Auto Repair FAQs

Certainly, regular maintenance is crucial to your vehicle's health. While drivers in South Burlington, Chittenden County and St. Albans can always count on knowledgeable technicians like those at Goss Dodge Chrysler, there's plenty you can do from the comfort of your own home.

DIY car repairs may seem daunting, but with the proper research, most of the work can be done in a cinch. Have a look at some of our frequently asked questions regarding DIY car maintenance below before you grab that rusted and dented toolbox from your garage.

How often should I change my oil?

The answer to "how often should I change my oil" depends on how many miles you're traveling in your car or truck every month along with your driving habits. However, most car experts agree that you'll want to change your oil every 3,000 miles or three months. 

How do I check my transmission fluid?

Checking the transmission level is similar to checking the oil.

  1. Make sure your engine is on with the emergency braking system activated and the car in park.
  2. Then, pop open the hood and locate the transmission's dipstick.
  3. Next, retract the dipstick.
  4. Wipe it down with rag or a paper towel, and then dip it right back in and out.
  5. Based on this reading, you'll know if you need to add more transmission fluid.

Consult your owner's manual for the location of your transmission's dipstick and how to properly analyze the fluid level indicators.

How do I sync the Bluetooth® in my car?

If you have a Bluetooth®-accessible vehicle and smartphone, this task should be simple and seamless. You'll be able to sync Bluetooth® in your car or truck in no time at all.

  1. Initiate the pairing procedure on your car's stereo. Consult your owner's manual on the appropriate buttons or dials to use.
  2. On your phone, put your Bluetooth® on.
  3. Wait for your phone to find your vehicle's activated Bluetooth® device.
  4. Once you find the correct Bluetooth® vehicle device on your phone, select your car's stereo on the list.
  5. Enter your private stereo PIN and enable media.

With this seamless system, you can answer phone calls, e-mails, and texts without being distracted. Plus, you can stream your favorite songs and jam away.

How do I change my brake pads?

Changing braking system pads is one of the trickier tasks to complete, but it can be performed at home. First, you'll need a jack, braking oil, a socket wrench, a tire iron, and flush brake pads.

  1. The first step is to get the vehicle of the ground. The tires must be removed to reach the brake pads, so jack up your car to remove them. During this step, it's wise to have a trusted friend with you to assist you.
  2. Then, pull out the caliper construction and their old brake pads. The caliper installation is a clamp keeping the pads against your rotors.
  3. Remove the caliper assembly and set it down, but make sure you stay away of the braking fluid line. At this point, you should've found a way to slip out the old pads.
  4. Replace the pads. Oil the backs associated with the pads first, making sure none of it gets on the front or on the rotors. Also, be sure to remain gentle while securing the pads. You may need to readjust the braking system so it fits on the newer and thicker pads.
  5. Finally, put everything back together. When the tires are properly secured, you're done!

To discover the location of the various parts mentioned in these steps, consult your owner's manual.

How do I bleed my brakes?

In case your brakes feel slow or delayed, there's a possibility that there's excess pressure trapped in the braking system lines. Bleeding your car's braking system is the process of letting this trapped air out. To successfully complete this procedure, you'll need a bleeder wrench or a properly sized mix wrench, brake fluid, a glass jar, and an extra pair of hands.

  1. Locate the brake bleeder screw situated behind each braking system. Usually, it is attached to the bleeder hose. To reach it, it is much easier if the vehicle is jacked off of the ground.
  2. Crawl underneath your vehicle and loosen the screw by using your bleeder wrench. However, be mindful to not damage the screw. If it appears stuck, then spray it with WD-40.
  3. Set a small piece of the hose over the top of the screw. Next, secure the other end within the jar. This will collect any extra fluid from the braking system.
  4. Have your friend pump the brake pedal, alerting you each time they've become released. If you're under the car during this part, be careful! Make sure the car is properly jacked up and in park. 
  5. Open the bleeder screw after the brakes were pumped several times. Liquid should squirt out, ideally right into the jar. More than likely, you'll discover a few pressure bubbles in it.
  6. Tighten the screw as the pedals are pressed on. Then, inform your friend to release. Repeat this process until the screw is completely tight.
  7. Open the master cylinder and add additional braking fluid. Failing to do so may cause severe damage to your car's braking system.

How often should I rotate my tires?

Tires should really be rotated every 6,000 miles. As a rule of thumb, simply schedule a tire rotation with every other oil change.

How do I read my tire size?

The dimensions of your tires are comprised of a seemingly nonsensical combination of numbers and letters. Despite this, each different number and letter indicates an important detail of your tires.

Load index: Here is the maximum load carrying capacity of the tire. Never ever install a tire that does not meet the manufacturer's recommended index for the automobile.

Wheel diameter: This number appear next and will be specified in inches. It shows what size wheel your tire will fit.

Radial construction: Most likely, you're going to have a radial tire, which is denoted by the letter "R."

Speed rating: This is the highest speed your tires can handle. For example, S = 112 MPH and T = 118 MPH. A Z-rated tire could be the fastest available, and will be designated with a "W" or "Y," showing the actual MPH the tire is rated for.

Aspect ratio: This number represents the height associated with the sidewall. Since it's merely a percentage associated with the width, it's likely to be small-perhaps around 45 or more.

Tire type: "P" signifies a passenger car tire and "LT" indicates a lighter truck tire.

Width: The very first number could be the width associated with the tire from one sidewall to the other, specified in millimeters. In a traveler car, it could be something like 245, for example.

Auto Repair South Burlington, VT

While this may be a suitable starting point for several DIY repairs, don't start any job if you're uncertain. South Burlington, Chittenden County, and St. Albans motorists can consult the dedicated mechanics at Goss Dodge Chrysler beforehand for more info. Contact us today!

Auto Repair Barre, VT

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Goss Dodge Chrysler Ram Jeep FIAT

1485 Shelburne Rd
Directions South Burlington, VT 05403-7714

  • Sales: 877-666-5175
  • Service: (802) 448-8747
  • Parts: (877) 827-5835


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