Mon–Fri 9am–5pm | Closed Sat–Sun

Honest Answers to Your Most Common Auto Service Questions

We believe an informed customer is a confident customer. Below you’ll find answers to the questions we hear most often — starting with the basics about our shop, then organized by service so you can find what you need fast. If you don’t see your question, just stop by or give us a call. We’re always happy to talk it through.

General Questions

Where is Markosian Tire and Service located?

We have two locations in Northern Utah — 1232 W. Utah Ave in Tooele, and 4238 S. Redwood Road in Taylorsville. Both shops are open Monday through Friday, 9am to 5pm.

What makes Markosian Tire and Service different from a dealership?

We came from the dealership world — our team spent 25+ years running the service center behind Markosian Auto. You get the same diagnostic capability and technical depth, without the dealership markup or the runaround. Our customers have saved thousands of dollars on the exact same repairs. We’ve got the receipts to prove it.

Do I need an appointment, or can I walk in?

Walk-ins are welcome. If you want to guarantee your spot or have a larger repair in mind, calling ahead is always a good idea — but we won’t turn you away at the door.

What types of vehicles do you service?

We service most makes and models — domestic and import, cars, trucks, and SUVs. If you’re not sure whether we can handle your vehicle, just give us a call and we’ll tell you straight.

Will you recommend work I don’t actually need?

No. Our entire reputation is built on the opposite of that. Our customers consistently note that we could have charged more — and didn’t. We’ll tell you what your vehicle needs, explain why, and let you make the call. No pressure, no manufactured urgency.

Do you offer any perks like loaner cars or towing?

Yes — we offer a loaner car program and free towing within Tooele Valley for Tooele location customers. We know a repair can mean being without your vehicle, and we’ve tried to make that as painless as possible.

Still have questions? Reach Out to Us!

AC / Heating

Why is my car’s AC blowing warm air even when it’s set to cold?

The most common culprit is low refrigerant — usually from a slow leak somewhere in the system. It can also be a failing compressor or a clogged condenser. We’ll check refrigerant levels, system pressure, and all the key components to find out exactly what’s going on before recommending any work.

How do I know if my car’s heater is broken or just low on coolant?

Low coolant can definitely cause weak heat — the heater core relies on hot coolant flowing through it. But if you’ve topped off the coolant and still aren’t getting warm air, it could be a stuck thermostat, a failing blower motor, or a heater core issue. Stop by and we’ll sort it out.

How often should I have my car’s AC system serviced?

A good rule of thumb is to have your AC inspected every couple of years, or any time you notice a change in performance. Catching low refrigerant or a worn component early is a lot cheaper than dealing with a full system failure in July. We’ll let you know what we find and only recommend work your vehicle actually needs.

What does it mean when my car smells musty or like mildew when I turn on the AC?

That smell usually comes from bacteria or mold built up in the evaporator or cabin air filter. It’s not harmful to your AC system, but it’s not great to breathe either. We can inspect your cabin filter and check the evaporator to get things smelling normal again.

Can a bad heater affect my defroster or windshield visibility?

Absolutely. Your defroster runs through the same climate control system — if the heater isn’t producing warm air properly, your windshield won’t clear the way it should. That’s not just an annoyance; it’s a safety issue. We take that seriously.

Why is the airflow from my vents so weak?

Weak airflow usually points to a clogged cabin air filter, a failing blower motor, or a blockage somewhere in the system. It’s one of those things that tends to sneak up on you gradually. We’ll check airflow and inspect the blower motor and related components to get to the bottom of it.

Is it bad to run my AC in the winter?

Not at all — running your AC in the winter actually helps keep the system’s seals lubricated and prevents them from drying out. A lot of vehicles do this automatically when you turn on the defroster. It’s a good habit, not a problem.

How long does an AC recharge take, and how long does it last?

The service itself usually doesn’t take long. How long the charge lasts depends on the condition of your system — if there’s a slow leak, refrigerant will gradually escape and you’ll need service again sooner. We’ll check for leaks while we’re in there so you know what you’re dealing with.

What’s the difference between an AC recharge and a full AC repair?

A recharge adds refrigerant back to the correct level. A repair addresses the reason refrigerant was low in the first place — a leaking hose, a bad compressor seal, or a damaged component. We won’t recommend a recharge if a repair is what your system actually needs.

What causes a squealing or clicking noise when I turn on the AC?

A squealing noise often means the AC compressor clutch or a related belt is worn. Clicking sounds can point to debris in the blower motor or an electrical issue. Either way, those noises don’t fix themselves — we’ll diagnose it before it turns into a bigger repair.

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)

What is ADAS, and does my car have it?

ADAS stands for Advanced Driver Assistance Systems — things like lane departure warning, forward collision warning, blind spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. Most vehicles made in the last several years have at least some of these features. If you’re not sure what your vehicle has, we can take a look.

How do I know if my ADAS sensors are out of calibration?

Sometimes a warning light will tell you directly. Other times the system will seem to behave strangely — a lane-keep feature that activates at the wrong time, or a collision warning that doesn’t trigger when it should. After certain repairs or impacts, calibration can shift without an obvious warning. When in doubt, have it checked.

Does my car need ADAS recalibration after a windshield replacement?

Often, yes. Many forward-facing cameras are mounted to or near the windshield, and replacing the glass can shift their positioning just enough to throw off calibration. It depends on your specific vehicle — we’ll let you know whether calibration is needed for your make and model.

Will my lane departure or collision warning still work correctly after an alignment?

On some vehicles, alignment work can affect ADAS calibration. It depends on the vehicle. When we perform alignment service, we’ll flag whether a calibration check is recommended for your car so you’re not driving around with a safety system that isn’t operating the way it should.

Why is my backup camera showing a shifted or inaccurate image?

If the camera has been nudged — from a minor bump, a hitch installation, or even a bumper repair — the image can shift. In some cases the camera itself may need to be repositioned and recalibrated. We’ll take a look and tell you exactly what it needs.

Does ADAS calibration need to happen every time I get new tires?

Not necessarily every time, but certain tire changes — particularly if they affect vehicle ride height — can impact systems like adaptive cruise or front radar. We’ll check your vehicle’s specific requirements and let you know if calibration is recommended after your service.

What’s the difference between static and dynamic ADAS calibration?

Static calibration is done in the shop with the vehicle stationary, using specific targets and equipment. Dynamic calibration requires driving the vehicle under specific conditions so the system can self-correct. Which one your vehicle needs depends on the manufacturer’s requirements. We have the equipment to handle both.

Can a fender bender affect my car’s safety sensors even if there’s no visible damage?

Yes — sensors and cameras can shift slightly from an impact without leaving a scratch on the paint. If any part of the front bumper, grille, or rear bumper took a hit, it’s worth having the relevant sensors checked. We’d rather you know everything is working than assume it is.

My ADAS warning light is on — is it safe to keep driving?

The vehicle is typically still drivable, but one of your safety systems may not be operating properly. That’s not something to ignore long-term. Get it checked soon — we’ll scan the system and tell you exactly what’s triggering the light.

How long does ADAS calibration take?

It varies by vehicle and the type of calibration required, but we’ll give you an honest time estimate before we start. We know your time matters and we’re not going to keep your car longer than we need to.

Still have questions? See More About ADAS Services

Major Repairs and Diagnostics

My check engine light is on but my car seems to drive fine — do I still need to come in?

Yes — the check engine light doesn’t always mean your car is about to break down, but it does mean something triggered a code in your vehicle’s computer. It could be minor or it could be an early warning sign of something bigger. A diagnostic scan will tell us what’s going on so you’re not guessing.

How much does a diagnostic scan cost, and what does it actually tell you?

Give us a call and we’ll walk you through pricing. What the scan tells us is which system is throwing a fault code and what conditions triggered it. That’s the starting point — from there we inspect the relevant components to confirm the actual cause before recommending any repair.

What’s the difference between a diagnostic check and a full inspection?

A diagnostic scan pulls fault codes from your vehicle’s computer and helps us zero in on a specific system. A full inspection is a broader look at multiple systems — engine, brakes, steering, suspension, fluids — to assess overall condition. Both are useful; it depends on what you’re dealing with.

My car is making a grinding or clunking noise — what could it be?

A grinding noise when braking usually means worn brake pads. A clunk from the suspension could be a worn ball joint, sway bar link, or strut mount. These aren’t things you want to drive on for long. Bring it in and we’ll tell you exactly what’s making that noise.

How do I know if I need an engine repair versus a transmission repair?

Engine issues often show up as rough running, misfires, loss of power, or smoke. Transmission problems typically feel like slipping, hard shifts, delayed engagement, or the vehicle won’t stay in gear. The symptoms overlap sometimes, which is exactly why accurate diagnostics matter. We’ll scan, inspect, and give you a straight answer.

I noticed fluid leaking under my car — is that serious?

It depends on the fluid. Oil and coolant leaks can lead to engine damage if ignored. Transmission or brake fluid leaks are serious and affect how your vehicle drives and stops. Don’t wait on fluid leaks — even a slow drip can become a major problem. Bring it in and we’ll identify the source.

Can a failing cooling system cause my engine to overheat without warning?

Yes. A stuck thermostat, a failing water pump, or a compromised radiator can cause coolant temperature to spike faster than you’d expect. Overheating is one of the quickest ways to cause expensive engine damage. If you see your temperature gauge climbing, pull over and give us a call.

How long do major repairs typically take?

It depends on the repair. Some things can be done the same day. Others require parts or more time on the lift. We’ll give you an honest estimate before we start — no surprises. And with 28 bays in Tooele and 18 in Taylorsville, we’re built to move efficiently without cutting corners.

Will you explain what’s wrong before starting any repair work?

Always. We won’t touch anything without walking you through what we found and what we recommend. You’ll know what the problem is, what the repair involves, and what it costs. We’re not in the business of recommending work that isn’t needed — our reputation is built on doing the opposite.

My car shakes or vibrates at highway speeds — what causes that?

Vibration at speed is often related to a wheel balance issue, a damaged tire, or a worn wheel bearing. It can also be drivetrain-related — a worn CV axle or driveshaft. The fact that it shows up at speed usually helps us narrow it down quickly. Let us take a look.

Oil Change

How often should I get my oil changed?

It depends on your vehicle and the type of oil you’re using. Conventional oil typically runs 3,000 to 5,000 miles. Synthetic oil can go 7,500 to 10,000 miles or more depending on the manufacturer’s recommendation. Your owner’s manual is the best reference — or just ask us and we’ll tell you what’s right for your vehicle and driving habits.

What’s the difference between conventional, synthetic blend, full synthetic, and high-mileage oil?

Conventional oil is refined from crude and works well for older or lower-mileage engines. Synthetic is engineered for better performance and longer intervals. A synthetic blend falls in between. High-mileage oil is formulated with additives that help condition seals in engines over 75,000 miles. We’ll help you pick the right one.

Does my car need a specific type of oil, or can I use any kind?

Your vehicle has a manufacturer-specified viscosity and oil type — it’s not one-size-fits-all. Using the wrong oil can affect performance and fuel economy, and in some cases void your warranty. We’ll always use what’s right for your specific engine.

How do I know if my oil is overdue for a change?

The most obvious sign is your oil change reminder light. Beyond that, check the dipstick — if the oil looks very dark or gritty, it’s overdue. An engine that sounds noisier than usual is another sign. When in doubt, swing by and we’ll check it for you at no charge.

What happens if I go too long without changing my oil?

Oil breaks down over time and collects contaminants. Old oil doesn’t lubricate as well, which increases friction and heat inside the engine. Left long enough, that leads to sludge buildup and premature engine wear — which is a lot more expensive than an oil change. Stay on schedule and protect what you’ve got.

Is the filter replaced every time I get an oil change?

Yes — every time, without exception. A new filter is part of a proper oil change. We include a premium oil filter with every service. Skipping the filter defeats the purpose of putting in clean oil.

Do you check other fluids during an oil change?

We do. Our oil change service includes checking key fluid levels — coolant, brake fluid, windshield washer fluid, and more. If something looks low or needs attention, we’ll let you know. No pressure, just honest information.

How long does an oil change take?

Most oil changes are done well within 30 minutes. We know your time is valuable — we built our facilities with fast turnaround in mind, and we don’t drag things out.

My oil change light just came on — is it okay to drive for a few more days?

A few days shouldn’t cause lasting damage, but don’t push it much further than that. The light means your vehicle has already hit the service interval. The sooner you get it done, the better.

Do I still need to follow the 3,000-mile rule, or has that changed?

For most modern vehicles, 3,000 miles is more conservative than necessary — especially with synthetic oil. That interval made sense for older engines and conventional oil. Today’s vehicles and oil formulations have moved past it. We’ll tell you the actual recommended interval for your car so you’re not changing oil more often than you need to.

Preventive Maintenance

What’s actually included in a preventive maintenance service?

It varies depending on your vehicle and where you are in its service schedule, but it can include an oil and filter change, fluid checks, brake inspection, tire rotation, battery test, belt and hose inspection, air filter replacement, and a general safety check. We’ll tell you exactly what was done and what, if anything, needs attention.

How do I know what maintenance my car is due for right now?

Your owner’s manual has a manufacturer-recommended maintenance schedule broken down by mileage intervals. If you’ve lost track or don’t have the manual handy, bring your vehicle in and we’ll look at the service history and tell you where you stand. No guessing.

Does preventive maintenance really save money in the long run?

Without question. Catching a worn belt before it snaps is far less expensive than the engine damage that can follow. Fresh brake fluid prevents corrosion inside the calipers. A battery test catches a weak cell before you’re stranded. Routine maintenance isn’t an expense — it’s how you avoid the big expenses.

How often should I get a full maintenance inspection?

At least once a year, or at each major mileage interval your manufacturer recommends — typically every 30,000, 60,000, and 90,000 miles. If you’re putting a lot of miles on your vehicle or driving in tough conditions, more frequent check-ins make sense.

What fluids should be checked or replaced regularly?

Engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, power steering fluid, and windshield washer fluid all need periodic attention. Some degrade over time even if the mileage hasn’t hit the mark — brake fluid absorbs moisture, for example, which lowers its boiling point. We’ll check the condition of each one.

When should I have my brakes inspected if nothing feels wrong yet?

At least once a year, or every 12,000 miles. Brake wear happens gradually and pads don’t always squeal before they’re dangerously thin. An inspection lets us measure what’s left and give you a heads-up before you’re dealing with metal-on-metal contact.

Can skipping routine maintenance void my warranty?

It can. Most manufacturers require documented maintenance at recommended intervals to keep the warranty in good standing. We can perform your scheduled maintenance and document the service properly.

What’s the difference between preventive maintenance and a repair?

Preventive maintenance is scheduled service done to keep your vehicle running well and prevent problems. A repair addresses something that has already failed or is actively causing a problem. The goal of good maintenance is to have fewer repairs. We’re here to help with both.

Do you follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule for my specific vehicle?

Yes. Every vehicle has its own schedule, and we work from those recommendations — not a generic checklist. We also factor in your driving conditions, because severe driving (towing, stop-and-go, extreme temperatures) often calls for shorter intervals.

My car seems to be running fine — do I really still need maintenance?

Yes. A lot of what we’re checking during maintenance doesn’t produce symptoms until it’s already becoming a problem. A battery that’s at 20% capacity still starts your car — until one morning it doesn’t. Running fine today doesn’t mean everything is in good shape.

Tire and Alignment

How do I know when it’s time to replace my tires?

The quick check is the penny test — insert a penny into the tread groove with Lincoln’s head facing down. If you can see the top of his head, your tread is below 2/32″ and it’s time for new tires. We’ll measure tread depth during your service and give you a straight answer on where you stand.

What does a wheel alignment actually do, and how is it different from a tire rotation?

Alignment adjusts the angles of your wheels so they’re pointed where they’re supposed to be relative to the road and each other. That affects how your car tracks straight and how evenly your tires wear. A tire rotation moves tires between positions to even out wear patterns over time. They’re separate services that both matter.

How often should I get an alignment?

A good baseline is once a year or every 10,000 to 12,000 miles — but you should also get one any time you hit a significant pothole, curb, or any kind of impact. Getting new tires is also a good time to check alignment so you’re not wearing them unevenly from day one.

My car is pulling to the left or right — is that always an alignment issue?

Usually, yes — but not always. An alignment problem is the most common cause. It can also be uneven tire pressure or a tire that’s worn differently on one side. We’ll check all of it and tell you exactly what’s causing the pull.

Can bad alignment damage my tires faster?

Absolutely. When your wheels are out of alignment, tires wear unevenly — often on one edge. That kind of wear isn’t recoverable. You end up replacing tires before you should have to. Keeping your alignment in spec is one of the best ways to protect what you’ve already paid for in tires.

What’s the minimum safe tread depth before I need new tires?

The legal minimum is 2/32″, but most tire and safety experts recommend replacing tires at 4/32″ — especially if you’re dealing with wet roads. At 2/32″ your stopping distance in rain increases significantly. We’ll give you the actual measurement and let you decide, without any pressure.

Do I need an alignment after getting new tires?

It’s strongly recommended. If your alignment was off before, those new tires will start wearing unevenly from the first mile. It only makes sense to protect your investment. We can check alignment at the same time as your tire installation.

Can hitting a pothole or curb knock my alignment off?

Yes — impacts from potholes, curbs, or road debris can shift your alignment angles. You might not feel it immediately, but the wear will show up on your tires over time. If you’ve had a significant hit, it’s worth having alignment checked.

What causes uneven tire wear, and can it be fixed?

Uneven wear is most often caused by misalignment, improper inflation, or worn suspension components. If it’s caught early enough, rotating the tires and correcting the underlying cause can help even things out. Once a tire is severely worn on one edge, that wear doesn’t reverse — but we can help you prevent it from getting worse.

How long does a wheel alignment take?

Typically 30 to 60 minutes. We’ll give you a time estimate before we start, and we’ll show you the before-and-after alignment readout so you can see exactly what was adjusted and why.

What Taylorsville Customers Say About Our Oil Change Service

GOOD
Based on
4176 reviews
"I'd been paying dealership prices for years. My coworker sent me to Markosian. Full synthetic for about half what I was paying at the dealer. Same quality, zero pressure. I won't go back."
"I'd been going to the quick-lube down the street for years out of habit. Markosian actually explained what they were checking and didn't try to upsell me on anything. Switched for good."
"They could have easily told me I needed new filters and a bunch of extras. They changed my oil and said everything else looked fine. That's the kind of shop you stay loyal to."