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The key to a long running vehicle is Preventative Maintenance. If done properly, preventative maintenance can add years of life to your car. All motorists should consult their vehicle owner's manual for individual service recommendations.

Maintenance you can do yourself:

Checking fluids is very important and should be done regularly! Call us and we will do it for you.

Engine oil: It is best to check engine oil level approximately five minutes after a fully warmed-up engine is turned off or before starting the engine after it has set for awhile (overnight). Remove dipstick, wipe with a lint-free cloth or paper towel, re-insert dipstick until it fully seats in the tube. Remove dipstick and read oil level. Add oil only when oil level is at or below ADD OIL mark.

Brake fluid: This check is done by loosening the top on the master cylinder and removing the lid, If fluid is needed consult your owner's manual for correct type and fill to recommended level. Check color of fluid, it should be clear.

Power steering fluid: This check is done by removing and checking the dipstick. Use the dipstick to check fluid level in the same way you would the engine oil.

Transmission/transaxle fluid: This check is done while the engine is running. The transmission should be at operating temperature. Remove dipstick, wipe clean, insert and remove again to check the fluid level. Caution: DO NOT OVERFILL! Be very careful of moving parts!

Windshield washer fluid: This check should be done by removing the cap of the reservoir and filling it with washer fluid.

Antifreeze: This check should be done by removing the radiator cap from the COOL engine (or reservoir) and refilling if needed with antifreeze and water mixed 50:50 - or with a premix.

Additional preventative maintenance checks:

  • Inspect wiper blades for cracks, tears, and windshield contact. Blades should be replaced at least once a year or sooner if smearing begins.
  • Check tire inflation monthly. Under inflated tires waste fuel and over-inflated tires can be dangerous. Check your owner's manual to determine proper tire inflation.
  • Inspect engine belts regularly, worn belts will affect the engine performance. Look for cracks and missing sections or segments.
  • Check battery cables and posts for corrosion and clean them if needed. The battery fluid should also be checked and filled if it is low (except for maintenance-free batteries).
  • Inspect all lights including headlights, turn signals, brake lights and emergency flashers. Replace bulbs if they are burnt out.
  • Check the air filter approximately every other oil change. This and other filters ensure that the vehicle is performing in peak condition.

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Testimonials

We have taken our cars to Ed's Engines for many years. I appreciate the staff because they are willing to listen to me as I explain what is wrong. They explain what needs to be done, are very knowledgeable, and have competent mechanics. They are able to complete a wide variety of repairs on all our vehicles. It's great to have an auto repair that I trust and I trust Ed's Engines.
- Nancy H
Since we discovered Ed's about 4 years ago, we don't trust our cars to anyplace else! We love their ethical, down-to-earth approach. They saved us over $1400 by telling us that a mechanical problem was one that could be lived with if we were willing to keep an eye on the oil level. They've also indicated when we could fix problems ourselves. We highly recommend them as a competent and honest repair shop.
- Melissa S
I am writing to thank you for the kind service I received at your shop last week. I had extensive, much-needed repairs done to my car...and am very pleased with the results. You now have a customer for life...
After a few months of driving by and noticing [your lot] always full, and that you had a courtesy van parked out front, I checked around and asked friends and co-workers if they had ever used your services...I received good remarks...
Your team took care of my car in a very short amount of time, and everyone was very pleasant to work with..."Again, you have a customer for life...Thank you for your courtesy, your professionalism, and most of all, for restoring my faith.
- Bob Krueger Fort Wayne, IN
Just wanted to thank you for all your great service over the past five years. I would never even consider taking my vehicle anywhere else. Your quality service, integrity, and friendliness is unmatched anywhere...I have always felt that I would get the job done right at a very fair price...
- Connie Salud Fort Wayne, IN
I'd like to thank you for the repair job you did on my daughter's heater core. It sure is a relief to know that if she has problems with other aspects of the car she now has a reliable place and person to take it to...We did have a wonderful visit...which was made possible by your help.
- Dave Renbarger Fort Wayne, IN
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