POWER STEERING FLUID has no practical field test. Power steering fluid changes color and turns gray as the pump deposits minute metal particles into the fluid. This metal acts like sand and damages other components within the system. We suggest flushing the power steering fluid when the fluid is gray to prevent damage to and failure of other expensive components within the system.

DIFFERENTIAL AND TRANSFER CASE FLUID
Changed based on manufacturer’s recommendations based on the type of fluid used by the manufacturer and the way the vehicle is used by the owner. If you are using your vehicle for towing or excessive off-roading it is a good idea to change the fluids prior to manufacturer recommendations. If metal is found in the differential fluid this is a sign of damage and further investigation may be recommended. Some metal in the transfer case is normal. We use our experience to determine how much is too much and when further diagnosis is recommended.

COOLANT HOSES break down from the inside out. It is often impossible to predict an eminent failure. If your coolant hoses are “crunchy,” “bloated,” leaking, excessively hard or soft, it is an indication of a pending failure and we will recommend that they be replaced before damage can occur to your engine. Many manufacturers recommend that hoses be replaced at 6-years or 80,000 miles as a preventative measure. If manufacturer recommendations are available we will let you know so you can make an informed decision about your coolant hoses.

SERPENTINE BELTS Standard specific. If there are more than 10 tiny cracks per inch, then the belt needs replacing. Serpentine belts need to be replaced when they have been soaked with fluids from another defective leaking component.

V-BELTS Need replacing if they have cracks or are excessively dry or liquid soaked. Since these belts run the water pump, power steering and air conditioning, it makes sense to replace them whenever visual inspection indicates they need replacement to prevent expensive failures on the road.

“STANDARDS” VOCABULARY
Describe vehicle problems and potential problems. Designed to improve communication between our customers and staff.

SEEP: Wetness or dampness in an area with no dripping or fluid loss. Seeps should be noted only and watched.

LEAK: A trail of liquid on a surface or in a tray that may not be dripping on the
ground yet. A leak should be repaired before it becomes a drip and causes vehicle to loose enough of its vital fluid and causes expensive damage. Oils can leak and cause damage to other expensive components before progressing to a drip.

DRIP: Liquid dripping on the ground. Should be repaired immediately, before major damage occurs. The exception is water dripping from your a/c evaporator which is natural and not a cause for concern.

SEVERE LEAK: Liquid dripping and creating a puddle. Immediate repair is vital. Leaks can be dangerous to further vehicle operation.

MARGINAL: Not yet critical but service or repair will be recommended based on condition.

BAD: Part has failed a scientific test or is outside of the manufacturer limits for
safe operation.

UNSAFE: Item is outside of the manufacturer’s safe operating specifications and could fail causing major damage to the vehicle or endanger your life or the lives of any passengers in the vehicle. (We use the term “unsafe” very cautiously.)

GOOD: Within the manufacturer’s specifications and has no need of maintenance or repair at this time.