SERVICES MENU

Think of Precision Automotive for all your automotive needs.
Monday - Friday 7:30 am - 6:00 pm

Recommended Inspections & Maintenace Service

3 Month / 3,000 Mile Service

• Change engine oil and oil filter
• Lubricate suspension, visual undercarriage inspection
• Top off all fluids
• Inspect air filter
• Inspect drive belts and hoses
• Inspect wiper blades for wear and proper operation
• Inflate tires to proper Pressure, inspect for proper wear and condition

6 Month / 6,000 Mile Service

• 3 Month / 3,000 Mile service (listed above)
• Tire rotation
• Brake inspection (lining and ABS / HYD. system)
• Inspect exhaust system

9 Month / 9,000 Mile Service

• 3 Month / 3,000 Mile service (listed above)

12 Month / 12,000 Mile Service

• 3 Month / 3,000 Mile Service (listed above)
• 6 Month / 6,000 Mile Service (listed above)
• Balance tires
• Replace wiper blades
• Inspect headlamps for proper alignment
• Replace fuel filter
• A complete and comprehensive vehicle inspection
• Suspension alignment (thrust angle or 4 way, depending on cheicle type
• Fuel Injector Cleaning / Engine De Carbon Service

• Air Conditioning
  We provide an in-depth inspection of your air conditioning service to assure it is working at its highest performance. Read more...
  
  
• Brake Service
  Our comprehensive tests and inspections ensure your brakes are working correctly. Read more...
  
  
• Alignment Service
  We have the latest in Alignment system technology Read More...
  
  
• Warranty Service
  Precision Automotive is authorized to perform most services recommended by each manufacturer. Read more...
  
  
• Cooling & Heating
  We'll thoroughly check your cooling & heating system for any issues which may cause your engine to get too hot. Read more...
  
  
• Fuel Injection
  Removing oil deposits and de-carbonizing your fuel injection system will provide you with increased fuel economy and many other benefits. Read more...
  
  
• Tune Ups
  We provide comprehensive tests and inspections of your engine and replace any worn parts to provide you with the best engine performance. Read more...
  
  
• Starting & Charging
  Precision Automotive’s diagnostic system will make certain your battery, starter and alternator are operating at full capacity. Read more...
  
  
• Emission Inspections
  We'll make sure your car meets California requirements. Read more...
  
  
• Safety Inspections
  Precision Automotive will ensure your car meets all of your state and local safety requirements. Read more...
  
  
• Transmissions
  With three transmission services, we will make sure your transmission is always running smoothly. Read more...
  
  
• Smog Testing
  Using the lastest technology. If it doesn't pass we can fix your system so it does. Read More...
  
  
• Oil & Lube
  Regular oil changes will ensure your car runs at its best and will prolong the life of your engine. Read more...
  
  
• Tires & Rims
  We sell the highest quality name brand wheels and rims. Read more...
  
  
• Timing Belt Replacement Service
  Recommended intervals for Timing Belt Replacement vary considerably from vehicle to vehicle and typically range from every 60,000 miles to as high as every 105,000 miles. Read More...
  
  
• Transfer Case & Differential Service
  Transfer Case Service should be performed at least every 30,000 miles on most 4-wheel drive vehicles. Read More...
  

Air Conditioning:

An expansion valve causes the refrigerant in your AC system to expand and contract, making it very cold. The compressor pushes this cold refrigerant into the evaporator core in the dash of your vehicle where a small fan blows the air into your face. The AC condenser helps pull hot air out of the cabin.

When to service:

• Annually before the weather warms
  
  
• When you notice performance beginning to deteriorate, which can be caused by low refrigerant levels or failing fans in the AC system, or even by overheating elsewhere in your vehicle

The benefits:

• Comfort
  
  
• Reduces future maintenance costs for compressor and other AC components

The service includes:

• An in-depth inspection, including leak detection Refrigerant cleansing: Because some refrigerants are harmful to the environment, we take special care to ensure that none of the material escapes during servicing
  
  
• A performance check with pressure reading and temperature check

Special issues:

The Environmental Protection Agency determined that the refrigerant Freon (also known as R-12 or CFC-12) was damaging the ozone layer and stopped production of the material. Now Freon is hard to find - and expensive. Although most cars built before 1995 use Freon in their AC systems, your car can be retrofitted to use R134a, a more environmentally friendly refrigerant, which can pay for itself in cost savings.

The retrofit service includes:

• A case-by-case evaluationFreon and refrigerant oils removal System flush Compatible parts replacement: May include O-rings, hoses, etc.
  
  
• Mandatory retrofit labeling

Retrofitting for cost and environmental savings can be done even if your older AC is functioning. However, a retrofit will not fix a broken AC system.

Brake Service:

How your vehicle's brake system works:

When you step on the brake, brake fluid flows into the brake calipers that hold the brake pads, one on each side of the brake rotor. Hydraulic pressure pushes the pads against the rotor, stopping the wheel.

When to service:

• At least once a year: When it comes to safety in your vehicle, nothing is more important than being able to stop.Any time you question the performance of your brakes The pedal nearly touches the floor when you brake The car pulls to one side when you brake
  
  
• Grinding, bumping or brake pulsations come through the wheel when you brake

When your wheels squeal...

Squealing brakes are a common complaint. Some squeals mean nothing. For example, some brake pads have built-in wear indicator that squeals to let you know your pads need to be replaced, and semi-metallic pads which replaced harmful asbestos with longer-lasting metal shavings can cause squeals throughout their life. But some squeals are indicators of bigger problems, including:

• Worn or poorly resurfaced brake rotors Loose fitting or contaminated brake pads Improperly tightened lug nuts or caliper hardware
  
  
• Caliper hanging up and piston not retracting

Our technicians can help you identify the source of your squeals. The benefits:

• Increases safety
  
  
• Reduces future maintenance costs for rotors, drums and calipers

The service includes:

• A comprehensive road test with checks for pulling, scraping, brake lock, pulsation, etc. A comprehensive hoisted inspection with analysis of rotor thickness and variation, lining/pad thickness, movement of calipers/wheel cylinders, master cylinder leakage, seals, hoses, springs, parking brake function, etc. Brake fluid bled, inspected and replaced Hydraulic system purged of air and adjusted Brake pads and shoes replaced as needed Drum/rotor measured and resurfaced as needed
  
  
• Other components repaired or replaced as needed

We offer Basic, Premium and Super Brake Services.

Special issues:

Anti-lock braking systems (ABS) with computer-controlled components are common in today's cars.

Our technicians are experts in the special servicing required for these systems.

Alignment Service:

3D Geoliner Computer for 2 & 4 Wheel Alignment perfection. The only computerized Wheel Alignment Machine in the Kern River Valley. We can solve your tire wear problems and your steering wheel pulling problems

Warranty Service:Recent advances in automotive technology have resulted in cars that are better built, longer lasting, and more service free than ever before. To assure peak performance and to assure that you get years of trouble-free driving, your manufacturer has developed a recommended maintenance schedule for your car.

When should my car have Scheduled Maintenance?

There are two types of maintenance services - minor and major. Minor services are generally performed at 7,500, 15,000, 45, 000 and 75,000 miles while major services are performed at 30,000, 60,000 and 90,000 mile intervals.

What is the "minor service"?

While it varies by make and model, minor services generally include:

• changing the oil and oil filter lubricating the chassis if it has not been factory sealed an inspection of all fluids, filters, belts, hoses, brakes and emissions
  
  
• some manufacturers recommend tire rotation as a part of a minor service

What is the "major service"?

While it varies by make and model, major services generally include:

• all minor services the replacement of various filters, fluids, and spark plugs timing belt replacement at the manufacturer's recommended replacement interval
  
  
• other specified major services relate to the fuel delivery, emissions, and ignition systems

Will your service validate my warranty?

Scheduled maintenance service must be completed in order to keep your warranty valid, and Precision Automotive is authorized to perform most of the services recommended by each manufacturer.

As with all services you receive at Precision Automotive the parts we install will meet or exceed manufacturer's standards, and all used parts will be returned to you upon request.

Precision Automotive strongly advises that you have maintenance services performed based on the manufacturer's suggested schedule. Additional services may also be recommended based on our inspection of the vehicle and industry standards.

Cooling & Heating:

How your vehicle's cooling system works:

As much as 70% of the energy in gasoline is converted to heat when you run your vehicle. Your engine operates best at a high, ever temperature, but excess heat can damage your engine. The cooling system - composed in part by the radiator, water pump and thermostat - maintains the optimal temperature.

When to service:

• Annually to prevent overheating that can severely damage your engine
  
  
• Twice a year if your vehicle is subject to a hot and cold climate

The benefits:

• Contributes to longer engine life Prevents cooling system from freezing up
  
  
• Prevents motor oil from overheating and breaking down more quickly

The service includes:

• Visual inspection for coolant leaks, cracked hoses, worn belts, etc. Check engine coolant for contamination and pressure Perform cooling system evaluation Flush coolant from radiator, engine block, reservoir and heater core
  
  
• Replace with coolant/water mix at correct ratio for your system

Special issues:

Many vehicles today require special coolant bleeding procedures as well as specific types of coolants and lubricant. Our technicians are experts in the use of mechanical versus chemical flushes and in the many varieties of additives.

Fuel Injection:

How your vehicle's fuel injection system works:

Carburetors used to deliver fuel into the engine. Today, most cars use fuel injection. The fuel injector is an electronically computer controlled valve that takes pressurize fuel supplied by the fuel pump and atomizes it, making it a fine spray that burns easily. The fuel is sprayed at the intake valve. About half-dozen sensors regulate the rate of injection and burn. Burning fuel leaves residue that clogs the fuel injector nozzle and interferes with the spray pattern, disrupting the flow of fuel and hinder top performance.

When to service:

• As part of your regular maintenance service as recommended by your mechanic
  
  
• When you notice that your car is having trouble starting, hesitates or performs sluggishly, or is achieving poor mileage

The benefits:

• Increased fuel economy Prolonged life of injectors Reduction of toxic emissions Reduce internal temperature
  
  
• Better response and performance from your vehicle

The service includes:

• De-carbonizing Removal of oil deposits
  
  
• Recommending a fuel filter with service

Tune Ups:

How it works:

Many systems - ignition, fuel, emissions and computer - must work together to keep your vehicle functioning at peak performance and efficiency. Keeping your car properly tuned saves the environment from extra pollutants and you money at the gas pump.

When to service:

• At regular intervals according to your vehicle's specifications Between 15,000-30,000 miles under severe driving conditions
  
  
• When you notice poor gas mileage, difficult starting conditions or high emission levels

The service includes:

• Visual and auditory checks of engine Perform battery, starting and charging system tests Replace spark plugs and any other worn parts required for best engine performance Analyze timing, air/fuel mixture and base idle
  
  
• Test exhaust emissions

The benefits:

• Prolongs engine life Improves engine performance Improves gas mileage Reduces emission pollution
  
  
• Easier starting

Starting & Charging:

With the advent of sophisticated electronics in today's automobiles, it is more important than ever to regularly test and evaluate the condition of your battery, starter and alternator. Precision Automotive Starting & Charging System Diagnostics uses digital technology to test and make certain your car's battery; alternator and starter are operating at full capacity.

The service provides a quick, accurate and comprehensive analysis of your vehicle's critical electrical systems.

• Inspecting the battery, cables, case and hold down bracket Testing the surface charge and cold cranking amp capacity of your battery Testing the voltage draw of your starter
  
  
• Testing the voltage output of your alternator

Emission Inspections: In response to the requirements of the 1990 Clean Air Act, many Precision Automotive now offer safety inspections and emissions tests.
Depending on your state or local requirements, the Precision Automotive Emissions Test:

• Measures all of the common factors in common ground-level ozone formation (the principal component of smog) Measures for volatile organic compounds (VOC's); which are smog formers Measures for nitrogen dioxide (NOx); another smog former
  
  
• Measures for carbon monoxide (CO)

We test under driving conditions by taking your vehicle running it on a stationary dynamometer. This allows the engine to be operated at highway speeds under a "load", simulating highway driving. Safety Inspections:

• Checks for proper operation of all lights and turn signals Checks for proper operation of windshield wipers Checks for proper operation of horn Checks windshield for cracks that may hamper vision Checks tires for excessive wear or damage
  
  
• Checks braking system and emergency brake for proper operation

Transmissions:

The purpose of automatic transmission fluid is to lubricate, clean, cool and provide the hydraulic pressure necessary to ensure smooth operation of the vehicle's transmission. This fluid should be changed at manufacturer recommended intervals to assure trouble-free shifting as well as to extend the life of your vehicle's transmission. There are three Precision Automotive Automatic Transmission Services.

Automatic Transmission Fluid Exchange

• Safely and completely exchanges virtually all of the fluid in the transmission system, including the torque converter Ensures the presence of all additives necessary to keep the transmission operating properly
  
  
• Disposes of your old transmission fluid in an environmentally conscious manner

Automatic Transmission Filter and Gasket Replacement

Many manufacturers recommend changing the automatic transmission filter and replacing the pan gasket when performing an automatic transmission service. Precision Automotive Technicians will:

• Remove the transmission pan and drain the old fluid Remove the old transmission filter (screen if applicable) Install a new transmission filter Clean the transmission pan Install a new pan gasket on the transmission pan Install the transmission pan
  
  
• Fill the transmission with new fluid according to the vehicle manufacturer's specifications

Automatic Transmission Drain & Fill

Another Manufactures service option is the automotive transmission drain and refill. Precision Automotive Technicians will:

• Remove the transmission drain/check plug Drain the old transmission fluid Inspect, clean and install the transmission drain/check plug Replace the washer on the drain/check, if necessary
  
  
• Fill the transmission with new fluid according to the vehicle manufacturer's specifications

Smog Testing:

Oil & Lube:

At Precision Automotive our Star Oil Change is the best thing you can do to preserve the health of your automobile. It's a complete oil fluid and filter preventative maintenance program that takes only a few minutes. And it meets your vehicle warranty requirements. Precision Automotive Technicians will:

• Replace oil with up to 5 quarts of quality motor oil Replace oil filter with a quality filter Visually inspect brake fluid and antifreeze/coolant reservoir levels Inspect air filter Inspect wiper blades Inspect vehicle head & tail lights Visually check the condition of the belts & hoses Vacuum interior floors Clean front window Lubricate chassis (when applicable) Check and set tires to the proper pressure Check and top off the following fluids:
  
  
• transmission/transaxle fluid differential fluid power steering fluid windshield washer fluid
  
  
• battery water

Tires & Rims:

Custom alloy wheels make your vehicle look more unique and give an attractive "performance look." However, the advantages don't stop there, because alloy wheels are usually lighter than stock wheels. Lighter weight equates to reduced rolling resistance and more responsive handling. These advantages often result in improved gas mileage and better overall vehicle performance. We sell the highest quality name brand wheels With access to virtually any wheel brand and size, Precision Automotive can match the right application to your individual vehicle. We have the expertise to balance and install them properly for peak performance. We'll help add the finishing touches with custom center caps, lug nuts and wheel locks. Check out your local Precision Automotive center for the latest in wheels.

Timing Belt Replacement Service:

Timing belt replacement is no time for "amateur hour!"

Most modern engines in smaller and mid-sized vehicles use timing belts to operate the engine camshaft and require regular timing belt replacement. For vehicles that use them, timing belt replacement is the single most important engine maintenance event and it is critical that the replacement is performed at the correct service interval and that the job is performed thoroughly.

Because this particular maintenance procedure is more involved than others, customers understandably want to know what the cost of timing belt replacement will be for their particular vehicle before making their appointment. Because we have modern computing equipment and estimating software at Precision Automotive we are able to comply with all such requests in a timely manner.

However there are many unknown "variables" that are unique to each customer's vehicle. What are the condition of the drive belts? What are the conditions of the camshaft and crankshafts seals on this particular vehicle? Is the water pump driven by the timing belt, if so, what is the condition of the water pump and do we advise replacement of the water pump at this time for preventive maintenance reasons? What is the condition of the timing belt tensioner pulleys and guides?

For this reason, Precision Automotive is always happy to give our customers an initial written estimate for timing belt replacement and then follow up with further advice for our customers when our ASE Certified technicians have performed inspections for the particular vehicle. In every case we will adhere to our original written estimate unless further repairs are recommended for the vehicle and our customer agrees that the additional services are beneficial.

Our customers always have the final say when it comes to the repair of their vehicle and Precision Automotive will never exceed an estimate without our customer's understanding and approval!

Recommended intervals for Timing Belt Replacement vary considerably from vehicle to vehicle and typically range from every 60,000 miles to as high as every 105,000 miles. Also keep in mind that many so-called "interference engines" can incur serious additional damage if timing belt replacement is neglected and results in timing belt failure.

If you want to know if your vehicle has an "interference engine" or if you want to know the recommended replacement interval for the timing belt on your particular car or would like help with an initial timing belt estimate do not hesitate to call us.

Let our highly experienced ASE Certified Master Technicians help you with this critical service. Because timing belt replacement is just too important to be left to amateurs!

Transfer Case & Differential Service:

A lot of people in the Kernville and Lake Isabella area prefer 4-wheel drive vehicles when it comes to negotiating our steep rocky hills - or for hunting, fishing and 4-wheeling in neighboring mountains. These vehicles are exceptionally well suited to meet local needs. Just keep in mind that these 4-wheel drive vehicles will give you many years of good service with just a little bit of tender loving care. Probably most important is regular inspection and maintenance of your transfer case and differentials. Like most any other fluid in your vehicle, transfer case and differential oils degrade over time and begin to loose some of their lubricating properties. Just like motor oil, they need to be changed out from time to time -just not as often!

Transfer Case Service should be performed at least every 30,000 miles on most 4-wheel drive vehicles. If you do a lot of 4-wheeling consider performing this vital service at least every 15,000 miles. Differential Service intervals vary considerably from vehicle to vehicle but a 30,000 mile service interval is recommended for most vehicles.