Frequently Asked Questions

Most vehicles need an oil change every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, but newer cars with synthetic oil can go 7,500 to 10,000 miles. Check your owner's manual for your manufacturer's recommendation. At VC Automotive Maintenance and Repair, we assess your driving conditions and vehicle type to recommend the best interval.

Common signs include squealing or grinding noises, a soft or spongy brake pedal, vibration when braking, or your vehicle pulling to one side. If your brake warning light comes on, have your system inspected immediately to ensure safe stopping power.

Most car batteries last 3 to 5 years depending on climate and driving habits. Signs of a failing battery include slow engine cranking, dimming headlights, or dashboard warning lights. Red Bank's cold winters and hot summers can shorten battery life, so regular testing is important.

A basic tune-up typically includes replacing spark plugs, inspecting ignition components, checking filters, and testing battery and fluid levels. Some services also include fuel system cleaning and throttle body inspection. At VC Automotive, we tailor tune-ups to your vehicle's specific maintenance schedule.

A steady check engine light indicates an issue that needs attention soon, while a flashing light signals a critical problem like engine misfires that can cause damage. We recommend having the diagnostic codes read immediately to identify the exact issue and prevent costly repairs.

Common causes include low refrigerant levels, a faulty compressor, clogged condenser, or electrical issues. Refrigerant leaks are the most frequent culprit. Professional AC diagnostics can pinpoint the problem and restore cool air, especially important for New Jersey's humid summers.

Brake pads generally last 30,000 to 70,000 miles depending on driving habits, vehicle type, and pad material. Stop-and-go traffic and hilly terrain wear pads faster. Regular brake inspections help catch wear early and prevent damage to rotors.

Synthetic oil is chemically engineered for better performance, resists breakdown longer, and protects engines in extreme temperatures. Conventional oil is refined from crude petroleum and costs less but requires more frequent changes. Synthetic is ideal for high-mileage, turbocharged, or performance vehicles.

Overheating in slow traffic often results from a malfunctioning cooling fan, low coolant, a stuck thermostat, or a failing water pump. Without airflow from highway speeds, your cooling system works harder. At VC Automotive, we perform cooling system pressure tests to diagnose the root cause.

While legal in some cases, driving with a cracked windshield is unsafe as it reduces visibility and structural integrity. Small chips can quickly spread from temperature changes or road vibrations. New Jersey inspections may fail vehicles with cracks in the driver's line of sight.

Transmission maintenance includes fluid and filter changes every 30,000 to 60,000 miles for most vehicles. Regular service prevents overheating, slipping, and costly repairs. Neglecting transmission care is one of the biggest mistakes car owners make, leading to complete transmission failure.

Check your battery, inspect tire tread and pressure, test antifreeze levels, and ensure wipers and defrosters work properly. Consider switching to winter wiper blades. At VC Automotive in Red Bank, we recommend pre-winter inspections to avoid breakdowns during freezing temperatures and snow.