The most immediate reason to have your vehicle regularity serviced is your own safety. Properly and regularly maintaining your vehicle not only extends its life but also makes it more reliable, smoother to drive and safer for everyone on the road. A well serviced vehicles is less costly in the long run, as problems are likely to be caught early on when they’re more cost effective to fix, which will maintain the vehicles warranty and result in a more efficient vehicle (better fuel economy) higher resale value and longer life expectancy.
The most basic and perhaps the most vital form of maintenance is an oil and filter change. Doing this on time, every time, is vital for your vehicle’s health if you want your it to run smoothly, efficiently, and safely. This is the easiest thing you as a car owner can do to extend the life of your vehicle and keep its engine healthy; but it’s not the only thing that requires servicing. Vehicles are designed to require maintenance to keep them in good working order, other components that require frequent inspection include braking and suspension systems, steeping components, fluid levels, tires, spark plugs, filters and more.
There are many things to remember to keep your vehicle in good working order, but rest assured that during each service at Glenforest Garage, the licensed mechanic working on your vehicle inspects all the wear items free of charge and brings any issues they may find to your attention. By doing so, you are performing preventative maintenance which is less costly and safer than reactive maintenance. Refer to your service sticker on the top left of your windshield for information on your next service date.
Who doesn't love a clean car? We'll have your car looking sparkly clean with our interior and exterior detailing services.
Detailing services are available for cars, SUVs, trucks and motorcycles.
Primary Detailing
- A full vacuum of all seats and upholstery
- Full interior protectant on all panels, plastics and necessary areas
- Eliminate all odors with a positive scent
- Full foam bath on vehicle with a soft dry service
- Tire Shine
Premium Detailing
- A full vacuum of all seats and upholstery (includes seats, carpets and trunk space)
- Salt stain removal
- Deep clean fabric care on all upholstery in vehicle
- Leather cleaner and conditioner on all leather in the vehicle
- Full interior protectant on all panels, plastics and necessary areas
- Eliminate any outstanding odours in the vehicle with a positive scent
- A premium tire shine method involving a soapy foam and a deep scrub with the softest bristles to make your rims glow
- A two-step exterior wash method involving a foam bath with a top to bottom scrub around the vehicle, along with a soft dry service
- A complete detailed wax throughout the exterior of the vehicle to make your car sparkle!
- Paint Correction
When does it need replacing?
Windshields need to be repaired or replaced any time there is a chip or crack of any size or shape.
Why is it important?
The quality of your tires has a direct correlation with your vehicles stopping power and distance. Tread, age and using the right tire for the right condition are all equally important factors in gripping and stopping responsively.
What are the signs?
Windshields are very important to the safety of the occupants of a vehicle. A cracked or chipped windshield compromises the integrity of the windshield and the structural framework of the vehicle which is a hazard to the safety of the passengers in the event of a crash or an object hitting it. For these reasons it is illegal to drive in Ontario with a cracked or chipped windshield. Most damage to a windshield does get worse over time which makes it very important to get any damage repaired or replaced as soon as possible.
Windshield Replacement
Professionally install a new windshield.
Windshield Repair
Repair windshield damage to restore aesthetics and integrity.
Backglass Replacement
Professionally install new backglass.
Backglass Replacement
Repair backglass damage to restore aesthetics and integrity.
When does it need replacing?
Tires are one of the most important safety components of any vehicle. Tires are typically designed to last about 5 or 6 years regardless of driving habits. Dry rot can be equally as dangerous as regular tread wear, as hardened rubber does not grip the road as it was originally designed to do.
Why is it important?
The quality of your tires has a direct correlation with your vehicles stopping power and distance. Tread, age and using the right tire for the right condition are all equally important factors in gripping and stopping responsively.
What are the signs?
You can tell if your tires are dry rotted if you see any cracking in between the tread or on the sidewall. Additionally, if you notice that your tires are running low on tread with a simple visual inspection, it means that it is time to have them replaced. Most vehicles are equipped with tire pressure lights and if they happen to come on it’s important to check to make sure each tire is at the recommended pressure. This is easy to check at any gas station or stop by the shop and we would be happy to do it for you free of charge.
Summer and Winter Tire Changeover
Install and balance four summer/ winter tires, on/ off rims. Set all tire pressures to proper inflation and complete visual inspection of tire condition and tread life.
Tire Repair
Plug/patch and or clean corrosion from rim, re-seal and balance tire. Verify repair, set all tire pressures to proper inflation and complete visual inspection of tire condition and tread life.
Install and Balance new Tires
Install and balance new tires. Set all tire pressures to proper inflation and complete visual inspection of tire condition and tread life.
Tire Pressure Monitoring System
Set all tire pressures to proper inflation. Set all tire pressures to proper inflation and complete visual inspection of tire condition and tread life.
Tire Rotation and Balancing
Remove, rotate and computer spin balance 4 tires. Visual inspection of tire condition and tire wear pattern(s). Set tire pressure to proper inflation. Re-torque wheel lug nuts to manufacturers torque specifications. Perform final road test where applicable.
Hub Service
Clean corrosion from hubs and lubricate.
When does it need replacing?
For best performance it is recommended to perform an oil change every 5000km or 3-4 months.
Why is it important?
Servicing your vehicle regularly and according to recommended service intervals is important to keeping your vehicle safe, efficient, in good working order and for maintaining its warranty and resale value. In the long run, this is the most effective thing any vehicle owner can do to prevent unexpected costs and breakdowns.
What are the signs?
Your vehicle will likely tell you when regular service is required but you should also monitor your odometer and refer to your Glenforest Garage service reminder sticker on the top left of your windshield to know when you’re due for service. An oil change is the easiest thing you can do to properly care for your vehicle. During a standard service at Glenforest Garage we road test your vehicle before and after to properly diagnose and identify any concerns. We then check the vehicle's maintenance schedule and relay all the manufacturers recommended maintenance to you and perform a complimentary visual inspection of all remaining ware items. Rest assured that no work is complete without you first understanding all recommended service items and getting your approval.
Synthetic Oil Change
Drain and refill engine oil, change engine oil filter and lubricate chassis grease fittings and friction points. Check and top fluid levels, tire pressures, air filter and cabin filter, starting and charging system, suspension and steering components, front end and ball joints, lights and wipers. Complete a complimentary visual vehicle inspection.
When does it need replacing?
Pads and rotors should be replaced every 40,000-50,000 kilometres , callipers should be replaced every 100,000 kilometres and brake fluid breaks down and gets dirty every two years.
Why is it important?
Your vehicle's brakes are one of the most important safety components of your vehicle and should therefore be treated and serviced accordingly. Different vehicles and different braking systems have different life spans but what doesn’t differ is the importance of inspecting them on a regular basis. Typical brakes can last between 40 and 50 thousand kilometres before requiring replacement depending on driving habits and conditions. However, if brakes are not properly serviced and stored over this time it is not unlikely for any number of moving components to seize causing inefficient and dangerous braking.
What are the signs?
If your vehicle has a brake wear sensor it will tell you on the display when the brakes need to be replaced but other indications are also quite obvious. If you hear grinding or squealing it means that you should at least have your brakes inspected. Lastly, if your brakes are performing at a sub-par level they may also require service or replacement. Brake pads and rotors are designed to wear gradually, so if you wait to have them replaced it will not only reduce your braking power but put added stress on other components of the braking system which is lest cost effective in the long runs as well as dangerous. Manufacturers typically recommend a break overhaul (pads, rotors and callipers) every 100,000km.
Disc Brake Pads and Rotors
Replace brake pads and rotors, clean and lubricate carriers, shims, pistons and slider pins. Retest and verify repairs.
Disc Brake Pads, Rotors and Callipers
Replace front brake pads, rotors, callipers. Bleed air from hydraulic brakes and top off fluid as required. Lubricate carriers, shims, pistons and slider pins. Retest and verify repairs.
Exchange Brake Fluid
Exchange brake fluid and verify that no air is in the system. Retest and verify repair.
Disc Brake Service
Remove components as required to access and perform needed service and adjustments. Clean and lubricate slider pins, carrier, brake pads, shims and pistons. Retest and verify repair.
Brake Inspection
Check brake pads and rotor wear, verify calliper pins and piston function properly. Check for proper lubrication.
Drum Brakes
Remove and replace components as required to access and install materials, and perform needed service. Retest and verify repair.
Drum Brakes Service
Remove and replace components as required to access and install materials, and perform needed service and adjustments as required. Top off any additional fluids as required. Retest and verify repair.
ABS Brake System Service
Remove and replace components as required to access and install materials, and perform needed service and adjustments as required. Additional fluids may be required to complete this service. Retest and verify repair.
When does it need replacing?
All items to do with the engine appear on the manufacturer’s recommended service intervals (which we check every service) and should be followed closely to avoid engine problems.
Why is it important?
It’s important to monitor your engine light and any signs of low oil. Your vehicle cannot function without the engine and it can be dangerous to drive if the engine is not properly lubricated or has leaks etc… Visit us or drop us a line should you experience any of these issues.
What are the signs?
If you have followed our recommendations and those of the manufacturer for properly servicing your vehicle hopefully you will never need to replace your engine entirely which is a massive expense that can often be more than the remaining value of the vehicle. Luckily this is easily avoided with proper maintenance and some small service items for your engine itself.
Check Engine Light
Check engine light is on, retrieve trouble codes, diagnose and reset light. Other services may be required.
Engine Air Filter
Remove and replace engine air filter. Retest and verify repairs.
Timing Belt
Replace timing belt, water pump, idler and tensioner pulleys and tensioner assembly. Retest and verify repairs.
Oil Pan and Gasket
Replace engine oil pan and gasket and reseal with silicone. Retest and verify repairs.
Valve Cover Gasket(s)
Replace valve cover gasket. Verify seals around cover and test repair.
When does it need replacing?
It’s important to replace suspension components at least every 100,000 kilometres or when oil is leaking out of the shocks, driving is noticeably rougher when going over uneven terrain or when springs are broken.
Why is it important?
Shocks absorbers and springs, or struts are a very necessary component in every vehicle. Not only do they make your drive smoother and keep your vehicle up but they are also a safety component. They allow for more equally dispersed braking which not only facilitates a more responsive braking times but also preserves the life and the brake pads, rotors and calipers.
What are the signs?
Other components of the steering and suspension system have a longer working life but are equally important in your vehicle's handling. The easiest way to tell if there is an issue with any steering or suspension component is if you have uneven tire wear, you hear clunking noises, your vehicle pulls in one direction, you have difficulty turning, the steering wheel vibrates and or the steering isn’t as responsive. Suffice to say, it’s important to your safety that your vehicle has responsive steering.
Strut Assembly
Remove and replace strut assemblies and mounts. Retest and verify repairs.
Shock Absorbers
Remove and replace shock absorbers and mounts. Retest and verify repairs.
Upper and Lower Control Arm
Remove and replace control arm(s). Retest and verify repairs.
Alignment
Set caster, camber and toe-in to the correct specifications. Retest and verify repair.
Sway Bar Links and Bushings
Remove and Replace components as required to access and install materials, and/or perform needed service. Retest and verify repair as required.
Steering Tie Rod
Remove and tie rod end(s). Re-test and verify repair.
Upper and Lower Ball Joint
Remove and replace ball joints(s). Retest and verify repairs.
Air Suspension
Remove and replace the suspension air spring. Re-test and verify repair.
Power Steering Hose
Remove and replace components as required to access and install materials, and/or perform needed service. Additional fluids may be required to complete this service. Retest and verify repair.
Steering Rack and Pinion
Remove and replace components as required to access and install materials, and/or perform needed service. Additional fluids may be required to complete this service. Retest and verify repair.
When does it need replacing?
There are several factors that can cause a battery to lose or not hold a charge at all such as age, mileage, storage conditions and number of starts, but a typical 12 Volt battery will require replacement every 4 to 5 years but that’s not to say issues couldn’t arise any earlier or even later.
Why is it important?
Your vehicle's battery performs several vital functions, the most vital one being to provide electrical energy to crank the starter and start the engine. Additionally, your battery provides power to electronic components like lights, radio and A/C. Although your vehicle’s battery is charged by the alternator while the engine is running, over time the battery loses its ability to hold a charge. This, of course, is what can cause you to be stranded with a dead battery.
What are the signs?
Indications that a battery needs to be replaced or charged are longer turnover times, inconsistent starts, difficulty holding a charge and or the vehicle not starting at all. Rest assured that there is no reason to replace a battery at a time or mileage increment as long as it isn’t exhibiting signs of deterioration and is holding a charge. If you are regularly servicing your vehicle with us, we check the battery and alternator every oil change to give you confidence that your battery is still in good working order.
Battery Replacement
Remove and replace components as required to access and install the battery and perform needed service. Retest the battery and verify proper charging.
Battery Charge
Recharge battery using 12 volt charger and retest.
Battery Service
Clean battery terminals and clamps and apply corrosion protection. Charge battery and retest the starting and charging system.
Battery and Charging System Test
Initial diagnosis, testing and inspection of the battery and charging system. Perform a road test. Report test results, system faults, component failures and required repair.
When does it need replacing?
A provincial safety inspection is required by law in Ontario anytime a vehicle changes ownership and is registered. This is unavoidable and must be done if you would like to sell or gift your vehicle.
Why is it important?
A general lookover is never a bad idea, but is also always performed during every regular oil change at Glenforest Garage, so if you’ve been keeping on top of properly serving your vehicle you should have nothing to worry about from a safety perspective. The only other time a general lookover is recommended is if you are planning on going on an extended trip or driving in less than ideal conditions.
General Lookover
Lubricate chassis grease fittings and friction points. Check and top fluid levels, tire pressures, air filter and cabin filter, starting and charging system, suspension and steering components, front end and ball joints, lights and wipers. Complete a complimentary visual vehicle inspection.
Provincial Safety Inspection
Perform one-hundred and two point safety inspection checklist. Report safety concerns as required. Issue safety certificate as needed. Perform final road test.
When does it need replacing?
Generally a vehicle's serpentine belt should be replaced at about the 80,000 - 100,000 kilometre mark, but it’s best to go by the manufacturer’s recommended service intervals (which we check every service).
Why is it important?
The serpentine (or drive) belt is a very important component of any vehicle and has multiple functions. It is responsible for running all your car’s electrical systems, charging the battery via the alternator, powering the power steering, air conditioning compressor and the coolant. Simply speaking, you cannot drive without a serpentine belt as it would cause many systems to fail and damage your vehicle.
What are the signs?
It’s easy to tell when a belt needs to be replaced, as you will likely hear a squealing noise from the engine because the belt is not spinning properly and is probably cracked all around. However, it is typically best to avoid this, as it can cause you to be stranded on the road with a broken belt. To do so, simply follow the manufacturer’s recommended service intervals (which we check every service).
Bulbs
Remove and replace bulb(s) as required. Retest and verify repairs.
Serpentine Belt
Remove and replace the serpentine belt. Retest, verify repairs and belt tension.
Alternator
Remove and replace components as required to access and install materials, and/or perform needed service adjustments as required. Retest and verify that it is properly charging the battery.
Diagnose Starting and Charging Systems
Initial diagnosis, testing and inspection of the specific vehicle system as required. Perform a road test. Report test result(s), system fault(s), component(s) failure and required repair(s). Additional diagnosis and testing time may be required at additional charges.
When does it need replacing?
Exchanging your transmission fluid every 50,000 kilometres or 2 years elongates the life of your transmission (which is costly to replace) and ensures proper shifting. If fluid is not changed it becomes dirty and does not act as a proper lubricant and won’t disperse the heat as intended.
Why is it important?
Your vehicle's transmission is what changes the gears, and just like the engine, it has a lot of moving parts which require proper lubrication.
What are the signs?
The best way to avoid costly repairs to your transmission or even replacement is with preventative maintenance, by ensuring that all components are properly lubricated. If the vehicle is not shifting gears properly, dropping its revs or holding them very long then the transmission may not be functioning properly and should be addressed as soon as possible.
Transmission Fluid Exchange
Exchange transmission fluid. Test and verify repairs and operating temperature.
Transmission Fluid Filter
Remove and replace automatic transmission fluid filter and gasket. Leak test vehicle system at operating temperature.
Automatic Transmission Fluid Pan
Remove and replace automatic transmission fluid pan, filter and gasket. Leak test vehicle system at operating temperature.
Transmission Control Module
Remove and replace A/T Transmission Control Module. Test and verify repair.
When does it need replacing?
Generally speaking, differential and transfer case fluid should be replaced every 50,000 kilometres but it’s best to go by the manufacturer’s recommended service intervals (which we check every service). The lifetime of axles and wheel bearings vary with use and do not require much in terms of preventative maintenance; they should be replaced when and issue arises.
Why is it important?
The drive train of any vehicle is what transfers energy from the engine to the wheels of the vehicle, therefore allowing it to move. It is necessary for each component of the drivetrain to function in order for the vehicle to move. If parts components are not properly serviced and/ or lubricated they can break down over time and not function as intended.
What are the signs?
Oftentimes when you notice issues with your differential or transfer case it is too late and would require more parts and labor to properly repair or replace it. The best way to avoid this scenario is with preventative maintenance, by ensuring that all components are properly lubricated.
Differential Fluid Exchange
Drain and replace differential fluid with manufacturer recommended specification and to proper capacity. Retest and verify repair.
Transfer Case Fluid Exchange
Drain and replace differential fluid with manufacturer recommended specification and to proper capacity. Retest and verify repair.
Wheel Bearing and Hub Assembly
Remove and replace components as required to access and install materials, and perform needed service and adjustments as required. Additional fluids may be required to complete this service. Retest and verify repair.
Axle Shaft and Seal
Remove and replace components as required to access and install materials, and perform needed service and adjustments as required. Additional fluids may be required to complete this service. Retest and verify repair.
When does it need replacing?
A typical vehicle will require new spark plugs around every 50,000 kilometres or as scheduled in the vehicles maintenance manual.
Why is it important?
A properly functioning fuel system is of course necessary for healthy vehicles to operate, however it also affects the health of the engine and its fuel efficiency. If fuel and oxygen is not properly being provided to the engine and subsequently ignited it may cause misfires that increase exhaust emission and decrease fuel economy. By servicing the fuel system you can ensure maximum fuel efficiency and performance.
What are the signs?
The best way to know when your vehicle requires driveability maintenance is checking to see when it is scheduled in the vehicle's maintenance manual (which we check during every regular service). Other indications are if the vehicle is getting sub-par fuel economy, is difficult to start, the engine misfires, or when it struggles to accelerate.
Spark Plugs
Remove and replace components as required to access and install materials, and perform needed service and adjustments as required. Retest and verify repair.
Oxygen Sensor(s)
Remove and replace components as required to access and install materials, and perform needed service and adjustments as required. Retest and verify repair.
Fuel Pump
Remove and replace components as required to access and install materials, and perform needed service and adjustments as required. Retest and verify repair.
Fuel System Tune Up
Install fuel system tune up into fuel tank.
Ignition Coil Assembly
Remove and replace components as required to access and install materials, and perform needed service and adjustments as required. Retest and verify repair.
Camshaft Position Sensor
Remove and replace components as required to access and install materials, and perform needed service and adjustments as required. Retest and verify repair.
When does it need replacing?
The exhaust system is one of the few components of a vehicle that doesn’t require regular or preventative maintenance. When issues arise they should be promptly dealt with.
Why is it important?
Your exhaust has four main functions: to control noise, to direct exhaust fumes away from passengers, to improve the performance of the engine and to improve fuel consumption.
What are the signs?
It will be very easy to tell if your vehicle has an exhaust leak or problem with the system as a whole. If your vehicle is louder than usual when starting and makes more noises while driving you may have an exhaust leak. Other signs include reduced fuel efficiency and exhaust smells in the cabin.
Exhaust Leak
Remove and replace components as required to access and install materials, and perform needed service. Retest and verify repair.
Heat Shield
Repair and replace heat shield. Retest and verify repairs.
Exhaust Flange
Remove and replace components as required to access and install materials, and perform needed service. Retest and verify repair.
Catalytic Converter
Remove and replace components as required to access and install catalytic converter, and perform needed service. Retest and verify repair.
Exhaust Hanger
Remove and replace components as required to access and install materials, and perform needed service. Retest and verify repair.
When does it need replacing?
Coolant should be flushed around every 80,000-100,000 kilometres or when it is due in the vehicles maintenance schedule.
Why is it important?
Coolant (A.K.A antifreeze) is necessary for the proper function and maintenance of an engine. It does exactly what it sounds like, cools the engine. Over time, coolant begins to break down and then loses the ability to serve its purpose of maintaining optimum temperature of the engine, as such it requires replacement every so often. Ultimately, if the cooling system is not functioning properly the engine will overheat and cause major long term damage to your vehicle.
What are the signs?
The best way to know when the coolant is due to be exchanged is by checking when it is scheduled in the vehicle's maintenance (which we check during every regular service) or if the vehicle indicated overheating or an engine problem it may point towards the cooling system.
Exchange Antifreeze
Drain and refill system fluid(s) to proper capacity with new fluid. Fluid additives and/or conditioners may be required. Leak test vehicle system. Retest and verify repair.
Water Pump
Remove and replace components as required to access and install new water pump. Top off coolant level. Perform leak test. Retest and verify repairs. Perform final road test.
Radiator
Remove and replace components as required to access and install materials, and perform needed service. Refill and cycle coolant. Perform leak test. Retest and verify repair.
Radiator Coolant Hose(s)
Remove and replace components as required to access and install materials, and perform needed service. Top off coolant as required. Retest and verify repair(s).
Coolant Reservoir
Remove and replace components as required to access and install materials, and perform needed service and adjustments as required. Retest and verify repair.
When does it need replacing?
Wiper blades should be replaced once a year or when they start to become noisy or streaky. All other accessory items should be monitored consistently for malfunctions.
Why is it important?
Your vehicle's accessories are important to the day to day functionality and driveability of your vehicle. Having these items up to date and well maintained not only allows for a more comfortable and worry free drive but also a safer one.
What are the signs?
Did you know that wiper blades are only designed to last 4 seasons? It’s important to exchange them when the rubber deteriorates to ensure proper visibility in all driving conditions.
Wiper Blades
Replace wiper blades. Ensure a proper fit and function.
Windshield Wiper Motor
Diagnose and replace windshield wiper motor. Retest and verify repair.
Windshield Washer Hose/ Nozzles
Remove and replace components as required to access and install materials, and perform needed service. Retest and verify repair.
Washer Fluid Reservoir
Remove and replace components as required to access and install materials, and perform needed service. Retest and verify repair.
Hood and Trunk Lift Shocks/Supports
Remove and replace components as required to access and install materials, and perform needed service. Retest and verify repair.
Headlight Restoration
Restore headlight lease with restoration kit. Clean and buff restored surfaces. Retest and verify repair.
Radio
Remove and replace components as required to access and install materials, and perform needed service. Retest and verify repair.
When does it need replacing?
To avoid driving on congested highways on a hot summer day without A/C you may service the system around every three or four years even if it seems to be working well. The cabin air filter is typically replaced every 10,000 - 15,000 kilometres but depends on the types of roads your vehicle drives on, frequency and where it is stored.
Why is it important?
Air conditioning problems do arise every so often and when they do it can be very uncomfortable driving without it, therefore the system can be evacuated and recharged on regular service intervals for peace of mind. That being said, it is not dangerous or unhealthy for the vehicle to simply leave the A/C system until a problem arises. The most common service item in this category is the cabin air filter which effectively does the same job as a furnace filter; cleans the air that you breath from the vents.
What are the signs?
It’s easy enough to tell when anything in the HVAC system needs to be repaired or replaced, as the components will not be functioning when you attempt to use them. The cabin air filter should be replaced only when it’s dirty (which we check at every scheduled oil change).
Evacuate and Recharge Air Conditioning System
Connect AC equipment, evacuate system of contaminates, verify system pressures, refrigerant levels and cooling vent temperature. Charge AC system, install proper refrigerant and oil capacity. Leak test AC system. Refrigerant leak detection dye may be added to system. Includes Refrigerant and Dye.
Air Conditioning Condenser
Remove and replace components as required to access and install A/C compressor, and perform needed service. Air conditioning repairs which include replacement materials will normally require an additional service to evacuate and recharge system refrigerant and oil. Re-test and verify repair as required.
Air Conditioning Hose
Remove and replace components as required to access and install A/C Discharge Hose. Air Conditioning repairs which include replacement materials will normally require an additional service to evacuate and recharge system refrigerant and oil. Re-test and verify repair.
Fan Blower Motor
Remove and replace components as required to access and install blower motor assembly. Re-test and verify repair as required.
Cabin Air Filter
Replace cabin air filter. Retest and verify repairs.