Service and Parts Tips

When your car needs a jump in West Valley City, you have jump-start car services available for assistance. However, if you prefer to handle this task yourself, it's a fairly simple process. Here's how to jump-start your car battery:

1. Position the two vehicles facing each other, hood to hood. Ensure both vehicles are turned off and their parking brakes engaged.
2. Open both cars' hoods and locate their batteries. You may need to remove a plastic hood to access the battery terminals.
3. Grab your jumper cables and separate the red ends from the black ends to prevent sparking.
4. Connect the red clamp to the positive post on the dead battery, then attach the other red clamp to the positive terminal of the charged battery.
5. Connect the black clamp to the negative post on the good battery, then attach the last black clamp to a grounded, unpainted metal surface on the car's frame.
6. Once securely connected, start the engine of the vehicle with the good battery.
7. After jump-starting the dead vehicle, carefully remove the jumper cables in the reverse order they were placed. Keep the other vehicle running.
8. Keep the vehicle with the jump-started battery running for at least ten minutes to ensure the battery doesn't die immediately. Refer to your owner's manual for recommended times. It's also advisable to have your battery tested or replaced as soon as possible.

Additional battery tips & tricks

Experiencing battery trouble in the West Valley City area can be inconvenient. If your car fails to jump-start, it might indicate more than just a dead battery. Here are some key points to remember:

1. Clicking Sound: If you hear a clicking noise when attempting to start the car, it could signify a faulty starter.
2. Electrical Systems On, Engine Off: If the vehicle's electrical systems power on but the engine fails to start, potential issues may include the ignition switch, starter, or fuse. Consider seeking assistance at a service center for further diagnostics and testing.
3. Post-Jump Start: After jump-starting your car, remember to keep it running. Allowing the engine to run enables the battery to recharge fully after being completely drained.

If you encounter any of these issues, it's advisable to address them promptly to ensure the continued reliability and safety of your vehicle.

Steps to unlocking your steering wheel

If you ever find that your steering wheel is locked right before hitting the road in Salt Lake City, follow these steps to get moving quickly:

• Pull the wheel in the same direction you did when it initially locked.
• If unsure of the direction, try both. The wheel will give slightly when pulled in the correct direction.
• While holding the steering wheel in the proper direction, insert your key into the ignition and start the engine.
• If the steering wheel doesn’t unlock or the engine doesn’t start, turn the wheel in the opposite direction and repeat the step above.
• Once you follow these steps, your steering wheel should be unlocked.

When unlocking your steering wheel, avoid using excessive force to prevent damaging the steering mechanism. Apply slight pressure instead. Additionally, if your key won’t turn in the ignition, you might need a new key. Over time, keys can wear down and fail to engage the car’s tumblers. If you suspect an issue with your key, visit our service facility near West Valley City, and we can make you a new one.

Steps to locking your steering wheel

There may be instances where you’d like to intentionally lock your steering wheel for added security, ensuring no one can start your vehicle. Here’s how to lock your steering wheel on purpose:

• Turn off the car and remove the keys from the ignition.
• Turn the steering wheel in one direction until you hear a click.
• The steering wheel will remain locked until you return and unlock it.

Steps for Changing a Tire

Whether you encounter a flat tire or need to replace worn-out treads, changing a tire is a relatively simple procedure. Follow these steps:

• Find a safe location and activate hazard lights: If you experience a tire issue near Salt Lake City or West Valley City, move to a secure area and turn on your hazard lights.
• Apply the parking brake and wheel wedges: Engage the parking brake and place wheel wedges under the other tires to prevent any movement.
• Remove the wheel cover or hubcap and loosen the lug nuts: Take off the wheel cover or hubcap, then loosen the lug nuts with a lug wrench.
• Use the jack to elevate the vehicle and remove lug nuts: Utilize a jack to lift your vehicle off the ground, and carefully remove the lug nuts.
• Replace the tire: Take off the old tire and install the new or spare tire.
• Secure the lug nuts and lower the vehicle: Tighten the lug nuts firmly and lower your vehicle back to the ground.

How often should you change car tires?

Are you wondering how often to change car tires? The frequency of tire replacement depends on regular tire rotation and the tire’s quality. To ensure optimal tire lifespan, follow these guidelines:

• Regularly rotate your tires and inspect the tread wear.
• Check tire pressure frequently, even if you rotate your tires regularly.
• If the tread wear is extensive, it’s time to consider purchasing new tires.
• Schedule a tire rotation whenever you get your oil changed to prolong tire life.

Putting air in your tires

If your tires require air pressure adjustment, follow these steps:

• Park near the air dispenser: Position your vehicle within reach of the air dispenser, ensuring the hose can reach each tire.
• Remove the tire valve cap: Take off the cap from the tire valve of the first tire.
• Check the air pressure: Use a tire gauge to check the current air pressure. For the most accurate reading, check when the tires are cool.
• Add air in short bursts: Utilize the air hose to add small amounts of air, checking the tire gauge after each burst.
• Verify the pressure: Keep checking the tire gauge until you reach the recommended pressure. It may take multiple attempts to achieve the desired level accurately.

Mileage limitations for spare tires

Spare tires are temporary solutions and are not designed for extended use on the West Jordan streets. Follow these recommendations:

• Replace your spare tire with a permanent one as soon as possible.
• Avoid driving on spare tires for long distances, typically less than 50 miles.
• Refrain from high-speed driving with spare tires and always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines.

Learn how to check the oil level in your car

Many newer vehicles have electronic oil monitors that don’t use traditional dipsticks, so start by consulting your car’s owner’s manual. If you’re checking your car’s oil manually, follow these instructions:

• Make sure the vehicle is parked on level ground and that the engine is turned off and cold.
• Open the vehicle’s hood and locate the dipstick.
• Pull the dipstick out of the engine and wipe any oil from the end of it.
• Re-insert the dipstick all the way back into its tube, then pull it out and look at both sides to see where the level is.

Your dipstick will indicate the proper oil level, usually between two marks or within a cross-hatched area. If the oil level is within this range, it’s good. If not, you need to add more oil. West Valley City drivers should buy the right grade of oil shown in the owner’s manual, remove the oil cap, and add a little oil at a time, checking frequently.

How to reset oil change light

Most vehicles have a slightly different process for resetting the oil change light, but the general steps are usually similar. You should only reset the oil change light if you’ve actually changed your oil, as missing an oil change can cause long-term damage to your car. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

How to Reset the Oil Change Light: Step-by-Step

• Turn off all systems in your car, but leave the engine running.
• Locate the “reset” button or stick on the dashboard, typically near the speedometer and fuel gauge.
• Hold the button down until the oil change light begins to flash (the signs of resetting may vary by vehicle).
• Turn the ignition off, wait a few seconds, then turn your car back on.

How to clean cloth car seats

Before you begin, gather some supplies. Grab your vacuum cleaner for surface debris. Then, pick up a car seat cleaner at our parts department, along with microfibers and brushes for a deep clean. Here’s a basic overview of what to do:

1. Vacuum each seat thoroughly, getting into the crevices where debris accumulates.
2. Spray on your car seat cleaner according to the directions.
3. Use a brush to work the cleaner into the fabric.
4. Blot and wipe up the fabric with a microfiber.
5. Vacuum again and let the seats dry completely.

How to clean leather car seats

Cleaning leather car seats requires both cleansing and conditioning. You’ll need your vacuum, microfibers, and brush from the previous step, as well as an automotive leather cleaner and conditioner from our parts department.

1. Vacuum the surface of each seat, reaching into all the nooks and crannies.
2. Apply a pH-balanced leather cleaner.
3. Gently scrub away dirt and debris with a soft brush. Let it dry completely.
4. Apply leather conditioner using a clean microfiber.
5. After the conditioner has soaked in and the leather is dry, buff it with another clean microfiber.

How to clean inside car windows

If the Salt Lake City skyline is getting blurry, it may be time to clean the inside of your windshield. Here’s how:

1. First, wipe down the glass with a microfiber cleaning cloth to remove any grime or dirt.
2. Spray your preferred brand of glass cleaner onto the microfiber cloth and wipe down the inside of the windshield to remove any remaining substances.
3. Apply rubbing alcohol to a clean microfiber cloth and wipe down the inside of the window to cut through any grease buildup and ensure great visibility.
4. For even better transparency, consider applying another round of glass cleaner or a glass polish at the end.

Can you use windex on car windows?

You can safely use Windex on car windows. While some may caution against using it on tinted windows, there's no evidence that Windex with ammonia causes issues. If your windows were tinted by a third party, it might be wise to skip it, but factory-tinted windows should be fine. However, avoid getting Windex on leather seats inside the car, as it can dry out or discolor the leather. If you have concerns about your cleaning products, feel free to contact Prestman Auto near West Valley City for advice.

More car windshield cleaning tips

Still noticing spots on the inside of your window? Ensure you’re following these steps:

• Opt for a microfiber cleaning cloth to avoid leaving small paper fibers, as with paper towels, and reduce streaks.
• Reach the corners of the windshield with a reach-and-clean tool for thorough cleaning.
• When wiping with a microfiber cloth, use a circular motion initially, then switch to vertical wipes at the end to eliminate streaks.
• Remember, this cleaning process is suitable for all interior windows, not just the windshield.

What Is the Function of Engine Oil?

Engine oil is the lifeblood of your vehicle, responsible for lubricating many of your engine’s mechanical components. Its vital functions include:

• Reducing wear and tear on moving parts due to friction.
• Cleaning sludge and debris from the engine.
• Clearing varnish buildup from the engine.
• Neutralizing acids formed by fuels.
• Enhancing piston ring seals.
• Cooling the engine by dissipating heat.

Consequences of not having your oil changed

What happens if you neglect your oil change? It’s not good. Several issues can arise from irregular oil changes, including:

• Weaker Performance: Deteriorating oil leaves carbon deposits, clogging vital engine systems like the positive crankcase ventilation and exhaust gas recirculation valves, resulting in sluggish performance.
• Poor Fuel Efficiency: Thin oil can seep past seals and rings, leading to increased fuel consumption and smoke from the exhaust.
• Engine Overheating: Worn-out oil loses viscosity, failing to regulate engine temperature, risking overheating.

Don’t postpone your oil change any longer! Schedule service with Prestman Auto today.

How often should you have your oil changed?

How often should you change your oil? The old rule of thumb was every 3,000 miles, but modern automotive advancements mean many West Jordan drivers can go 7,500 to 10,000 miles between changes. This varies by vehicle, so consult your owner’s manual or our service team for specifics. Don’t forget to use our service specials to save on every visit at Prestman Auto!

What is the Recommended Oil Change Frequency?

The average oil change interval ranges from 7,500 to 10,000 miles, but this varies depending on your driving habits. If your driving around Salt Lake City or West Valley City involves any of the following activities, you'll need to adjust your oil change schedule accordingly:

• Off-roading
• Commercial use
• Racing
• Heavy towing

How often should you check your oil level?

It's recommended that drivers check their oil level at least once a month. Why is it important to check your oil level? Details like the color and texture of your oil can indicate serious issues. If you observe a low oil level, or notice unusual color or consistency, don't hesitate to reach out to our technicians at 385-376-1576.

Additional information on oil changes

For more insights on oil changes, consider these additional tips:

• Consult your owner’s manual to determine if your vehicle requires synthetic or conventional oil. Synthetic oil, though costlier, offers superior quality and longevity.
• Even if your vehicle spends most of its time parked at your West Jordan residence, aim for an oil change at least twice annually. Oil deteriorates over time, regardless of mileage.
• Whenever you schedule an oil change, ensure you also replace the oil filter. Our parts center is equipped to assist you in finding the suitable oil filter for your vehicle.

How often should we rotate tires?

Our service team strongly advises rotating tires every 5,000 to 8,000 miles, typically equating to every four to six months based on an average driving distance of 1,300 miles per month. However, individual circumstances may differ. Refer to your owner’s manual or vehicle’s driver information center, or utilize dedicated apps that may remind you of tire rotation intervals.

Tire rotation frequency hinges on several factors including mileage, driving conditions, and tire wear. During each service visit at Prestman Auto, we conduct tire inspections to gauge rotation necessity. Remember, harsh Utah winters can accelerate tire wear, necessitating more frequent rotations than under optimal road conditions.

How many miles to rotate tires: FWD & RWD vehicles

Front-wheel drive (FWD) and rear-wheel drive (RWD) vehicles differ primarily in where their engines send power: front axle for FWD, rear axle for RWD. This variance necessitates specific tire rotation patterns to ensure balanced wear and prolong tire life. Here’s a breakdown for each:

FWD Vehicles:

• Rotate tires every 5,000 to 8,000 miles, but consult your owner’s manual for exact intervals.
• When rotating tires yourself, switch sides for the rear tires moving to the front (e.g., right rear to front left). Front tires moving to the rear should stay on the same side (e.g., right front to right rear).

RWD Vehicles:

• Follow the same mileage interval for tire rotation as FWD vehicles.
• When moving front tires to the back, swap sides (e.g., right front to left rear). Rear tires moving to the front should remain on the same side (e.g., back left to front left).

For off-roading or high-speed driving activities, tire rotation may need to be more frequent. Contact Prestman Auto’s service team at 385-376-1576 for personalized advice and tire wear monitoring during service visits. We’re here to assist with tire rotations and other maintenance needs for optimal performance on Salt Lake City roads.

How many miles to rotate tires: AWD vehicles

When it comes to AWD vehicles, tire rotation frequency typically falls between 3,000 to 5,000 miles. This range accounts for the continuous power distribution to all four wheels, especially beneficial in adverse road conditions. While this serves as a general guideline, referring to your vehicle’s owner’s manual ensures accuracy tailored to your specific model. Given the prevalence of harsh UT winters and the reliability of AWD vehicles in such conditions, rotating tires no less than every 5,000 miles is advisable for optimal performance and safety.

Importance of rotations

Regular tire rotations offer numerous significant benefits, primarily enhancing vehicle safety. By ensuring even tread wear, you'll experience improved handling, potentially averting accidents and safeguarding passengers and fellow motorists.

Financially, tire rotations extend tire lifespan, yielding greater value from your investment, as highlighted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Ultimately, rotating tires reduces long-term expenses by delaying the need for tire replacements. While some service centers may provide complimentary tire rotations, others may charge a nominal fee, typically around $50.

Additional advantages of tire rotations include:

1. Enhanced handling and superior road traction across various conditions.
2. Reduced strain on your vehicle's drivetrain, attributable to optimal rolling resistance.
3. Improved fuel efficiency resulting from enhanced road handling.
4. Quieter cabin ambiance due to reduced road noise.
5. Enhanced overall vehicle safety, ensuring the well-being of occupants and other road users.

Regardless of tire type, whether high-performance, off-road, or all-weather, regular tire rotations are essential for optimal performance and safety.