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PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE

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Car Care Aware

Courtesy of the Automotive Service Association

The following simple and inexpensive preventive checks will greatly extend the life of the vehicle, ensure safer operation and even benefit the environment.

Always consult your owner's manual for individual service schedules because maintenance requirements vary by manufacturer.

  • Always consult your owner's manual, but a good rule of thumb is to have the oil filter changed regularly - every 3,000 to 4,000 miles.
  • Have all fluids checked, including brake, power steering, transmission/transaxle, windshield washer solvent and antifreeze. These fluids play a large role in the safety and performance of the vehicle.
  • Check tire inflation. Under-inflated tires can result in a loss of fuel efficiency. This is the least expensive form of preventive and safety maintenance. Tires should be checked once a month.
  • Keep your engine tuned. A fouled spark plug or plugged/restricted fuel injector can reduce fuel efficiency by as much as 30 percent.
  • Have the chassis lubricated frequently. This step extends the life of the moving components of the vehicle's suspension system.
  • Check battery cables and posts for corrosion and clean them as needed. The battery fluid also should be checked and filled if it is low, unless it is a maintenance-free battery.
  • Have the lighting system checked frequently, including headlights, turn signals, and brake and taillights.
  • Check windshield washer blades for cracks, tears and windshield contact. Replace them at least once a year, or sooner if streaking begins.
  • Inspect engine belts regularly. Worn belts will affect the engine performance. Look for cracks and missing sections or segments.
  • Have the air filtration system checked frequently. The air filter should be checked every other oil change for clogging or damage. This system ensures that the vehicle is performing at its peak condition.
Service Interval Schedule:

Vehicle System or Component

Check Monthly

Check Every 3,000 Miles

Automatic Transmission Fluid


Battery and Cables


Belts


Brakes and Brake Fluid


Cabin Air Filter


Chassis Lubrication


Check Engine Light On


Coolant (Antifreeze)


Engine Air Filter


Engine Oil and Filter

Exhaust


Fuel Filter


Hoses


Lights


Power Steering Fluid


Shock Absorbers and Struts


Tire Inflation and Condition


Windshield Washer Fluid


Wiper Blades


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  • Contact us

    Saint's Automotive Service Center

    31336 125th St
    Princeton, MN 55371
    763-389-9777
    Email Us | Get Directions

  • Vehicle tips

    • According to recent studies, 5 percent of all motor vehicle fatalities are clearly caused by automobile maintenance neglect.
    • The cooling system should be completely flushed and refilled about every 24 months. The level, condition, and concentration of coolant should be checked. (A 50/50 mix of anti-freeze and water is usually recommended.)
    • Never remove the radiator cap until the engine has thoroughly cooled. The tightness and condition of drive belts, clamps and hoses should be checked by a pro.
    • Change your oil and oil filter as specified in your manual, or more often (every 3,000 miles) if you make frequent short jaunts, extended trips with lots of luggage or tow a trailer.
    • Replace other filters (air, fuel, PCV, etc.) as recommended, or more often in dusty conditions. Get engine drivability problems (hard stops, rough idling, stalling, diminished power, etc.) corrected at a good shop.
    • A dirty windshield causes eye fatigue and can pose a safety hazard. Replace worn blades and get plenty of windshield washer solvent.
    • Have your tires rotated about every 5,000 miles. Check tire pressures once a month; let the tires cool down first. Don't forget your spare and be sure your jack is in good condition.
    • Check your owner's manual to find out what fuel octane rating your car's engine needs then buy it.
    • Keep your tires inflated to the proper levels. Under-inflated tires make it harder for your car to move down the road, which means your engine uses more fuel to maintain speed.
    • Lighten the load. Heavier vehicles use more fuel, so clean out unnecessary weight in the passenger compartment or trunk before you hit the road.
    • Use the A/C sparingly. The air conditioner puts extra load on the engine forcing more fuel to be used.
    • Keep your windows closed. Wide-open windows, especially at highway speeds, increase aerodynamic drag and the result is up to a 10% decrease in fuel economy.
    • Avoid long idling. If you anticipate being stopped for more than one minute, shut off the car. Contrary to popular belief, restarting the car uses less fuel than letting it idle.
    • Stay within posted speed limits. The faster you drive, the more fuel you use. For example, driving at 65 miles per hour (mph) rather than 55 mph, increases fuel consumption by 20 percent.
    • Use cruise control. Using cruise control on highway trips can help you maintain a constant speed and, in most cases, reduce your fuel consumption.
    • Keep your engine tuned. A fouled spark plug or plugged/restricted fuel injector can reduce fuel efficiency as much as 30 percent.
    • Inspect the engine's belts regularly. Look for cracks or missing sections or segments. Worn belts will affect the engine performance.
    • Have the fuel filter changed every 10,000 miles to prevent rust, dirt and other impurities from entering the fuel system.
    • Change the transmission fluid and filter every 15,000 to 18,000 miles. This will protect the precision-crafted components of the transmission/transaxle.
    • Inspect the suspension system regularly. This will extend the life of the vehicle's tires.

ASSOCIATIONS

  • Napa Auto Care Center
  • ASE Master Auto Technician
  • Amsoil
  • Alldata
  • IATN
  • Car Care Aware

Testimonials

  • Thanks again to Craig and Chad at Saint's Automotive for preparing my Saab 9-3 Aero for my return trip home to Cambodia Town, Long Beach, California!! Thanks again to the Twin Cities Saab Club for the referral. I'm going to miss Minnesota!
    -Robert H.

  • Fantastic Service for my Saabs. Great staff with expertise and willingness to go the extra mile. I will only use Saints.
    -Steve W.

  • The guys go above and beyond to insure your satisfaction! Well beyond our expectations! Awesome service!
    -Mary S.

  • Saint's Auto does an amazing job. My Acura has had countless issues and they have all been figured out and repaired for good prices. Will continue taking car to Saint's for as long as I own it. Very friendly there and they don't try to screw you over like other places!
    -Keiden M.

  • I've been going to Saint's for over 10+ years, I had an Acura sports car, and currently have an Acura MDX. They have done a wonderful job of maintaining both over the years. Craig does an excellent job working the front desk and giving accurate quotes for the jobs I've had done. Dave the owner, is very knowledgeable, in dealing with some of the issues I have had over the years. One example was when my brake lines rusted out in my sports car (thanks to salt in MN), and another time was when my bluetooth was causing my battery to drain and would not start, after being parked at the airport for a week. These guys do a wonderful job of mainting my behicles, I have even had them give me quotes on working with my Chevrolet Silverado. Just need to have the down time to get the work done.
    -Bill B.

  • I just wanted to thank you for many years of great service. I've always felt confident with your accurate assessments of any issues with my car. I also appreciate your fair pricing and that you never have tried selling me service or parts I don't need.
    -Shirley C.

  • Exceptional quality and service. I drive from the twin cities to Princeton because of Dave's trustworthiness, honesty, reasonable prices, and quality of work. Highly recommend.
    -Zach S.

  • Saint's Automotive helped get my vehicle ready for a long drive to the west coast for a vacation. It was a great relief to know that everything was looked at and fixed so we could enjoy our vacation and lower our changes of breaking down along the way. They truly take pride in their work and their customer service is great!
    -Lori G.H.

  • I have been going here for years and have always been treated fairly. I moved to Plymouth and I still drive there any time my car needs anything! Dave is always extremely fair, caring, and very knowledgeable! I've never had any problems with this place and I wouldn't go anywhere else. I highly recommend it!
    -Kenzie M.

  • Great service, great workmanship and great guys! It is very reassuring to have a mechanic that is fair and that you can trust. I have been using Saints for over 10 years!
    -Mike E.

  • I just want to say thank you for taking such good care of my car over the past 20 some years. You are probably the most honest and trustworthy auto repair shop in Minnesota. One of my only regrets about moving to Michigan is that you are not moving too.

    I wish you much success and happiness in the years ahead.
    -Sandi G.

  • Very friendly and knowledgeable. Best place for my imports.
    -Connor B.

  • Saints Auto is a top quality service center. It is not always easy for me to walk into a service shop and feel comfortable, as I don't know much about vehicles. At Saints they put you at ease. They are very friendly and honest. They go above and beyond the call of duty. Recently I had my car serviced, just routine maintenance. Oil change, courtesy inspection. I had a musty smell in my vents, they totally resolved the issue. I feel when I leave there that my car is in top running condition. They are professional yet treat you like a friend. Thank you! Thank you Dave and Jeff!!
    -Teresa P.

  • Dave is the best! If you want an HONEST and fair guy that'll give you the real problem, and tell you what needs to be done right away and what can wait a little, this is where you want to be. I don't feel like I have to check anything out with my "motor head" friends because Dave is always honest with his customers.
    -Lynda P.

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Saint's Automotive Service Center

31336 125th St
Princeton, MN 55371
763-389-9777
Email Us



Serving: Princeton, Zimmerman, Elk River, Milaca, Cambridge, Big Lake, Becker, Dalbo, Foley

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