Today we are discussing modern vehicles and their maintenance requirements. Is the myth that all modern vehicles are maintenance free true? In some ways, this myth carries some truth; but in other ways, nothing could be further from the truth.

If we look at some aspects of auto maintenance, we could conclude that maintenance isn't so important. But other areas show us that it is more important now than ever before. For instance, some cars in Kalispell no longer require chassis lubrication. They're made with self-lubricating materials and have sealed joints. There's literally is no way to grease those joints.

Likewise, some vehicles come with sophisticated variable valve timing. A lot of complicated parts exist in the valve train, and they aren’t included in older vehicles. All of these parts are vulnerable to oil sludge. Skipping an oil change could lead to very expensive damage.

While electronic ignitions have eliminated the need to replace points, fuel injectors on direct injection engines are very expensive to replace so it is important to get a fuel system cleaning on schedule. One of the most important aspects of your service schedule for modern vehicles is the timing belt replacement. Older vehicles used to come with timing chains, rather than belts. These rarely broke. But now, they need to be replaced from time to time to avoid major repairs.

It's cheaper to make engines with timing belts than it is to make engines with timing chains, which means that replacing the timing belt is on the maintenance list for most vehicles. The cost of replacing your timing belt is nothing compared to the cost of major repairs for damage incurred by a busted timing belt. If your vehicle has more than 60 thousand miles, you should consider speaking to your Kalispell service advisor at Loren's Auto Repair to have your belt inspected or replaced.

As automotive technology advances, it eliminates or reduces some maintenance requirements. And at the same time, maintenance becomes more critical to maintain other systems born from modern technology.  Everything in between remains as it has always been—and these parts almost always require routine maintenance. The checklist may change over time, but there will always be a checklist.

Come in and see us at Loren's Auto Repair. You can find us at 1309 US Hwy 2 West in Kalispell, MT 59901, or give us a call at 406-755-7757.