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FAQ

FAQ Auto Repair- Fairbanks, AK

Explore Our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

For Alaska, this question is more accurately stated as, "What is the easiest, most cost-effective car to maintain?" Alaska's severely harsh climate takes a toll on all materials from plastics to metals. Regular maintenance is what makes things last. The Toyota family of cars is still the easiest and most cost-effective car to maintain. When we see cars with 300K miles on them, they are inevitably Toyota trucks that have been meticulously maintained. Toyotas are durable and dependable. They are easy to get parts for throughout the pandemic as well. 

A well-maintained Subaru will last 170K to 220K miles depending on whether or not head gaskets are replaced with a quality "repair gasket". Toyota pickup trucks (Tacoma and Tundra) typically see 200K miles if maintained. The Honda Element has routinely topped out in the 200K mile range in our experience. This said, in Alaska, cars that last a long time are cars that get ROUTINE maintenance.

This really depends on the vehicle, the tires you use and whether or not you have dedicated winter and summer tires. 

Front-wheel drive vehicles that use an all-season tire with a medium/soft compound need to be rotated every oil change (3-5K miles) during the summer for even wear and long life. Every 10K during winter months if you live above the Alaska Range. For Coastal Communities, winter mileage on medium/soft compounds should be closer to 7K between rotations. 

Rear-wheel drive vehicles follow roughly the same schedule as front-wheel drive cars, depending on whether or not they carry weight. If the rear-wheel drive vehicle is used to haul water or heavy loads during summer, the rotations will need to happen every 3K. Winter rotation will be on a 7K schedule. 

Rotation schedules for all-wheel drive vehicles with medium/soft compound tires depend largely on driving style. Aggressive drivers that charge out of intersections and have an overall assertive and bold driving style need to rotate medium/soft tires every tire change in order to get the maximum life out of tires. All-wheel drive cars depend on the overall circumference of each tire remaining the same. If one tire becomes worn relative to the other three, it will damage the transaxle which is an extremely expensive repair.

Oil needs to be changed depending on how many HOURS the engine has been running, not how many miles the car has driven. We get this wrong all of the time. Oils take on abrasives like dirt and dust from the air outside. It doesn't matter whether or not a car is driving or standing still at an intersection, the engine oil is taking on contaminants and needs to be changed. In northern climates, vehicles spend time idling (not in motion) due to cold temperatures. These hours are hard to measure. We recommend that vehicles get three oil changes per year: Fall (August-October), mid-winter (December-January), and Spring (April-May). Stick to this schedule and your vehicle will last as long as humanly possible.

There are not usually performance issues that can warn drivers that their timing belt needs to be changed out. A visual inspection and keeping track of mileage are the ways to predict the maintenance cycle on timing belts. Very occasionally, a timing belt will stretch to the point that it can skip a tooth and throw off the timing belt. This creates noticeable driver/performance issues that most thoughtful mechanics can easily diagnose.

When your check engine light comes on, there could be a number of issues. It could be something basic, like a loose gas cap, or it could be something serious. The best way to ensure that you are safe behind the wheel is to bring your vehicle into our shop for a multi-point inspection. We can find the issue and make you aware of it so you can choose whether or not you want to take the next steps to get your vehicle back to peak conditions.

Think of it as having someone throw a handful of sand in your yogurt. Your vehicle's oil suspends trapped contaminants such as dirt and dust and prevents them from scratching the smooth sides of the combustion chamber and also wearing out the many bearing surfaces within the engine itself. Clean oil absorbs the most grit keeping it away from your engine. The repair associated with neglect to maintain oil is short-lived. People who disregard service intervals end up rebuilding their engines very prematurely.

Depending on where you live the answer to this could be maybe, absolutely, or not at all. Climates with icy periods require winter stock. There is no getting around it if you want a safe commute. Even the smallest fender bender, say from sliding into the ditch, if not unsafe, is a great inconvenience because automotive body shops are noted for being difficult to schedule and finish repairs. You'll be out of a car for weeks and even months. 

Radio and navigation codes, or anti-theft codes, are device-specific security or theft-deterrent access codes that are entered to unlock the radio and/or navigation system when these devices are disconnected from a power source (e.g. when the battery exhausts its charge and needs to be replaced).

American Honda and U.S. Honda dealerships cannot provide this code without the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and the serial number of the radio or navigation system if equipped. The serial number can be located on a sticker or card in the glove compartment. If it is not available, some models support functionality to provide the serial number electronically.

Once you have the VIN and device serial number, you may visit https://radio-navicode.honda.com/ to retrieve your codes. This complimentary service will require you to provide a U.S. address, email, and phone number.

MEtro Services

With modern cars, routine maintenance can include anything from a simple drain-and-fill oil change to a new battery or a new timing belt. In Fairbanks, routine maintenance means routine inspections by a trained and professional Alaskan mechanic. Our staff knows exactly what to look for when tuning up a car or truck that needs to handle our harsh environment. Through regular inspections, each METRO mechanic gets to know the individual customer's vehicles. We track and make detailed notes about rates of decay or wear and flag upcoming work.

Though we work on nearly all makes and models of cars and trucks, our team specializes in providing expert service for these Japanese makes. Whether your vehicle needs a new head gasket or your timing belt is scheduled to be replaced, no one matches our team's expertise with these makes. We’re also a dually-certified Hybrid and EV shop, specializing in caring for sensitive electrical components in sub-freezing Alaskan weather conditions.

An ASE-certified technician is a professional mechanic who has passed the rigorous certification exams administered by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). ASE certification is a widely recognized industry standard that demonstrates a technician's competence, knowledge, and skills in various areas of automotive repair and service.

To become ASE-certified, a technician must have a combination of relevant work experience (typically at least two years) and pass one or more of ASE’s exams, which cover specific aspects of vehicle repair. ASE certifications must be renewed every five years to ensure that technicians stay up-to-date with the latest automotive technology and practices.

Honda Services

Due to Alaska’s severe operating conditions, we typically recommend more frequent service than the standard schedule. Oil changes every 3,000-5,000 miles or every 6 months, transmission fluid service every 30,000 miles for CVT-equipped vehicles, and coolant service every 30,000 miles help ensure reliability. Schedule a consultation with our technicians for a personalized maintenance plan based on your specific Honda model and driving habits.

 

Most Honda engines require timing belt replacement every 60,000-105,000 miles, depending on the model and year. This is critical preventive maintenance—failure to replace the timing belt on schedule can result in severe engine damage costing thousands of dollars. We’ll check your specific model’s requirements and recommend the appropriate interval.

Yes, our technicians are trained in Honda Sensing diagnostics and can service most components of this system. For certain calibrations or repairs, we work with Honda dealership tools to ensure your safety systems function properly. We’re always transparent about what we can accomplish in-house versus what may require dealership equipment.

We primarily use Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts that meet or exceed Honda specifications. For certain repairs, we may offer both OEM options and high-quality aftermarket alternatives, always discussing the differences so you can make an informed decision. For critical components like timing belts, we use Honda-specified parts.

Absolutely. Federal law (the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act) protects your right to have your vehicle serviced at independent repair facilities without voiding your warranty. We follow Honda’s recommended service procedures, maintain complete service records, and use appropriate parts to ensure your warranty remains valid.

 

CVT transmission service costs vary depending on your specific model and fluid capacity. A typical Honda CVT fluid change ranges from $150-$300, which is a small investment compared to the cost of a CVT replacement ($3,000-$5,000). We provide transparent estimates before beginning any work. Contact us for a specific quote for your Honda.

 

 

Yes! Our comprehensive winterization service includes battery testing and service, coolant system inspection and flush, block heater installation or testing, oil change with appropriate cold-weather oil, tire inspection and winter tire mounting, and a complete safety inspection. Properly winterizing your Honda ensures reliable starts and operation throughout Fairbanks’ extreme winter season.

 

 

Honda’s check engine light can illuminate for dozens of reasons, from a loose gas cap to serious engine problems. Our advanced diagnostic equipment can read Honda-specific trouble codes and identify the exact issue. We provide a detailed explanation of the problem and transparent repair estimate. Don’t ignore the check engine light—early diagnosis prevents minor issues from becoming major repairs.

 

 

 

subaru Services

Due to Alaska’s severe operating conditions (extreme cold, extended idling, rough roads), your Subaru may require more frequent service than the standard schedule. We typically recommend oil changes every 3,000-5,000 miles or every 6 months, whichever comes first. Schedule a consultation with our technicians for a personalized maintenance plan.

 

Common symptoms include white exhaust smoke, coolant loss without visible leaks, overheating, milky oil, or external coolant leaks. If you notice any of these signs, contact Metropolitan Garage immediately. Early intervention can prevent catastrophic engine damage.

Yes, our technicians are trained in EyeSight diagnostics and calibration. While some repairs may require dealership equipment, we can handle most EyeSight service needs and will always be transparent about what we can accomplish in-house.

 

Absolutely. Federal law protects your right to have your vehicle serviced at independent repair facilities without voiding your warranty. We use OEM parts and follow Subaru’s recommended service procedures, maintaining complete service records for warranty protection.

Head gasket replacement costs vary depending on your model and the extent of work required. We provide detailed, transparent estimates and can discuss options to fit your budget. Call us for a specific quote for your Subaru.

 

Yes! Our comprehensive winterization service includes battery testing, coolant system inspection and service, block heater installation or testing, oil change with cold-weather oil, and a complete safety inspection. Preparing your Subaru for winter ensures reliable starts and performance all season long.

 

 

 

REGULAR AUTO MAINTENANCE AND TUNE-UPS

Oil needs to be changed depending on how many HOURS the engine has been running, not how many miles the car has driven. We get this wrong all of the time. Oils take on abrasives like dirt and dust from the air outside. It doesn’t matter whether or not a car is driving or standing still at an intersection, the engine oil is taking on contaminants and needs to be changed. In northern climates vehicles spend time idling (not in motion) due to cold temperatures. These hours are hard to measure. We recommend that vehicles get three oil changes per year: Fall (August-October) Midwinter (December-January) Spring (April-May). Stick to this schedule and your vehicle will thank you with lasting performance.

 

 

Coolant keeps your vehicle from overheating. The temperature-regulating and lubricating properties of coolant break down over time. Coolant essentially turns sour and loses its ability to flow evenly throughout engine passages and pumps. A complete flush of the cooling system should be as routine as an oil change. Come in for an inspection today and we will let you know the condition of your cooling system.

 

 

 

 

 

When your check engine light comes on, there could be a number of issues. It could be something basic, like a loose gas cap, or it could be something serious. The best way to ensure that you are safe behind the wheel is to bring your vehicle into our shop for a multi-point inspection. We can find the issue and make you aware of it so you can choose whether or not you want to take the next steps to getting your vehicle back to peak conditions.

 

 

 

 

Most people ask Google about the “maintenance interval” for their specific engine’s timing belt. However, manufacturer-specified maintenance intervals don’t usually take into account “harsh duty environments” like Interior Alaska. Let’s look at the maintenance interval for a Subaru timing belt. The recommendation is for this repair between 60,000 and 100,000 miles. Because of the harsh climate here in Fairbanks, we recommend they be done between 60-75K. If your timing belt breaks, it will cause extensive damage to the engine resulting in thousands of dollars of repair cost. The best way to answer this question though, is to take your car to a mechanic who cares and get them to inspect your timing belt.

 

 

 

 

 

oil change

Oil needs to be changed depending on how many HOURS the engine has been running, not how many miles the car has driven. We get this wrong all of the time. Oils take on abrasives like dirt and dust from the air outside. It doesn’t matter whether or not a car is driving or standing still at an intersection, the engine oil is taking on contaminants and needs to be changed. In northern climates, vehicles spend time idling (not in motion) due to cold temperatures. These hours are hard to measure. We recommend that vehicles get three oil changes per year: Fall (August-October) mid-winter (December-January) Spring (April-May). Stick to this schedule and your vehicle will thank you with lasting performance.

 

Common symptoms include white exhaust smoke, coolant loss without visible leaks, overheating, milky oil, or external coolant leaks. If you notice any of these signs, contact Metropolitan Garage immediately. Early intervention can prevent catastrophic engine damage.

Check your owner’s manual! Or, better yet, ask your trusted mechanic. Those are the best answers these days. Vehicle manufacturers have taken great care to combine the right oils with the specific types of materials used in the engine. The wrong oils can actually dissolve sensitive materials like rubber and clutches. A trained, meticulous mechanic will know what your vehicle’s engine requires.

 

 

Think of it as having someone throw a handful of sand in your yogurt. Your vehicle’s oil suspends trapped contaminants such as dirt and dust and prevents them from scratching the smooth sides of the combustion chamber and also wearing out the many bearing surfaces within the engine itself. Clean oil absorbs the most grit keeping it away from your engine. The cost associated with neglect to maintain oil is a short engine life. People who disregard service intervals end up rebuilding their engines very prematurely.

 

Oil needs to be changed depending on how many HOURS the engine has been running, not how many miles the car has driven. We get this wrong all of the time. Oils take on abrasives like dirt and dust from the air outside. It doesn’t matter whether or not a car is driving or standing still at an intersection, the engine oil is taking on contaminants and needs to be changed. In northern climates, vehicles spend time idling (not in motion) due to cold temperatures. These hours are hard to measure. We recommend that vehicles get three oil changes per year: Fall (August-October) mid-winter (December-January) Spring (April-May). Stick to this schedule and your vehicle will thank you with lasting performance.

 

Common symptoms include white exhaust smoke, coolant loss without visible leaks, overheating, milky oil, or external coolant leaks. If you notice any of these signs, contact Metropolitan Garage immediately. Early intervention can prevent catastrophic engine damage.

Check your owner’s manual! Or, better yet, ask your trusted mechanic. Those are the best answers these days. Vehicle manufacturers have taken great care to combine the right oils with the specific types of materials used in the engine. The wrong oils can actually dissolve sensitive materials like rubber and clutches. A trained, meticulous mechanic will know what your vehicle’s engine requires.

 

 

Think of it as having someone throw a handful of sand in your yogurt. Your vehicle’s oil suspends trapped contaminants such as dirt and dust and prevents them from scratching the smooth sides of the combustion chamber and also wearing out the many bearing surfaces within the engine itself. Clean oil absorbs the most grit keeping it away from your engine. The cost associated with neglect to maintain oil is a short engine life. People who disregard service intervals end up rebuilding their engines very prematurely.

 

tires, wheels and brakes

This really depends on the vehicle, the tires you use and whether or not you have dedicated winter and summer tires. 

Front-wheel drive vehicles that use an all-season tire with a medium/soft compound need to be rotated every oil change (3-5K miles) during the summer for even wear and long life. Every 10K during winter months if you live above the Alaska Range. For Coastal Communities, winter mileage on medium/soft compounds should be closer to 7K between rotations. 

Rear-wheel drive vehicles follow roughly the same schedule as front-wheel drive cars, depending on whether or not they carry weight. If the rear-wheel drive vehicle is used to haul water or heavy loads during summer, the rotations will need to happen every 3K. Winter rotation will be on a 7K schedule. 

Rotation schedules for all-wheel drive vehicles with medium/soft compound tires depend largely on driving style. Aggressive drivers that charge out of intersections and have an overall assertive and bold driving style need to rotate medium/soft tires every tire change in order to get the maximum life out of tires. All-wheel drive cars depend on the overall circumference of each tire remaining the same. If one tire becomes worn relative to the other three, it will damage the transaxle which is an extremely expensive repair.

 

If your tire pressure is low then it can cause uneven wear on your tires. That means that one tire may wear faster than another forcing you to have to replace all of your tires sooner. This can be quite costly. Low tire pressure also puts you at risk of popping your tire sooner. When you drive down the highway you may also feel your vehicle pulling to one side of the road because of this. Also low tire pressure forces your vehicle to use more power to generate the same amount of speed, costing you more gas and money!

Every year. Most folks have their brakes checked when they have their tires rotated. The Shop should make a note of break wear each time and send you a reminder when the brake pads need to be replaced. Staying on top of brake wear saves LITERALLY thousands of dollars over the life of the vehicle. Take your car to a mechanic you trust. He will never sell you a brake job you don’t need.

 

 

Your brake pads should be replaced when they are worn down. If you don’t replace your brake pads in a timely fashion then it can severely reduce your stopping power. This puts you and folks around you in danger. Not replacing your brake pads also means that your brakes will wear on your brake discs. This will wear them out and cause more costly repairs down the line.

 

Depending on where you live the answer to this could be maybe, absolutely or not at all. Climates with icy periods require winter stock. There is no getting around it if you want a safe commute. Even the smallest fender bender, say from sliding into the ditch, if not unsafe, is a great inconvenience because automotive body shops are noted for being difficult to schedule and finish repairs. You’ll be out a car for weeks and even months. 

 

 

A tire is basically musical chairs for car tires. Every 5-10K motorists remove tires from each corner of the vehicle and rotate them to a different spot. Why? Because cars don’t provide even power to all four tires and one or two tires always get more worn out than the others. It’s like the one key on your laptop that gets worn out before all the others (for me it’s the ‘L’ and the ‘A’.

 

 

 

TIMING BELT REPAIR

Absolutely! Why? A few different reasons, depending on what vehicle you drive. First, you will always be stranded, no matter what car you drive, if you let your timing belt break. Second, if you drive a car with the type of engine in which the top of the motor’s moving parts collides with the bottom part, you will do damage that costs 3-8 thousand dollars. One option is a tow truck and few hundred dollars to fix. The other is a tow truck and new engine. But whatever happens you will get to meet a tow truck operator!

 

 

There are not usually performance issues that can warn drivers that their timing belt needs to be changed out. A visual inspection and keeping track of mileage are the ways to predict the maintenance cycle on timing belts. Very occasionally, a timing belt will stretch to the point that it can skip a tooth and the timing be off. This creates noticeable driver/performance issues that most thoughtful mechanics can easily diagnose.

These repairs range from $900 to $1,800 depending on what vehicle you drive and the extent to which related parts need attention in order to complete the job. Have the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) of your vehicle ready and call an automotive repair shop. A VIN number will help you get an accurate price by connecting the vendor to your exact vehicle when sourcing parts.

 

 

 

Most people ask Google about the “maintenance interval” for their specific engine’s timing belt. However, manufacturer-specified maintenance intervals don’t usually take into account “harsh duty environments” like Interior Alaska. Consider the maintenance interval for a Subaru timing belt. The recommendation is for this repair to happen between 60,000 and 100,000 miles. Because of the harsh climate here in Fairbanks, however, we recommend they be done between 60-75K.  The best way to answer this question is to take your car to a mechanic who cares and get them to inspect your timing belt.