
In time, parts wear out due to age, friction, and other reasons leading to reduced fuel economy and potential damage. Regular maintenance helps keep your Chevy performing at its best by preventing these issues. As your Chevy dealer, we want to tell you more about some of the Chevy maintenance we provide.
Air Filter Replacement
The engine air filter fits into a small box situated behind the radiator grille. Combustion requires vast amounts of air to mix with the fuel, and all this air passes through the filter. Its concertina-like folds trap dirt, dust, and other debris to ensure only clean air enters the engine. This is important as dirt carried into the engine can damage sensitive engine components.
The filter will eventually become blocked by dirt, severely restricting airflow. If the engine doesn’t receive enough air, its fuel-air mixture turns fuel-rich. A fuel-rich engine wastes fuel, as much of it can’t burn due to the lack of air. In addition, the spark plugs, ignition coils, and other components will be damaged. Once we replace the filter, engine performance will return to normal.
Tire Rotations
Your tires are subject to constant friction damage when driving. The tread level decreases, reducing your Chevy’s control and handling and increasing braking distance. The tires also suffer wear depending on their position on your vehicle, as each position exerts different pressures based on weight distribution and wheel alignment.
A tire rotation helps to protect your tires by moving each tire to a different position. The positions the tires move to depend on your drivetrain, as FWD, RWD, and AWD trains each generate specific types and levels of wear. A rotation equalizes wear and tear, extending tire life and allowing you to more easily plan for their eventual replacement.
Brake Pad Replacement
The brake pads are part of the braking system and fit into the calipers positioned above each wheel rotor. When you hit the brakes, the calipers are forced against the rotors. Each pad has a rough material covering that generates friction against the rotor, and this friction stops the wheels. As time passes, a pad’s material covering wears off and needs replacement once it drops to 1/4″ thickness.
Worn pads increase braking distance, and this can be dangerous if you need to stop suddenly to avoid an accident. The pad manufacturers install a metal spike inside the pad material that becomes visible once the material has worn down. The spike will scratch against the rotor, producing a high-pitched screeching to warn it’s time to change the pads. Once we replace the damaged pads, the screeching will stop.
Book your Chevy’s maintenance today by contacting us at Charlevoix Chevrolet in Charlevoix, MI.

