- Engine RepairBack in the mid to late 80’s when the shop first opened we used to do many engine rebuilds, and engine repairs, which continued for almost 38 years (up until the end of 2020). Since modern engines are so expensive to rebuild and replace, we have re-designed our shop to help prolong engine life to get the most mileage out of your vehicle. At this time we are now focusing our efforts in the following engine repair...
- Oil ChangeRoutine maintenance is one of the best ways to keep your vehicle running as best as it can. Here at Santa Cruz Imported Truck we only use high quality synthetic oil to ensure longevity of your engine. Our oil changes not only include the basic drain, and fill of oil and new oil filter, but we take it one step further and will tighten belts if needed, top off other fluids, and lube any driveshaft components, as well as perform a 21- point inspection. During the inspection process if we see anything that requires immediate attention we will notify you, if not we will give “recommendations” or things to “keep an eye on.” We recommend that routine oil change services happen every 5,000 miles, or every 5 months (whichever comes first). Under certain circumstances there are exceptions in which it is possible to extend the interval between oil changes to 7,000 – 10,000 miles, but this is very rare based on real world examples.
- Transmission ServiceModern automatic Transmissions are extremely complex and require the use of specialized fluids. The transmission will not shift or perform the way it is designed if it has the wrong fluid in it, or the fluid is not at the correct level. We always use the specified fluid or higher quality performance synthetic that meets or exceeds the manufacturer’s fluid specifications. Similar to oil changes, the transmission should also have periodic service. Typically the first transmission service is due around 60,000 miles (sometimes sooner depending upon the condition of the fluid). From that point and on, we recommend changing the fluid every 30,000 miles after that. For those who are towing we would recommend having the transmission service every 25,000 mile intervals. We tend to not rely on the manufacturer’s suggested mileage service intervals (at least here in Santa Cruz) since most of the driving locally requires much more shifting of the transmission, which is what breaks down the fluid.
- Transmission Fluid ServiceThese guys did an unbelievable job with my 05 Tacoma. I had a transmission fluid flush and mentioned at the same time a vibration coming from the drive train. They diagnosed it as the rear U joint and replaced it for $115 parts and labor.
- Transmission Replacement
- Clutch Service/Repair
- Wheel Alignment
- Brake ServiceWe take our customers’ brakes seriously, since they not only provide safety to our customer but to others they share the road with. During routine maintenance we always check the brake pad, and brake shoe thickness, as well as the rotors. We inspect the brake fluid condition, level and check for any leaks. We use high quality parts to reduce brake vibration, noise, as well as dust build up concerns. We are always happy to educate anyone who is interested in how brakes work, and how to differentiate between the various noises that brakes can make. Living in a coastal area rust build up can occur on brake rotors which can lead to strange noises. In situations when brakes have a vibration this is primarily due to the rotor surface being uneven at which point the will need to be machined back into a flat poistion (sometimes referred to as “turning” the rotors), or the rotors will need to be replaced when replacing the brake pads. If you have any concerns about how your brakes feel or sound, please feel free to call our shop.
- Brake RepairThe owner or this truck wasn’t in our shop for brake repair. He was just trying to get it smogged. So he could keep driving. On the same roads that you and I do.
- Battery Service
- General RepairsWe are qualified to handle all your repairs or maintenance. All our mechanics are highly experienced and trained and know precisely how to address all your auto repairs and services.
- Towing Service