Using the most state-of-the-art diagnostic tools and materials, our Red Deer dealership is well-equipped to take care of your Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, and RAM vehicle. Do you have a question regarding our service processes while we’re working on your vehicle? Make sure to let us know. In the meantime, take a look at how each service makes an impact to your vehicle and learn the importance of keeping a regular maintenance schedule.
At Go Dodge Red Deer, we want our customers to enjoy their driving experience to the fullest and also embrace healthy driving habits. That’s why improving fuel efficiency is one important practice we encourage our customers to adopt. Read on to learn how you can be part of the change while saving money and helping to improve the environment.
Drive with your vehicle’s recommended fuel type:
Vehicle manufacturers test their vehicles to see which fuel type is best for each vehicle. Trust the maker and use the recommended fuel type in your owner’s manual. This simple step will help you get better gas mileage on your vehicle.
Keep your tires well-inflated:
Low tire pressure increases the rolling resistance of your tires on the ground. In return, your vehicle will also require more fuel to run at its best capacity. Make sure to inflate your tires properly. There are many tools you can purchase that allow you to monitor your tires’ pressure.
Stop idling:
Idling uses a lot of gas and also makes your vehicle pump carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, which contributes to air pollution. If your vehicle is going to be on for more than 30 seconds, it’s best to turn it off and turn it back on whenever you’re ready to drive again.
Don’t accelerate too quickly:
Take it easy on the pedal and don’t drive too fast, those are two important rules to keep in mind at all times. If you want to speed up or brake, do it gradually because the increase will produce drag on your vehicle. Sudden acceleration burns more fuel. Make sure to always drive at or below the speed depending on the road conditions.
Beware of what you are carrying on or inside your vehicle:
More weight adds more strain to your vehicle’s engine and therefore makes it harder for it to work; even roof racks and other storage accessories add extra weight to your vehicle. This means that with more weight onboard your engine will require more fuel.
Keep your gas fuel cap sealed:
Oxygen can pass through your cap into the gas tank. The increased air in the fuel will cause the engine to burn more gas and increase fuel consumption. Make sure there are no cracks in the seal and that it’s fully closed at all times.
Know where you are going:
If you’re going somewhere and are not too sure how to get there, make sure to plan your trip before leaving. If not, you might have to stop several times on the road to figure out the way to your destination. And by doing so, your engine will be consuming more gas. Make sure to put several trips together. For instance, if you have to buy something at the mall and need to go to the gym, make sure to combine those as it will help you save on gas and improve your fuel economy.
Don’t forget to replace your vehicle’s air filter:
One of the easiest ways to improve gas mileage is to change your vehicle’s air filter according to your owner’s manual. When the air filter is clogged, the engine’s ability to draw air from the environment decreases as well as your fuel efficiency. Your engine will then have to work double as hard. Doing this simple task can improve your gas mileage by as much as 15%.
Does your vehicle have Bluetooth connectivity? Then take advantage of it to enhance your driving experience. To enjoy this service, you need to first pair your phone to the Bluetooth system in your vehicle.
This system helps make driving and managing certain controls on your phone easier. It’s a hands-free system that allows you to do many things such as answering or making calls from the steering-wheel-mounted controls.
Follow these simple steps below to connect your phone to the Bluetooth system in your vehicle. Depending on the model, the steps might be slightly different but should still be similar. Contact our service department if you have any further questions on how to sync your phone to your vehicle.
Steps to Sync Your Smartphone to Your Vehicle
A flat tire can really ruin your day. Normally it’s best to call a tow truck and let the experts handle it, but if you’re in a pinch and need to get somewhere fast, you can change your tire just by following these 5 simple steps! The experts here at Go Dodge Red Deer have put together these tips so if you find yourself stranded on the side of the road, you can change a tire just like the experts!
Follow these 5 easy steps:
Congratulations! You just changed your own tire! Now you can drive to the nearest tire shop to have your flat tire patched or replaced. A couple of notes to remember though:
Trust the Experts at Go Dodge Red Deer
If you’re having difficulties changing your tire, or are uncertain about whether your vehicle is equipped with run-flat tires, Book an Appointment with us today! Our team of friendly experts would be happy to help you in any way they can.
Order New Tires
If your tire has become punctured beyond repair, then rest assured that Go Dodge Red Deer has a huge selection of affordable tires to replace it! Our Tire Centre has all the tires you could ever need, so order your new tires today.
Think of engine oil as the blood to your vehicle’s beating heart (the engine)— too much or too little and your vehicle’s heart meets an unfortunate demise. Thankfully, checking to see if you have the right amount of oil takes just a few minutes and three simple steps! Follow along as the experts from Go Dodge Red Deer teach you how to check that your car, truck, or SUV has the proper amount of oil.
Just follow these three simple steps:
Congratulations! You just checked your oil! A couple of quick notes to consider though:
Contact Us
If you’re having difficulties checking your oil, or have more questions regarding oil in general, feel free to Contact Us anytime! Our team of expert technicians would be more than happy to answer any questions and address any concerns you may have.
It’s the bane of many motorists, that little yellow symbol, but what does it mean? A check engine light can indicate anything from a loose gas cap to a major engine malfunction, so it can be difficult to know at a glance just what it means. Thankfully the experts here at Go Dodge Red Deer have collected a number of the most common check engine light codes so you can know what’s wrong with your vehicle in a flash!
How to Read a Code
First things first, how to translate that annoying flashing light into a readable code. You’ll need a OBD-II reader, which is a miniature computer that scans your vehicle and interprets the check engine light. These can be bought for a small fee, and allow you to quickly read your engine codes. Of course, you can also Book an Appointment with us to have our expert technicians scan your vehicle!
List of Codes
Here is a list of the most common check engine light codes and what they mean:
Get it Fixed by the Experts
If the code, unfortunately, reveals something that isn’t an easy fix, it’s time to call in the experts! Book an Appointment with us to have our team of factory-trained technicians repair your vehicle. They know your Chrysler/Dodge/RAM/Fiat inside and out, so there’s no-one better to eliminate that annoying check engine light!
My A/C is blowin’ it!
Is your car blowing hot air on you no matter how far you turn the dial to cold? Don’t sweep that problem under the carpet! Faulty A/C isn’t just an annoying inconvenience to be left for summer maintenance, it’s a safety hazard that should be treated as such.
Many things can go wrong with your vehicles A/C, first, let us cover the most common issue.
Refrigerant Leak
A refrigerant leak will slowly drain your A/C’s power and efficiency. A refrigerant leak can occur at any point in the air conditioning process and it’s sometimes difficult to pinpoint the exact location of the leak. Leaks can happen at the evaporator, hoses, or compressor, and they can be devastating. Even if your coolant is half full, your A/C system will still blow cold air. However, your A/Cs power and efficiency is significantly reduced. Natural wear-and-tear, road salt, damage from an accident, and moisture are all potential culprits of a leaky A/C. Moisture is an especially nasty offender as it mixes with the refrigerant, forming a corrosive acid which breaks down other components in your system and causes tiny pinhole leaks.
What can you do?
Check for a wet or oily substance occurring around hose connections, because they’re indications of a leak. You can also check the sight glass (some air condition systems have a glass window near the receiver or accumulator). If the glass is clear and there is no cold air, there is likely a leak. If you see bubbles or foam, the system may be low and need a refrigerant recharge. Another option is to get your mechanic to do a visual inspection!
Other culprits behind faulty A/C
Worn compressor: If your air conditioning suddenly stops working or starts making strange noises, it may be time to replace your compressor. The compressor keeps your refrigerant circulating throughout your A/C system. The most common reason for a compressor malfunction is long periods of time without use. Lack of use tends to shock the system when it finally is used again such as in the spring or summer after sitting dormant all winter long.
Broken or blocked condenser: When your air conditioner blows only hot air, this can indicate problems with the condenser. Typically, road debris causes damage or blockage to the condenser. In most vehicles, the condenser is found at the front of the car, so it should be easy to see if anything is blocking it. If nothing appears to block the condenser, it’s possible that it may be broken altogether. Typically a broken condenser must be replaced.
Other possible problems include: electrical issues (such as a blown fuse), faulty blower motor or resistor, or a damaged receiver/dryer.
If your vehicle’s A/C stopped working, it may be an inexpensive and easy fix. One of our certified technicians from Go Dodge Red Deer can help you out!
If your vehicle won’t start, there are many possible reasons for what could be wrong. It might be a clogged fuel filter, an empty gas tank or a dead battery. At Go Dodge Red Deer, we are going to go through the simple steps for changing your vehicle’s battery. But in case you need professional help, we will be happy to give you a hand at Go Dodge Red Deer. Read on to learn more.
Before Changing Your Battery
If you know there is something wrong with your battery but are not sure if it needs to be changed, there are a few things you can check before deciding to change your old battery with a new one. First of all, accumulated rust on or around your battery might not allow it to work properly. Make sure to clean off any corrosion with water and baking soda while wearing gloves and eye protection. Your vehicle might start to work again, once all that rust is cleaned off.
Secondly, there might also be an issue with the alternator. With the help of a voltmeter, check to see if the dial on the device is out of the normal range (12.4-12.8 when the engine is off), if it is, then you know there is a problem with the alternator and that you need to replace it.
The Simple Steps to Follow
If you’ve checked all of the above and your vehicle is still not working, this might be a sign that you need to replace your battery. Cracks on your battery are also an indicator that it needs to be replaced. Get your tools ready and let’s get to work. Before starting any work on your vehicle, make sure your vehicle is turned off and that you are in a well-ventilated area, ideally outdoors and away from any flames or sparks. Make sure to also purchase a battery that suits your vehicle and the climate you live in. You can find batteries at your local dealership or a supply store. If you have any questions about which battery you should purchase for your vehicle, contact our parts department at Go Dodge Red Deer.
Here is what you need to do:
Now that your vehicle’s battery has been replaced, you’re all ready to get back on the road. Happy driving!
One of the early indicators of a problem with your vehicle’s health is when it’s idle. Many issues can result in a rough or bouncy sensation when the engine is running, and fortunately, some of them are simple problems that are quick and easy to fix. But in some cases, these issues are much more serious, and a rough idle may be an early indicator that it’s time to take your vehicle in for service.
We’ve run down some of the more common issues a rough idle may be a symptom of, but be sure to book an appointment with your Go Dodge Red Deer service department for a diagnostic, today.
Vacuum Sucks
A component of modern fuel injection systems is a vacuum, which helps the vehicle’s computer regulate the engine. Regular use of your vehicle’s vacuum system can result in hoses becoming loose or broken, which can cause fuel intake issues resulting in a rough idle. A quick glance in the engine compartment can show you if there’s any wear-and-tear on your vacuum lines. A vacuum leak should be repaired as soon as possible, so the problem doesn’t turn into a more serious issue.
Incorrect Idle Speed
The average idle speed of your vehicle is actually adjustable and is usually set to a standard of around 1,000 RPM. Issues with the engine may have caused this to slip, resulting in your rough idle. While this may be caused by a more serious problem with your vehicle, it could be that your ride just needs to have the idle speed setting adjusted to correct the problem. Fortunately, this is a pretty easy fix our trained service technicians can take care of for you.
Dirty Filters or Pumps
Your standard combustion engine needs to be fed two things to run; air and fuel. Before either makes its way to your engine, your vehicle filters them to get rid of nasty contaminants which may cause damage. Over time, filters get clogged up, reducing the amount of fuel reaching the engine, and this could cause a rough idle. The good news is filters can be replaced during regular maintenance! But the bad news is if you don’t replace a clogged fuel filter in time, it can cause more costly damage to your fuel pump. Don’t forget, your fuel pump and fuel injection system can get just as dirty and clogged up as the filters too, and need occasional service to keep them delivering gas to the engine.
Electrical Issues
Your engine needs to burn fuel to run and spark plugs are the ignition source for your fuel. If a plug or plug wire has malfunctioned or was incorrectly installed, the engine won’t be able to process the fuel correctly. As your engine struggles to efficiently burn fuel, it will begin to idle roughly. Older models may also still be using a distributor cap to regulate the order your cylinders fire in, and a malfunction there can also cause a rough idle. The longer this problem persists, the worse it will get. A service technician should be able to replace a failing electrical component in the engine and get your vehicle running smoothly again.
Your vehicle’s radiator helps keep your engine cool in the summer months while also preventing freezing in the cold of winter. To prevent yourself from being stranded on the side of the road, follow this guide for maintaining your engine coolant levels.
1. Find Level Ground
Park on even ground to set yourself up to get the best possible reading of your coolant level.
2. Never Check Your Coolant Levels With a Hot Engine
It’s best to check your engine cold Never leave your engine running while you check the radiator fluid level, shut it off, and let your engine cool to avoid injury.
3. Find Your Reservoir
The coolant overflow tank can usually be found near the front or side of the engine, the tank is usually quite transparent with a bottom line labelled “Cold” and a top line labelled “Hot.” Some older vehicles may not have a reservoir at all, and if that’s the case, you’re going to have to open the radiator cap.
4. Open the Reservoir/Cap Slowly
Again, be careful because the cap will be pressurized. Open the cap slowly with a heavy rag covering your hand, again, with the engine cold otherwise, you run the risk of spraying hot antifreeze all over your engine and yourself. Coolant is usually red, green, blue, or yellow in colour.
5. Assess the Situation
Visually inspect your levels to make sure everything is ok. While you’re under the hood, also inspect your radiator hoses. They’re the thick hoses that lead into your radiator, and if they’re cracked or bulgy they need to be replaced. Also, if your coolant has a sludgy or oily surface, take your vehicle to a mechanic immediately as there may be an internal head gasket leak.
6. Top Up If Needed
You can tell if your coolant is low if it’s below the cold line on your reservoir, or if it’s below the line that’s etched (usually on the inside) of the radiator cap. Your mixture should be a 50/50 mix of coolant and distilled water. Some coolants come premixed, make sure to double-check the bottle before adding.
7. Clean Up Excess Coolant
Coolant is toxic to pets and wildlife! Don’t accidentally knock off your neighbour’s cat, clean up your mess! If you believe you have a leak, schedule a service appointment.
You can schedule an appointment with the good folks from Go Dodge Red Deer!
In a nutshell, an extended warranty is an optional program that covers the cost of unexpected repairs on your vehicle and offers longer coverage than the standard manufacturer’s warranty. The extended warranty can be purchased when you buy your vehicle, or can be added on within a reasonable timeframe. Generally speaking, the sooner you get an extended warranty, the better its coverage for your vehicle.
Should I get one?
For most people, a working vehicle isn’t a luxury, but a necessity. If your vehicle breaks down, it might not be something you can put off and those repairs can come with a hefty, unexpected price tag. If you don’t like to take chances with your vehicle, the extended warranty gives you peace of mind in case something does go wrong with your car, truck or SUV.
What does it cover?
There are a variety of extended warranty options available; right here at Go Dodge Red Deer, from the automaker, and through third-party providers. They can generally be tailored to suit your specific needs and budget. Depending on what’s offered for your specific vehicle, and what you feel you may need, extended warranties can cover everything from basic maintenance to major repairs.
If you decide to purchase an extended warranty, be sure you know exactly what your warranty is good for, and how it works. Some warranties require a deductible, others may be a reimbursement for paid work.
Can I get an extended warranty for a used vehicle?
Yes! Usually, used vehicles are new enough that the manufacturer’s warranty is still covering them, or at least some elements of the vehicle such as the engine. An extended warranty can help shore up whatever the remaining manufacturer’s warranty isn’t covering in a pre-owned model, and potentially extend the life of your new (used) vehicle.
If you’re considering an extended warranty for your existing vehicle, or with a new vehicle purchase, our team here at Go Dodge Red Deer would be happy to discuss which options may be right for you! Drop by our dealership, or feel free to fill out the form below, and we’ll be in touch with you as soon as possible.
If there’s one thing on your vehicle, you want working at peak performance, it’s your brakes. Obviously, a total failure of your braking system could lead to a catastrophe; but even smaller issues can have an effect, reducing the stopping distance of your vehicle, and adding up to a more serious problem if ignored. For this reason, your brakes are the one repair you don’t want to put off if you notice something wrong.
We’ve put together a short list of possible indicators your brakes may need servicing. If you notice something wrong, our team of service technicians would be happy to help you out, so be sure to book a service appointment right away!
Grinding or Squealing
Are your brakes screaming at you every time you apply them? Does the vehicle make a high-pitched sound while it’s in motion? Any metal-on-metal sounds coming from your vehicle could be an indicator of a problem. It’s the sound of the steel brake pad grinding up against the rotor, and it probably means your brake pads are wearing out. You want to get the brake pads replaced as soon as possible to avoid damaging the rotor, which can be a much costlier repair job.
Jerking or Veering
When you apply the brakes, is your vehicle regularly trying to pull you to one side? That’s a good sign one of your brake hoses or calipers has a problem. The failing part is causing one of your brakes to apply more pressure to the rotor, and that’s what’s causing your vehicle to pull to one side when you try to stop. A sticking caliper can also create a burning odour when you apply the brakes, as the system begins to overheat. If you start to smell something when you hit the brakes, get your car off the road as soon as you can, and book some immediate service!
Brake Pedal Issues
Another good indicator of an issue is if your brakes begin to feel different when you apply them. The system is designed to use hydraulic pressure to apply the brakes. If there’s air in the system, or you’ve developed a leak, you may not be able to generate the force needed for the brake pads to clamp down on the rotors. If the pedal starts offering less resistance, or sinks all the way to the floor, you want to get your vehicle in for service as soon as possible.
Brake Light
This one’s a bit obvious, but if the brake indicator light has come on, at the very least it’s time to get your brakes inspected. Don’t just assume your vehicle’s alerting you it’s time for regular maintenance, either—it may have detected an issue that isn’t showing other symptoms.
When you get a new vehicle, certain parts are covered by the manufacturer in a limited warranty. Generally speaking, the manufacturer guarantees certain components within the vehicle’s powertrain; which is to say mechanical components within the engine, transmission and drivetrain. If any of them malfunction or break down during the period of coverage, the manufacturer takes full responsibility for the repairs.
Which Specific Parts are Covered?
Well, that’s where things get a bit tricky. Different manufacturers offer different warranties, and even between vehicle makes and models the specifics of the warranty may change. The components being covered may also be different depending on whether your vehicle is front-, rear-, or four-wheel-drive. And that’s just on a standard diesel or gasoline engine! A hybrid vehicle may have different coverage to account for the electric motor and battery.
How Do I Find Out What’s Covered?
Ask! The best time to do so is when you’re buying your vehicle, so you know what your coverage looks like in the event something does go wrong. Our staff here at Go Dodge Red Deer is happy to walk you through what is and isn’t covered in the warranty, make sure you understand any conditions, and answer your questions!
Are you worried you’re having problems with a part of your powertrain, but don’t know if the issue is covered? Drop by our service centre, or book an appointment, and we’ll take care of it for you.
Service | Procedure | Benefit |
Air Conditioning |
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Cabin Air Filter Replacement |
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Alternator
Inspect Drive Belt |
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Brakes |
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Brakes
Replace Brake Fluid With Genuine Manufacture Brake Fluid (Including Anti-lock Braking System) |
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Brakes
Inspect Discs, Pads, And Calipers |
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Brakes
Inspect Hoses And Lines |
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Brakes
Inspect Rear Drums, Cylinders, And Linings |
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Clutch |
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Cooling System
Replace Engine Coolant |
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Cooling System
Inspect Hose\Connections |
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Cooling System
Inspect Radiator Core And A/C Condenser |
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Cruise Control
Inspect Linkage And Hoses |
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Engine |
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Exhaust System |
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Fluid Levels |
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Fuel Filter |
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Fuel Pipes |
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Idle |
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Lubricate
Inspect Drive Belt |
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Oxygen Sensor |
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Parking Brake |
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PVC Valve |
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Spark Plugs |
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Starter Safety Switch |
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Steering |
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Supplemental Restraint System (SRS)
Inspect |
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Suspension |
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Timing and Balancer
Belt / Water Pump |
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Transaxle |
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Transmission Fluid |
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Transfer Case |
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Wheels Rotation |
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Wheels Alignment |
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