as clean as a whistle.

The big fuel thief is dirty fuel injectors. They deliver fuel to the engine at a specified pressure and in a particular spray pattern. When they’re clogged, the fuel doesn’t get atomized the way it’s supposed to and doesn’t get burned as efficiently.

See your owner’s manual or ask your Downtown Automotive Service Advisor to know when your fuel system cleaning is recommended.

Stop by or give us a call!

Exhaust Service at Downtown Automotive Continued...

Tue, 28 Nov 2023 00:00:00 GMT

Question:

My car failed its emissions test, what do I need to do?

DOWNTOWN AUTOMOTIVE Answer:

Let’s get this out of the way: A leak in your exhaust system could be deadly. If drivers smell exhaust in the passenger cabin or hear an unusual exhaust sound, they should get their exhaust system checked and repaired. Talk to your Downtown Automotive Service Advisor ASAP. This is vital. Carbon monoxide in your exhaust is odorless, colorless and tasteless and can be fatal to you and your passengers. Don’t delay if you suspect an exhaust leak.

There could be a number of reasons for a failed BC emissions test, so some vital diagnostic work is in order. A common reason for drivers is that the catalytic converter has failed. The catalytic converter removes some of the harmful elements in exhaust.

When a catalytic converter fails it must be replaced, which isn’t cheap. There may be any number of engine run conditions that led to the failure. It is recommended to have your Downtown Automotive Service Advisor diagnose the cause so that you don’t end up with another pricey catalytic converter replacement down the road.

Oh, and that Check Engine Light that so many drivers ignore - It might be illuminated for an essential condition that could lead to catalytic converter damage. Have your Downtown Automotive Service Advisor get to the bottom of any Check Engine Light situation.

Stop by or give us a call!

Transfer Case Service

Tue, 14 Nov 2023 00:00:00 GMT

What is a Transfer Case? A Transfer Case appears on 4-wheel drive vehicles and it makes sure you have power available for both the front and rear axles.

For example, if you have a rear-wheel drive SUV, power goes to the rear wheels until you need 4-wheel drive. That's when the Transfer Case steps in and transfers some of the power to the front wheels as well. You might use a shift lever to go into 4-wheel drive, or it could be a button on the dash or it might even go into 4-wheel drive automatically, depending on your vehicle.

The Transfer Case is serviced by periodically draining its fluid and replacing it with fresh fluid. We also check for leaks and damage. Transfer Case fluid cools and lubricates the gears, chains, bearings, shafts and other parts. Over time, the additives in the fluid wear out and it doesn't protect as well. Also, bits of metal and clutch material wear off and contaminate the fluid. There isn't a filter in the Transfer Case, so if the contamination is allowed to stay for too long, it'll further accelerate wear.

Now, your owner's manual may not have a recommended interval for when you should change your Transfer Case fluid – so ask your Service Advisor at DOWNTOWN AUTOMOTIVE. There are several things that affect how often you should change the fluid, so tell them how much you use 4-wheel drive. For example, if you drive in wet environments like crossing streams or through mud and snow. That kind of stuff really shortens the service interval.

Transfer Case parts will eventually wear out and you'll have to make repairs. But properly servicing your Transfer Case will keep that day as far in the future as possible.

Stop by or give us a call.

Exhaust Service at Downtown Automotive

Tue, 07 Nov 2023 00:00:00 GMT

We've all heard a car or truck in our neighborhood that needs a new muffler. But there's more to the exhaust system than just the muffler.

The exhaust system has three main functions:

To safely get hot exhaust from the engine out the tailpipe
To treat the exhaust to remove harmful pollutants
To muffle the engine noise

Exhaust fumes are poisonous. You don't want them getting into the passenger compartment. For example, carbon monoxide can be deadly. That's why you should never run your engine in a closed garage. If you have a leak in the exhaust system, exhaust could get into the passenger cabin and make you sick.

If you smell exhaust in the vehicle, roll down your windows and get it inspected. You may smell or see exhaust coming from the engine compartment or under the vehicle if you have a leak. Sometimes the sound from an exhaust leak is loud and obvious. Sometimes it's a ticking sound when you start the engine that goes away as you drive. That could be a small crack or a bad fitting that leaks when it's cold but seals up when the metal heats and expands.

Now, let's address the environmental issues for our community. Exhaust fumes contain a number of pollutants and particulates. The catalytic converter scrubs some of those harmful substances. And diesel vehicles have systems to deal with soot.

Catalytic converters eventually wear out and need to be replaced. They're expensive so you want to help them last as long as possible by keeping the fuel system clean and replacing your air filter on a regular basis. These components need to be tested for function with an emissions test from time to time.

Stop by or give us a call.

Wed, 01 Nov 2023 00:00:00 GMT

Breathe Easier (Cabin Air Filter)

Tue, 31 Oct 2023 00:00:00 GMT

When you get in your vehicle, how does it smell? If it’s not so nice, it may be time to have your cabin air filter changed. This is not the same as the engine air filter. The cabin air filter screens out dust and other particulates from the outside air so when it enters the cabin, you don’t have to breathe them in when you’re driving.

Maybe your commute finds you traveling along dusty rural roads, or maybe you pass by some city factories that have smokestacks spewing out smokey exhausts. In spring, maybe you notice your allergies acting up because of the pollen in the air. The cabin air filter will remove a lot of those things.

The more it filters out, the more those small particles add up. That reduces how much airflow the heating/air conditioning system can handle, and you may notice not as much air coming through your vehicle's vents. That can also be a sign that you need your air filter replaced.

Our technicians will remove and inspect the air filter and cabin air filter in our complimentary Digital Visual Vehicle Inspections. You will receive a photo of the condition of both of your engine and cabin air filters in the inspection report. If we recommend replacement, you'll be able to see the dirt, bugs, leaves and other crud that accumulates after several months of driving.

Each vehicle's manufacturer recommends an interval after which your cabin air filter should be replaced. Depending on how much and where you drive, you might find yourself needing a replacement more or less often than the manual suggests. By bringing your vehicle into Downtown Automotive, we’ll be able to help you stay on top of filter changes so you can breathe fluidly while driving!

Stop by or give us a call.

Downtown Automotive Tips: Brake Fluid Change Standards

Tue, 24 Oct 2023 00:00:00 GMT

Brake fluid is one of those maintenance items that’s easy for drivers to overlook. For one, it doesn’t have to be replaced that often and when it should, it’s often not as well-defined as an oil change for example. Brake fluid does become contaminated over time however, and needs to be replaced before damage is done.

Two of the most common contaminants in brake fluid are water and copper.

Brake fluid is hygroscopic, meaning it attracts moisture. Over several years it can actually build up a fair amount of water. Too much water in the brake fluid causes a couple of problems. First, water can react with brake system components and cause rust corrosion, which can lead to leaks. Second, the water could boil causing brake components near the calipers to get very hot. Water in the brake lines in that area can turn to steam, which doesn’t compress like brake fluid and it can really reduce stopping power.

It may seem strange to talk about testing for copper in brake fluid, but what drivers may not know is that the steel brake lines (hoses), are actually lined with copper. The copper protects the brake lines from rusting due to the water that collects in the fluid.

As brake fluid heats and cools some of the copper lining ionizes and flows around in the fluid. This can lead to two potential problems. First, if enough copper comes off the lining, the steel in the lines is unprotected and can corrode. Second, the copper ions floating around are “looking” for some metal to bond with. This leads to copper plating in some sensitive areas like the anti-lock brake module which can hurt its function.

Generally a quick test of the fluid and a visual check will let us know if it’s time for a flush. We do brake fluid checks on our complimentary inspections. Ask your Downtown Automotive Service Advisor if it’s time for a more in-depth inspection.

Stop by or give us a call!

What is a TSB?

Tue, 17 Oct 2023 00:00:00 GMT

What does TSB stand for and why is it important for your vehicle?

Timing Belt Replacement & Why it's so Important!

Tue, 10 Oct 2023 00:00:00 GMT

Let's address a very important maintenance item for drivers: Timing belt replacement! Why is this important? Because if you let this one slide, it can lead to VERY expensive engine damage.

Your timing belt choreographs the timing of your combustion process. Your pistons travel up and down in the cylinder. Intake valves open at the right time to let in air and fuel, they close at the right time to allow the fuel to burn and then the exhaust valves open at the right time to let out the exhaust.

All this happens thousands of times a minute and it's your timing belt that makes sure the valves are opening and closing at precisely the right time. If the timing is off, your engine won't run… And that's the best case.

The worst case is that a valve is opening at the wrong time and collides with the piston. The result is bent valves and maybe even more damage to the cylinder head. Repairs can run to several thousand dollars.

On some engines, the water pump is driven by the timing belt as opposed to the serpentine belt. If that's the case, it's a good idea to replace the water pump when you're replacing the timing belt, and vice versa since much of the same work has to be done for either. The same is true for the timing belt tensioner, it should be inspected and possibly replaced.

Replacing a timing belt is one of the more expensive routine maintenance items on your service schedule, but not replacing your timing belt can lead to some of the most expensive repairs you're likely to ever have.

Timing belts just wear out naturally, so you want to replace a worn belt before it slips or breaks. Check your owner's manual or with your service advisor at DOWNTOWN AUTOMOTIVE in Nelson BC to see when they recommend you replace the timing belt. If you've never replaced your timing belt and have 95,000 or more kilometers on the odometer (or the maximum number of years on your vehicle), talk with your service advisor at DOWNTOWN AUTOMOTIVE right away to see if you're due.

Stop by or give us a call!

Alternator Replacement

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 00:00:00 GMT

Your vehicle’s engine is probably the first thing that comes to mind when you think of power, but it has another power source that is vital as well: the alternator.

The alternator is what puts out the electricity that powers such things as your lights, power windows, sound system, and navigation. A few signs that your alternator might need replacing: The power windows are going up and down a little bit more slowly than they used to, your engine doesn't start as easily or is misfiring, or the headlights are either brighter or dimmer than usual. If your battery keeps going dead, it could be that the alternator isn't recharging it.

The alternator has to get its power from somewhere, and in vehicles with internal combustion engines, that power comes from a drive belt powered by the engine. Sometimes that belt can fail. If you hear a whining sound, it could mean bearings in the alternator aren't turning as freely as they used to. You could even notice a burning smell. And when you see your battery light illuminated on your dash (it looks like a rectangle with a - and + inside), it may be warning you that your alternator is not healthy.

If you notice any of these signs, bring your vehicle into Downtown Automotive in Nelson, BC for a diagnosis. If your alternator is worn, we have a 24 month, 40,000km warranty for alternators installed by Downtown Automotive.

It's important to your vehicle's health to have its alternator putting out the right power consistently because it's a vital part of helping your vehicle run the way it is designed to.

Stop by or give us a call!

Differential Service

Tue, 26 Sep 2023 00:00:00 GMT

When you take a corner in your car, the outside wheels have a slightly longer distance to go than the inside wheels. That means that the outside wheels have to turn a bit faster than the inside. The piece of mechanical wizardry that makes this possible is called the differential.

The differential allows the drive wheels to rotate at different speeds in turns without the wheel binding or hopping. If you have a rear-wheel drive vehicle, the differential is on the rear axle. You've seen that bulge in the middle of the axle when you're behind a truck – that's the differential.

If you have a front-wheel drive vehicle, the differential function is handled by your transaxle. Of course, all-wheel drive vehicles have differentials on both axles. They also have a center differential or a transfer case between the front and rear axles to compensate for speed differences between the front and rear.

Because all the power of the engine is transferred through the various differentials, you can imagine that they are very strong and are built to last a long time. That's why it's important to keep your differential properly lubricated. Differential fluid cools and protects the gears.

Your Downtown Automotive technician will check differential fluid level at every service if possible as a part of our complementary digital visual vehicle inspection, depending on the make of the vehicle. With low fluid, the differential will run too hot and wear prematurely. Ask your service advisor when it's recommended to change your differential fluid. Fresh fluid will extend the life of your differential. Your Downtown Automotive technician will also inspect the u-joints which connect your drive shaft to the differential and may recommend service. Some u-joints can be lubricated as part of a routine lube, oil, and filter change as well.

Now, differentials do eventually wear out and need to be replaced. You might notice a strange noise from your axle area as one of the first warning signs. When the differential shows signs of failing, it's important to repair it. If you leave it too long and it freezes up when you're driving around you could lose control of your vehicle and other parts like the axle, driveshaft and transmission could be damaged.

Stop by or give us a call!

Adding on to the Emergency Vehicle Items!

Tue, 19 Sep 2023 00:00:00 GMT

Let’s talk more about a few items that could help you out if you ever have an emergency in your vehicle. These are all things carried in emergency vehicles and they’re recommended if you drive a lot on the highway or out of town.

This goes beyond the old standards like a first aid kit, a blanket, jumper cables etc, although those are all great things to have on board, consider purchasing these additional things to keep in your vehicle in case you find yourself stranded in a dangerous spot:

Road Flares: They burn a bright red light, visible both at night and during the day. Flares provide one of the most effective ways of getting the attention of drivers who are approaching a disabled vehicle. Don't be intimidated by them. They're easy to light, and they can truly save your life by preventing another vehicle from crashing into you. They come in kits with a carrying case, or you can get them individually
Fire Extinguisher: Special, smaller ones are made for non-commercial vehicles. Look for one that can put out different kinds of fires, such as electrical and petroleum (oil, gasoline) because many different kinds of fires can start in your vehicle. Some extinguishers have a mounting bracket to keep them from moving around.
LED Flashlight: At night, if you have a flat tire or need to attend to someone who's injured, you need to be able to see what you're doing. Many LED lights have a beam to aim at something and they also have a built-in lantern to light up a bigger area. It's a must-have light to read instructions on jacking your vehicle or helping to bandage a cut after an accident. Don't think your cell phone is going to do the job; plus, you need that for communication – save the battery.
Drinking Water & Snacks: If you are ever stranded, you don't want to have to resort to eating bugs and drinking melted snow. Power bars and bottled water are the easiest way to go.

Ask your Downtown Automotive Service Advisor about recommendations on which brands will work best for your situation and where they can be purchased. Emergency crews carry all these things for a reason. You should, too if you drive a lot on the highway or out of town. Not only could they save your life, but they could also help you save someone else.

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Emergency Items for Your Vehicle

Wed, 13 Sep 2023 00:00:00 GMT

Emergencies that drivers may encounter can range from a flat tire downtown to being stranded in a snowy ravine for three days. So, you may want to consider a basic car emergency kit and a travel kit tailored to a specific trip to keep in your vehicle at all times.

Your close-to-home kit should have these basic items to work on your car:

* Everything you need to change a tire

* Gloves

* 2 quarts of oil

* Antifreeze

* Water

* 1 can of tire inflator (temporary fix for minor flats)

* Jumper cables or a booster box

* Flares

* Flashlight

* Basic hand tools

Now for your comfort and safety:

* First aid kit

* Drinkable water

* High calorie food (like energy bars)

* Blankets

* Toilet paper

* Cell phone

* Towel

* Hat and boots

Keep some change for a pay phone, emergency cash and a credit card. If you live in an area with frequent severe weather or earthquakes, you may want to carry provisions for longer emergencies.

For trips away from home, consider the weather and geography as you assemble your emergency auto supplies. You’ll need to have a source of light and heat, protection against the elements and adequate food and water for everyone in the car. Always tell someone where you are going and have a plan for checking in at way points. This way if you run into trouble, you can be reported missing as soon as possible and rescuers will be able to narrow the search area. However, the key to safe travel is to KEEP YOUR VEHICLE PROPERLY MAINTAINED, plan ahead and let others know your itinerary.

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Headlamp Safety

Tue, 05 Sep 2023 00:00:00 GMT

Drivers may be surprised to learn that 40% of traffic fatalities take place at night even though there’s 60% less traffic. It goes to show how important proper visibility is to nighttime driving.

Obviously, a clean windshield is important and so are good wiper blades, but your headlights play a big role as well. There are two main concerns. One is with the headlamp, or bulb. The other is with the lens.

Headlamps go dim over time. Drivers just need to replace them. Some vehicles come with a standard bulb, which you can replace or you can upgrade to a halogen bulb that’s much brighter.

It’s a good idea for drivers to replace their bulbs once a year. The idea is that your lamps never dim to the point that they become a safety issue.

The other big issue is the headlamp lens. For the last couple of decades, most lenses have been made with plastic, which can get cloudy or yellow. That blocks a lot of light. You can replace the lens, but each lens assembly can cost as much as $350 to $1200. It’s much less expensive to restore a headlight lens if it isn’t broken.

Get your lights checked regularly. Every time your vehicle comes into Downtown Automotive for servicing, the first thing we do when we pull a vehicle into the shop is a full light check!

New bulbs will light up the road like a new car. Can you clearly see the advantage?

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How do I know when I should get my tires rotated and balanced?

Tue, 29 Aug 2023 00:00:00 GMT

How do I know when I should get my tires rotated and balanced?

The interval for tire rotation could depend on a recommendation from either the tire manufacturer or the car maker. The interval is typically around 8,000 kilometers but could range from 5,000 to 13,000 kilometers. The background question for drivers is why do tires need to be rotated?

Front tires wear differently than the rear tires because steering wears the shoulders faster up front. Rotating the position of the tires allows for more even wear among all the tires. Now the suspension set-up on certain vehicles may also affect the relative wear between the front and rear. There are several rotation patterns – your DOWNTOWN AUTOMOTIVE service advisor will see that you get the correct pattern for your particular vehicle.

Wheels and tires are not perfectly balanced due to slight variations in the manufacturing process and the placement of tire pressure monitoring sensors. So weights are strategically placed on the wheel to ensure that the tire spins true. When a wheel is out of balance it is essentially bouncing thousands of extra times every kilometer. Now this can result in an uncomfortable vibration for Nelson drivers in the steering wheel or through the seat. An unbalanced tire will also wear quicker and it is harmful for your shocks and struts.

Drivers should have their wheels balanced if they detect a vibration or uneven wear. A wheel balance check every year is a good idea. Because tires cost so much, it’s a great idea to do everything you can to make them last as long as possible. Proper tire inflation, regular tire rotation and wheel balancing are vital keys to long tire life. At DOWNTOWN AUTOMOTIVE we inspect your tires for signs of uneven wear each time your vehicle comes in for servicing to be able to diagnose and correct the problem.

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Tech Question on Your Fuel Pump

Thu, 24 Aug 2023 00:00:00 GMT

DOWNTOWN AUTOMOTIVE Tech Question:

I was driving on a local highway and my vehicle started sputtering. Then the engine finally quit and I couldn’t get it started. I was towed to a shop in Nelson and found out I had to replace my fuel pump….

What could I have done to have saved my fuel pump?

DOWNTOWN AUTOMOTIVE Answer:

This is a tough one for drivers because there isn’t any maintenance recommended for fuel pumps. They’re inside the fuel tank and you really can’t get to them without removing the tank. But drivers can do some things to make their job easier so they last a little longer.

A lot of vehicles are equipped with a fuel filter on their fuel line. This filters out dirt and rust from the fuel tank before it gets to the engine. Replacing a clogged fuel filter as recommended reduces the strain on your fuel pump.

Many newer vehicles driving around Nelson have their fuel filter inside the fuel tank so it cannot be changed. A good tip for drivers is to not run the fuel tank too low, this can cause fuel starvation that excessively wears the pump. Also, you can’t go wrong using good quality fuel with high levels of detergent. This helps prevent the buildup of varnish and gum all along the fuel system.

Downtown Automotive recommends that you fill up your vehicle at Top Tier fuel approved gas stations. You can check out their website https://stationfinder.toptiergas.com/ to see which stations are Top Tier fuel approved near you!

A professional fuel system cleaning will clean fuel injectors and help remove carbon deposits from the valves and combustion chamber.

All these things improve fuel economy and increase performance for Nelson drivers. Ask your DOWNTOWN AUTOMOTIVE service advisor if a fuel system cleaning is recommended.

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Millions of Unsafe Vehicle's on Canadian Roads: How Downtown Automotive in Nelson, BC is helping to decrease this number!

Thu, 17 Aug 2023 00:00:00 GMT

About 6.6 million vehicle's deemed unsafe are on Canadian roads according to the federal government (Auto Service World, 2023).

A report from The Canadian Press says these issues are from unresolved safety recalls. A Transport Canada report from June noted, an estimation of one in five of the 33.3 million vehicles registered as of 2019 have outstanding recalls. These vehicles that continue to be driven on our highways potentially put themselves and other road users at risk.

The problem here is that a small number of vehicle owners find out about recalls. If most people want to see if there’s a recall issued on their vehicle, they’ll usually have to pay attention themselves. At Downtown Automotive in Nelson, BC we do open recall checks on every vehicle that comes through our shop, thus being able to educate our clients on the safety and status of their vehicle. We take vehicle safety seriously! We document and take photos of every repair and inspect every vehicle for safety and maintenance items to provide recommendations that ensure the highest quality and safety performance of your vehicle.

There are many owners who are not performing needed maintenance on their vehicles. Brent Hesje, who served as Automotive Industries Association of Canada chair in 2018, noted at the time that there was about $15 billion in maintenance and repair work outlined in owner manuals that consumers are ignoring (Auto Service World, 2023). The biggest driver of underperformed maintenance is a lack of consumer education on why a repair is required (Auto Service World, 2023). At Downtown Automotive, we educate our clients on the importance of regular maintenance and provide constant contact to make sure they’re scheduled when they’re due. We also inform our clients on all service recommendations, but we don’t just offer these recommendations, we explain to our clients why it’s in their best interest for their vehicle and their safety to complete all the recommendations. We are a fully digital shop and we use detailed photos along with knowledge from our highly qualified and experienced team of technicians and service advisors to keep our clients transportation working

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Alignment

Tue, 08 Aug 2023 00:00:00 GMT

It's no surprise that your vehicle will drive better if all the wheels are pointed in the same direction. That's called wheel alignment. If your wheels are out of alignment you may notice that your vehicle pulls to one side or the other.

Something that you won't notice right away, but you will if you keep driving when you're out of alignment, is that your tires are wearing unevenly and fairly quickly. You may notice that, when the vehicle is pulling to one side, you have to steer it back straight.

Some of the things that commonly throw a wheel out of alignment are slamming into a pothole, smacking a curb or something like a rock. And it doesn't have to be a big shock, it can just be the regular bumps and bangs of daily driving that add up and eventually take your vehicle out of alignment. These bumps can also cause extra wear and tear on suspension and steering components. These components will also wear out over time with normal use. That's why your owner's manual or service advisor at Downtown Automotive may suggest having your alignment checked periodically.

When your vehicle goes in for alignment, each wheel's alignment is measured to see where they are relative to factory specifications. While the vehicle is on the alignment rack, the tires are inspected for wear as well as the suspension and steering components for damage or wear – things that can contribute to alignment problems. With some vehicles you can adjust all four wheels to bring all wheels into alignment. On those vehicles where you can only adjust the front wheels, the front is brought into alignment relative to the rear.

Cost varies by whether or not it's two or four wheel adjustable. Four-wheel drive vehicles may have an additional charge because they're more difficult to align. At any rate, it's cheaper than having to replace tires every few months.

If you’re noticing some abnormal tire wear, or if the vehicle pulls to one side or is making noises, give your Downtown Automotive service advisor a call and we can book you in for an inspection.

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Customer Detective Work Helps DOWNTOWN AUTOMOTIVE Help You!

Thu, 03 Aug 2023 00:00:00 GMT

One might say the most challenging part of being a Service Advisor is diagnosing a problem before it can be fixed. Cars are made up of a bunch of complex systems. There usually could be a number of reasons for any given symptom, therefore it can be challenging to track down the actual cause of the problem without bringing your vehicle into Downtown Automotive for inspection. It can also be frustrating for the vehicle owner because it can take time and money to get to the bottom of a problem. If it’s not something obvious, it’s easy for the customer to focus on the fixing and not the diagnosing.

Let us introduce to you something we’ll call Customer Detective Work – that is helping our Downtown Automotive Service Advisors find clues to what’s wrong. We start with the detective basics: What is the problem? Is there a noise? What kind of noise is it, scraping, squeaking, grinding, thumping etc? Where is the location of the problem? and When did you start noticing this? For example, you come in and your car is making a funny sound: “Where’s the sound? Around the right front wheel. What kind of sound? Kind of a clunk, clunk sound. When do you hear the sound? When I turn and accelerate. Right and left? Forwards and back?” You see where we’re going. You’re gathering additional information to help our Advisors and Technicians know where to start. Based on your car and your Service Advisor's experience, they’ll know where to look and can start with the obvious points of inspection. You can see how that would be more helpful than dropping the car off at Downtown Automotive with a note that says “Making a funny noise”.

When you think you need to bring a vehicle in, make some notes about the problem. Rather than just saying “it’s leaking” tell your Service Advisor the color of the fluid, and approximately where under the car you see the puddle. Things like “The car is stalling or sputtering” are often very hard to diagnose because they’re intermittent. They may not happen every time you drive and may not be happening when you actually bring the car into Downtown Automotive. So, it is a big help for you to describe what’s happening in detail as much as possible.

Your Downtown Automotive Service Advisor will need to be able to duplicate the problem if possible so they need to know details, like “It stalls after it’s been driven for about 20 minutes and I go over 80 kilometers an hour”. If the Technician can experience the problem personally, they're better able to make an auto diagnosis and repair and will be able to test to see if the repair solved the problem.

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Not so Smooth Operator (Transmission Signs of Trouble)

Thu, 27 Jul 2023 00:00:00 GMT

You are heading down a flat, newly paved street when all of a sudden you feel your vehicle jump a little bit when you're accelerating and changing gears. You know it's not the surface of the road because it's smooth as silk. So what did you just feel?

That kind of jumping—or grinding or slipping—during gear changes could be a sign of trouble in your automatic transmission. And it's important to get it checked out as soon as possible because some transmission problems that aren't fixed early can lead to more involved and expensive repairs.

By far most vehicles on the road in North America have automatic transmissions, and they are workhorses. Unlike early cars with balky, hard-to-shift manual transmissions, the latest automatics allow you to drive without having to even think about gear changes. However, you should know about a few signs of trouble to look for if they ever start showing up:

When you first get going and shift your vehicle from Park into Drive, do you feel a slight pause?
When you shift into Reverse is there a little lag?
Does your vehicle sometimes shake when you're traveling down the road?
Do you smell something burning in your engine compartment?
Do you hear a clunk when your vehicle shifts?
Do you have spots of a reddish or brown, oily fluid in the driveway under your vehicle?

If you do, these are worth getting checked out at our service center. When automatic transmissions start to show signs of wear and age, it can be because of a number of reasons. They can be caused by your transmission fluid getting old and contaminated, or its level may be low. The gears can be worn, you may have a leak somewhere in your transmission, or transmission problems might be caused by a computer problem.

Transmission issues aren't always expensive to repair. Sometimes there may be a leak in a hose or a gasket, or a computer needs to be reset. Other issues may be much more involved. This is why it's important to get your vehicle checked out at Downtown Automotive in Nelson, BC when you do notice something doesn't feel, look, shift or smell quite right. Everyone wants their automatic transmission to be a smooth operator and we can help you run smoothly with our highly skilled team of technicians!

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Getting the Right Wheels & Tires

Thu, 20 Jul 2023 00:00:00 GMT

A lot of drivers want custom wheels. When you do this yourself (over the internet . . .) you could run into trouble if you’re not careful. Sometimes they just don’t fit right. For example, the tires rub in turns or over bumps. Consulting your DOWNTOWN AUTOMOTIVE service advisor can ensure you get the right fit. First he’ll ask you a series of questions about your driving needs and what you want in your new wheels.

Not every wheel can go on every vehicle. Care must be taken so that tires and wheels are not too large and so that the wheels are not too centered towards the outside or the inside. If you don’t want to make any modifications to your car, you would need to focus on a wheel and tire combination that would fit. With trucks, some people like much bigger tires so they need a suspension lift.

Most drivers don’t realize that you need to keep the rolling diameter of your new tires – that’s the overall height of the tire – very close to what came from the factory, in order for your anti-lock brakes and stability control systems to work properly.

The computers that control these systems are calibrated to a certain size tire. When you go bigger or smaller, the computer doesn’t know what changes you made so it can’t tell how fast you’re going. This, of course, means it sends commands to the brakes and traction control that are based on the wrong sensor information.

If you go with a different rolling diameter, your vehicle control computer can be reprogrammed for the new tire size.

Either way, there are hundreds of wheel and tire choices to choose from in BC. You can pick the style of wheel you want and then talk with your DOWNTOWN AUTOMOTIVE service advisor about how big the wheel should be and select the right tire to meet your style, performance, ride and handling needs, and the best way to do all this is to have your DOWNTOWN AUTOMOTIVE technician see your vehicle in person so mistakes are not made.

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Tire Rotation & Balancing

Thu, 13 Jul 2023 00:00:00 GMT

You can make your vehicle tires last longer with regular tire rotation and wheel balancing! Let's start with tire rotation. In normal driving around town, your front tires wear more on the shoulders because they handle much of the cornering forces in turns. Front-wheel drive vehicles have even more force on the front tires.

We rotate the tires so that all of the tires do some duty on the front end as well as getting a little break on the back end. That way, all four tires wear more evenly over their life and last longer.
For most vehicles, tires are rotated front to back. Some manufacturers recommend a cross rotational pattern that includes the spare tire, and some high-performance vehicles have different size tires on the front and rear and may even have uni-directional tires that can only be on the left or the right side of the vehicle. Your service advisor at DOWNTOWN AUTOMOTIVE in Nelson, BC can help you sort that out and will perform the right tire rotation for your vehicle. Your tire manufacturer will have a recommendation for how often you should rotate your tires.
Let's move on to wheel balancing. That's when there are heavy spots on the tire and wheel that cause it to wobble. Balancing adds weights to the wheel to balance it out. Now, we are talking about very small weight differences. Variations in the tire and wheel manufacture can cause a slight imbalance. As the tire wears, its balance can also change. The valve stem, and now the tire pressure monitoring sensors in the tire, also play into the equation.
Even small differences can cause annoying vibrations at speed: the wheel is essentially bouncing a bit as it goes down the road. For example, at freeway speeds, an out of balance wheel can be slamming into the road 14 times a second, which is annoying and can cause your tires to wear out more quickly.
If a front wheel is out of balance you'll feel the vibration through the steering wheel. When it's a rear tire, you'll feel the vibration through your seat. If you're getting bad vibes from your vehicle, bring it to DOWNTOWN AUTOMOTIVE in Nelson, BC and our service advisors can check to see if it's a balance issue or something else. You should balance your wheels whenever you get a new tire or remount a tire, like when it's been removed for a flat repair. We also rebalance when we do a seasonal change over.

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Plugging Away: Spark Plug Replacement

Thu, 06 Jul 2023 00:00:00 GMT

If you drive a vehicle with a gasoline engine, thank the spark plugs for igniting the gasoline/air mixture in each cylinder that keeps your vehicle running smoothly down the road every day. Your spark plugs work hard, firing thousands of times in a well-choreographed order, and you usually don't pay much attention to them until one of them stops working the way it should.

Signs that spark plugs are wearing out include:

Engine runs more roughly than it did
Vehicle doesn't start as easily as it used to
Vehicle hesitates when you press on the accelerator
Your fuel economy has gotten worse

If spark plugs stop working altogether, you will find your engine has likely lost a lot of its power and isn't running smoothly. Your Check Engine light may come on, which means it's time to head down to Downtown Automotive to have it diagnosed.

If your plugs need to be replaced, they're usually done all at the same time. And if your vehicle has spark plug wires, experts recommend you change them as well. Different types of spark plugs last longer than others, and your service advisor at Downtown Automotive can discuss what's best for your vehicle and driving habits.

Our technicians will also determine if there are any carbon deposits on your plugs, how healthy the ignition coil is (it's the part that supplies the high-voltage jolt that makes the spark) and will look for other signs and symptoms that may point to other problems in your engine. For instance, if a spark plug is fouled by oily deposits, it's possible oil is getting into the combustion chamber.

Our technicians will also check all the plugs to see if there are problems in just one or all cylinders. Sometimes there may be a plug that has overheated, literally melting the metal. In that case, they may recommend correcting that problem first before replacing the spark plugs.

Most spark plugs will last for a good length of time. Even if you aren't seeing any symptoms that they're wearing out, every time you bring your vehicle in to us for a service, we perform a complementary digital visual vehicle inspection to ensure your vehicle is running smooth. Our service advisors are highly skilled and are up to speed on many vehicle manufacturer's recommended maintenance intervals. Preventative maintenance will keep your vehicle running reliably.

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Planning Ahead for Maintenance!

Mon, 29 May 2023 00:00:00 GMT

Planning ahead for vehicle maintenance is the best way to ensure that your vehicle remains safe and smooth to drive at all times. With the summer months arriving, here are some tips to help you prepare for your time on the road:

Do a pre-trip inspection by scheduling an appointment with us to check your oil, coolant levels, aire filters, spark plugs, brakes and lights. We’ll also check tire pressure including the spare to make sure everything’s inflated and in good condition. Hot weather is extra hard on car hoses and belts, so we can also inspect for any cracks or blistering. And we’ll also test your battery, especially since summer is tougher on your battery than winter.

For an extra piece of mind, ask us about signing up for NAPA’s emergency roadside assistance. This includes six month coverage for up to three occasions anywhere in Canada and the US.

We’re often booked out by a week or two, sometimes things can wait…But sometimes they can’t, so plan ahead by bringing your vehicle in to us and we can help you prioritize your maintenance schedule so there’s never any surprises.

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Multi-Point Inspections!

Thu, 25 May 2023 00:00:00 GMT

In a perfect world we drivers would get into our cars in the morning and go about our business with no traffic on smooth roads. All the lights would be green, the air would be pure and a litre of fuel would cost a dollar. In that world, following car maker vehicle maintenance recommendations might be all you would need to worry about.

But of course, that’s not the way it works. There’s dust and pollution in the air, traffic jams and potholes. Issues with your car don’t come on a schedule, they just happen. That’s why DOWNTOWN AUTOMOTIVE offers multi-point digital visual vehicle inspections.

Our well-trained and experienced technicians and service advisors know what to look for and often uncover both minor and major troubles for busy drivers.

There may be many kilometers to go before you’re scheduled for a new air filter – but if it’s clogged up now we’ll find out and fix it. If our service advisor observes an uneven tire wear pattern, they can investigate the root cause. You may not even remember that curb you hit two months ago that bent your tie rod end, but damage was done and a trained eye can see the effects.

The multi-point digital visual vehicle inspection gives us an opportunity to inspect for the unexpected. We can help take care of little troubles before they become pricey. Your car will perform better, be more efficient and safer. This is all part of the service and care we incorporate into our standard DOWNTOWN AUTOMOTIVE procedures. We offer a complimentary digital visual vehicle inspection at every service to help keep your vehicle safe and well maintained.

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Let's talk about your brake system!

Tue, 16 May 2023 00:00:00 GMT

Ok, let's talk about your brakes . The brake system helps you provide braking power so that you don’t have to do all the work with your brake pedal. The brakes themselves are applied at the wheel using hydraulic pressure. When we step on the brake pedal, we create pressure in the power booster that’s multiplied by vacuum from the engine. The resulting pressure pushes brake fluid through the master cylinder into tubes and hoses that run to the brake at each wheel.

When there’s a problem, sometimes it could mean there’s a fluid leak somewhere along the line. It could be at a fitting or a hose, or even an internal leak in the master cylinder. A leak gives the pressurized fluid somewhere to go other than to the brakes, so stopping power is affected. If you lose enough fluid, you can’t stop at all. Of course that’s extremely dangerous for us drivers and the others on the road.

If you notice any decrease in stopping power or if your pedal seems mushy, you could have a problem. There are some preventive maintenance items for the power brake system that will help them last longer. At DOWNTOWN AUTOMOTIVE in Nelson, we provide comprehensive brake maintenance and repair services.

Drivers need to make sure their brake fluid is filled to the recommended level. Low fluid in the master cylinder could indicate a leak or worn brake material. Master cylinder leaks are usually just because it’s worn out, but leaks in the brake lines and connectors can be minimized by replacing the brake fluid from time to time. Brake fluid has additives that protect against corrosion that can damage brake components.

Drivers should take note that brake fluid also attracts moisture which can lead to rust – not a good thing for expensive anti-lock brake components. Also, significant amounts of water in the brake fluid can affect stopping power because the water has a much lower boiling point than brake fluid. In the high temperature environment of the brake system, the water can vaporize – and steam doesn’t do a very good job of providing hydraulic pressure.

A final word – make sure you use the recommended type of brake fluid . There are several kinds and using the wrong one can lead to total brake failure. Your DOWNTOWN AUTOMOTIVE service advisor can help you.

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Windshield Washer Fluid - Why is it so Important?

Tue, 09 May 2023 00:00:00 GMT

During the colder weather months, drivers tend to use more windshield washer fluid due to snow, salt, mud and grime.

You might be tempted just to pick up the cheapest blue fluid you can find, but sometimes that's not the wisest choice. Pure water isn’t a great idea either. It can freeze in cold weather and potentially damage the lines in your vehicle that carry the fluid. Plus, spraying water on your windshield in freezing temperatures can result in a layer of blinding ice that will obstruct your view.

Different windshield washer fluids are made for different climates. Many will contain alcohol to prevent them from freezing. The label will usually tell you the lowest temperature at which they'll work properly. Some will also have a detergent in them to clean off the contaminants that dirty up your windshield. Still, others will contain a chemical that will leave fewer streaks. Some windshield washer fluids are made to be diluted, others are pre-mixed and intended to be poured directly into the washer fluid reservoir and used as is.

The most important thing is to keep your windshield washer fluid level up. At every service, Downtown Automotive checks all fluid levels in your vehicle and tops them up with high quality products. Our technicians will also make sure your washer mechanism is working properly, so your vision remains clear in all types of weather.

Downtown Automotive is committed to your driving safety. We can also check your wiper blades and replace them to make sure they are ready for both winter weather and summer bugs.

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Brakes Brakes Brakes!

Wed, 19 Apr 2023 00:00:00 GMT

If you’ve ever stepped on your brake pedal and felt your vehicle vibrate, that’s a sign that something is wrong. Braking action should be smooth, sure, and quiet, not shaky or noisy.

Most newer vehicles have disc brakes, called that because they have a round, flat disc connected to each wheel. Those discs are the rotors. Other parts called brake pads are squeezed against those discs when you press on the brake pedal.

Vibrations can be caused by the rotor not having a straight, true surface. Rotors can heat up from friction and warp. They can become thinner from constant wear. Rotors can rust from the elements they’re exposed to, such as rain, snow ice, and salt. They can get grooves in them from so many contacts with the pads.

The signs of worn rotors are vibrations, grooves on the rotor (which you can see sometimes through open spots in the wheel), noise such as squealing or scraping when you brake, and increased stopping distance.

While it used to be common for rotors to be machined (shaved down to restore their flat surface), newer vehicles have thinner rotors, so your service adviser may suggest you replace rotors when they start showing signs of significant wear.

Brakes are the primary safety equipment for every vehicle. They enhance your control while driving, so it’s important that they be regularly inspected and maintained. A good time is when you have your tires rotated. A technician can then look at all components of your brakes and recommend any service you may need to keep your brakes in top shape. At Downtown Automotive we do at minimum a visual check on your brakes at every oil change and we check their operation on a road test.

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The SRS System: What does this stand for and what does it do?

Tue, 11 Apr 2023 00:00:00 GMT

Let’s talk about the SRS light in your vehicle, which stands for Supplemental Restraint System. The SRS system includes the airbags and seat belt pretensioners. This light should come on when you first start your vehicle up and then should turn off shortly after. This light tells you that the SRS system is activated.

If you do not see the SRS light come on OR if the SRS light won’t turn off, there is a problem with the system. Give us a call at Downtown Automotive in Nelson, BC to book an appointment to get this issue dealt with. Airbags in your vehicle are a huge safety feature and can save your life in a head on collision.

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Pay Attention to this Light!

Mon, 03 Apr 2023 00:00:00 GMT

Of all the warning lights on your vehicle's instrument panel, there's one that demands your critical attention. That's the brake warning light.

If you can't stop, you are endangering yourself and others. Brake warning lights are there to warn you that something is wrong with this vital safety system.

There are several reasons a brake light will come on, but if yours does, get it to Downtown Automotive and have it checked out right away.

Here are some possibilities of what's going on when you see that brake warning light:

Low brake fluid—A sensor has detected that the brake fluid level is low. The technician can determine if you need more fluid. The technician can also determine if there's a leak in your brake system. Low brake fluid could also be a sign of worn brakes pads. An inspection can reveal brake problems. Just topping off the brake fluid can leave critical problems unaddressed.
A sudden loss of hydraulic pressure in the brake lines. This could be from a brake line rupture, which could be caused by road debris cutting a brake line or simply from corrosion eating through a line. Your brake light will come on at the same time the line ruptures and you will have little warning. Always remember that you have your emergency brake as one more way to stop.
Your parking/emergency brake could be left on.

Another brake related warning light is the Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) light. This system has many components; a bad wheel sensor or damaged wiring may be the culprit. Your technician has a special diagnostic tool to track this one down.

Brakes aren't something to neglect. Whenever we do an oil change, we do a visual inspection on your brakes and let you know if there are any concerns. When you see that brake warning light come on, call your Service Advisor at Downtown Automotive right away!

How We Do Business: Parts, Service & Warranty

Mon, 27 Mar 2023 00:00:00 GMT

High quality replacement parts are vital for safe and efficient vehicle repairs. The parts are necessary to deliver the performance you expect right out of the box and over the long haul. At DOWNTOWN AUTOMOTIVE in Nelson, BC, we feature quality NAPA auto parts. They meet or exceed the original car maker specifications so they fit and function as they should.

It’s vital for a business to stand behind its work. At DOWNTOWN AUTOMOTIVE we do everything we can to stand behind ours. We employ highly trained service advisors and equip them with the diagnostic and repair tools they need to keep your vehicle in tip-top shape. NAPA Auto Parts helps us deliver on our promises to you with high quality replacement parts that help your vehicle run safely and efficiently. Through our shop we also provide a 40,000km or 2 year warranty on parts and labor! We are a fully digital shop and use special automotive technology to assess each vehicle in the most efficient and detailed way possible, while also being able to communicate with our customers in the most transparent way possible.

Skilled service advisors, quality replacement parts and advanced technology: Now that’s a recipe for drivers' motoring satisfaction.

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The 3 Vehicle Service Items You Shouldn't Put Off!

Tue, 21 Mar 2023 00:00:00 GMT

When it comes to vehicle service, a lot of people procrastinate. The reasons?

“Don't want to spend the money” “Don't have time to get it done” “It's not urgent”

Sound familiar? Here are the three service items you shouldn't put off, no matter what:

Oil Change. Oil is one of those things that just quietly does its job. You don't see it working; you don't hear it working, but oil is the substance that keeps the metal parts in your vehicle working together. It keeps things gliding smoothly and prevents wear and tear every second your engine is turned on. Don't put off changing it! Check with your DTA Service Advisor and your owner's manual to know how often to have it changed. You can reference the oil change sticker in the top left corner of your windshield and based on whichever comes first: The sticker date, which is the recommended time you should be getting your next oil change, or kilometers (if you’re past the recommended kms on the sticker, you're past due for an oil change), that is when you can know to book a service. Your Downtown Automotive service advisor will also be able to suggest the correct oil for your vehicle.
Tire Pressure. It's so easy to neglect your tires. They might "look" like they have enough air, but the proper amount of air in your tires is vital to your safety, every second your vehicle is moving. Have your inflation pressure checked and the tread inspected regularly. And if you own a newer vehicle, pay attention to that electronic tire pressure monitor. If it lights up, take it in right away. Maintaining the proper tire pressure also increases your vehicle’s fuel efficiency.
Fluids Check. Fluids are the lifeblood of your vehicle. The big three are brake fluid, transmission fluid, and coolant. If any of these are low, it could be a sign that there's a big problem. Running with low brake fluid could make your vehicle difficult to stop. Running with low transmission fluid could mean your gears could seize up. And running with low coolant could damage your engine from excessive heat.

Thankfully at Downtown Automotive, we offer a complimentary digital, visual vehicle inspection at every oil change service, which allows us to catch any other issues or maintenance items that your vehicle might need. We take care of all three services above all in one go!

Sure, all these things take a little time out of your day. But taking care of them before problems develop could save you from some far more inconvenient, expensive, or even dangerous predicaments. Don't put them off. Talk with our Service Advisors about your maintenance schedule.

TIRES! TIRES! TIRES!

Mon, 06 Mar 2023 00:00:00 GMT

When it’s time for new tires, the choices can be overwhelming for drivers. Let’s look at some common tire categories.

One category is known as “All Season Tires”. For many drivers around the Nelson, BC area, an all-season tire is the answer for three seasons (Spring, Summer and Fall). You will give up some of the performance at the extreme ends of the summer tire/ winter tire spectrum, but you will find a long wearing tire that gives both good expressway performance and winter traction.

Winter tires are designed to work very well in snow and ice. Their tread is designed with many channels and grooves that throw the snow out of the tread as the wheel turns. This means the tire will always be able to bite into the snow. The rubber compound used in winter tires is specially formulated to be flexible at temperatures below 7 degrees. This maximizes cold weather traction for drivers. When it gets warmer, the softer rubber will wear faster on warm dry pavement than all season tires, so change them out once the weather has turned .

Actual dedicated summer tires are designed for high performance sports car applications and are to be driven on roads when temperatures are generally above 7 degrees. Their tread design is optimized for traction on dry roads and they’re also able to effectively displace water on rainy roads. The rubber compound gets a little hard and stiff as temperatures drop below 7 degrees. And the tread which handles dry roads so well, can get packed with snow and mud, which provides very little traction for drivers in those conditions.

If you live where it’s summer all year round, these tires will work well for you. If you like maximum performance in warm weather, but still live where it gets cold and snowy, you’ll want to change your summer tires for winter tires as the weather starts to change.

Outside of these three main categories, some drivers with trucks and SUVs like a tire that is designed for both on-highway and off-highway use. They can handle the rocks and bumps off-road, but still work well on streets. Again, many options depending on the relative emphasis on on-road versus off-road.

Talk with your DOWNTOWN AUTOMOTIVE service advisor and let him help you find the tire that’s right for the way you drive.

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Do You Need a New Battery?

Mon, 27 Feb 2023 00:00:00 GMT

Today’s vehicles have more electrical components than ever before: electric seats, seat heaters, power locks, windows, sun roofs, all the power outlets for our cell phones, computers, and DVD players, navigation systems and powerful stereos, and all the engine and transmission computers, traction control, stability control, anti-lock brakes, sensors etc. This really strains your vehicle’s electrical system, making it hard for the battery to keep up. Even the security system is running off the battery while the vehicle is turned off. Today’s driving habits of lots of short trips around town also strain your battery and don’t give it time to charge up properly. Summer heat can also take a real toll on battery life.

Fortunately, battery technology has given us resilient batteries that are able to meet these strenuous requirements. But the fact is; batteries just wear out over time. Eventually, every battery gets to the point where it cannot hold enough of a charge to start your vehicle. Sometimes car batteries need to be replaced because they have developed a leak.

Replacement batteries come in all shapes and sizes. Some vehicles have limited space that requires a specially shaped battery to fit. Larger engines require more powerful batteries to get them started. If you live in a cold climate you will need a more powerful battery because engines are harder to start when it is cold.

Batteries come in “good”, “better” and “best” grades. High end auto batteries may have a longer warranty and are guaranteed to last longer. As with most things, paying a little more up front saves money in the long run. Ask your DOWNTOWN AUTOMOTIVE service advisor to test your battery and advise you on how much life it has left.

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The Importance for Regular Inspections!

Tue, 21 Feb 2023 00:00:00 GMT

Scenario:

A few years ago I was driving my 2009 Ford F150 with about 189,000 kilometers on it. I was going up a hill in Nelson and heard a noise from the front end that sounded like clunking. Suddenly I hit a small bump and the front wheel flopped over like it was falling off. I called the tow truck and they brought it to my usual mechanic who told me that the ball joint had come apart. What could I have done to prevent that?

Answer :

The client with this F150 was fortunate that he was driving at a low speed in town. If this had happened on the highway it would’ve been a very different situation.

This broken ball joint highlights the need for regular inspections. Most drivers are familiar with recommendations for preventive maintenance services like oil changes and coolant replacement. What you may not know is that there are also recommendations for inspections at various intervals.

The owner’s manual of this F150 would have called for an inspection of things at approximately every 15,000km, like the suspension, brakes and the driveline. Chances are that such an inspection at DOWNTOWN AUTOMOTIVE would have revealed early signs of a worn ball joint and the client could have had it fixed before it became a dangerous situation.

Ask your DOWNTOWN AUTOMOTIVE service advisor about the inspections your vehicle should have.

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Downtown Auto Tips: Hoses

Tue, 14 Feb 2023 00:00:00 GMT

Your radiator hoses carry coolant between your engine and radiator. It’s an essential job. If a hose fails, you could lose your engine coolant which might lead to harmful overheating and very pricey engine damage so you want to make sure you always have good hoses.

Radiator hoses are very resilient, but they are subject to very harsh weather conditions. The temperature might be below freezing when you start your engine and the coolant could be up over 37 degrees Celsius within a kilometer. These extreme internal temperature fluctuations contribute to hose degradation from the inside. Oil splashing on the outside of a hose will cause the hose material to soften over time. Ozone can also eat away at the hose.

The bottom line for drivers is that hoses don’t last forever and will need to be replaced. If you see steam coming from under your hood, you probably have a cooling system leak somewhere. Other signs are puddles of coolant under the vehicle, bulges in the radiator hose, cracks or a spongy feel. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, have your cooling system inspected. If you have any cooling system repairs, like a water pump replacement, hose replacement or radiator repair, it is also a good idea to have your hoses replaced at the same time along with the radiator pressure cap.

Moreover, it is vital that the coolant be serviced when you replace a radiator or water pump so that there are plenty of anti-corrosion additives in the coolant to coat and protect the new parts that have been installed. Simply reusing the old coolant can lead to rapid and harmful corrosion of the newly installed parts.

The most common reason for engine failure is a failed cooling system. Ask your DOWNTOWN AUTOMOTIVE service advisor if it’s time for a cooling system inspection or service. You can eliminate potentially disastrous and pricey damage with proper cooling system maintenance.

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Battery Servicing

Wed, 01 Feb 2023 00:00:00 GMT

When people come into DOWNTOWN AUTOMOTIVE and need a new battery, they're really not that happy about having to spend the money. But the fact is that 70 percent of batteries don't make it for 4 years.

There are some things that you can do to extend the life of your battery. First, keep it clean. If you see it getting dirty or greasy, let us know and we can clean it off. A dirty battery runs hotter and that shortens its life. If your battery terminals are corroded, let us take a look at that too. We can provide a battery service and if the corrosion has gotten into the battery cables, we can replace or repair them.

Also, running your battery way down is bad for it. Things like running the headlights or watching a DVD with the car turned off can deeply deplete your battery. The typical battery can only take about 10 of those deep cycle depletions before it gives up.

Because we often take short trips with lots of stops for errands, our batteries can end up not getting fully recharged just by driving around. That also shortens battery life. You can hook up a good quality automatic battery charger at home from time to time. We recommend charging once a month during cold and hot months.

When it's finally time to get a new battery, DOWNTOWN AUTOMOTIVE can help you find the right replacement. We will always make sure to meet your manufacturer's recommendations. If you have special needs like, live in a very cold climate or run a lot of electrical accessories, we can look at an upgrade that'll give you the power you need.

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Important Info to Know About Your Check Engine Light!

Tue, 24 Jan 2023 00:00:00 GMT

The check engine light might come on in your vehicle. For the most part it signals a problem with the emission control system. In newer vehicles it can be something as simple as your fuel cap not being screwed on tight enough (or a worn fuel cap), causing the vehicle to fail the self-diagnostic evaporative emission test. All drivers need to do is go to their fuel cap and verify that it is tight. If that is the problem, the light will turn off within one or two days. However, it can also be a very complex problem that involves a lot of diagnostic time.

At DOWNTOWN AUTOMOTIVE, we advise drivers to resist the temptation to have someone “clear” the codes to turn off your vehicle check engine light. This erases important diagnostic information that your DOWNTOWN AUTOMOTIVE technician needs to diagnose the underlying problem for the check engine light and any other pending problems that may be stored in the computer.

If the problem is still there - you still see the light - bring your vehicle in to DOWNTOWN AUTOMOTIVE in Nelson, BC and have it checked out as soon as possible.

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Suspension System Servicing

Wed, 18 Jan 2023 00:00:00 GMT

Suspension systems should continue to operate effectively for many years and tens of thousands of kilometers for drivers, holding your tires’ foot print on the road. Eventually components do wear out, but how long that takes depends a lot on how and where you drive.

As you can imagine, if most of your driving is on smooth highways, your suspension components will last a lot longer than if you do most of your driving on bumpy roads or hauling heavy loads. In addition to just wearing out, suspension components can be damaged in an accident or by a hard impact, like a pothole, hitting a curb or a rock on a back country (or ski hill) road.

Because the life span of suspension components can vary so widely, your car maker recommends periodic suspension inspections. During an inspection, your DOWNTOWN AUTOMOTIVE service advisor will check for worn, broken or missing suspension parts.

If the inspection reveals any problems, take care of this important safety and handling work. We can help you at DOWNTOWN AUTOMOTIVE in Nelson. When you replace your shocks, it’s usually a good idea to replace them in pairs. That’ll give you even handling at all four corners of the vehicle.

If you have special road handling needs like improved cornering or towing or hauling requirements, your DOWNTOWN AUTOMOTIVE service advisor can recommend upgraded shocks or struts to get you what you want.

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Oil Filter Maintenance!

Wed, 04 Jan 2023 00:00:00 GMT

As your engine runs, contaminates get into the oil. Oil sludge can also start to build up. Fortunately, motor oil contains detergents that clean the engine and gather up contaminates. The oil circulates through the oil filter where contaminates and harmful sludge are caught. An oil filter can eventually get clogged up so much that oil cannot flow freely through the filter material, which can cause malfunctions in the engine that can lead to your check engine light coming on. However, there is a valve that opens in the oil filter allowing oil to bypass the filter material. This keeps your engine lubricated, but dirty oil is circulating through the system.

We provide oil change services at 5,000k and 8,000k intervals and we have different quality levels of oil filters to match the oil change interval.

You can talk with your DOWNTOWN AUTOMOTIVE service advisor about your oil change intervals and how to choose the right oil for your needs to make sure that your new oil filter is compatible with the performance of your oil.

Photo Credit: AMS Oil

Keeping Your Vehicle Cool (Water Pump Replacement)

Thu, 22 Dec 2022 00:00:00 GMT

No matter what the temperature is outside, it's important for your vehicle's engine to remain cool. If your vehicle has a gasoline engine, it's powered by a bunch of explosions involving spark plugs, pistons, gasoline, and air. And the by-product of all those things working together? HEAT.

There's a whole cooling system to keep everything at a tolerable temperature for your engine's parts, and a key part of that is the water pump. Technically, it's pumping more than water. It should actually be called the "coolant" pump since the liquid that circulates through the system is a mixture of water and coolant.

The water pump keeps this coolant moving through your engine, where it picks up the engine heat, and then is pumped into the radiator where it gets rid of that heat. When a water pump fails, the engine heat can build up. When you get a warning light on the dash (either a gauge or a light) that shows the temperature is too high, it could mean a bad water pump.

They can fail for many reasons. They have bearings in them that wear out, as does the seal between the pump and the engine. They're often driven by a belt or chain that can go bad. Corrosion can spell the end of a water pump, too.

If a technician determines your water pump has failed, it's time to replace it. In addition, other components of the cooling system will be inspected. The best way to avoid a water pump failure is regular maintenance of your cooling system which includes regular draining and flushing of the coolant. At Downtown Automotive we test the coolant at every service to help avoid this situation.

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Cooling System Maintenance

Thu, 15 Dec 2022 00:00:00 GMT

Today, let’s talk about cooling system maintenance...

Following your vehicle maker’s schedule for a cooling system service is a safe way to prevent your vehicle from overheating. Engine overheating is a leading cause for blown head gaskets. The head gasket fits between the top of the engine and the cylinder head. Its job is to seal that connection and keep oil and coolant circulating in the right parts of the engine. When it leaks, oil can get in the coolant and vise versa. Sometimes coolant or engine oil can get into the combustion chamber where it gets burned with the fuel, which can result in smoke coming out the tailpipe. Sometimes the head gasket can be improperly installed and sometimes they just burn through.

Replacing a head gasket is fairly expensive and it’s definitely worth investing in regular cooling system maintenance at DOWNTOWN AUTOMOTIVE to avoid that job. When you bring your vehicle in for regular maintenance, we check the freeze point and general condition of your coolant. Ask your Downtown Autopro service advisor if it’s time for a cooling system service.

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Vehicle Suspension Maintenance

Tue, 06 Dec 2022 00:00:00 GMT

After many years and tens of thousands of kilometers, your vehicle suspension system components do wear out, but how long that takes depends a lot on how you drive around.

As you can imagine, if most of your driving is on smooth BC highways, your shock absorbers will last a lot longer than if you do most of your driving on bumpy roads or hauling heavy loads. In addition to just wearing out, vehicle suspension components can be damaged in an accident or by a hard impact like a pothole, hitting a curb or a rock in the road.

Because the lifespan of shocks can vary so widely, your car maker recommends periodic inspections. During an inspection, your DOWNTOWN AUTOMOTIVE service advisor will check for worn, broken or missing parts.

Signs that shocks or struts are wearing out: The tires may have a cupped wear pattern . This is from the shocks bouncing unevenly. You may notice a floating or drifting sensation when cornering. If the front of your vehicle dives excessively when stopping or rocks back and forth after you stopped, your shocks may be worn out. And if they are leaking fluid , it’s definitely time to replace them.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, come see us at DOWNTOWN AUTOMOTIVE for a suspension inspection . Same if you’ve been in an accident that involved one of your wheels. Worn or broken shocks can cause premature wear or failure on other vehicle suspension parts such as ball joints and other steering components as well. If your suspension actually fails, it could lead to a serious accident, so take care of these things.

When you replace your shocks at DOWNTOWN AUTOMOTIVE, it’s usually a good idea to replace all four at the same time. That’ll give you more even handling. Talk with your DOWNTOWN AUTOMOTIVE service advisor because you don’t want a big difference between the performance of your shocks from wheel to wheel, and replacing all may be the safest bet.

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Keep Your Oil Pan in Top Shape!

Wed, 30 Nov 2022 00:00:00 GMT

You probably have a cabinet in your kitchen filled with pots and pans. Your vehicle has one very important pan in it as well. It's the pan that holds oil for your engine called, an oil pan.

The oil pan is a very important, though simple, component of your engine's lubrication system. The oil pan is attached to the bottom of the engine and holds the oil that will be circulated through parts of your engine to keep them lubricated, reducing friction, so everything works smoothly and prevents damage. It's important that the oil doesn't leak out, so there is a gasket between the oil pan and the engine block.

The oil in your engine can get very hot while it’s running. The heat causes your oil pan and engine block to expand at different rates – cushioned by the gasket. Your oil pan can also get hit and damaged by debris kicked up from the road. Wear and tear, heat and time all take their toll, and it's possible for the gasket to wear out which can cause it to leak. An oil leak isn't good for your engine since it depends on oil for a long life span.

One sign you may have an oil pan gasket leak is a spot of oil visible under your vehicle where you park. If the leak is bad enough and your engine has lost enough oil, the oil light in your vehicle may illuminate.

Let your DOWNTOWN Autopro Service Advisor know if you are experiencing any of these things. It needs to be repaired, so you don't lose more oil and damage your engine. Sometimes an oil pan gasket can be in a spot that's hard to work on and can take some time to replace. Our trained technicians will also check the oil pan itself to see if it's been damaged and needs to be replaced.

The life of your engine may depend on it!

Talk to us about your Maintenance Schedules!

Wed, 23 Nov 2022 00:00:00 GMT

There’s two categories of vehicle usage: “Normal” driving and “Severe” driving. Most Nelson, BC drivers fall under the category of severe driving, which requires Nelson drivers to bring their vehicles in more frequently for servicing - usually every 6 months at a minimum.

What describes severe driving?

Stop and go driving

Short trips

Low speed driving

Extreme hot or cold

Dusty conditions

Driving on logging roads

Carrying heavy loads

Towing

For most Nelson drivers, “severe” driving is part of their everyday routine. You can talk to your DOWNTOWN AUTOMOTIVE service advisor to keep you up to date on your maintenance schedule to help keep your vehicle in good health through all the seasons!

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Our Technicians Know Best!

Tue, 15 Nov 2022 00:00:00 GMT

Your alternator makes electricity to start and run your engine and all of the electrical systems in your vehicle. That’s everything from the on-board computers to the turn signals. And of course there is the entertainment system, seat heaters, power windows, and everything you plug into the power outlets. After your alternator makes enough electricity to do all that, it recharges your battery with what’s left over.

When drivers constantly have a low or dead battery, the alternator is usually a prime suspect. However, the alternator is just one component of the starting/charging system and a problem with any of the other components could be the actual cause.

In addition to the alternator, the charging/starting system includes the battery, starter, serpentine belt system, and all of the electrical cables that connect them. Your technician has a systematic process of testing components and connections to get to the source of your problem. The initial symptoms determine where to begin the diagnostic process and he follows the procedure until he tracks down the culprit.

For example, diagnostic tests at DOWNTOWN AUTOMOTIVE could reveal that the alternator is not generating enough electricity to keep the battery charged. Is the alternator bad? Not necessarily. A worn serpentine belt tensioner could be allowing the belt that spins the alternator to slip. So the perfectly good alternator is not spinning at the proper speed. The solution is replacing the serpentine belt system – not the alternator.

The good news is that our highly-trained technicians can properly diagnose all your vehicle problems and make the necessary repairs to get you back on the road.

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Get your Vehicle Dialed for Winter!

Tue, 08 Nov 2022 00:00:00 GMT

Looks like winter has arrived! And we need our vehicles to be safe and reliable. It’s a good idea to get caught up on any neglected maintenance items anytime, but the stakes are higher in the winter.

Here are some specific and vital things to do to have your vehicle ready for winter. The most obvious is having the antifreeze checked. If the antifreeze protection is not set correctly it can’t properly protect your engine, radiator and hoses from freezing. If your vehicle does not seem to be making enough heat to keep you warm, your antifreeze level may be low or you could have a thermostat problem. Get it checked out at DOWNTOWN AUTOMOTIVE in Nelson, BC. If you are due for a cooling system service, now is a perfect time to have it done.

In the cold months we always worry about being able to stop in time when it’s slick on the roads. The first thing for drivers to remember is to slow down and allow plenty of room to stop. A thorough brake inspection at DOWNTOWN AUTOMOTIVE will reveal if the pads or any other parts need replacing. Check with your DOWNTOWN AUTOMOTIVE service advisor to see if it is time to replace your brake fluid. It accumulates water over time which really messes with your stopping power.

It is also vital to have your battery tested. A battery’s cranking power really drops with the temperature. If your battery is weak in the fall, it may not be up to winter weather.

You should always have a blanket or something to keep you and your passengers warm if you get stranded when it's cold. If you’re leaving the Nelson area and venturing away from civilization, pack more items such as food and water to help you survive. Keeping at least half a tank of gas is vital if you get stuck and need to run the car to keep warm and it will help keep your gas lines from freezing up.

It’s a really good idea for drivers to replace their wiper blades in the fall before the BC winter storms. If you live where there’s a lot of snow and ice, you might want a special winter blade that resists freezing up. And be sure to have enough windshield washer fluid.

The final thing for drivers to consider is their tires . Any tire can lose pressure over time, up to 1/2 kg every six or eight weeks. For every 5.6 degrees Celsius the temperature drops you lose another 1/2 kg of pressure. So if it was 26.7 degrees outside when you checked your tire pressure two months ago and now it’s 4.4 degrees out, you could be down 2 kg of pressure. That’s enough to be an essential safety issue and it's also hard on your gas mileage. You may need special winter tires as well. Your DOWNTOWN AUTOMOTIVE service advisor can help you find the right tire design for your expected road conditions.

If you’re getting winter tires, it is always best to put them on all four wheels. If you are only getting two, it’s best to put them on the rear even if you have a front-wheel drive or four-wheel drive vehicle. This is a very important safety measure recommended by tire manufacturers. Sliding or fish-tailing on ice and snow is a matter of not having enough traction at the rear end. That is why your newest tires should probably always be on the rear.

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Let's talk about Brakes!

Wed, 26 Oct 2022 00:00:00 GMT

Today's post focuses on brakes. There’s the power brake system and brake fluid. And then there are the tires, which are critical to the effectiveness of the brakes.

Nelson drivers tend to focus on the brake pads. In the automotive industry, the pads, and shoes on drum brakes, are called the friction material. That’s because they provide the friction used to stop the vehicle. The pads are designed to be effective throughout their useful life and it’s not until they are worn so thin as to be out of spec that they lose stopping effectiveness.

The mechanical parts of the brakes have pistons and springs that get quite a workout while stopping the vehicle. Over many kilometers, these wear and get gummed up. They start to lose effectiveness gradually and could even fail. That’s why a regular brake inspection is important. At Downtown Automotive in Nelson BC, our technicians can test the operation of the brakes and see if any parts need cleaning or replacing.

That leads us to brake fluid service. Some of the critical additives in the fluid that lubricate and clean the fluid system are depleted over time. That and moisture building up in the system deteriorate the performance of the brake fluid. Flushing the brake system cleans out deposits, water and dirt. Then the system is filled up with fresh fluid.

The stopping force is ultimately dependent on the traction provided by your tires. The better they grip the road, the quicker you’ll stop.

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The Importance of Oxygen Sensors and Why It's Best to Rely on Your Local Auto Shop for Servicing!

Thu, 13 Oct 2022 00:00:00 GMT

Many drivers hear the term “Oxygen Sensor” and figure it must have something to do with sensing oxygen, but don’t really know much beyond that.

Let’s break it down: your vehicle has an oxygen sensor in the exhaust manifold that measures how much unburned oxygen there is in the exhaust. The sensor reports its findings to the engine control unit (ECU), which knows how much oxygen there should be in the exhaust. Based on that information, the ECU will adjust the amount of fuel it sends to the engine. This feedback and adjustment loop is non-stop. The goal is to have the optimal air to fuel ratio for performance, efficiency and to lower harmful emissions.

Now there is a second oxygen sensor located in the exhaust pipe after the catalytic converter. It measures the amount of oxygen in the exhaust after it has been treated by the catalytic converter. As this measurement is reported back to the ECU, the computer compares the oxygen levels before and after the catalytic converter to determine if the converter is still functioning properly.

So, 4-cylinder vehicles have two oxygen sensors. V-6 and V-8 engines have four sensors, two for each bank of cylinders. As you can imagine, the oxygen sensor lives and functions in a pretty hot environment so they do wear out over time. Substances in the exhaust can also damage them leading to failure.

Outside elements like water and road salt can corrode an oxygen sensor. When the sensor goes bad it simply needs to be replaced. Oxygen sensors are often replaced needlessly. When the oxygen sensor returns a measurement that is out of the specified range, it may trigger a trouble code in the ECU and the Check Engine Light is illuminated.

Inexperienced do-it-yourselfers may read a trouble code that reports an out of range sensor reading. That could mean that the sensor is bad, but it could also mean that the sensor is accurately reporting a condition caused by some other malfunction. A skilled diagnostician can sort this out and will only replace the oxygen sensor when it has truly failed.

When you have a Check Engine Light come on and stay on, it’s good advice to have it diagnosed by a qualified technician - even if you know what the code is. The root cause may be minor or quite significant, so it’s best to play it safe and let the professionals weigh in.

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Tips to Help you Improve you Improve your Fuel Economy!

Sun, 09 Oct 2022 00:00:00 GMT

Let’s review some things that all drivers can do to improve fuel economy. The better you maintain your vehicle, the less fuel you will use. For example, replacing your dirty engine air filter will pay for itself in fuel savings before your next oil change and will keep saving you money after that.

A clean, well-maintained fuel system really pays big dividends for budget conscious drivers. A clogged fuel filter wastes fuel . So does a dirty fuel system, grimy fuel injectors and plugged up PCV valves. A fuel system service decreases the fuel you use, and increases the power so you can’t go wrong with that.

Some people ignore their check engine light. But fixing the problem that caused the light to come on will usually save some fuel as well. It may be a bad oxygen sensor that can really rob your fuel economy.

And, it may be time for a tune-up. Don’t overlook the routine maintenance items, like scheduled oil changes, transmission and cooling system service. Dirty or low fluids actually use more fuel. Just look at your car maker’s recommended service intervals in the owner’s manual, or ask your DOWNTOWN AUTOMOTIVE service advisor for the schedule.

Don’t forget your tires. Under inflated tires waste fuel. And if your wheels are out of alignment you won’t get the fuel economy you need.

Be sure to get a new fuel cap if yours leaks or is worn.

None of these things are very complicated or expensive for drivers to stay on top of. When you maintain your car properly, you save fuel today and prevent pricey repairs tomorrow.

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