Cardinal Plaza Shell FAQ's | Auto Repair | Auto Service

Q. How often should I rotate my tires?

Your tires should be rotated every other oil change, or every 6000 miles. Neglecting to rotate tires is a major cause of premature tire wear.

Q. Is it really necessary to replace my timing belt at the recommended interval?

YES. The failure of a timing belt in many cars can result in major engine damage. The cost of repairing an engine with a broken timing belt is much greater than the cost of a timing belt replacement.

Q. What does it mean if my "check engine" or "service engine soon" light comes on?

There are many sensors and computerized components that manage your vehicle’s engine performance and emissions. When one of these fails, the "check engine" light is illuminated. Although your car may seem to run fine, it is important to have the issue addressed to prevent long-term problems.

Q. What should I do if my car starts to overheat?

This is a very serious problem – if your car overheats for too long, you can damage your engine. As soon as possible, find a safe place to pull off the road and shut the engine off! Do not attempt to check the fluid level in the radiator; the hot fluid can cause severe burns. The best thing to do is have your car towed to Cardinal Plaza Shell.

Q. When should I get my oil changed?

You should get your oil changed every 3000 miles or as recommended in your vehicle’s owner’s manual.

Q. Why is engine oil milky brown?

Milky brown engine oil is an indication of coolant in the oil. This can be caused by a blown head gasket (or other gasket), a failed transmission cooler, or cracked casings. This condition is very serious and needs to be checked by a professional technician immediately.

Q. How do I make sure my car battery has a good electrical connection?

Battery cables and terminals should be cleaned and inspected periodically to make sure they provide a good electrical connection.

Q. Should I consider using synthetic motor oil in my vehicle?

Synthetic motor oils can be a good choice for high output, turbocharged or supercharged engines. Or for vehicles that are used for towing (especially during hot weather), and vehicles that operate in extremely cold or hot climates. Although more expensive than mineral-based oils, synthetic motor oils can improve fuel economy and provide longer intervals between changes.

Q. When should I replace my car’s fuel filter?

To help ensure dependable, trouble-free performance, replace your car's fuel filter approximately every 30,000 miles or as recommended in your vehicle's owner's manual.

Q. When should I change my spark plugs?

For maximum fuel economy and peak engine performance, your spark plugs should be replaced every 30 months or 30,000 miles, unless your vehicle is equipped with 100,000-mile platinum tipped spark plugs.

Q. I need to replace a burned out fuse, what should I do?

Always replace burned-out fuses with ones of the same amperage (printed on the fuse) and note that if a fuse continues to "blow," you should have the circuit checked professionally by one of our technicians for defects.

Q. Do I have to take my car to the dealer for maintenance?

NO! If your dealer told you that you have to have maintenance done at the dealership to maintain your warranty it is not true. In fact it is a rip-off. Any qualified shop such as Cardinal Plaza Shell can perform the maintenance. Why take your car to someone you can’t trust to tell the truth?

Q. Can I drop off my car and have you put it through the inspection line?

Of course! Any day Monday through Friday we’ll be glad to keep your car pulled up in line. There is absolutely no charge for this great service!

Q. Are you guys certified by the EPA to fix my car for failed emissions?

Of course! Although it is the state environmental agency (not the feds) that certifies both shops and technicians. Cardinal Plaza Shell is certified by the VA Dept. of Environmental Quality as a Certified Emission Repair Facility. We also have technicians designated by the DEQ as VA Certified Repair Technicians. These techs which also have the ASE Automobile Advance Engine Diagnostic certification. Check around, you won’t find more highly rated technicians or shops.

Q. I’ve bought an aftermarket warranty or insurance through my dealer, can you fix my car?

Of course! In almost every case we will be able to work through your insurance company and you will only be responsible for your deductible.