2021
Auto Advice For St. Paul Consumers
If you are looking for ways to extend the life of your Jeep, you have come to the right place. At St. Paul Dodge in Alberta, our Service Department provides regularly scheduled maintenance to keep your SUV running in top condition and ward off any sudden repairs.Here are four tips from our Technicians to get the most years of driving enjoyment out of your Jeep:
1. Check your fluids
Your SUV features numerous parts and components, including the engine, brakes, transmission and power steering. To run their best, many of the systems in your vehicle rely on fluids or oils to operate. If they are dirty, contaminated or low, these critical components cannot function well and can fail. A regular inspection of your fluids will help extend the life of your Jeep and its parts.
2. Replace your timing belt
Most newer vehicles use a timing belt to prevent pistons and valves from colliding. If this part is worn, it could fail and damage the engine. Your Jeep Owner's Guide outlines the specific maintenance interval for timing belt replacements. Follow the service schedule to prolong the life of your engine.
3. Inspect your suspension system
A worn shock or strut will compromise your SUV’s performance by increasing your stopping distance, causing uneven tire wear and making for a bumpier ride. By replacing your shocks and struts as outlined in your Owner’s Guide, you will improve your vehicle's stability, maximize tire-to-road contact and extend the life of your Jeep.
4. Check your tires for proper inflation and wear
Uneven wear can put extra stress on your suspension, affect your alignment and cause premature tire replacement. Regular inspections, proper inflation and tire rotations can preserve the life of your rubber, promote even wear and achieve better fuel economy.
For more tips about extending the life of your Jeep with regular maintenance, contact our Service Department today to speak with an advisor.
Wintertime can wreak havoc on your Jeep's suspension system. Constant freezing and thawing cycles seep water into the pavement and cause cracks and potholes to form, which pose a threat to your SUV. There are also more rocks, debris and corrosive salt on the roads, creating wear and tear on an SUV's shocks and struts.To maintain your Jeep's smooth ride, contact our Service Department at St. Paul Dodge in Alberta if you notice any of these issues:
1. Bouncing
If every bump feels harsh and bouncy, this could be a sign that your shocks and struts need a tune-up.
2. Drifting or pulling through turns
A common issue with a failing suspension system is that the vehicle will drift or pull while turning. When this happens, the shocks are no longer keeping your Jeep's body stable against the centrifugal force of a turn, which can lead to a rollover.
3. Nose diving
If your shocks are worn, your Jeep may lurch forward into a downward nose-dive when coming to a stop, which can significantly increase your stopping distances.
4. Uneven tire treads
If you notice the tread is wearing unevenly or your tires have bald spots, your suspension is not applying even pressure to the four corners of your vehicle. This can lead to premature tire wear, poor traction and lower fuel economy.
5. Oily shocks
If your shocks or struts are oily or greasy, it could signify a leak, which requires immediate attention.
To learn more about Jeep suspension maintenance and repairs, contact our Service Department at St. Paul Dodge in Alberta to schedule an appointment.
