At the core of our business is the service of your vehicle. Whether preventive maintenance or repair, Kirby's Garage provides quality service no matter the situation. Our service doesn't begin and end with your vehicle, it begins and ends with you.

We have over 80 years combined experience in engine and transmission repair, computer diagnostics, air-conditioning and suspension services. Our experience allows us to provide multiple services; the core of which are below.

When your vehicle is experiencing issues, most times you can tell but others may not appear until the worst moment. Taking the time to have your car or truck serviced is the best opportunity to learn more to protect your investment.

If you think you are beginning to have a problem, give us a call to set up an appointment.

Make a service appointment if your vehicle shows any of the following symptoms:

• Illumination of the "Service Engine Soon" light
• Improper engine idling, hesitation or stalling
• Excessive exhaust smoke
• Abnormal engine noises
• Noticeable fuel odors

The fuel filter should be replaced every 30,000 miles. Also, have your engine tuned up regularly. A plugged/restricted fuel injector can reduce fuel efficiency by as much as 30%

While many of your vehicle's powertrain components such as the driveshaft and axle shafts don't require much routine maintenance, as shown below, there are a few parts that need periodic attention.

• Check the engine oil level at every fuel fill and add oil if necessary
• About once a month, make sure all tires are inflated properly and check for any unusual wear or damage
• Have an underbody flushing performed at least once a year
• The engine's exterior should be cleaned periodically
• Buildups of oil and dirt can cause the engine to run hot or hide leaks
• Have you vehicle inspected if the "Service Engine Soon" light illuminates

The following inspections and maintenance procedures can help prevent potential brake problems.

• Check brake fluid level at every oil change. Replace or flush fluid every 30,000 miles
• Calipers and wheel cylinders should be checked at every brake inspection and serviced or replaced as required
• Inspect the brake lines for rust, punctures or visible leaks
• Inspection of the brake hoses for brittleness or cracking
• Inspection of brake linings and pads for wear or contamination by brake fluid or grease
• Inspection of wheel bearings and grease seals

Have your vehicle inspected if it exibits any of the following symptoms:

• Unusual noise when turning the steering wheel
• A shimmy or shake in the steering wheel
• Heavy or unresponsive steering at low speeds or during parking lot maneuvers
• The steering wheel does not return to "center" position

Regular maintenance of your vehicle's suspension plays a major part in its handling characteristics, how it feels on the road and how it steers during a emergency. Regular suspension maintenance also improves tire wear. A car with misaligned wheels and/or worn shocks can cause tires to wear out faster than normal. Consequently, the modest cost of a semiannual tire rotation and alignment check is a solid investment.

Replacing your vehicles filters on a regular scheduled basis will help the vehicle run better and last longer contributing to lower operating costs. You will need to replace the air filter and cabin air filter more often if you drive frequently on dirt roads or live in a dusty area.

Kirby's Garage Recommends running your air conditioning system regularly-even during the winter-because the system contains a PAG oil (R134a) in the refrigerant to keep the compressor properly lubricated. If you notice any of the following conditions, have your vehicle checked right away.

• Musty smell when the A/C or heater is activated
• Inadequate cooling or heating temperatures when using systems
• The vehicles temperature guage indicates a "red" condition
• Steam coming from the engine compartment
• Unusual smells inside or outside the vehicle

With today's computerized engine systems, maintaining your vehicles exhaust and emissions system is best left to a professional technician. Have the positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) valve inspected every 30,000 miles. If the system is not operating properly, your vehicle may be hard to start, run rough, be excessively noisy and emit harmful contaminants that will enter the environment.

Your vehicle's transmission fluid serves as a transmission lubricant and coolant. Neglecting to change the fluid every 30,000 miles can cause problems with shifting and can even lead to transmission failure. Transmission fluid breaks down over time just like the engine oil does. When you take your vehicle in for its regular engine oil change, the transmission fluid level and color should be checked by a trained professional.

Regular maintenance of your vehicle's suspension plays a major part in its handling characteristics, how it feels on the road and how it steers during a emergency.

Regular suspension maintenance also decreases tire wear. A car with misaligned wheels and /or worn shocks can cause tires to wear out faster than normal. Consequently, the modest cost of a semiannual tire rotation and alignment check is a solid investment.