Read the top 10 questions asked at Lorentz Automotive, from brake squeaks to oil change intervals, and get honest answers from our knowledgeable team.
Opening the bay doors every morning brings a new set of challenges and a whole lot of conversation. We love the fact that our customers are curious about how their vehicles work because an informed driver is usually a safer driver. Over the years, we have noticed that while every car is different, the concerns people have are remarkably similar. Whether you are driving a brand new electric vehicle or a trusty truck that has seen a decade of work, you likely have some of the same things on your mind.
In the spirit of being open and helpful, we decided to round up the top ten questions we hear most often at our shop. We want to take some of the mystery out of auto repair and show you that there are no silly questions when it comes to your safety on the road.
The Daily FAQ
One of the most frequent things we hear is whether a specific noise is something to worry about. Most people will describe a thud, a squeak, or a grinding sound and ask if the car is still safe to drive. Our general rule is that if the noise changes based on your speed or when you hit the brakes, you should let us look at it sooner rather than later.
Another big one is the age-old debate about oil changes. People want to know if they really need to come in every five thousand miles or if they can push it to ten thousand. The answer usually depends on your driving habits. If you spend your time in stop and go traffic, your oil breaks down much faster than if you are cruising on the highway. We always suggest sticking to the manufacturer recommendations to keep your engine internals clean.
People also ask a lot about their brakes.
Why are my brakes squeaking in the morning? Usually, this is just a thin layer of surface rust that forms overnight due to humidity. It usually goes away after the first few stops.
Do I really need to replace my rotors every time? Not always. If they are thick enough and not warped, we can sometimes resurface them to save you some money.
What is that burning smell after a long hill? That is likely your brake pads getting too hot. It is a sign that you should use your engine to help slow you down on steep grades.
Cost and Time Concerns
Naturally, the two biggest hurdles for any repair are how much it will cost and how long we will have your car. We understand that being without your vehicle is a massive inconvenience. We often get asked why a diagnostic fee is necessary. It is important to remember that the computer code is just a starting point. It tells us which system is unhappy, but a human technician still has to go in and find the actual broken wire or leaky hose.
Customers also ask if they can bring in their own parts to save a few dollars. While we understand the desire to hunt for deals online, we generally advise against this. We cannot warranty a part that we did not source ourselves. If that internet part fails in two weeks, you would have to pay for the labor all over again to replace it. We stand behind our work, and that means using parts we know and trust.
Maintenance and Longevity
The final group of questions usually revolves around keeping the car alive as long as possible. Many people try to make their current vehicle last another five years to avoid a new car payment. They want to know which fluids are actually important to flush. While oil is the big one, do not ignore your coolant or your brake fluid. These liquids protect the most expensive parts of your car from corrosion.
We also get asked about tires quite a bit. People want to know if they can just replace two tires instead of all four. On a front wheel drive car, you can sometimes get away with this, but on an all wheel drive vehicle, having different tread depths can actually damage your transmission. It is always better to keep things balanced.
Why We Are Here
The last question we get, and honestly our favorite, is how someone can learn more about their car. We love when people want to look under the hood with us. We are not just a building where you drop off your keys and hope for the best. We want to be your partners in keeping your life moving.
If you have a question that we did not cover here, or if there is a light on your dash that is giving you anxiety, do not hesitate to reach out to the team at Lorentz Automotive in Lewisville, TX. No matter how small the concern feels, we are happy to take the time to explain what is happening with your vehicle.