Blog Layout

I change my own oil

Michael Leech • January 30, 2017

This statement always has the ability to scare me, for so many reasons. I will start off with this: the most neglected cars I see belong to people that change their own oil. Yes, sir, they do. Uh-huh. Every three thousand miles. There are a million good reasons to change your oil, and very good reasons to pay a professional to do this for you.

Why you SHOULDN’T change your own oil :

We charge $25-30 for an oil change, and half the time there is a special going on. You can save maybe 10 dollars buy buying cheap stuff and doing it yourself. Is the hassle really worth ten bucks?

Unless you are such an enthusiast that you have a lift in your garage and a set of tools that rivals those of a Professional Technician you shouldn’t bother. In the event anything goes wrong (stripped drain plug, jammed filter, damaged plug seal, oil cap stuck) you may have to tow your car to a shop to have it fixed. That tow will cost more than you can save by doing your own oil changes for a year.

You probably do not have easy access to info like maintenance schedules, fluid capacities, fluid type recommendations, etc. Yes, you can find all of these if you look, but really- that is our job. You do your job and be good at it. We do ours, and we’re good at it.

You WANT a pro under your hood on a regular basis. We will spot things you don’t, and believe me, scheduling a repair is WAY better than having an unplanned one. Some repairs cannot be predicted, but you should do everything you can to catch the ones that can (and most of them can be caught early).

Liability. Yes, that is a dirty, dirty word, but I said it. Simply put, we have legal liability- if the filter goes kaput and your engine goes off like a firework, you don’t have to pay 4000$ to get a new one. You have no legal recourse if a guy in his backyard (or you) mess up your car. Believe me, it happens. I have replaced about a dozen engines over the years from botched services (botched at other shops, we’ve never botched one here, thank God- and thank the QA process).

Why you SHOULD let us change your oil :

Can you reset your oil change reminder lamp? We do that, free of charge, with every oil change.

Do you know how to check your brakes, suspension, lights, filters and fluids? We do. Free again. That’s right, no charge to you. We don’t high pressure sell, either. If we find stuff wrong, we’ll hand you an estimate and tell you what you need. If you want us to do the work, great, that is what we are here for! If not, great, we still love you (just please take care of your car)!

Can you set the pressures in your tires CORRECTLY (see blog on this topic)? We do that too, free with every oil change.

You make an appt (or just call, we can almost always fit you in), come in, have a cup of coffee (free) in our comfortable, climate controlled, waiting area with free wi-fi, and hang out for about 1/2 hr. You hand us 25-30 bucks, we chat about your car and what your best plan for caring for it is, then off you go.

Building the relationship with your auto mechanic BEFORE you have a breakdown is crucial. When you have seen us 2 or 3 times for maintenance services, you can feel confident when you need us for a repair. Our goal is and always has been “right the first time, every time” and we are pretty awesome at meeting it. You don’t get to know that until you’ve been here, though.

 

In a nutshell, get a PRO at a Professional Auto Repair Facility (not a guy in his back yard) to change your oil! It is WORTH it!!!!

 

 

The post I change my own oil appeared first on Pro Auto Repairs.

 

March 20, 2025
At Pro Auto Repair in Newport News, VA, we know that a smooth, responsive steering experience is essential for safe and comfortable driving. If you've ever encountered a stiff steering wheel, you know how concerning and frustrating it can be. Whether you're making tight turns or navigating through busy streets, a stiff steering wheel can significantly impact your driving experience. A stiff steering wheel often indicates that something isn’t quite right with your vehicle’s steering system. In this blog post, we’ll explore the most common causes of a stiff steering wheel and how Pro Auto Repair in Newport News, VA can help you resolve the issue, ensuring your vehicle runs smoothly and safely. The Importance of a Smooth Steering System Your vehicle’s steering system is a vital component for maintaining control of your car, truck, or SUV. A smooth and responsive steering system allows for precise control when navigating curves, parking, or driving at high speeds. If your steering feels stiff or unresponsive, it can make driving more difficult and potentially dangerous. Keeping your steering system in top condition is essential for your safety. Regular maintenance and addressing any steering issues promptly will ensure a more enjoyable driving experience and help you avoid costly repairs down the line. Common Causes of a Stiff Steering Wheel Several issues could cause your steering wheel to feel stiff. Let’s break down the most common causes and explain how Pro Auto Repair in Newport News, VA can help you address them. 1. Low Power Steering Fluid One of the most common causes of a stiff steering wheel is low or contaminated power steering fluid. Your vehicle’s power steering system relies on fluid to make steering more effortless, especially at lower speeds. If the fluid level is low or the fluid is dirty, it can cause the steering wheel to become stiff or difficult to turn. How It Happens: Power steering fluid can leak over time or degrade, reducing its effectiveness. Contaminated fluid can also cause the system to malfunction, resulting in hard steering. What to Do: If you suspect low or dirty power steering fluid, it’s essential to have it checked and replaced. At Pro Auto Repair , we can quickly assess your fluid levels, flush the system if necessary, and ensure the right fluid is added to keep your power steering system functioning smoothly. 2. Worn or Damaged Power Steering Pump The power steering pump is responsible for pushing the fluid through the power steering system. If the pump begins to wear out or break down, it can result in a stiff or unresponsive steering wheel. A faulty pump may also cause whining noises when turning the steering wheel. How It Happens: Over time, the power steering pump can become damaged due to wear and tear, excessive heat, or contamination in the fluid. What to Do: If you notice whining noises or difficulty turning the steering wheel, it's important to have your power steering pump checked. Pro Auto Repair in Newport News, VA, can inspect your pump and replace it if necessary, restoring smooth steering. 3. Damaged Steering Rack or Tie Rods The steering rack and tie rods are essential components that connect your steering wheel to the wheels of your vehicle. If either of these parts becomes damaged, it can lead to stiff steering. A damaged steering rack can cause your steering wheel to feel tight or unresponsive, while damaged tie rods can lead to misalignment, which affects your vehicle’s handling. How It Happens: The steering rack and tie rods can become worn or damaged from age, rough driving conditions, or accidents. When they break down, your steering system will suffer, often resulting in stiffness. What to Do: If the steering rack or tie rods are damaged, it’s critical to have them replaced immediately. Pro Auto Repair offers professional steering system repairs, including steering rack replacement and tie rod replacements, to restore your vehicle's handling and steering precision. 4. Faulty Serpentine Belt The serpentine belt plays a key role in powering various components of your vehicle, including the power steering pump. If the serpentine belt becomes loose, worn, or damaged, it can prevent the power steering pump from working effectively, causing stiffness in the steering wheel. How It Happens: Over time, the serpentine belt can wear out or slip, reducing the amount of power sent to the power steering pump. This can result in reduced steering assist and make the steering wheel harder to turn. What to Do: Regular inspection and maintenance of the serpentine belt can help prevent this issue. If you notice your steering becoming stiff, have the belt checked at Pro Auto Repair , where we’ll ensure it’s properly tightened or replaced as needed. 5. Alignment Issues Your vehicle’s alignment affects how the wheels are positioned in relation to the steering components. When the wheels are misaligned, it can lead to uneven tire wear, pulling to one side, and, in some cases, a stiff steering wheel. Misalignment can also cause your vehicle to feel unstable while driving, especially at higher speeds. How It Happens: Misalignment can occur due to hitting a curb, driving over potholes, or general wear and tear on the suspension components. What to Do: If you’re experiencing a stiff steering wheel alongside pulling to one side or uneven tire wear, it’s a good idea to have your vehicle’s alignment checked. Pro Auto Repair in Newport News, VA, offers professional wheel alignment services that will restore your vehicle's steering precision and improve overall handling. 6. Worn Out Steering Column or Bearings The steering column and bearings are part of the system that connects your steering wheel to the rest of your vehicle’s steering components. If these parts become worn out or damaged, it can cause the steering wheel to feel stiff or difficult to turn. How It Happens: Over time, the bearings can wear down, or the steering column can become misaligned, leading to stiffness in the wheel. This issue is more common in older vehicles or those with higher mileage. What to Do: If your steering wheel feels tight and you’ve ruled out other causes, it could be a sign of issues with the steering column or bearings. Our expert technicians at Pro Auto Repair can diagnose the issue and replace any worn-out components, restoring your steering system’s performance. How Pro Auto Repair Can Help in Newport News, VA At Pro Auto Repair , we specialize in steering system repairs and maintenance. If your steering wheel feels stiff, don’t wait for the problem to worsen—bring your vehicle in for a professional inspection. Our experienced technicians will assess the issue, whether it’s low power steering fluid, a faulty pump, worn-out components, or something else entirely. We’ll provide you with a reliable diagnosis and the necessary repairs to restore smooth steering and keep you safe on the road. Preventive Maintenance for Smooth Steering To keep your steering system in top shape and avoid stiff steering, regular maintenance is essential. Here are some preventive measures you can take: Check fluid levels regularly: Ensure your power steering fluid is topped off and replace it when it becomes dirty or contaminated. Inspect your steering system: Have your steering components, including the pump, rack, and tie rods, checked regularly for wear and tear. Maintain proper alignment: Get your vehicle’s alignment checked every year or whenever you notice signs of uneven tire wear or steering issues. By staying on top of these maintenance tasks, you can keep your steering system running smoothly and avoid costly repairs down the road. Schedule Your Steering System Check at Pro Auto Repair Today If your steering wheel feels stiff or unresponsive, don’t wait for the problem to worsen. Schedule a professional inspection at Pro Auto Repair in Newport News, VA, today. Our expert technicians will diagnose the issue and ensure your steering system is in optimal condition, so you can enjoy a safe and smooth ride.
How to Store Seasonal Tires Properly in Newport News, VA | Pro Auto Repair
February 17, 2025
Proper tire storage extends longevity and safety. Learn expert tips from Pro Auto Repair in Newport News, VA. Schedule your tire service today!
Why Child Car Seat Safety Depends on Your Vehicle’s Condition in Newport News | Pro Auto Repair
January 31, 2025
Ensure your child’s car seat safety with a well-maintained vehicle. At Pro Auto Repair in Newport News, VA, we offer expert brake, tire, and safety checks. Schedule an appointment today!
Failed VA Safety Inspection? Get Expert Repairs in Newport News | Pro Auto Repair
January 31, 2025
Failed your Virginia safety inspection? Pro Auto Repair in Newport News, VA, offers expert repairs to get your car road-ready. Schedule an appointment today!
The Importance of Battery Testing in Newport News, VA | Pro Auto Repair
January 31, 2025
Ensure reliable car performance with routine battery testing at Pro Auto Repair in Newport News, VA. Avoid breakdowns—schedule your battery check today!
Brake Fluid Reduce Stopping Power in Newport News, VA | Pro Auto Repair
January 31, 2025
Spongy brakes? Air bubbles in brake fluid can reduce stopping power. Visit Pro Auto Repair in Newport News, VA, for expert brake bleeding & fluid flush services!
Why Replacing Shocks and Struts Saves You Money | Pro Auto Repair Newport News
January 31, 2025
Worn shocks and struts can lead to costly repairs and unsafe driving. Trust Pro Auto Repair in Newport News, VA, for expert suspension services. Schedule an appointment today!
Should You Repair or Replace Your Engine? | Pro Auto Repair in Newport News, VA
January 31, 2025
Engine trouble? Learn whether to repair or replace your engine with expert insights from Pro Auto Repair in Newport News, VA. Schedule your inspection today!
A white mercedes benz slr is parked on the side of the road.
July 29, 2024
Discover why Pro Auto Repairs is the best for your European car in Newport News, VA. Expert care, advanced diagnostics, and exceptional service. Visit us today!
A mechanic is working on the engine of a car in a garage  | Pro Auto Repairs
July 2, 2024
Discover how engine performance tuning can enhance your vehicle's power and efficiency. Visit Pro Auto Repairs in Newport News, VA, for expert tuning services. Schedule an appointment today!
More Posts
Share by: