General Maintenance For Your Vehicle
The traditional core of the automotive industry, known as the "tune-up," has undergone significant changes over time. Despite some misconceptions, contemporary vehicles still require tune-ups for optimal performance.
With the rapid advancement of technology, the processes involved in carrying out a conventional tune-up have undergone a substantial transformation. Advanced ignition and fuel systems have become standard, incorporating one or more onboard computers to regulate essential engine and transmission functions.
Failure to maintain the vehicle appropriately will hinder your ability to reach your desired destination. In the 21st Century Tune-up for modern vehicles, it is essential to inspect the following systems: battery, charging and starting engine, mechanical powertrain control (including onboard diagnostic checks), fuel ignition, and emissions.
To ensure optimal performance, fuel efficiency, and reduced emissions, the Car Care Council advises motorists to invest time in understanding their vehicles. Familiarize yourself thoroughly with the operation of all systems by studying the owner's manual. Pay close attention to indicator lights and instruments.
Getting Your Vehicle Ready for Winter
Some of the following tips can be performed by any do-it-yourselfer; others require the skilled hands of a professional auto technician.
Heater/Defroster
The heater and defroster must be in good working condition for passenger comfort and driver visibility. Newer models have a cabin air filter that should be replaced periodically. Check your owner's manual for the location and replacement interval.
Battery
The only accurate way to detect a weak battery is with professional equipment. Routine care: Scrape away corrosion from posts and cable connections; clean all surfaces; re-tighten all connections. If battery caps are removable, check fluid level monthly. Avoid contact with corrosive deposits and battery acid. Wear eye protection and rubber gloves.
Tires
Worn tires will be of little use in winter weather. Examine tires for remaining tread life, uneven wearing, and cupping; check the sidewalls for cuts and nicks. Check tire pressures once a month. Check the tires when they are cold, before driving for any distance. Rotate as recommended. Don't forget your spare, and be sure the jack is in good condition.
Getting Your Vehicle Ready For Summer
Summer's heat, dust, and stop-and-go traffic, will take their toll on your vehicle. Add the effects of last winter, and you could be poised for a breakdown. You can lessen the odds of mechanical failure through periodic maintenance. Your vehicle should last longer and command a higher resale price, too! Some of the following tips are easy to do; others require a skilled auto technician.
Air Conditioning
A marginally operating system will fail in hot weather. Have the system examined by a qualified technician. Newer models have cabin air filters that clean the air entering the heating and air conditioning system. Check your owner's manual for location and replacement interval.
Cooling System
The greatest cause of summer breakdowns is overheating. The cooling system should be completely flushed and refilled about every 24 months. The level, condition, and concentration of the coolant should be checked periodically. (A 50/50 mix of anti-freeze and water is usually recommended.) DIYers, never remove the radiator cap until the engine has thoroughly cooled! The tightness and condition of drive belts, clamps, and hoses should be checked by a pro.
Brakes
Brakes should be inspected as recommended in your manual, or sooner if you notice pulsations, grabbing, noises, or longer stopping distance. Minor brake problems should be corrected promptly.
what our customers say
Forgive me as it has been some time since I was there, but about a month ago I was getting ready to head over to Orlando for work training from Sarasota. I pulled out of my driveway and my power steering was gone. I immediately drove to the only auto repair shop I have been to since living out here and they were too busy to help me. I started to google shops around me and Hitchcock Automotive came up. I made my way over and they had space and time to help me out right away. Scott Sr. (I believe was his name) was super kind (which I usually find uncommon as a woman looking to get her car fixed) and he reassured me it was an easy fix. The ?o-ring? had completely broken a piece off and they got my car up and cleaned up and replaced the ring within 20-30 min. I expressed my thanks and asked how much I owed and he told me it was on them and not to worry about it. Believe me I was worried about it. I never know how much mechanics are going to charge me and I couldn?t believe he did all of that for free. It was probably an easy little fix for them, but it was a huge fix to my day and restored a part of my faith in kindness. Thank you guys seriously. You had no idea how helpful that was to me when I needed it. Many thanks and will be back for any future car troubles. I highly recommend making this your first stop with auto repairs. A trustworthy team, quality work, and a safe and clean space. 10/10 guys.
I was looking for a good auto repair shop for my Lexus when I found Hitchcock Automotive mentioned several times on Next Door. I called and brought my car in with a list of items that needed to be repaired and asked if they would give me an estimate. While I waited, they looked the car over , gave me a very good price on the repairs and offered to do the work that day or the next, based on my convenience. I am very happy with the work that was done on my car and quite impressed with the customer service of Hitchcock Automotive. What a great find! Just an update to my last review because I know people are always looking for a good auto mechanic. My husband and I have used Hitchcock Automotive several times now for my Lexus RX 350 and his Jeep and we are extremely happy with their service. Scott, the owner, is just great! He runs a very efficient shop where the work is done on time and in line with the estimate. We have never had to bring anything back for an adjustment. Scott explains what needs to be done and , just as importantly, what doesn?t need to be done. When we bring our cars in for service, we know that the work will be done correctly and that we will be treated in a professional and courteous manner.
I couldn't speak more highly of this family owned and operated shop! They were honest, reasonable, good people. I will be recommending them to everyone I know! I came in with a muffler issue, they could have looked at me and assumed they could make some good money off of me by telling me I needed an all new muffler installed. Instead they brought me into the garage showed me the exact problem along with their recommendation and were able to easily fix the problem with very little cost to me. Five stars ? Thank you for being one of the good ones!!
