We know your car or truck like your dealer but can service it for less!

If you’re like many drivers, you may follow the factory maintenance schedule while your car or truck is under warranty. Unfortunately, once your warranty expires, it’s easy to let proper maintenance slip, just when it’s most critical!

Automotive manufacturers know that a well-maintained car, truck, or SUV increases owner satisfaction because the vehicle is more dependable and will last longer. That’s why the manufacturer (“factory”) creates detailed maintenance schedules outlining specific operations to be performed on various components and systems. This is done at different mileage intervals to ensure proper operation and prevent premature wear.

Your vehicle’s manufacturer also indicates which services are required to maintain the factory warranty and extended warranty. The experts at AAMCO know your car like your dealer and can provide the maintenance services you need. We’re here to help you keep in warranty or keep track of your maintenance needs long after your car is out of warranty.

Click on each of the services below to find out more about each of the services available at AAMCO.

• Air Filtration Replacement Service
• Automatic Transmission Fluid Services
• Battery Maintenance Services
• Brake System Fluid Service
• Cabin Air Filter Service
• Cooling System Service
• Fuel Filter Replacement Service
• Fuel System Cleaning Service
• Full Service Oil, Lube & Filter Change
• Light Bulb Replacement Service
• Serpentine Belt Replacement Service
• Tire Rotation Service
• Wiper Blade Replacement Service

Air Filtration Replacement Service
Clean air is better. A clean air filter helps your car, truck or SUV perform better.
A typical Air Filtration Replacement Service at AAMCO includes:

• Replacement of the air filter to improve gas mileage, engine performance and acceleration.
• Replacement of the breather element, if needed, to help keep contaminants out of the engine oil.
• Replacement of the PCV Valve, if needed, to reduce fumes, air pollution and wear on engine parts.

Automatic Transmission Fluid Services
AAMCO centers are the experts in the care and maintenance of your car, truck or SUV’s transmission. AAMCO centers offer the following transmission fluid services-click on any for more information
– Power Purge® Plus Transmission Flush & Filter Change
– Safeguard Fluid & Filter Change

Battery Maintenance Services
A well-maintained battery gives you peace of mind, whether you’re out on the road or the weather turns cold. Does your battery keep running down? Does it start slowly? Or does the temperature impact how well your car starts? It takes an expert to diagnose the starting and charging systems in your vehicle. Take your car, truck or SUV to AAMCO for a starting and charging system diagnosis and our free 36-point Vehicle Courtesy Check.

An AAMCO technician will inspect the battery connections, the hardware, the condition of the case, the electrolyte level (where applicable) and the battery load (its ability to perform its function). The technician inspects the alternator belts, brackets and connections and tests voltage and current. Finally, the starter is inspected for proper connections and mounting and is tested to see how much electrical power is required to turn over the engine when the engine is cranked.

Based on this expert diagnosis, your AAMCO center will recommend the service that’s right for you and replace only the needed components.

Unlike other components in your car or truck, the battery does not give warning signs when it is near failure. A battery aged three or more years is a good candidate for replacement. Please refer to your owner’s manual for factory recommended maintenance intervals for your specific vehicle or if you are an I-Phone user, download our FREE I-gAAuge application for your maintenance schedule.

Brake System Fluid Service
Some manufacturers recommend replacing the fluid at regular intervals. That’s because some brake fluids absorb moisture over time, which could mean your brakes perform less well when you need them the most, during hard braking.

The brake fluid level should be checked periodically, preferably with every oil change. Check your owner’s manual to determine the recommended interval for changing the brake fluid or bring your vehicle to AAMCO to have a complete brake inspection. You’ll also get the AAMCO Vehicle Courtesy Check to ensure all of the major systems in your vehicle are in good working order.

Cabin Air Filter Service
You can breathe cleaner air in your car, truck or SUV by regularly changing the cabin air filter. In a compact area like a vehicle interior, there can be high concentrations of dust, pollen and bacteria, which can affect the health of the driver and/or passengers by aggravating allergies.

Fortunately, a large number of vehicles now have a cabin air filter to clean incoming air. Cabin air filters are electro-statically charged and work like a magnet to collect pollutants as they try to enter and move through your car.

Please refer to your owner’s manual for factory recommended maintenance intervals for your specific vehicle or if you are an I-Phone user, download our FREE I-gAAuge application for your maintenance schedule. It should be noted however, that cabin air filter replacement is not always noted in the owner’s manual, so the AAMCO rule of thumb is replacement about every 15,000 miles.

Cooling System Service
Did you know that the cooling system and its overheating is the most common cause of mechanical breakdowns on the road? And that overheating can cause severe damage to the engine and the transmission?

Coolant (also termed anti-freeze) protects your engine from overheating and from freezing. The coolant’s effectiveness can diminish over time and lose many of its protective properties-even causing your radiator to rust and corrode. The cooling system itself can get clogged with built-up deposits from oil, grease, scale, hose decomposition and other materials.

Check your car’s owner’s manual or come to AAMCO where we can give you information on the recommended interval for changing the coolant in your vehicle.

Come to AAMCO today if you have any of the following symptoms:

• Your vehicle overheats
• Your coolant or temperature light comes on
• Your temperature gauge reads higher or lower than normal
• Your heater does not work

Our local AAMCO technician can check your vehicle and see if you require an AAMCO Cooling System Service and get a 36-point Vehicle Courtesy Check performed on your vehicle at no additional cost.

Fuel Filter Replacement Service
Your fuel filter helps prevent water, dirt particles and other contaminants from getting into your vehicle’s fuel system where they can clog up your fuel injection system or carburetor. The fuel filter itself can get clogged or contaminated over time, making your car, truck or SUV perform at less than its best.

The fuel filter should be replaced according to your vehicle manufacturer’s specifications or we recommend about every year or two if you drive under more severe driving conditions, for example, if your car is constantly subjected to the stresses of stop-and-go driving.

An AAMCO Fuel Filter Replacement Service includes disconnecting and removing the old filter installing a new filter and checking the fuel filter and fittings for leaks.

Fuel System Cleaning Service
Help restore maximum power and performance to your vehicle’s engine with an AAMCO Fuel System Cleaning Service. Almost every car, truck or SUV today uses fuel injection and fuel injection maintenance is routinely recommended by the manufacturers to keep you car performing at its best.

An AAMCO Fuel System Service may help to alleviate the following symptoms:

• Trouble starting
• Poor gas mileage and performance
• Hesitating or knocking
• Rough idle

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms or would like to know the recommended interval for fuel system service in your vehicle, check your car’s owner’s manual or come in to your local AAMCO center.

Full Service Oil, Lube & Filter Change
Most technicians agree that changing the engine oil and filter on a regular basis is the single most important maintenance service for your car, truck or SUV. Refer to your car’s owner’s manual for the factory’s recommendation on oil. If you are often in stop-and-go traffic, city driving or go on frequent short trips, you may want to change your oil more often.

An AAMCO Full Service Oil, Lube & Filter Change includes:

• Up to 5 quarts of engine oil
• New oil filter
• Lubrication of all grease fittings on your vehicle, as applicable
• Plus AAMCO’s 36-point Vehicle Courtesy Check, to ensure all major systems in your vehicle is in good working order.

Light Bulb Replacement Service
Working lights and light bulbs are critical to your safety on the road. Your headlights need to work properly for oncoming traffic to see you and for you to see them. Your taillights need to work so drivers following you know when you are stopping or turning.

Visit AAMCO for Light Bulb Replacement Service if any of the following bulbs are burned out:

• Headlights
• Taillights
• Parking lights
• Reverse lights
• Fog lights

To make sure your lights are functioning properly and that all major systems in your car, truck or SUV are in good working order, visit AAMCO annually for a 36-point Vehicle Courtesy Check.

Serpentine Belt Replacement Service
Serpentine belts are critical to the operation of a number of your vehicle’s components, from the water pump to the power steering pump to the alternator to the air conditioning.

That’s why it’s important to have the serpentine belt inspected regularly-it is a part of AAMCO’s 36-point Vehicle Courtesy Check. A worn serpentine belt is not always obvious, so it’s important to have it changed according to your vehicle manufacturer’s specifications. Timely replacement could mean the difference between trouble-free operation and just plain old trouble.

Tire Rotation Service
Our AAMCO Tire Rotation Service will help keep you safe and extend the life of the tires on your vehicle. Tire rotation helps ensure that all of tires wear evenly. Most manufacturers recommend rotation of tires frequently, generally every 6,000 to 12,000 miles or when tire tread wear appears uneven.
While performing the service, AAMCO certified technicians will also check the tire pressure and inspect the tires for any damage or unusual wear. They’ll also perform a 36-point Vehicle Courtesy Check to ensure all major systems in your car, truck or SUV are in good working condition.

Wiper Blade Replacement Service
Worn blades are easy to overlook but can pose a serious safety hazard while you are driving. A rule of thumb is to change your wiper blades every six months or so, especially if you live in an area with extreme temperature changes.

With AAMCO’s Wiper Blade Replacement Service, we will remove your vehicle’s old blades and install quality new blades. We’ll also check for any damage to the windshield wiper arm assembly.

AAMCO will keep you going… and stopping.

Come in to AAMCO today for our FREE Brake Check

Your brake system is a critical safety feature in your car, truck or SUV. Annual brake checks and proper maintenance are important in order to ensure your safety and to avoid costly failures to the brake system. It starts with a FREE check at your locally owned AAMCO center. Your AAMCO expert technician will examine the entire braking system pads/shoes, hydraulic fluids, rotor/drum wear, calipers and wheel cylinders, brake hardware, hoses and lines, master cylinder, and the anti-lock system for vehicles so equipped.

If you notice any of the signs of possible brake failure: squealing, grinding, other unusual noise when you apply the brakes, a brake pedal that can be depressed nearly to the floor, low or dirty brake fluid, or a brake warning light, have your brake system checked out as soon as possible.

For many owners, maintaining the vehicle’s brakes is something that is overlooked until problems occur and then it’s often too late to avoid costly replacement of rotors and other wear sensitive parts. Keeping your yearly check and your brake system in good working order those can prevent costly repairs, save you money, and keep you and your passengers safe. Should our expert technicians find any wear, damage or problems through our FREE check, AAMCO has 3 brake service options to best suit your vehicle’s needs.

When the light comes on, turn to AAMCO to check it out and get the repairs you need to get back on the road – lights out and worry-free!

Thousands of drivers across the US, Canada, and Puerto Rico trust AAMCO when their Check Engine light comes on. So our experts put together this quick guide to help you understand that mysterious glowing light!

What is my CHECK ENGINE or SERVICE ENGINE SOON light?
All modern vehicles are equipped with an onboard computer diagnostic system (OBDII) that constantly monitors your vehicle’s major operating systems and most importantly the power-train (engine and transmission). The main purpose of monitoring these systems is to ensure that the vehicle is operating at top efficiency with the lowest possible emissions. As fuel economy and emission control have become increasingly important and complex, your vehicle’s electronics systems need to constantly adjust and fine-tune various parameters according to driving conditions (such as vehicle load, temperature, and air/fuel mix to name just a few). When the computer reads that any of these parameters do not fall within the acceptable range for operating the vehicle, your CHECK ENGINE LIGHT is lit to warn you that you may have a serious problem and to take your vehicle to a certified technician – such as your local AAMCO technician – to check the faults and restore it to manufacturer’s specifications.

What is the check?
Reading the codes from your car’s computer system is similar to a doctor measuring your blood pressure when you schedule a visit. High blood pressure doesn’t tell the doctor what is wrong with you it simply lets the doctor know there is something wrong and points him or her in the right direction to find out what it is. Just like the CHECK ENGINE LIGHT codes tell your AAMCO technician there is something wrong and points him or her in the right direction, too. If the code indicates a problem with your O2 (oxygen) sensor system, it doesn’t necessarily mean you need a new O2 sensor. Additional diagnostics pinpoints the exact cause of the “trouble” code so you don’t pay for parts or services you don’t need. Be wary of garages that read your code and tell you immediately that you need a major repair.

What does the CHECK ENGINE LIGHT usually mean?
There are hundreds of codes that could trigger your CHECK ENGINE LIGHT for dozens of reasons each. Even the most common reasons can have many possible causes. Some top CHECK ENGINE LIGHT codes are:

• Problem with the Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor or circuit: You may not notice any serious drivability problems, although there may be symptoms such as a general decrease in power or sluggishness. This could be caused by a simple connection problem of the sensor, a wiring connection may be bad or dirty or the Mass Air Flow sensor may be faulty.
• System Running Too Lean: An oxygen sensor detected a lean condition (too much oxygen in the exhaust). You may notice a lack of power, detonation (spark knock), and/or a hesitation/surge on acceleration which could be caused by a dirty Mass Air Flow sensor or air filter or a vacuum or exhaust leak in the system.
• System Running Too Rich: The oxygen sensor detected a rich condition (or a too-high fuel-to-oxygen ratio). You may experience misfires with this condition. This condition can be caused by a dirty or faulty Mass Air Flow sensor, air filter, a blockage or restriction in the airstream, a fuel pressure, fuel injector or fuel delivery problem.
• Cylinder Misfire: A P0300 series of codes indicates a random or multiple misfire in your engine. You may find your engine harder to start, the engine may stumble, idle rough and/or hesitate among other drivability symptoms. This could mean anything from faulty spark plugs or spark plug wires, a bad ignition coil, a vacuum or air leak, to a serious mechanic problem in your engine. This code is serious when flashing and can cause faulty catalytic converter(s).
• Knock Sensor Circuit Malfunction: Your vehicle’s computer constantly adjusts and retimes the engine so that it doesn’t produce harmful pre-ignition detonation or knock. With this malfunction, you may notice drivability problems including, not surprisingly, knocks and a lack of power and hesitation. It could mean the knock sensor is faulty and needs to be replaced, that there is a wiring short/fault in the knock sensor circuit or that you have other problems that the knock sensor cannot control.
• Insufficient EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) Flow: Your vehicle recirculates exhaust back into the combustion chamber to better achieve optimal combustion chamber temperature and to reduce NOX (a harmful greenhouse gas). This light triggers when there is insufficient EGR flow in the combustion chamber and you may notice a pinging when the vehicle is at higher speeds. There may also be other symptoms. It could be a faulty sensor, valve or blockage in the EGR (tube) from a carbon buildup.
• Catalyst System Efficiency below Threshold : The oxygen sensor after the catalytic converter is detecting that the converter is not working as efficiently as it should be (according to specs). You will likely not even notice any drivability problems though your vehicle may have anything from an oxygen sensor not reading (functioning) properly to a damaged exhaust manifold or a bad catalytic converter.

These are just a few of the hundreds of codes, causes and symptoms, each has multiple fixes.

What happens when I ignore the CHECK ENGINE LIGHT or put off service when my AAMCO technician tells me what’s wrong?
There are two kinds of CHECK ENGINE LIGHT alerts. A non-flashing but lit CHECK ENGINE LIGHT, is usually a less severe problem that shouldn’t cause immediate problems but needs to be checked as soon as possible. Also, a flashing and illuminated CHECK ENGINE LIGHT means your vehicle senses a critical system error (such as a major cylinder misfire ) and you need immediate attention before potentially breaking down and possibly damaging other critical and expensive parts. In this case, continuing to drive can lead to further damage rather quickly or can leave you stranded.

Driving the vehicle with a non-flashing generic code will almost certainly cause an increase in emissions and a decrease in fuel economy-which can rob you of up to 20% fuel efficiency at each fill-up. Looking at it a different way, based on $3 per gallon, typically you could be wasting $7.50 per fill-up or upwards of $300 per year.

As quite a few of the systems work interdependently of one another, an error in one system can affect the operation in another. EVAP codes (vacuum related), EGR, temperature, speed sensors, etc. can all have an effect on how the transmission acts and shifts how the engine performs or the cooling fans turn on, etc. Ignoring these important warnings may create other critical issues.
Finally, if you live in one of the areas that require it, you certainly cannot pass state-mandated Emission/Smog inspection with your CHECK ENGINE LIGHT on.

Why get my vehicle serviced with AAMCO?
If you just read all of the above, you may be saying, “What does the CHECK ENGINE LIGHT have to do with transmissions?” Good question.

First, while certain CHECK ENGINE LIGHT trouble codes are not related specifically to the transmission if your vehicle is having symptoms of a transmission problem, the computer will almost certainly trigger the CHECK ENGINE LIGHT. Remember, systems work together and the other systems could be affecting how your transmission operates. Therefore, your AAMCO technician is the logical expert to bring your car to for reading CHECK ENGINE LIGHT codes to help diagnose and repair transmission problems.

Second, you may only know AAMCO as the transmission guys and while we are certainly the experts in transmissions with over 50 years of experience, we are also one of the fastest-growing names in complete car care. The AAMCO name is synonymous with trust and expert car care, handling the most complicated system in your vehicle. Our expertise in vehicle diagnostics means we can quickly pinpoint what is causing your CHECK ENGINE LIGHT to come on and we will recommend only what needs repair. Fixed right on the first visit, every time!

Stay Cool All Summer Long with Auto A/C Services from AAMCO.

Before summer begins or if you’re A/C is blowing hot air, come to a participating AAMCO center for a FREE check. Participating AAMCO centers will visually inspect hoses, lines, seals and other components for leaks, check temperature readings, check that your compressor is operating properly and inspect the drive belt for cracks or damage. You may simply need a recharge of the refrigerant or the inspection could call for other service, like a new compressor. Plus, your air conditioning belt drives many other components in your vehicle, meaning a broken belt can have a much worse impact than simply an uncomfortable trip. Call your local AAMCO Center to find out if they participate in the Free A/C Check offer and let the experts give you the peace of mind knowing that your vehicle will keep you cooler and safer. This free Air Conditioning Check does not include opening the refrigerant portion of the air conditioning system, refrigerant evacuation or full or partial refrigerant recharge for which additional charges will apply.

Depending on the results of the check, the system is then serviced only as required to ensure proper operation, which might include:

• Evacuate refrigerant from the system
• Recharge the system using the appropriate refrigerant to the exact system capacity according to the vehicle manufacturer’s specifications
• Perform any necessary service on compressor, evaporator, condenser, and electrical controls
• Recheck the system to ensure proper operation

While your vehicle is at the center, an AAMCO certified technician will also perform a Vehicle Courtesy Check. Your car, truck or SUV will get a thorough going-over to make sure all of the major systems are in good working order.

Get in tune with AAMCO

A properly tuned car, truck or SUV can improve your gas mileage and performance, while improving our environment. With today’s gas prices, having your car inspected annually to determine if your vehicle could benefit from a tune-up is a great way to save money on gas and keep your car performing at its best longer.

The AAMCO Tune-up service includes inspecting and adjusting all of the systems in your vehicle that contribute to fuel combusting efficiently. How do you know when you need a tune-up service? If you keep track of your gas mileage and it worsens by 10% or more, it’s time for a tune-up. Many drivers also seek a tune-up when experiencing any type of drivability problem for their car, truck or SUV. Check your car’s owner’s manual or come in to your local AAMCO center to see the recommended interval for tune-ups and/or spark plug replacement for your specific vehicle or if you are an I-Phone user, download our FREE I-gAAuge application for your maintenance schedule.

An AAMCO Tune-up Service includes:
Installation of new spark plugs and if so equipped we will perform the following:

• Idle speed adjustment, set timing as needed, inspect choke, throttle linkage, spark plug wires and distributor cap
• Comprehensive performance check to verify that no drivability or computer system trouble codes exist
• Plus our 36-point Vehicle Courtesy Check to ensure all of your vehicle’s critical systems are in good working order

Stop smoking with AAMCO’s exhaust and emission services

Whether your exhaust is blowing smoke or making noise or anything in between, AAMCO provides complete exhaust services. The emission and exhaust system starts at the engine of your car, truck or SUV and runs through exhaust pipes connected to your engine cylinders, to the oxygen sensors and the catalytic converter and then to the muffler and to the tailpipe. 

• Exhaust pipes collect exhaust gases
• Oxygen sensors analyze the gases and sends the information to the vehicle’s computer
• The catalytic converter refines the gases into less harmful gases and water vapor
• The muffler directs the gases through a series of baffles that reduce noise and help the engine run smoother.

Because the emission and exhaust system is mounted to the bottom of your vehicle, it is subject to some abuse from potholes, rough roads and the like. Exhaust gases contain carbon monoxide and other substances which can be dangerous if they are flowing into the passenger compartment. It is a good idea to have your emission and exhaust system checked about once a year to ensure it is functioning safely and quietly. This inspection is included in AAMCO’s Vehicle Courtesy Check. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of exhaust system problems, for example, noises like a steady roar, rattling, hissing, metallic vibrations or colored smoke from the tailpipe, have your vehicle inspected as soon as possible.

AAMCO Emission & Exhaust System Services include the following components:

• Catalytic converter
• Oxygen sensor
• EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) Valves and Sensors
• Muffler
• Exhaust pipes
• Exhaust manifold
• Resonator
• Tail pipes
• Brackets, clamps and hardware

Shocks / Struts

With AAMCO’s shocks and struts services, it’s a smooth road ahead.
Your vehicle’s suspension system helps provide a comfortable and safe ride, ensuring your wheels stay in contact with the road. If your ride’s gotten bumpy, it’s time to have your suspension system checked out by the expert technicians at AAMCO.
Signs of bad shocks or struts or worn springs include a bouncy or uncomfortable ride, bottoming out, the front end of the vehicle diving or loss of control while making a sudden stop, the vehicle swerving more than normal while changing lanes and a vehicle that sags in the front or the rear. If you’re experiencing any of these driving symptoms, bring your car or truck to AAMCO for our free Vehicle Courtesy Check and we’ll help identify whether you need new shocks, struts or other suspension service.

SHOCKS
Shocks are designed to provide measured resistance every time the wheels on your vehicle bounce up and down or when your vehicle’s chassis leans as you make a turn. This obviously helps smooth out your driving experience. Shocks can wear out in as little as 25,000 to 30,000 miles due to the constant motion your car, truck or SUV is subjected to. Many manufacturers recommend that you have your shocks checked about once a year or so for your safety and comfort. This inspection is included in AAMCO’s Vehicle Courtesy Check.

STRUT SERVICE
Most front-wheel drive cars now have a McPherson strut suspension system, which combines coil springs and shocks into one unit. Struts control spring and suspension movement to keep tires in contact with the road. Struts cost more but typically have a longer life than conventional shock absorbers. However, struts will also experience wear and many manufacturers recommend they are checked about once a year or so; their inspection is included in AAMCO’s Vehicle Courtesy Check.

COIL SPRING SERVICE
Coil springs work with your shocks and struts to keep vehicle bounce to a minimum. All springs sag with age, as the springs weaken over time. Coil springs should be checked about once a year or so for your comfort and safety, their inspection is included in AAMCO’s Vehicle Courtesy Check.