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From auto service to auto repair,
get trusted expert advice from BCAA.

Wherever the road may lead you, BCAA Auto Service Centres are here to help you along the way. Whether it’s a second opinion or you have questions about your car, our friendly experts are here to help. Check out our car trivia videos and test your automotive knowledge below. Don’t know the answer? No worries! - find the answers in our FAQ section.

It's time to get your brakes checked when...

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Which warning light could mean a problem with your alternator?

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When is it time to get your wheel alignment checked?

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Which fluid cap is for your car's engine coolant?

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What is the #1 car breakdown during summer?

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When should you get an oil change?

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FAQs

  • You hear a squeal coming from the brake pads. This is due to the brake wear indicator which are little hardened steel tabs. These steel tabs are designed to hit the rotor before the brake pads wear out causing the squealing noise and to alert you that the pad material is getting thin and time for replacement.
  • You feel a pulsation or bumps when applying the brakes. Brake pulsation is caused by the rotors being overheated, causing them to warp and pulse as you brake. This is common when living on top of hills, stop and go traffic or braking at high speeds.

warning lights engine icon

1. Check engine light: The vehicle’s computer system has detected an irregularity; which could be minor or potentially a major issue. To avoid further damage & costly repairs, it’s best to pull over when it is safe to do so & have your vehicle towed into your nearest repair shop or to a BCAA Auto Service Center. Once there a diagnostic scanner will determine the error.
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2. Tire Pressure Monitoring System Light (TPMS): This light alerts you when one or more of the tire sensors measure 20-25% lower than the vehicles’ suggested pressure. Properly inflated tires are important for fuel consumption, , handling & safety and longevity of the tires.
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3. Temperature warning light: This light comes on when the car detects an insufficient amount of coolant in the system, or when the vehicle's temperature rises above average. If this happens to you while driving safely pullover to the side of the road and let your car cool down, it is best to call a tow truck to have your car towed to your nearest mechanic to take a look before driving again.

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4. Battery or Alternator light: The light comes on when the system detects an issue with the charging system. This may result in a bad battery or a problem with the alternator. Tip: If your lights still work you may just have a low battery. Have a mechanic read the voltage and test the alternator to make sure they are working correctly before replacing the battery.

If you feel your car pulls to one side of the road, has toe wear, or your steering wheel is off-centre when the tires are straight, alignment is an issue. This is crucial as this will directly affect your tire longevity. If a steering/suspension component or the wheel alignment is out of spec, the inside or outside shoulder of the tire will start wearing down faster than the rest of the tire also known as toe wear, causing premature wear on your tires resulting in tire replacement.

fluid cap wiper icon

Windshield wiper fluid - is a unique mix of chemicals used to clean and clear debris from the windshield and keep the liquid from freezing.
 fluid cap power steering icon

Power steering fluid - helps lubricate all steering components, it also pressurizes and lubricates the hydraulic parts like the power steering pump and rack & pinion.
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Coolant - is a fluid that reduces an engine's temperature below a specified value by conducting heat away from the source. It’s always best to refer to your owner's manual for maintenance timing.

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Brake Fluid - Brake fluid is a type of hydraulic fluid used to transfer force into pressure to amplify braking force. Make sure to have an automotive expert inspect and perform a flush, and always refer to the owner's manual for maintenance timing.

Batteries are the #1 emergency roadside assistance during summer months. The hot summer heat can drain your car’s battery more so than winters’ cold weather. To avoid draining your car’s battery, make sure to turn off the engine, radio, lights & air conditioner when not in use. To check your battery’s health, make sure to use a proper battery tester. BCAA’s Auto Service Centres offer a free battery check with every Oil Change Package.

If you’re hitting the road this summer, learn more on how to get your car road trip ready.

Manufacturer recommended mileage. It is always best to follow the factory maintenance schedule for oil changes based on mileage or date, whichever comes first. Regular oil changes help keep sediments, dirt & unwanted particles from travelling to your engine, potentially causing damage. You’ll find your manufacturer’s recommended schedule in your vehicle's owner manual.