Automotive service and repair has changed dramatically over a generation, according to the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE), an independent group that tests and certifies the competence of auto technicians nationwide.

The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence is a professional certification group that certifies professionals and shops in the automotive repair and service industry in the Canada and the US.

ASE was founded in 1972 as a nonprofit, independent organization dedicated to improving the quality of automotive service and repair through the voluntary testing and certification of automotive professionals.

Today, high-tech systems that were unheard of 30 years ago – anti-lock brakes, electronic engine controls
and computerized diagnostics – are commonplace.

It doesn’t appear that the swift pace of technological advancement will slow any time soon, either, with the advent of hybrid vehicles and such features on the horizon as interactive suspensions, constantly variable-speed transmissions and 42-volt batteries.

For automotive service professionals, this means continual training and coursework to keep up with the torrent of changes. Disparaged years ago as “grease monkeys,” mechanics today have become automotive technicians, every bit as comfortable behind a computer screen and keyboard as under the hood with a wrench.

ASE is reminding motorists to follow the service schedules listed in their owners’ manuals before making
a long-distance drive.

While few people would ignore an ominous service engine light, many do skip oil changes.

Yet in survey after survey, ASE-certified master auto technicians say that the old-fashioned oil change
is one of the most vital services for getting the most from your automotive investment.

Auto repair maintenance is essential for the life of your vehicle. I was actually a passenger in a car that
was having an active oil leak. The driver knew what was happening, and was warned to pull to the side
of the road and call a tow truck, but she wanted to try to make it home.

Unfortunately, she didn’t.

The engine seized up, never to run again. What a foolish and costly mistake. The simple fact is that
the engine in your car cannot run without lubrication from oil.

Heat and friction would, as in the case above, cause the engine to come to a full halt.

When I bought a new car many years ago and took it in for it’s first oil change the mechanic said to me that
if I kept the oil changed I’d get 321,000 Km out of the engine.

He was right.

I faithfully changed the oil every 4800 Km and at 304,000 Km I had to say goodbye to my faithful friend,
not due to engine trouble, but due to a rusting frame.

He also noticed that the oil filter that was on my vehicle from the manufacturer was larger than actually called for. He said this wasn’t a bad idea. A larger amount of oil meant more flowing through the engine cooling
and lubricating and cleaning the engine.

When I started to change the oil myself I kept on using the larger oil filter.

Most new cars today don’t call for their oil to be changed quite as often as every 4800 km. Generally it’s 6,000 and some even more. I like to have the oil in my car changed at least every 6,000 Km.

That oil change is actually more than an oil change. The technician gets to give your car a once over, checking belts and hoses and other vital fluids.

Generally we don’t even think about these things. It’s much easier to change a worn belt while your car
is in the shop than be broken down on the side of the road waiting for a tow truck.

The simple act of changing the oil in your car may be the best thing you can do to protect your car, and your investment in it.

Shahab is the owner and operator of PAE Cars in Toronto. He overlooks all aspects of operating a smooth
and successful business with emphasis on customer service.

PAE CARS is a full service automotive centre. With over 30 years of auto mechanical experience, we operate from a modern 5,000 square foot, state-of-the-art repair facility.

Since opening we have been providing our Toronto and GTA customers with professionalism, value
and superior customer service.

Our 6,000 km Maintenance Service is much more than an oil change. It’s preventive maintenance that keeps your car young and saves you money.

We recommend to help ensure the proper operation, safety and performance of your vehicle, you should
take advantage of this service every 6,000 Km or 3 to 4 months.

 Our Technicians will:

Inspect and top up (if necessary) these fluids:
Lubricate chassis, steering and suspension components (if applicable)

Cooling system

Brake

Power steering

Transmission

Windshield washer

Inspect drive belt

Change oil

Replace oil filter

Lubricate hinges, locks and latches

Visually inspect front/rear wheel drive systems, steering system,

suspension component, universal joints and boot

Detect leaks

Visually inspect exhaust system

Inspect tires and adjust air pressure

Inspect and replace (if necessary) outside lights

Inspect and replace (if necessary) windshield wipers

Inspect horn

Contact PAE Cars today and we will provide tips for increasing the safety and the longevity of your car!