Frequently asked questions

It is recommended to have your wheels aligned at least once a year or whenever you install new tires. Additionally, it's advisable to schedule an alignment if you notice any signs of uneven tire wear, pulling to one side, or a steering wheel that is off-center.

The duration of a wheel alignment depends on various factors, including the type of vehicle and the complexity of the alignment adjustments required. In general, it can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour. Our technicians work efficiently to minimize any inconvenience.

While wheel alignment primarily focuses on adjusting the angles of your wheels, it can address certain steering-related issues caused by misaligned components. However, for more complex steering problems, additional inspections may be necessary to determine the underlying cause.

Proper wheel alignment can contribute to improved fuel efficiency. When your wheels are aligned correctly, there is less resistance on the tires, reducing rolling resistance and improving fuel economy. Additionally, even tire wear ensures optimal contact with the road, enhancing fuel efficiency.

Wheel balancing is a separate service from wheel alignment. While alignment focuses on the angles of the wheels, balancing ensures that the weight distribution of each wheel and tire assembly is even. We offer wheel balancing as a standalone service to complement our alignment services for optimal performance.

Diagnostic testing allows our technicians to identify any underlying issues affecting your vehicle's performance, safety, or fuel efficiency. It provides valuable insights into your vehicle's systems, helping us diagnose problems accurately and recommend appropriate repairs.

If your check engine light is illuminated, it indicates a potential problem with your vehicle's systems. It's essential to have it diagnosed promptly to prevent further damage. Bring your vehicle to Harbor Brakes, and our technicians will perform a check engine light diagnosis to determine the underlying cause.

The duration of diagnostic testing depends on the complexity of the issue and the symptoms exhibited by your vehicle. It can range from a short period to a few hours. Our technicians work efficiently to diagnose problems accurately and minimize any inconvenience to you.

Diagnostic testing is a valuable tool for identifying issues with your vehicle's systems. However, it may not detect hidden or intermittent problems that do not manifest during the testing process. In such cases, additional diagnostics may be necessary to pinpoint the issue.

While it's possible to clear the check engine light using a diagnostic tool, we recommend allowing our technicians to clear it for you. This ensures that the underlying issue has been properly addressed, and it prevents any potential problems from being overlooked.

The frequency of oil changes depends on various factors such as the type of oil used and your vehicle's manufacturer recommendations. As a general guideline, it is recommended to change your oil every 3,000 to 5,000 miles or as specified in your owner's manual.

Air filters should be replaced every 12,000 to 15,000 miles or as recommended by your vehicle's manufacturer. However, if you frequently drive in dusty or polluted environments, it may be necessary to replace the air filter more frequently.

Battery replacement can typically be completed within 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the vehicle's make and model. Our technicians work efficiently to ensure a swift and hassle-free battery replacement process.

We prioritize using high-quality parts that meet or exceed OEM standards. While we may use aftermarket parts that offer the same level of quality and performance, rest assured that we never compromise on the reliability and safety of our maintenance services.

Our fluid replacement service includes draining and replacing essential fluids such as engine oil, transmission fluid, power steering fluid, and coolant. This helps maintain proper lubrication, cooling, and smooth operation of various components in your vehicle.

It is recommended to have your suspension system inspected at least once a year or if you notice any signs of suspension-related issues such as a bumpy ride or uneven tire wear.

Signs of worn-out shock absorbers include excessive bouncing, poor handling, increased braking distance, and uneven tire wear.

While it is possible to drive with damaged struts, it can negatively affect your vehicle's handling and stability. It is best to have them replaced as soon as possible to ensure a smooth and safe ride.

The time required for shock absorber or strut replacement my vary depending on the make and model of your vehicle. Our technicians can provide you with an estimated timeframe during your appointment.

During a suspension system inspection, our technicians will visually examine various components, including shock, struts, control arms, and bushings. They will look for signs of wear, damage, or any other issues that may affect the performance of your suspension system.

It is recommended to have your brakes inspected at least once a year, or every 12,000 miles, whichever comes first. However, if you notice any unusual noises, vibrations, or changes in your vehicle's braking performance, it is best to have your brakes inspected by a professional immediately.

The lifespan of brake pads can vary depending on driving habits, road conditions, and the quality of the brake pads. Typically, brake pads last between 30,000 to 70,000 miles, but it is important to have them inspected regularly to ensure they are functioning properly.

There are several signs that indicate your brakes may need to be repaired, including squeaking or grinding noises when applying the brakes, a pulsating or vibrating brake pedal, or a longer stopping distance. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is best to have your brakes inspected by a professional as soon as possible.

A brake service typically includes a thorough inspection of the brake system, brake pad replacement if necessary, brake fluid replacement, and rotor resurfacing or replacement if needed. A professional brake service can help ensure that your vehicle's brakes are functioning properly and help prevent costly repairs down the road.

Yes, in addition to brake repair and maintenance, our shop offers a range of other car maintenance and repair services, including alignments, suspension repair, and diagnostic services. Our experienced technicians can help keep your vehicle running smoothly and efficiently.

The time it takes to perform a car maintenance or repair service can vary depending on the type of service needed and the condition of your vehicle. Our team strives to complete services in a timely and efficient manner while ensuring quality workmanship.

It is recommended to have your vehicle's suspension inspected every 50,000 miles or sooner if you notice any unusual noises, vibrations, or changes in your vehicle's handling or ride quality.

While appointments are preferred, we understand that unexpected issues can arise and we will do our best to accommodate walk-in customers. However, scheduling an appointment in advance ensures that we can provide the necessary time and attention to your vehicle.

Yes, we stand behind our work and offer warranties and guarantees on our services. Our team is committed to providing high-quality workmanship and customer satisfaction. Please contact us for more information about our warranties and guarantees.

Yes, we often offer discounts and promotions on our services. Please contact us to learn about our current specials and discounts.