AOCA.ORG - AOCA Resources

Why Change Your Motor Oil?

2011-06-22 11:32:26

Your car may be clean on the outside, but is it clean on the inside?

The life expectancy of your car depends on your answer. Motor oil gets contaminated by substances like dust, metallic shavings and even antifreeze. And did you know that the additive package, which is part of your fully formulated motor oil, will break down in time and become a contaminant, too?

As contaminants are whipped into the oil, sludge is formed. This sludge will stick to parts of the engine causing the engine to perform less efficiently. Eventually, this sludge can cause engine failure.

Neglecting oil changes is hazardous to your engine's health, especially if you drive under severe driving conditions, which most people do. Severe conditions include making short trips, driving in stop-and-go traffic, extended idling, driving in dust or dirty air, towing trailers and cold weather driving.

Changing your oil every 3,000 miles/5,000 km miles or 3 months, whichever comes first, is generally recommended. However, you should follow the recommendations in your owner's manual. Even a car that is not running will get oil contamination as a result of accumulated moisture. If the car isn't run long enough to get rid of the moisture, it becomes damaging.

Your AOCA member lube professional can help you determine the best oil change schedule for your car and your driving conditions.

Right to Repair - Myth vs. Fact

2011-06-22 20:09:26

Myth #1

Vehicle manufacturers make all repair-related information available.

A survey conducted by Opinion Research of 1,000 aftermarket repair shops found more than $5.8 billion in service and parts sales are lost annually because independent repair shops lack access to the necessary repair information and tools from vehicle manufacturers. The survey also found 1.8 million motorists were turned away because independent repair shops did not have the codes and tools to repair their vehicles.

A good example are the codes required to reinitialize vehicle computer systems.
Independent repair shops or individuals can perform many repairs only to discover, near the end, that they are unable to access the codes to reinitialize a cars computer systems. That leaves the technician and vehicle owner unable to start the car to complete the repair.

Myth #2

Right to Repair is intended to allow aftermarket companies to reproduce original parts.

The legislation only requires vehicle manufacturers to share information necessary to repair vehicles the same information shared with franchised dealers. A repair technician does not need to know internal software codes. They just need the information and tools that can obtain the information off the on-board computer to pinpoint the problem and be able to implement the repair.

Replacement parts sold in the aftermarket are frequently manufactured by the same producers of original equipment installed by auto manufacturers.

Myth #3

Car companies and aftermarket dealers already have a cooperative agreement to provide repair data through the National Automotive Service Task Force (NASTF).

NASTF was established in 2000 to resolve information issues raised by the independent service industry. In reality, NASTF has functioned as a clearinghouse for complaints from independent auto repair shops by funneling them to their respective vehicle manufacturers.

NASTF has fallen far short of what is needed. In many cases, it can take weeks for NASTF to resolve an information dispute, which does little good for a consumer who wants his or her vehicle repaired as quickly as possible.

As a voluntary organization, NASTF has no antitrust exemption, so it cannot address issues such as vehicle makers charging discriminatory prices to independent auto repair shops.

Through the auspices of the Better Business Bureau in 2005, an attempt was made to improve the effectiveness of NASTF. The effort failed when vehicle manufacturers refused to agree to a balanced governing board and enforcement powers to ensure repair information was shared equally and at fair prices.

Myth #4

Nobody has enacted Right to Repair legislation.

The European Union enacted a Right to Repair law almost four years ago and, based on its success, recently extended it until 2023, with strengthened provisions.

There is precedent in the United States under the Clean Air Act. Car manufacturers are required to provide information about air emission control systems to all repair shops on a non-discriminatory basis.

Auto Maintenance Tips for Motorists

2011-06-03 05:33:21

In the real world, the vast majority of drivers operate their automobiles under what is often called "severe driving conditions". It is important that you follow your car manufacturer's recommendations for severe service maintenance intervals.

You are subjecting your vehicle to severe driving conditions if you do any of the following types of driving:

1. Multiple short trips
2. Stop and go driving
3. Cold weather
4. Hot, dusty conditions
5. Tow trailers
6. Heavy loads

Your local AOCA member lube center can provide the maintenance services required by your vehicle's manufacturer. The services provided include more than just changing the oil and oil filter. AOCA member lube centers provide a thorough check of all your vehicle's vital fluids. In addition, many member centers can replace your Air Filter, check your Air Conditioning, change your Automatic Transmission Fluid, clean Fuel Injectors, flush & fill the Radiator, change Wiper Blades, rotate Tires and perform many other services. For more information on the need for these services, go to the Motorist Resouces section.

Why Check Your Gear Boxes?

2011-06-22 11:36:35

Well-lubricated manual transmission and gear boxes mean smooth driving for you and your car!

Gear lubricant is a special oil formulated for the extra lubrication needs of gear boxes such as the manual transmission, the differential, the steering gear box and the transfer case in four-wheel drive vehicles. These gears perform best when operating in a pool of oil.

Normal use of your vehicle will subject these fluids to high temperatures which break down the fluid, causing it to become gummy. Once gummy, the oil loses its ability to lubricate properly which can cause abnormal wear on gears, even leading to axle failure.

Gear box fluids get low. If too low, bare metal contact and higher heat can occur causing premature wear on parts.

Differential fluid is one of the least checked fluids. Your vehicle's differential is a gear box that allows your vehicle's wheels to turn at different speeds. Well-lubricated differentials can help reduce tire wear, give you better road traction and steering stability.

Gear box lubricants should be serviced between 12 and 24 months or between 12,000 and 24,000 miles (19,000 to 38,000 km), depending on your vehicle and its individual driving conditions. Owners' manuals give specific recommendations.

Ask your AOCA member lube professional to check the levels and quality of your gear box lubricants so you and your car get the smooth drive you both deserve.

YOU WIN With AOCA Lube Centers!

2011-06-27 10:41:09

5 Reasons Why You Win by Choosing an AOCA Member Lube Center:

Convenience - AOCA members provide professional service at YOUR convenience. There is no need to be without our vehicle for an entire day. In most cases, AOCA member facilities require no appointment and can service your car while you wait.
Training - AOCA members have access to the best training resources and materials in the fast-lube industry. From management and technician training to the latest information on new cars; AOCA members stay ahead of the curve.
Quality - AOCA members use oil and filters that meet or exceed the requirements set by the manufacturer.
Value - For the convenience and time you will save, AOCA members offer quality service at competitive prices.
Environment - You can rest assured that the used oil coming out of your vehicle is handled and disposed of properly. AOCA member facilities recycle used oil and/or use it for heating in the winter to conserve energy.

Are You A Severe Driver?

2011-06-22 12:02:35

Are You A Severe Driver? Your first answer to this question may be no, but you might be surprised to learn that 4 out of 5 drivers fall into the severe driving category. Auto manufacturers usually have two classifications of drivers: normal and severe. This classification dictates the proper maintenance and oil change interval for your vehicle.

Severe driving is not about driving style it actually refers to the conditions you drive in, which can be marked by:

Frequent idling for long periods of time.
Driving on steep hills or mountains on a regular basis.
Frequent driving in stop-and-go traffic.
Driving in extreme temperature conditions such as hot weather or below freezing.
Driving in dusty or muddy conditions or on rough roads.
Driving at prolonged higher engine speeds.
Using your car for towing.
Taking multiple trips averaging five to ten miles in length.
Traveling with a car-top carrier.
Driving in areas where road salts are used or living in a coastal area.

Most of us drive in at least one of these conditions every day, whether we are shuttling kids to and from activities, sitting in traffic on our way to and from work, or running errands on the weekends.

Many new vehicle owners manuals recommend oil changes every 7,500 miles or 12 months and oil filter changes at the first oil change and then every 15,000 miles after that. This is all recommended for "normal drivers. What you might not realize though is that normal to them is really ideal, which most of us don't fit into.

Why is it so important to change your engine's oil according to the manufacturer's recommendations? Over time, the additives in the motor oil get depleted. The only way to provide engines the protection they need is to change the oil and oil filter. Oil also thickens over time, leading to poor cold-start lubrication performance as well as a drop in fuel economy.

Changing your oil at recommended intervals is not only a critical component of vehicle maintenance it also serves as a trigger point for performing other important vehicle checks, such as tire pressure, radiator levels and belt and hose integrity, which can save you from problems down the road.

Like most preventive maintenance, changing the oil and filter is a form of insurance. It's no secret that a well-maintained car can run better, more efficiently and for a longer period of time. A properly performing motor oil protects the engine, increases the car's fuel economy and helps to guarantee its overall performance, which in turn saves you money, something we can all use help with these days.

Have Questions About GM's dexos?

2011-06-22 21:08:34

If you own a 2011 GM vehicle, there are some big changes in store for you.Until now, GM consumers had the choice of any major brand of oil and did not worry about whether that would void their warranty. But starting in 2011, GM is insisting on new motor oil restrictions far different from the rest of the industry. In fact, GM owners are being told to exclusively use GM's own dexos brand of motor oil. This raises several questions.

Q. Do I have to go to the dealer to get my oil changed?
A. No. You have the right to choose where your vehicle is serviced for routine maintenance. According to the Federal Trade Commission, it is illegal for a dealer or manufacturer to void your warranty simply because you did not have your vehicle serviced at a dealer.

Q. Besides dexos products, there are other products that meet or exceed dexos specifications but don't appear to be licensed by GM. Which can I use?
A. You can use any product that meets dexos specifications. You are not required to use the dexos brand. GM has chosen to grant licenses only to companies that pay them a substantial fee - a fee that will be passed on to consumers. So, some companies have chosen to make a product that meets the same standards as a licensed product without adding an unnecessary cost to the product that consumers would be forced to pay. Non-GM-licensed products that meet the dexos specifications will likely have a statement on the product like "meets dexos specifications" or something similar.

Q. If I don't use a GM-licensed motor oil, will my warranty be voided?
A. No, federal law prohibits a manufacturer from requiring the use of a specific brand in order to maintain the warranty. The FTC recently issued a consumer alert to remind consumers and businesses that the manufacturer or dealer must prove that a given product caused the need for repairs before denying warranty coverage on the basis of the product simply being used.

It is also worth noting that GM itself has acknowledged alternative engine oils may be used if dexos is unavailable: In the event that dexos approved engine oil is not available at an oil change or for maintaining proper oil level, you may use substitute engine oil displaying the API Starburst symbol and of SAE 5W30 viscosity grade. Use of oils that do not meet the dexos specification, however, may result in reduced performance under certain circumstances.

Why Change Your Air Filtration System?

2011-06-22 11:33:58

Clean, fresh air! You live better with it and so does your engine.

Your engine's air filter captures airborne contaminants, like bugs and dirt, out of the air before they enter your engine. Each gallon of gasoline burned by your engine requires 10,000 gallons of air - that translates into a lot of contaminants being sucked into your air filter. Left unchanged, dirty air filters can lead to poor acceleration, lower gas mileage and poor engine performance.

We can all breathe cleaner air by having our PCV valves and breather elements changed regularly. The positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) valve and breather element process exhaust fumes to reduce air pollutants. Changing PCV valves and breather elements helps the air filtration system do its job effectively.

Your air filtration system - air filter, PCV valve and breather element - should be replaced approximately every 9,000 miles/15,000 km, or according to the recommendations in your owner's manual.

Ask your AOCA member lube professional to check these filters so you and your car can breathe easier.

Why Change Your In-Cabin Air Filter?

2011-06-22 11:37:48

A clean filter means a breath of fresh air.

A cabin air filter is a mechanism that keeps air inside the passenger compartment of your car from becoming stale and unhealthy. Some consumers are not even aware their car has a cabin air filter. Many newer model cars have the component tucked away inside the dash or elsewhere where it is not easily seen.

Although hidden, a cabin air filter performs a very important function. Not to be confused with an engine air filter, this piece of equipment removes contaminants such as dust, pollen, mold spores, and other small particles from the air that circulates through your cars heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system and into the passenger cabin.

To keep air quality at its best, filters should be replaced according to manufacturers' recommendations, generally once a year or every 15,000 miles/24,000 kilometers - more frequently if you drive in dusty or industrial environments. Regularly changing cabin air filters also can maximize the life of your cars HVAC system by reducing debris and corrosion on the evaporator core.

Cabin air filters stop most airborne particles, and some are even capable of eliminating odors. That's welcome news for people with allergies and others concerned about air quality. Changing a cabin air filter is a quick process on most vehicles, and the cost is minimal. Ask your AOCA member lube professional if your vehicle needs a cabin air filter change. You'll breathe a whole lot easier.

Maintenance Services

2011-06-22 11:38:45

When you pull into an AOCA member lube center, you can expect that most of the following checks and services will be completed.

Drain & replace motor oil
Install new oil filter
Lubricate the chassis
Check the air filter
Check PCV valve
Check breather element
Check brake fluid
Check transmission & transaxle fluid
Check your gear boxes
Check and fill windshield washer fluid
Inflate tires to proper air pressure
In-cabin air filter

Making sure all of the important systems are in good operating condition is one of your lube center's primary goals. Be confident that when you leave the center, all systems are GO!

To find the AOCA member service center nearest you, click on the "Find an AOCA Member Lube Center" button located on our site. You can search by zip/mail code and select the radius of your search. You will find addresses, phone numbers and Web sites for AOCA members, including some with online discount offers.

Why Change Your Oil Filter?

2011-06-22 11:39:40

How do you prefer your drinking water - clean or mixed with dirt? Your car engine would answer the same way regarding motor oil.

The oil filter's job is to remove oil contaminants. It sifts out the solid particles while allowing the oil to flow unrestricted through the engine. When the oil filter becomes full or "clogged," the oil and contaminants will flow around the filter. This "by-passing" is a safety mechanism. As far as your engine is concerned, dirty oil is better than none at all. However, when by-passing occurs, contaminants head straight for the engine where they can eventually cause permanent damage. Studies also show that fuel economy and emissions are adversely affected during by-passing.

Protect your engine by having your AOCA member lube professional change your oil filter every time you change your motor oil. Changing your oil filter on a timely basis will help keep your engine drinking clear, clean oil!

Why Check Transmission Fluid?

2011-06-22 11:40:17

You and your wallet reap the benefit!

Replacing your automatic transmission filter and fluid at recommended intervals will save you time, money and aggravation.

Automatic transmission fluid (ATF) keeps the moving parts of the transmission lubricated so they can run smoothly. ATF is a specialized, high quality lubricant with as many as 15 additives designed to meet the special lubrication needs of an automatic transmission. The goal of most engine lubricants is to reduce friction as much as possible. Automatic transmissions, however, need a certain amount of friction to give the proper feel when shifting. Many different ATFs are available. Your AOCA lube professional will choose the ATF that is right for your car.

The automatic transmission filter protects the moving parts of a transmission by removing harmful metal filings and abrasive particles from the transmission fluid. It keeps the fluid clear and clean so it can cool and lubricate the transmission properly.

Ask your AOCA member lube professional to check your automatic transmission fluid level each time you have your oil changed, especially if you do a lot of stop-and-go driving or towing with your vehicle.

Why Check Tire Inflation?

2011-06-22 11:41:01

Properly inflated tires give you a smooth, safe and less costly ride!

Maintaining proper air pressure in your tires protects against excessive tire wear, gives you the best ride and allows you to handle your car safely. You should check your tires' air pressure when the tires are cool. Most tires require air pressure of between 32-44 PSI (pounds per square inch). Tires should generally be filled according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Both over inflation and under inflation cause excessive tire wear.

Most late model cars have Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems that notify you when the tire pressure is too high or too low. A manual check of the pressure is still good practice to ensure optimum inflation for fuel efficiency.

Tires are costly, so you will want to get maximum wear out of them. Having your tires rotated regularly will give you a smoother ride and will extend the life of your tires by making sure they wear evenly. Whether you have radial or non-radial tires will determine the type of rotation required.

Convenience is the reason you should have your tires rotated at your AOCA member fast lube. When having your oil changed, simply ask if it's time for a tire rotation. Tires should be rotated every 7,500 miles/12,000 km or as specified in your owner's manual. Why make a trip to the tire store? Let your AOCA member lube professional take care of your engine and your tires.

Confused About Your Warranty? Know Your Rights!

2011-06-22 11:48:19

FTC Consumer Alert

Auto Warranties, Routine Maintenance and Repairs:

Is Using the Dealer a Must?

If you own a car, you know how important it is to keep up with routine maintenance and repairs. But can a dealer refuse to honor the warranty that came with your new car if someone else does the routine maintenance or repairs?

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the nation's consumer protection agency, says no. In fact, it's illegal for a dealer to deny your warranty coverage simply because you had routine maintenance or repairs performed by someone else. Routine maintenance often includes oil changes, tire rotations, belt replacement, fluid checks and flushes, new brake pads, and inspections. Maintenance schedules vary by vehicle make, model and year; the best source of information about routine scheduled maintenance is your owner's manual.

What is a warranty?

A warranty is a promise, often made by a manufacturer, to stand behind its product or to fix certain defects or malfunctions over a period of time. The warranty pays for any covered repairs or part replacements during the warranty period.

Do I have to use the dealer for repairs and maintenance to keep my warranty in effect?

No. An independent mechanic, a retail chain shop, or even you yourself can do routine maintenance and repairs on your vehicle. In fact, the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, which is enforced by the FTC, makes it illegal for manufacturers or dealers to claim that your warranty is void or to deny coverage under your warranty simply because someone other than the dealer did the work. That said, there may be certain situations where a repair may not be covered. For example, if you or your mechanic replaced a belt improperly and your engine is damaged as a result, your manufacturer or dealer may deny responsibility for fixing the engine under the warranty. However, according to the FTC, the manufacturer or dealer must be able to demonstrate that it was the improper belt replacement rather than some other defect that caused the damage to your engine. The warranty would still be in effect for other parts of your car.

Will using aftermarket parts void my warranty?

No. An aftermarket part is a part made by a company other than the vehicle manufacturer or the original equipment manufacturer. Simply using an aftermarket part does not void your warranty.

The Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act makes it illegal for companies to void your warranty or deny coverage under the warranty simply because you used an aftermarket part. Still, if it turns out that the aftermarket part was itself defective or wasn't installed correctly, and it causes damage to another part that is covered under the warranty, the manufacturer or dealer has the right to deny coverage for that part and charge you for any repairs. The FTC says the manufacturer or dealer must show that the aftermarket equipment caused the need for repairs before denying warranty coverage.

Tips To Avoid Warranty Issues

Here's how to get the most out of your vehicle's warranty:

Read your warranty. Often bundled with your owner's manual, the warranty gives a general description and specific details about your coverage. If you have misplaced your owner's manual, look for it online. Check the Owners section of your manufacturer's website.

Be aware of your warranty period. If problems arise that are covered under the warranty, get them checked out before the warranty expires. Service your car at regular intervals. This is a good idea in any case. But for the sake of keeping your warranty intact, follow the manufacturer's recommended service schedule. Details are in your owner's manual.

Keep all service records and receipts, regardless of who performs the service. This includes oil changes, tire rotations, belt replacement, new brake pads and inspections. Create a file to keep track of repairs; it will come in handy if you have to use your warranty. If you ever have a warranty claim and it appears that you did not maintain your vehicle, your claim could be denied.

Complain. If you think a dealer's service advisor denied your warranty claim unfairly, ask to speak with a supervisor. If you still aren't satisfied, contact the manufacturer or go to another dealer. You also may wish to file a complaint with your state Attorney General, local consumer protection office, local Better Business Bureau or the FTC.

For More Information
Visit ftc.gov for free information on buying, financing, leasing, renting and maintaining vehicles.

The FTC works to prevent fraudulent, deceptive and unfair business practices in the marketplace and to provide information to help consumers spot, stop and avoid them. To file a complaint or get free information on consumer issues, visit ftc.gov or call toll-free, 1-877-FTC-HELP (1-877-382-4357); TTY: 1-866-653-4261. Watch a new video, How to File a Complaint, at ftc.gov/video to learn more. The FTC enters consumer complaints into the Consumer Sentinel Network, a secure online database and investigative tool used by hundreds of civil and criminal law enforcement agencies in the U.S. and abroad.

Gas Saving Tips for Trying Times

2011-06-23 08:09:21

Every day seems to bring higher prices at the gas pump. Some commuters are sharing rides, others are taking public transportation. But if you are like countless others, you depend on your personal vehicle. So here are some easy-to-follow gas-saving tips from the experts at the non-profit National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) on how to conserve fuel and make sure your car or truck gets optimal miles per gallon. (Read Article)