Frequently Asked Questions

Most vehicles need an oil change every 3,000 to 7,500 miles depending on the type of oil used and your driving conditions. Synthetic oil typically lasts longer than conventional oil. Check your owner's manual for manufacturer recommendations, and our ASE-certified technicians can help you determine the best oil change interval for your specific vehicle and driving habits in Colorado.

Our comprehensive brake inspection examines brake pads, rotors, calipers, brake fluid levels and condition, brake lines and hoses, parking brake operation, and the overall braking system performance. We provide a detailed report with photos showing the condition of your brakes and recommendations for any necessary repairs or replacements.

The check engine light can indicate various issues ranging from a loose gas cap to serious engine problems. Common causes include oxygen sensor failure, catalytic converter issues, mass airflow sensor problems, spark plug or ignition coil issues, or emissions system faults. We use advanced diagnostic equipment to read the trouble codes and accurately identify the problem so we can provide the right solution.

A standard brake pad replacement typically takes 1 to 2 hours. If rotors need to be replaced or machined, the service may take 2 to 3 hours. More extensive brake repairs involving calipers, brake lines, or master cylinders can take longer. We'll provide you with an accurate time estimate when we inspect your brakes and discuss the necessary repairs.

Yes, AutoLab Englewood provides a comprehensive 3-year or 36,000-mile warranty on all parts and labor, whichever comes first. This warranty covers defects in workmanship and parts failure. Our warranty demonstrates our confidence in the quality of our work and gives you peace of mind knowing your investment is protected.

Our diagnostic service uses state-of-the-art computer equipment to scan your vehicle's onboard systems, read trouble codes, analyze sensor data, and identify the root cause of issues. We provide a detailed digital inspection report with photos and videos, explain our findings in plain language, and recommend the appropriate repairs to resolve the problem.

You need new tires if the tread depth is below 2/32 of an inch, which you can check using the penny test. Other signs include visible cracks, bulges, or cuts in the sidewall, uneven wear patterns, frequent loss of air pressure, or if your tires are more than 6 years old regardless of tread depth. We offer free tire inspections and can help you select the right tires for your vehicle and driving conditions in Colorado.

Wheel alignment adjusts the angles of your wheels to manufacturer specifications, ensuring they're perpendicular to the ground and parallel to each other. Proper alignment prevents uneven tire wear, improves fuel efficiency, ensures your vehicle drives straight, and provides better handling and safety. We recommend alignment checks annually or if you notice pulling, uneven tire wear, or after hitting a significant pothole.

Most manufacturers recommend transmission service every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, though this varies by vehicle and driving conditions. Transmission service typically includes draining old fluid, replacing the filter, and adding fresh transmission fluid. Regular service helps prevent costly transmission repairs and extends the life of your transmission. Consult your owner's manual or ask our technicians for specific recommendations for your vehicle.

Common signs of a failing battery include slow engine cranking, dim headlights, electrical issues, the battery warning light on your dashboard, a swollen battery case, or a battery that's more than 3-4 years old. Colorado's temperature extremes can be particularly hard on batteries. We offer free battery testing to check your battery's health and can recommend replacement if needed.

Yes, AutoLab Englewood provides comprehensive diesel repair and maintenance services for light, medium, and heavy-duty diesel vehicles. Our diesel-certified technicians have the specialized knowledge and equipment to service diesel engines, fuel systems, emissions systems, turbochargers, and all diesel-specific components. We work on all diesel makes and models including trucks, vans, and diesel cars.

Preventative maintenance involves regularly scheduled services and inspections designed to keep your vehicle running reliably and prevent major repairs. This includes oil changes, fluid checks and replacements, filter changes, tire rotations, brake inspections, and other manufacturer-recommended services. Following a preventative maintenance schedule saves money in the long run, extends vehicle life, maintains warranty coverage, and ensures your safety on the road.

You can schedule an appointment three ways: online through our website's booking system, by calling us at 303-789-1364, or by visiting our shop in person at 2900 S Broadway in Englewood. We offer flexible scheduling to accommodate your needs and can often provide same-day service for urgent repairs. We also offer after-hours drop-off for your convenience.

If your car overheats, safely pull over immediately, turn off the engine, and let it cool for at least 30 minutes. Don't open the radiator cap while hot. Check coolant levels when cool and look for visible leaks. Common causes include low coolant, thermostat failure, radiator issues, or water pump problems. Call us for a tow if needed, and we'll diagnose and repair the cooling system issue to prevent engine damage.

Yes, we offer complimentary shuttle service to take you to and from home, work, or nearby destinations while your vehicle is being serviced. We also provide assistance arranging rideshare services if preferred. Our goal is to make your service experience as convenient as possible with minimal disruption to your day.

A/C service costs vary depending on the issue. A simple recharge typically costs between $150-$250, while compressor replacement can range from $500-$1,200 depending on your vehicle. We'll perform a complete A/C system inspection including leak detection, pressure testing, and component evaluation before providing an accurate estimate. Regular A/C maintenance helps prevent costly repairs and ensures your comfort during Colorado summers.

A modern engine tune-up typically includes replacing spark plugs and inspecting ignition coils, checking and adjusting timing and idle speed, inspecting the air filter and PCV valve, testing battery and charging system, checking belts and hoses, scanning for diagnostic trouble codes, and testing emissions. The exact services depend on your vehicle's age, mileage, and manufacturer recommendations.

Brake squeaking can be caused by worn brake pads with built-in wear indicators, glazed brake pads or rotors, debris between the pad and rotor, moisture on the braking surfaces, or low-quality brake pads. While not all squeaks indicate danger, they should be inspected promptly. We'll examine your braking system and determine whether you need new pads, rotor service, or other repairs to restore quiet, safe braking.

We offer conventional, synthetic blend, full synthetic, and high-mileage motor oils from premium brands. We'll recommend the best oil for your vehicle based on manufacturer specifications, your driving conditions, and your budget. Synthetic oils provide superior protection and longer service intervals, while conventional oil is suitable for older vehicles with simpler engines. We use only high-quality oils that meet or exceed manufacturer requirements.

Yes, we service electric and hybrid vehicles including battery system diagnostics, brake service, tire service, suspension work, cooling system maintenance, and electrical system repairs. Our technicians have specialized training and equipment for working safely with high-voltage systems. While we don't perform battery pack replacements, we handle all routine maintenance and most repairs for EVs and hybrids.

ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) calibration ensures your vehicle's safety features like lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and blind spot monitoring work correctly. Calibration is required after windshield replacement, collision repairs, wheel alignment, or sensor replacement. We use manufacturer-approved equipment to properly calibrate these critical safety systems.

Cabin air filters should typically be replaced every 12,000 to 15,000 miles or once per year. If you drive in dusty conditions or have allergies, more frequent replacement may be beneficial. A dirty cabin air filter reduces HVAC efficiency, creates musty odors, and allows allergens into your vehicle. We'll inspect your cabin air filter during regular service and recommend replacement when needed.

Steering wheel shaking can indicate unbalanced tires, warped brake rotors, worn suspension components, misaligned wheels, or tire issues. If the shake occurs during braking, it's likely rotor-related. If it happens at highway speeds, tire balance or alignment is more likely. We'll perform a thorough inspection to identify the cause and recommend the appropriate repairs to restore smooth, safe driving.

Yes, we perform Colorado emissions testing and can help you pass your required emissions inspection. If your vehicle fails, we'll diagnose the issue and perform the necessary repairs to bring your vehicle into compliance. Common failure causes include check engine lights, faulty oxygen sensors, catalytic converter issues, or EVAP system leaks. We handle everything needed to get your vehicle emissions-ready.

We accept cash, all major credit cards including Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover, as well as debit cards. We also offer financing options through approved partners for larger repairs. Payment is due when service is completed unless prior arrangements have been made. We provide detailed invoices explaining all work performed and parts used.

Brake pad lifespan varies from 25,000 to 70,000 miles depending on driving habits, vehicle type, pad material, and driving conditions. City driving with frequent stops wears pads faster than highway driving. Colorado mountain driving can also accelerate wear. We recommend brake inspections every 12,000 miles or if you notice squeaking, grinding, or reduced braking performance. We'll measure pad thickness and advise you on remaining life.

AutoLab Englewood stands out through our commitment to honest service, ASE-certified technicians, comprehensive 3-year/36,000-mile warranty, digital vehicle inspections with photos and videos, transparent pricing with no hidden fees, family-owned local business approach, state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment, convenient services like shuttle and after-hours drop-off, and our focus on building long-term relationships with our customers. We've been serving Englewood since 2004 with a reputation built on integrity and excellence.

Yes, we offer comprehensive fleet maintenance and repair services for businesses of all sizes. Our fleet services include scheduled preventative maintenance, priority scheduling, detailed record keeping, competitive fleet pricing, rapid turnaround times, and customized maintenance programs. We work with your schedule to minimize vehicle downtime and keep your fleet running efficiently. Contact us to discuss your fleet needs and how we can support your business.