Services

The best way to minimize more serious breakdowns and the higher costs associated with automotive repair is by doing routine maintenance.

Preventive vehicle maintenance is simply what the manufacturer of your vehicle suggests getting done to keep your vehicle going. Whether you have a car or truck we provide the maintenance services to keep it running well.

Did you just moved to Maryland and is your vehicle is registered in another state?
Then yes, you have 60 days to register your vehicle in the state of Maryland and a state inspection is required to register your vehicle.

Are you a resident of Maryland and have become an owner of a used vehicle?
If you answered yes, you will need a Maryland Safety Inspection certificate dated no more than 90 days prior to the registration date. This means even if the car you bought has already been inspected this year, you will still need to go through the inspection process again, because the certificate is only valid for 90 days.

IMPORTANT TIP:
We highly recommend that BEFORE you purchase a used vehicle that you have it inspected to ensure that that the vehicle will pass inspection. The inspection that we conduct are very detailed and will give you a good idea of what condition the vehicle is in.

Brakes wear out over time requiring service. How long your brakes last is based on various things such as driving conditions, how you brake and other factors. For this reason, it is necessary to service your brakes regularly. We are familiar with the driving conditions here in Mount Vernon and know that your brakes need care. So we provide a complimentary inspection with every service to make sure that any problem is taken up before it becomes a major concern.

The transmission may well be one of the most complicated and important components of your car or truck. That’s why it’s important to trust its maintenance and repair to a full-service shop. There are a number of problems that can be resolved simply while others may require a complete transmission overhaul. Our skilled mechanics have the training and expertise to properly diagnose your transmission problem and get you back on the road.

We know that failing your emissions test was disappointing and will our best to get all of your repairs done for you so that you will not fail your re-test.

We have state-of-the-art equipment and years of training and experience to use it properly, getting you the answers you need. Once our test procedures have found the source of the problem, we’ll explain what we have to do next and provide you with an accurate estimate of time and cost.

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Here are some of the most frequently asked questions that we receive along with their answers:

Q: I’ve heard different things about how often to change my oil. What’s the best guide?
A: A good rule of thumb is every 3,000 miles for an oil change. However, follow your vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations. They will specify the frequency for an oil change for your driving conditions. The timing of your oil change should follow those recommendations.

Q: I’ve got an older car, how important is it to change oil frequently?
A: An oil change puts fresh oil into your car. More importantly, an oil change takes out the old oil that can become filled with dust, metallic shavings or other contaminants. As your oil ages, outside items make their way in. Without an oil change, this can lower your gas mileage or in the worse case, cause your engine to fail. An oil change is a great preventive step to keep you car running clean and smooth. Make sure to change your oil filter as well. It helps to remove impurities from the oil and the engine.

Q: Why do my brakes squeak?
A: Brakes can squeak for a variety of reasons, but continuous squeals and grinding sounds may mean it’s time for new brake pads or shoes. Worn brakes can mean longer stopping distances and difficulty stopping in an emergency situation. Rotors and drums that are too thin may even become over-stressed and break.
Remember, if you notice any of these symptoms it’s a good idea to have your brakes checked. In fact, we recommend that you have them inspected once a year. It’s essential to be proactive about testing overall brake components to know whether a brake component needs simply to be serviced or totally replaced. Regular brake service and, when needed, simple brake repairs can mean a safer ride.

Q: My brake pedal feels really soft and spongy. Is this normal?
A: Definitely not. A low or spongy pedal can mean there’s air in your car’s brake hydraulic system. If that hydraulic pressure is too low, then your car’s brake pads or shoes won’t be able to apply enough force and friction to slow and/or stop your car safely. Again, an inspection of your car’s brake system is strongly advised.

Q: My car is older, so it seems to make more noise. How do I know when mufflers go bad?
A: Your car’s exhaust system is pretty complex. Excess noise could be from cracks or holes in manifolds or gaskets. Or on your muffler itself, excessive rust on a muffler, or holes in a muffler can cause a louder ride. Bad mufflers may also lead to increased pollution and even a rough idle. If you’re not sure, stop by Dobbin Auto Repair to get it checked out.