October, 2011

Special File - Underhood | Winter Inspection Time

Are You Ready?

Philippe Crowe

October is already there and, as 2011 is just like any other preceding year, it is now winter inspection time.

Will it be just like before or will you finally make sure you get the most out of this busy season? It all rests on your shoulders.

The first step is to follow most service provider management advisor and resist the temptation to overbook. Hard to resist, but doing so will allow technicians to focus on highly profitable repairs rather than flush oil.

The next step is to spend more time understanding your customers needs, as well as taking the time to explain them the benefits of the work you are doing. Preventive maintenance will go a long way in boosting customer’s retention and trust while having a professional attitude will confirm in your costumer’s mind that their car is in good hands.

We have compiled a list of what a good winter maintenance service should include. It is not exhaustive and needs to be tailored to the specific needs of your customer as well as the specific needs brought on by the part of our country you are living in. But it does allow for a good, comprehensive winter service.

Most of all, start any service – not just this winter one but any service during the year – with a proper road test. 

Maintenance Service

•    Replace engine oil & filter
Please do not forget the extra step of making sure you use the right oil! Manufacturers are mandating more and more specific types of oil and going away from the typical 5w20 or 5w30 typically used in winter. New improved synthetics as well as new specifications (like GM’s Dextron) are changing the game.

•    Remove & inspect engine air filter element
This often-neglected filter needs to be inspected every 3 months, and changed at least every 40 thousand KM. Often sooner in our climate. Don’t forget, vehicles used for heavy-duty work may require more frequent air filter service.

•    Lubricate locks, latches & hinges
Many service providers forget or skip this important step. Customers notice and appreciate this step a lot more than you can imagine. They may not think of you when the door operates properly by minus 35, but they sure will curse you for not having done it if their locks are jammed.

•    Confirm lights, horn & wipers function properly

•    Check coolant, brake, transmission & washer fluid levels
A 50/50 mix of anti-freeze and water offers protection in temperatures down to –35 C. All fluid levels should be checked and replenished as necessary. At least every two years, a vehicle's cooling system should be drained, flushed and refilled to replenish the antifreeze mixture and prevent the formation of rust and scale.

•    Perform battery service and comprehensive electrical charging system evaluation.
Cleaning the battery posts are a quick and easy first step every technician should take to make sure the battery performs to the best of its shape. This should be followed by a visual inspection of the battery case to make sure no cracks or physical damage can be seen; ventilation ports also need to be checked to make sure they are not plugged. Are the hold down clamps tight? Is the battery of a type that needs its fluid to be topped up? Do so, then and only then can you start the comprehensive electrical charging system evaluation.
Premature battery failure can occur as a result of chronic undercharging, overcharging, abuse, or vibration. Since modern vehicle computer systems create a small but constant drain on batteries, even when the vehicle is parked, long sitting periods can cause a vehicle's battery to go dead and need a charge.

•    Test the ignition system
Doing an electronic diagnostic check is an effective way to determine overall engine performance.

•    Inspect valve clearance (audibly)
You will want to remove the engine cover on newer cars before taking this step. More recent car’s engine cover often have sound-insulating properties to help quiet the car’s interior. Removing this cover will not only allow you to visually inspect the top of the engine, but also better hear it run.

•    Inspect drive belts for damage, adjust tension if required
Slush, snow and salt all take a toll on underhood components and the belts need to be in top shape to be able to survive the winter. They are often exposed and amongst the first to feel the impact of the elements. The full accessory belt drive system must be inspected; this includes the belt, the automatic belt tensioner, pulleys and all other critical parts within the drive.

•    Check steering gear box, linkage and shock absorbers for looseness, damage or leakage
All these items will have a serious impact on how your customer’s car handles in difficult conditions. Worn shock absorbers will not only cause longer braking distances, but also loss of traction on snow or ice.

•    Inspect ball joints and dust covers, driveshaft and steering rack boots, chassis nuts & bolts for looseness or damage

•    Brakes: remove wheel and brake drum, check pad/shoe thickness.
Examine brake calipers, wheel cylinders and brake lines. Are brake hoses or lines leaking? Any visible deterioration?

•    Inspect fuel and exhaust systems for leaks or damage
A leaking exhaust system can lead to dangerous carbon monoxide entering the cabin. Closed windows during cold winter months can also increase this risk. It is important to consider the fuel filter in this step. How old is it? A clogged filter can restrict fuel flow and cause loss of engine performance.

•    Examine tires for damage and wear, check & adjust pressure
Some service providers see this step as a moot point if the customer is switching to winter tires, but it still should be performed on the set of summer tires. This will allow you to prepare your customers and warn them in advance if they ever need to replace or fix one or more tires.

•    Replace Cabin Air Filter
We tend to call this the forgotten one here at the office. It is impressive how smelly a car can become when this filter is not replaced when it should.

•    Install winter tires and perform wheel alignment
Winter driving requires tires made for handling and braking on cold, slippery or icy roads. Any one of your customers living in areas of our country that sees multiple days with temperatures under the freezing point should seriously consider winter tires. A helpful tip to remember is that all-season rated tires loose their grip when the temperature drops under 7˚C. Wheel alignment also helps reduce tire wear, increases performance and lowers fuel consumption.

•    Do not forget to perform a road test!
This item is listed last, but should be taken care of as soon as the client handed the keys.  A proper road test will allow technicians to quickly identify the areas in dire need of attention and will reveal issues that can’t be found during an inspection around the hoist.