FAQ: Service for your Subaru

All new and many used vehicles arrive with a warranty covering unexpected repairs. Be sure to understand the duration and covered components of the warranty. A typical warranty might be written "48/100,000" meaning that coverage lasts either 48 months from the initial purchase or until the vehicle has 100,000 kilometres, whichever comes first.

Depending on what is being repaired, the length of a factory warranty varies. Often a comprehensive warranty covers everything outside of regular schedule maintenance and items that wear over time such as tires. This is generally the shortest warranty period. A usually longer powertrain warranty covers engine and transmission defects. Anti-corrosion protection often lasts even longer. Finally, some manufacturers offer roadside assistance for a limited time.

Warranties are often transferable, meaning that a vehicle inside its mileage and duration limits will maintain its factory warranty.

By performing required service at the proper intervals and responding if something clearly goes wrong. Your owner's manual explicitly lists service intervals, although cars are often equipped with "check engine" dashboard lights that signal needed maintenance.

You just need to take the vehicle in for service when the time arrives. Factory-authorized technicians must perform service and any other outside maintenance can potentially void a warranty.

Many warranties cover the parts and labor costs involved in fixing unexpected repairs but place the burden of expected maintenance on the customer. As there is not "one" answer it is best to speak with one of our friendly staff about any questions you might have regarding the warranty for your vehicle or one that you are interested in.

Changing your engine's oil and filter is one of the most vital maintenance procedures possible. Oil keeps friction down in the engine and prevents the motor from seizing up. Typical intervals for new cars are between 5,000 to 15,000 kilometres.

Water and antifreeze keep your engine from overheating and freezing during extreme temperatures. Intervals for flushing the system and replacing coolant vary, as some manufacturers promise long lasting antifreeze good past 100,000 kilometres. A general rule of thumb would be every few years or 30,000 to 40,000 kilometres.

Older vehicles required the replacement or adjustment of spark plugs much more often than new vehicles do. Manufacturers today promise over 100,000 kilometres before a tune-up that includes changing the plugs. Still, checking the plugs at more regular intervals, such as 50,000 to 60,000 kilometres, is always a good idea.

The interval for changing the filter depends on the quality of filter, type of vehicle and environment in which most driving occurs. Traveling on dirt roads will clog a filter much faster than paved highways. Due to their low cost, it is always worth checking your air filter when your vehicle is in for service.

The interval of changing a battery depends on the type of battery, type of vehicle and local climate. Very cold regions may require a more powerful battery for cold starting. Vehicle batteries also have a limited life, those that have completely lost their charge at some point often never reach full potential again.

During scheduled maintenance it's a good idea to inspect all hoses, belts and other connections under the hood to be sure everything is in good shape and properly attached. These are the connections that keep everything running together and move air and fluids around to where they need to be.

Wipers need to be replaced just like any other part. Sometimes just the blade needs replacing, while other times the entire wiper unit should go. A variety of wipers are typically available for your particular vehicle, some of which offer superior performance and longevity.

The type of vehicle, specific tire and driving style determine the life of a tire. Many are rated to last 30,000 to 70,000 kilometres, but an aggressive style can wear out tires in as little as 15,000 kilometres. Also, a wide range of choices exist for every vehicle allowing you to tailor your choice for your specific performance or stylistic needs.

Similar to tires, brake life depends heavily on your individual driving style. Lots of stressful braking will significantly shorten the life of your braking components. Both pads and rotors often need to be replaced during the regular life of a vehicle, especially if it is used for towing or other strenuous activities.

Light bulbs, exhaust components, emission controls, and many other less noticeable items may require replacement from time to time. These parts receive regular ware like all other parts and are necessary for the optimum performance of your vehicle.

Different seasons require different types of tires. Many manufacturers sell vehicles with all-season tires that are suitable for most conditions. However, if your vehicle arrived with performance summer tires you should invest in a set of snow tires for safety in the bad weather. Some drivers with all-season rubber may also purchase snow tires for added security during our unpredictable winters.

No tire is perfect, as extra performance in one category often means compromise in another. For example, a tire that is great in snow may be so-so on dry pavement and average in the rain. Speak with one our friendly staff to find the choice that best fits your individual needs.

Always be sure to maintain the proper inflation for safety, performance and longevity.

Buy four matching tires, for the most part. Some rear-wheel-drive cars can get by with just rear winter tires, but front-wheel-drive cars should never have winter tires in the front and non-winter tires in the back. The inconsistency in grip during braking can cause the rear end to slide out of the driver's control. All-wheel-drive vehicles should have all tires replaced at the same time as well.

When purchasing a set of winter tires select an extra set of wheels on which the rubber can be mounted. Not having to mount/dismount tires each season saves time and maximizes tire life. In most cases we carry reasonably priced sets of steel wheels to match the winter tires.

Be sure your engine oil is the correct viscosity (ie. 5W30, 10W40). Different engines have different requirements with some demanding a thinner oil to start, etc. Matching the right oil to your vehicle is an essential part of your regular maintenance and one that our staff are here to help with.

Verify that your windshield wipers are operable and keep the washer fluid reservoir full. You never know when it will be sunny in the morning and raining in the afternoon, be prepared and stay safe.

Double-check hoses and belts leading up to the Winter and Summer driving seasons. Cold temperatures can cause rubber to shrink and crack, so be sure your hoses and belts have some flexibility left.