Tips and Helpful Information
Warranty Tips
How do I keep my manufacturer’s warranty in effect?
A key factor in ensuring your warranty remains in effect is to follow the specified intervals for service outlined in your warranty booklet or owner’s manual. Make sure to keep detailed records of all these services in a secure location. Things to record include:
- Date of service
- Parts installed
- VIN (Vehicle Identification Number)
- Mileage recorded on invoice
A great place to record these figures is the service log found in most warranty booklets or owner’s manuals.
Am I responsible for maintenance on my leased vehicle?
Yes. Although your vehicle may be leased, it is your responsibility to make sure it is serviced and, if necessary, repaired so that the vehicle remains in good working condition. The guidelines on maintaining this condition can be found in the owner’s manual.
Do I need to return to the dealer for repairs that are not routine maintenance, like a brake job or other repairs, even if these repairs are covered under my warranty?
Begin by reviewing your warranty very thoroughly to check what repairs are covered. The choice is then yours to decide where to have your vehicle serviced and repaired. Most services and repairs covered under the warranty will require the car to be returned to the dealer.
Do I have to use a specific product specified by the manufacturer to keep my warranty in effect?
No, you do not. It is illegal for automakers to denote the exclusive use of a specific brand of product for your vehicle’s maintenance. We at Tire Factory provide many of the brand-name quality parts specified for your automotive repairs and maintenance. Our team of experts will help you choose the product best suited for your needs.
My dealer told me I needed to return to their dealership for all my maintenance and repairs for my warranty to remain in effect, do I really need to?
Although many dealers want you to believe this is true, it is NOT. You may elect any service station, garage, or shop to perform the maintenance and still keep the warranty’s validity. At Tire Factory, we guarantee a friendly and professional staff that is able to provide you with the information and services necessary to keep your warranty in effect.
Fuel Efficiency Tips
We understand that with the rising cost of gasoline it is becoming more and more important to capitalize on the use of your fuel. Below are some tips that we recommend to get the best fuel efficiency out of your vehicle:
- Watch your lead foot. The effectiveness of your vehicle’s gas mileage drops critically over 55 mph.
- Keep your engine at its best. A misfiring spark plug can reduce fuel efficiency as much as 30%.
- Are your tires properly pressurized? If your tires are not properly inflated, it’s like cash in the trash. Underinflation is a major cause of wasted fuel. The Car Care Council notes that every 10 days, motorists who drive with under-inflated tires and poorly maintained engines waste 70 million gallons of gasoline.
- Create a smooth ride. Sudden accelerations partnered with abrupt stops are a sure way to waste gasoline. Keep your driving as smooth and consistent as possible. We suggest using cruise control when possible to maintain a steady speed.
- Remove excess weight. More gasoline is required to move those extra objects stored in your car. Use your car for transportation, not storage, to pocket that extra cashed saved on fuel.
- Idle no more. Waiting for someone? We suggest turning your car off to make the most of its fuel efficiency. Cold morning? Most vehicle’s being manufactured today are designed to quickly warm up to save you the stress of waiting around for a warm vehicle on a cold day.
- Plan your route. When possible, avoid heavy driving conditions and unnecessary routes between destinations. Light traffic without stop-and-go situations and direct routes are ideal for maximizing your gas mileage.
