SERVICES
Engine Diagnostics
Vehicles with “driveablity” problems require the performance of diagnostic procedures to determine the cause. Components are tested, their condition recorded and compared to the manufacturer’s specs.
Transmission Service
ASE Certified transmission service includes:
Replace fluid, pan gasket and filter on vehicles so equipped. Most cars and light trucks. Additional costs for special gaskets and filters if needed. Limited warranty for 12 months/12,000 miles, whichever comes first.
Air Conditioning
The following components are inspected. Their condition is recorded and compared to manufacturer’s specs:
- Performance test system
- Leak test all connections
- Check drive belts and hoses
- Check heating and cooling systems
Batteries
The following components are inspected. Their condition is recorded and compared to manufacturer’s specs:
- Visual inspection
- Battery cable connections
- Battery hold-down hardware
- Battery case condition
- Electrolyte level (where applicable)
- Battery load test
Measures the battery’s ability to “work”. Results are compared to the battery and vehicle manufacturer’s specifications.
Belts & Hoses
The following components are inspected. Their condition is recorded and compared to manufacturer’s specs:
- Visual inspection
- Checked for glazing, cracking, peeling and softening
- Checked for proper tensioning
- Checked for proper alignment of drive pulleys
- Condition of each belt is recorded
Electrical System
The following components are inspected. Their condition is recorded and compared to manufacturer’s specs:
CHARGING SYSTEM
- Visual inspection
- Alternator drive belt
- Alternator mounting brackets
- Electrical connections
- Charging system test
Alternator output (current) and voltage are tested. Results are compared to manufacturer’s specifications.
STARTING SYSTEM
- Visual inspection
- Starter cable connections
- Starter mounting bolts and brackets
Starter Electrical “Draw” Test measures the amount of electrical energy required to turn the engine over during cranking. Results are compared to manufacturer’s specifications.
Suspension System
The following components are inspected. Their condition is recorded and compared to manufacturer’s specs:
STEERING
- Tie rod ends (inner and outer)
- Idler arm
- Pitman arm
- Rack and pinion unit
- Rack and pinion bellows boots
CV Joint/Boots (Constant Velocity Joint/Boots)
A CV Joint is a flexible coupling that allows for changes in the angle between rotating shafts without affecting the rate of rotation of the drive wheels; the CV Boot protects the CV Joint from dirt and water.
Inspection includes a visual inspection of the CV boots for tears, splits or leakage of lubricant. The vehicle is test driven to listen for noises while accelerating and turning. Includes a visual inspection of U-Joints for loss of lubricant and inspected for excessive movement due to worn components.
Exhaust System
The exhaust system is a complex automotive assembly which has a series of functions to perform, including carrying engine exhaust gasses safely to the rear of the vehicle, reducing the engine sound level, maintaining engine performance and reducing harmful emissions through the use of a catalytic converter. Follow maintenance recommendations of your vehicle manufacturer carefully. Don’t ignore systems of damage or disrepair. Your health and safety is at stake.
Heating and Air Conditioning
The following components are inspected. Their condition is recorded and compared to manufacturer’s specs. Recommendations are made per the Motorist Assurance Program Uniform Inspection Guidelines:
Visual Inspection:
- Interior controls and blower
- Radiator coolant level, hoses, pressure cap and thermostat
- The A/C compressor belt for condition and tension
- Leaks and other damage
- Component condition, leaks and damage
Heating and Air Conditioning Tests:
- Pressure test engine cooling system
- A/C system pressures are measured and compared to manufacturer’s specifications
- A/C system is leak tested
- Both the heater and the A/C are performance tested by checking the outlet air temperature at the discharge vents
Shocks & Struts
Shocks and struts are safety components that maintain vertical loads placed upon the tires. They control spring and suspension movement to keep tires in contact with the road.
Under normal conditions on a smooth road, shocks stroke on average 1,750 times for every mile traveled or 7.5 million stabilizing actions on average every 12,000 miles. As a result, shocks and struts do wear out and should be checked every 12,000 miles just to be safe. Worn shocks and struts affect vehicle safety.
Wiper Blade Service
Inspect wiper blades every six months (or more often if you notice wear or damage). A good rule of thumb for timing is daylight saving time, when many other household items are inspected and checked. Don’t wait until rainy season or take a chance on deteriorated vision to the point that safety is compromised.
If your vehicle has a repair problem, chances are good we’ve already fixed this problem hundreds of times. Contact us at your favorite Gatto location and let us make you a satisfied customer.
