Working Hours
  • Mon 9:00AM - 5:00PM
    Tue 9:00AM - 5:00PM
  • Wed 9:00AM - 5:00PM
    Thu 9:00AM - 5:00PM
  • Fri 9:00AM - 5:00PM
    Sat 9:00AM - 1:00PM
  • Sun Closed
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570-685-2690 | 862 Rte 590 Lackawaxen, PA 18435

General Vehicle Maintenance

General Maintenance For Your Vehicle

The traditional core of the automotive industry, known as the "tune-up," has undergone significant changes over time. Despite some misconceptions, contemporary vehicles still require tune-ups for optimal performance.

With the rapid advancement of technology, the processes involved in carrying out a conventional tune-up have undergone a substantial transformation. Advanced ignition and fuel systems have become standard, incorporating one or more onboard computers to regulate essential engine and transmission functions.

Failure to maintain the vehicle appropriately will hinder your ability to reach your desired destination. In the 21st Century Tune-up for modern vehicles, it is essential to inspect the following systems: battery, charging and starting engine, mechanical powertrain control (including onboard diagnostic checks), fuel ignition, and emissions.

To ensure optimal performance, fuel efficiency, and reduced emissions, the Car Care Council advises motorists to invest time in understanding their vehicles. Familiarize yourself thoroughly with the operation of all systems by studying the owner's manual. Pay close attention to indicator lights and instruments.

Getting Your Vehicle Ready for Winter

Some of the following tips can be performed by any do-it-yourselfer; others require the skilled hands of a professional auto technician.

Mechanical Failure

An inconvenience anytime it occurs - can be deadly in the winter. Preventive maintenance is a must. A well-maintained vehicle is more enjoyable to drive, lasts longer, and could command a higher resale price.

Engine Performance

Get engine drivability problems (hard starts, rough idling, stalling, diminished power, etc.) corrected at a good repair shop. Cold weather makes existing problems worse. Replace dirty filters - air, fuel, etc.

Fuel

Put a bottle of fuel de-icer in your tank once a month to help keep moisture from freezing in the fuel line. Note that a full gas tank helps keep moisture from forming.

Oil

Change your oil and oil filter as specified in your manual - more often (every 3,000 miles) if your driving is mostly stop-and-go or consists of frequent short trips.

Cooling Systems

The cooling system should be completely flushed and refilled about every 24 months. The level, condition, and concentration of the coolant should be checked periodically. (A 50/50 mix of anti-freeze and water is usually recommended.) DIYers, never remove the radiator cap until the engine has thoroughly cooled! The tightness and condition of drive belts, clamps, and hoses should be checked by a pro.

Windshield Wipers

Replace old blades. If your climate is harsh, purchase rubber-clad (winter) blades to fight ice build-up. Stock up on windshield washer solvent - you'll be surprised how much you use. Carry an ice-scraper.

Heater/Defroster

The heater and defroster must be in good working condition for passenger comfort and driver visibility. Newer models have a cabin air filter that should be replaced periodically. Check your owner's manual for the location and replacement interval.

Battery

The only accurate way to detect a weak battery is with professional equipment. Routine care: Scrape away corrosion from posts and cable connections; clean all surfaces; re-tighten all connections. If battery caps are removable, check fluid level monthly. Avoid contact with corrosive deposits and battery acid. Wear eye protection and rubber gloves.

Lights

Inspect all lights and bulbs; replace burned out bulbs; periodically clean road grime from all lenses. To prevent scratching, never use a dry rag.

Exhaust System

Your vehicle should be placed on a lift and the exhaust system examined for leaks. The trunk and floor boards should be inspected for small holes. Exhaust fumes can be deadly.

Tires

Worn tires will be of little use in winter weather. Examine tires for remaining tread life, uneven wearing, and cupping; check the sidewalls for cuts and nicks. Check tire pressures once a month. Check the tires when they are cold, before driving for any distance. Rotate as recommended. Don't forget your spare, and be sure the jack is in good condition.

Carry Emergency Gear

gloves, boots, blankets, flares, a small shovel, sand or kitty litter, tire chains, and a flash light. Put a few "high-energy" snacks in your glove box.

Getting Your Vehicle Ready For Summer

Summer's heat, dust, and stop-and-go traffic, will take their toll on your vehicle. Add the effects of last winter, and you could be poised for a breakdown. You can lessen the odds of mechanical failure through periodic maintenance. Your vehicle should last longer and command a higher resale price, too! Some of the following tips are easy to do; others require a skilled auto technician.

Air Conditioning

A marginally operating system will fail in hot weather. Have the system examined by a qualified technician. Newer models have cabin air filters that clean the air entering the heating and air conditioning system. Check your owner's manual for location and replacement interval.

Cooling System

The greatest cause of summer breakdowns is overheating. The cooling system should be completely flushed and refilled about every 24 months. The level, condition, and concentration of the coolant should be checked periodically. (A 50/50 mix of anti-freeze and water is usually recommended.) DIYers, never remove the radiator cap until the engine has thoroughly cooled! The tightness and condition of drive belts, clamps, and hoses should be checked by a pro.

Oil

Change your oil and oil filter as specified in your manual - more often (every 3,000 miles) if you make frequent short jaunts, extended trips with lots of luggage, or tow a trailer.

Engine Performance

Replace other filters (air, fuel, PCV, etc.) as recommended - more often in dusty conditions. Get engine drivability problems (hard starts, rough idling, stalling, diminished power, etc.) corrected at a good shop.

Windshield Wipers

A dirty windshield causes eye fatigue and can pose a safety hazard. Replace worn blades and get plenty of windshield washer solvent.

Lights

Inspect all lights and bulbs; replace burned out bulbs; periodically clean dirt and insects from all lenses. To prevent scratching, never use a dry rag.

Tires

Have your tires rotated about every 5,000 miles. Check tire pressures once a month; check them while they're cold before driving for any distance. Don't forget to check your spare as well and be sure the jack is in good condition. Examine tires for tread life, uneven wearing, and cupping; check the sidewalls for cuts and nicks. An alignment is warranted if there's uneven tread wear or if your vehicle pulls to one side.

Brakes

Brakes should be inspected as recommended in your manual, or sooner if you notice pulsations, grabbing, noises, or longer stopping distance. Minor brake problems should be corrected promptly.

Battery

Batteries can fail any time of year. The only accurate way to detect a weak battery is with professional equipment. Routine care: Scrape away corrosion from posts and cable connections; clean all surfaces; re-tighten all connections. If battery caps are removable, check the fluid level monthly. Avoid contact with corrosive deposits and battery acid. Wear eye protection and rubber gloves.

Emergencies

Carry some basic tools - ask a technician for suggestions. Also include a first-aid kit, flares, and a flashlight. Consider buying a cellular phone.

Keeping your vehicle in tune with the environment is definitely a win-win situation. Besides helping the environment, a properly maintained and operated vehicle will run more efficiently, will be safer, and will last longer - up to 50% longer, according to a survey of ASE-certified Master Auto Technicians.

The following tips should put you on the road to environmentally conscious car care.

  • Keep your engine tuned. A misfiring spark plug can reduce fuel efficiency as much as 30%.
  • Follow the service schedules listed in your owner's manual. Replace filters and fluids as recommended.
  • Check your tires for proper inflation. Underinflation wastes fuel - your engine has to work harder to push the vehicle.
  • Wheels that are out-of-line (as evidenced by uneven tread wear or vehicle pulling) make the engine work harder, too. Properly maintained tires will last longer, meaning fewer scrap tires have to be disposed.
  • Observe speed limits. Mileage decreases sharply above 60 mph.
  • Drive gently. Avoid sudden accelerations and jerky stop-and-go's. Use cruise control on open highways to keep your speed as steady as possible.
  • Avoid excessive idling. Shut off the engine while waiting for friends and family.
  • Today's vehicles are designed to "warm up" fast, so forget about those five-minute warm-ups on cold winter mornings.
  • Remove excess items from the vehicle. Less weight means better mileage.
  • Store luggage/cargo in the trunk rather than on the roof to reduce air drag.
  • Plan trips. Consolidate your daily errands to eliminate unnecessary driving. Try to travel when traffic is light to avoid stop-and-go conditions.
  • Join a car pool.

Remember, how your car runs, how you drive it, and how its fluids, old parts, and tires are disposed of all have serious consequences on the environment.

Discover More About Maintenance and Repair Services At 590 Service Station in Lackawaxen

Auto Heating & Cooling Services
General Auto Repair Services
Inspections & Emissions


What Our Customers Are Saying

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Thanks Ray for getting my Nissan out of a precarious spot.

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I followed Mike into the same hole. Same result. These guys worked us to switch one of the rims from Mikes car to mine. Very helpful, pleasant, and reasonable. Did a great job balancing the wheel. I took it on the road course at Pocono Raceway the next day without a hitch. Thanks guys!

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When a tree jumped out in front of my car...........the only person I called (besides my son) was 590 Service......It's all good.................who else can say that !! Or doesn't get any better than 590 Service............... How about Works for me............ Yea..........Its all good !!

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I am up here in the Poconos for my car clubs National meet (I'm from Louisiana) .. on one of our runs in the area I happened to hit a one of the "local" potholes :) ... busted my wheel ... 590 Service to the rescue ... I drive a Pontiac Solstice .. so no spare .. I have some discontinued rims on my car ... so no luck in getting a replacement rim ... 590 was able to find me some rims I liked at a very good price ... this was on Thursday afternoon .. he will have the rims delivered Friday am and have me ready to go by early afternoon ... I can't say enough good things about how I was treated ... truly great customer service

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My car needed an oil change and I could not find time to stop at a shop to get the oil done. So I called 590 Service and spoke to Ray and Dave and was able to make an appoitment. They were able to work around my schedule and got everything done in a timly manner! I would recommend this to anyone great service with a smile and very friendly. This shop honestly cares about their customers!

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Ray towed our truck when the fuel pump went while driving, he was more than happy to tow our truck from Masthope to our house in Dingmans Ferry. Ray and his sons and employees do great body work and mechanical work in general.

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  • Call Us For Service: 570-685-2690