Vehicle Inspection Centre DriveON Program is new and improved:

A Motor Vehicle Inspection (MVI) is a comprehensive safety inspection required by the Ontario Ministry of Transportation. It is designed to ensure that all vehicles on the road are safe and in good working condition. The Safety Standard Certificate is a document being replaced via electronic tablets utilized at DriveON Vehicle Inspection Centres.

A Motor Vehicle Inspection is required when:

Ministry of Transportation enforcement officers and police anywhere in Ontario are authorized to stop and inspect your vehicle if they believe, among other things, that:

• Your vehicle is emitting excessive exhaust emissions
• Emissions control equipment has been tampered with or removed

What the check engine light is telling you:

Late model vehicles are equipped with an on-board computer that manages all components, most notably the power train–from the fuel supply to exhaust gases–but also peripheral systems like the brakes, electric system, air conditioning, and even tire pressure, through a network of sensors linked to the computer.

When the main computer detects a problem, a light on the dashboard turns on. In some vehicles, a red light indicates issues that need immediate attention. In others, if the check engine light is flashing, the problem could also lead to serious damage. Our technicians will use a scan tool to get the diagnostic trouble code(s) of a defective part or component.

Suspension sits between you and the road:

The suspension is part of the chassis, which includes the frame, the steering system and the wheels. The suspension system supports the vehicle’s weight, reduces the effect of shock forces and maintains proper wheel alignment. It’s critical for proper steering, stopping and stability. Every time you hit a pothole, a bump, or object on the road, your suspension absorbs that impact and maintains control.

Most suspension systems are made up of several parts (springs, shock absorbers, struts, torsion bars, leaf springs, pull rods, air springs, etc.) that connect the vehicle to its wheels.

Signs of suspension problems:

• Uneven and premature tire wear
• Excessive play in the steering
• Vehicle bottoms out when accelerating or dives when braking
• Visible damage or leaks

The all-powerful battery gets the job started

If your battery is dead, your vehicle won’t start. The starter motor, engine computer (PCM), ignition system, lights and electronic accessories all require electrical energy.

If your battery connections are loose and corroded, have our technicians clean the terminals and cables, when needed. The alternator is responsible for charging the battery while you drive your vehicle. Serpentine belts and tensioners can fail not allowing proper charging and a no start condition.

Leaving the headlights on or using / charging an electronic device with the car turned off, or short trips in the city can deplete your battery. It only takes about 10 deep cycle depletions before a battery is unable to supply enough amperage to start the engine.

Air conditioning is not just about the cool…

More than cooling the air in your car, air conditioning also reduces humidity. When the system fails, not only are you driving in a hot car, but you may not be able to clear condensation from the inside of your windshield in rainy weather.

Several signs your air conditioning system is not performing at its maximum performance:

• Lack of air freshness
• Grinding or squealing noises
• Odours
• Oil or refrigerant leaks

We offer competitive prices from every major manufacturer of performance, summer, all season and winter tires.

We sell, install and balance all major brands including Goodyear, BF Goodrich, Michelin, Bridgestone, Firestone, Continental, Toyo, Yokohama and Hankook

Winter Tires and Wheels

Tire downsizing is a common practice, especially for your winter tires.

Tire Downsizing—The Basics

Tire downsizing is an important winter driving preparation. Low profile all season tires with increased tread widths are less effective on snow and ice compared to snow tires that are more narrow and a higher profile (taller tire).

We will help ensure your tires and wheels are the proper diameter to keep your speedometer and traction control accurate.

Cooling System Repair

The cooling system consists of a cooling fan, water pump, thermostat, radiator, heater core, heater valve, and various other parts…and need to be serviced regularly.

Engine coolant can turn acidic after time and can etch or eat away at cooling components causing failure. A failed cooling system can contribute to engine damage and premature replacement which can be expensive.

Avoid costly repairs and reduce pollution by maintaining your vehicle according to the manufacturer’s recommended service schedules. It is illegal to drive with your malfunction indicator light (the check engine light) on if it is emissions control-related. Have your vehicle looked at by a qualified repair technician as soon as possible if this light comes on.

If you are buying a used vehicle, you should ensure that it complies with emissions standards and does not have any tampered or faulty emissions controls.

More than just a way to squirt fuel:

The primary purpose of the fuel injection system is to deliver fuel to the cylinders.

This ensures optimum engine performance, low emissions, and maximum efficiency

From the fuel pump delivery, extremely high injection pressures are utilized to vaporize the fuel

Injectors are manufactured with great precision and tolerances and must be clean to operate efficiently and deliver the proper amount of fuel.

Fuel injector cleaning and flow testing are both services we offer

Direct injection

Direct Injection is the latest technology in automotive gasoline engines. It uses high pressure to inject fuel right into the cylinder for more complete and efficient combustion and meet stringent emission levels.

Direct Injection does have a drawback in its design. Intake valves can gum up, clog and restrict flow thereby causing a loss in engine efficiency and power (check engine light).

Walnut shell blasting is the recommended OEM repair method for this condition which is a service we offer.

Symptoms of a fuel injection problem:

• Lack of engine power
• Hard to start/excessive cranking
• Check engine light illuminated
• Engine stalling
• Engine runs rough

Brakes tell you when something’s wrong:

If your brake pedal feels spongy, vibrates or needs to be pushed further than usual, or your vehicle pulls to the side when braking, or you hear squealing or grinding noises… It’s time to have your car serviced.

Replacing brake pads, rotors and calipers:

Brake pads are designed to wear out and they will tell you when it’s time to replace them by making squealing and grinding noises. After a thorough inspection, a common repair may be simply to replace the ceramic brake pads. If left unmaintained, a larger, more expensive repair may require replacing the rotors and calipers and related parts.