Do not ignore this warning. A “check engine” or “service engine” light indicates a problem detected by your car’s on-board diagnostic system (OBD). The light cannot indicate the exact nature of the problem- only the right training and diagnostic equipment can do that.

The brake system is your car’s most important safety system! Brakes wear on all cars. Eventually they will need to be replaced for both performance and safety. Never put off a needed brake repair. Waiting until the “metal-to-metal” point will be much more expensive because it will usually mean rotor or drum replacement. Avoid contaminated brake fluid by flushing and filling the brake hydraulic system.

Hoses should be checked at each oil change for age, hardening or softening by pinching. Any hose that feels rock hard or soft should be replaced (including new clamps). Leaking, visible cracks, blistering or any other visible damage on the outside of the hose would also indicate a need for replacement. Rubber hoses deteriorate with age and exposure to heat and cold, causing it to split, leak and blister.

Replace your belts at recommended intervals. Losing a belt means engine trouble because, on most cars, they are used to turn the water pump, alternator, power-steering and air-conditioning compressor. If a belt snaps everything is lost and you may be stranded. Belts breakdown with heat, mileage, age & fail from the inside out. If it is loose or slips the wear process can be accelerated.