Your Questions,
Answered
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We offer a wide range of automotive services including comprehensive car repair and maintenance services. Beyond general auto repair, we are dealers of quality used cars. From oil changes to brake service and tune-ups, and even air conditioning repairs, Accurate Auto Service provides expert care for your vehicle. See our services page for a broader list.
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Can I get a written estimate? Yes, we will gladly provide a printed copy of our estimates
Are estimates free? We charge 1 hour of labor, $159.95 for service evaluations. However, if you choose to have us provide the service on your car, the cost of the estimate will be applied to the cost of the service.
Does my insurance cover this? Your auto insurance normally covers repairs for sudden, accidental damage from covered events like collisions (with collision coverage) or theft/vandalism/weather (with comprehensive coverage), but NOT for normal wear-and-tear, routine maintenance (oil changes, brakes), or mechanical breakdowns unless you have a separate Mechanical Breakdown Insurance (MBI) or extended warranty.
Are there additional fees? We do have a few additional fees beyond parts and labor, including shop supplies, environmental/hazardous waste disposal fees as required by the state.
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Are you licensed and insured? Our service center has up to date licensure and insurance, as required by the State of Maryland, to cover any and all services we provide, as well as any unexpected occurrences. This includes specific MVA/ASED requirements and mechanic licensure for our offered Maryland State Inspections.
What training do your mechanics have? ASE Certified Master Technician, L1 Advanced Engine Performance Certified, Master Emissions Certified, State Inspection Licensed
Can I speak with a technician? Due to safety rules, we do not allow customers into our shop/bay area, however, our Service Manager is a licensed Master Technician with 30+ years experience and can help you with all of your questions.
Do you have customer references? Feel free to check us out on SureCritic
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You can reach us anytime via our contact page , by phone or email. We aim to respond quickly—usually within one business day.
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Can I drop off my car after hours? We have a night drop box for your convenience after hours drop offs.
Do you offer a shuttle service? We usually have staff available for shuttling you home locally, within the Annapolis area, if you would rather not wait for your car at the shop. Please let us know your needs when you book your appointment
How will I be updated? Our office staff will call the number you leave with us to get your consent for work with an estimate of the cost, as well as a call when the work is done and your car is ready for pick up.
What if my car needs more work later? Your customer invoice will include recommendations or concerns for any future services. If in the rare event the service we have provided raises issues after you leave our shop, please contact us ASAP so the concern can be addressed.
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When your check engine light comes on, first check gauges for overheating/low oil; if the light is flashing, stop driving ASAP and get towed, as it's an urgent issue like a misfire; if steady, tighten the gas cap and drive cautiously to a mechanic to get the OBD-II codes read, as it could be minor or serious, but don't ignore it.
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The consensus agrees that a car should get an oil change every 3,000 to 7,000 miles or every three months. Standard times for conventional oil every 3000-5000 miles and synthetic oil every 5000-7500 miles. However, you can always refer to your owner's manual which covers the recommended oil change interval for your specific make and model. Many of today's newer vehicles will actually tell you when they are due for service. Remember: an oil change is essential because it acts as a lubricant for the internal cogs and gears under the hood. Without it, oil can turn into sludge and prohibit your vehicle from operating correctly.
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On average, brake pads begin to wear out around the 20,000- to 30,000-mile mark, but there are many factors that may impact this figure. Knowing what signs to look out for will therefore prove instrumental in detecting when your brake pads need to be replaced. If you feel your vehicle taking longer to come to a stop or notice a high-pitch screeching or grinding noise when braking, scheduling a checkup is integral. Running with worn brake pads will eventually affect the rotors, which can be a costly repair, so taking a proactive approach will not only keep you safe but save you money as well.
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As the main point of contact with the pavement, tires are subject to the most wear and tear. This is especially true if you utilize your vehicle for off-roading or have a two-wheel drive system which puts most of the labor on a specific set of wheels. That being the case, having your tires rotated every six months or around 5,000 to 7,500 miles (with each oil change) is a good rule to uphold. Doing so will ensure your tires wear evenly.
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These are generic service recommendations based solely on time or mileage not on visual appearance or measurement. Their purpose is to extend the life of your vehicle and help prevent breakdown. Your vehicle’s requirements may differ depending on driving habits and/or owner’s manual recommendations. Check your owner’s manual and with your service advisor for specifics.
OIL – LUBE – FILTER: 3,000 miles to 5,000 miles
TIRE ROTATION: 3,000 to 5,000 Miles depending on tire style
WHOLE CAR DIAGNOSIS: Yearly and before purchase or sale
BATTERY SERVICE: Yearly or as needed
AIR CONDITIONING: Check every spring or as needed
RADIATOR COOLANT: Every 5 years, flush
BRAKE SYSTEM FLUSH: Every 2 years
CLUTCH SYSTEM FLUSH: Every year
4X4 TRANSFER CASE: 15,000 to 50,000 miles
CARBON CLEANING: 2 Years or 30,000 miles or as needed
THROTTLE-BODY SERVICE: 2 Years or 30,000 miles or as needed
RADIATOR & HEATER HOSES: 4 Years or 60,000 miles
DRIVE BELTS: 4 Years or 60,000 miles
TIMING BELT: 4 Years or 105,000 miles
DIFFERENTIAL FLUID: 15,000 to 50,000 miles
MANUAL TRANS SERVICE: 15,000 to 50,000 miles
VALVES: Adjust per owner’s manual
SCAN FOR COMPUTER CODES: When amber “CHECK ENGINE” Light is on
OXYGEN SENSOR: Per owner’s manual or as needed

