Budd Baer Subaru Service FAQ
Whether your Subaru needs routine maintenance, a repair, or you simply have a question about something your vehicle is doing, the Budd Baer Subaru Service Team is here to help.
Scheduling Service
How do I schedule a service appointment?
You can schedule your service appointment online or contact our Service Team directly. When scheduling, let us know what your Subaru needs so we can help determine the appropriate appointment type and time.
Do I need an appointment for service?
Appointments are recommended so we can plan for your vehicle and provide the best possible service experience. If you have an urgent concern, contact us and we'll help determine the best way to assist you.
How far in advance should I schedule service?
For routine maintenance, scheduling in advance is recommended. Appointment availability can vary depending on the type of service needed, so contacting us early can help you get the date and time that works best for you.
Can I schedule service online?
Yes. Our online service scheduling tool allows you to request an appointment at a time that works for you.
What information do I need to schedule service?
It's helpful to have your vehicle's year, model, mileage, and VIN available, along with a description of the service or concern you're experiencing.
Maintenance & Service
What maintenance does my Subaru need?
Maintenance requirements vary by Subaru model, model year, mileage, and driving conditions. Following the maintenance schedule recommended for your specific Subaru helps keep your vehicle operating properly and can help identify potential concerns before they become larger repairs.
When should I get my Subaru's oil changed?
Oil-change intervals vary by model, engine, oil type, and driving conditions. Your owner's manual and Subaru's recommended maintenance schedule provide the appropriate interval for your vehicle. If you're unsure when your next oil change is due, our Service Team can help.
Does my Subaru need regular inspections even if nothing is wrong?
Yes. Routine maintenance and inspections are important even when your Subaru appears to be operating normally. Some maintenance items wear gradually and may not produce noticeable symptoms until they become more significant.
What is included in a routine maintenance visit?
The services performed depend on your Subaru's mileage and maintenance schedule. Depending on the interval, maintenance may include an oil and filter change, fluid checks, tire inspection, brake inspection, multipoint inspection, and other manufacturer-recommended services.
Why is following the Subaru maintenance schedule important?
Regular maintenance helps protect the performance, reliability, and longevity of your Subaru. Keeping service records can also provide a helpful history of the vehicle's maintenance.
Repairs & Warning Lights
My check-engine light is on. What should I do?
A check-engine light can indicate many different conditions, ranging from relatively minor issues to problems requiring immediate attention. If the light is flashing, contact our Service Team promptly for guidance. If it's illuminated steadily, schedule a diagnostic appointment so the cause can be identified.
My Subaru is making a strange noise. Can you diagnose it?
Yes. Our technicians can inspect your vehicle to help identify the source of unusual noises, vibrations, smells, warning lights, or changes in performance.
What if a warning light comes on while I'm driving?
The appropriate response depends on the warning light. Some indicate that service is needed soon, while others may require immediate attention. If you're unsure what a warning light means, contact our Service Team or refer to your owner's manual.
Can you diagnose a problem before repairing it?
Yes. Diagnostic service allows our technicians to identify the cause of a concern before recommending repairs. Once the issue has been diagnosed, we'll explain the findings and recommended next steps.
Will I be contacted before additional repairs are performed?
Our team will communicate with you regarding recommended repairs and obtain the appropriate authorization before proceeding with additional work.
Tires, Brakes & Batteries
When should I replace my Subaru's tires?
Tire replacement depends on tread depth, age, wear pattern, condition, and driving needs. Our technicians can inspect your tires and help you understand their current condition.
Can you check my brakes?
Yes. Brake inspections can identify wear on components such as brake pads and rotors and help determine when maintenance or replacement may be necessary.
How do I know if my brakes need service?
Common signs can include squealing, grinding, vibration, pulling, or changes in brake-pedal feel. However, brake wear isn't always noticeable, which is why routine inspections are important.
How long does a Subaru battery last?
Battery life varies based on climate, driving habits, vehicle usage, and the battery itself. If you're experiencing slow starting, electrical issues, or repeated battery problems, our Service Team can test the battery and charging system.
Can you check my tires, brakes, and battery during a maintenance visit?
Yes. These are among the items our technicians can inspect as part of your vehicle's overall maintenance and condition assessment.
Subaru Service & Technicians
Are your technicians trained to work on Subaru vehicles?
Our Service Department has technicians who are trained to diagnose and service Subaru vehicles using Subaru-specific procedures, equipment, and technical information.
Do you use genuine Subaru parts?
When appropriate, we use genuine Subaru parts designed specifically for Subaru vehicles. Our Service Team can also explain available parts and repair options for your particular vehicle.
Can I service my Subaru somewhere other than a Subaru dealership?
You can choose where to have your vehicle serviced. However, having your Subaru serviced by a Subaru dealership provides access to Subaru-specific technicians, equipment, technical information, and genuine Subaru parts.
Can you service an older Subaru?
Yes. We service Subaru vehicles across a wide range of model years. Contact us with your vehicle's year, model, mileage, and service concern so we can determine how we can help.
Do you service vehicles that weren't purchased at Budd Baer Subaru?
Absolutely. You don't have to purchase your Subaru from Budd Baer Subaru to have it serviced here. We're happy to assist with your Subaru's maintenance and repair needs.
Warranty & Recalls
Is my Subaru still under warranty?
Warranty coverage depends on your vehicle's model year, mileage, warranty terms, and the specific repair needed. Our Service Team can help determine whether a concern may qualify for warranty consideration.
How do I know if my Subaru has an open recall?
Recall information can change, so the best way to determine whether your specific vehicle has an open recall is to have your VIN checked. Contact our Service Team and we'll help you determine what applies to your Subaru.
Is recall service free?
Safety recall repairs are generally performed at no charge when the vehicle and repair qualify under the applicable recall. Our team can provide details for your specific vehicle.
Service Pricing
Can I get a service estimate before bringing my Subaru in?
Yes. Contact us with your vehicle information and the service or repair you're considering. We'll help provide the appropriate information and explain what may be involved.
Why can the final repair cost be different from the original estimate?
An initial estimate may be based on the information available before a technician has inspected or diagnosed the vehicle. If additional issues are discovered, our team will communicate the findings and discuss the recommended repairs before proceeding.
Do you offer service specials?
Yes. Budd Baer Subaru may offer service specials and maintenance offers that can change periodically. Check our current Service Specials page or contact our Service Team for current offers.
While Your Subaru Is Being Serviced
How long will my service appointment take?
Service times vary depending on the type of maintenance or repair being performed. When you schedule your appointment, our team can provide an estimated completion time based on the work being requested.
Can I wait at the dealership while my Subaru is serviced?
For many routine services, customers can choose to wait while their vehicle is being serviced. Ask our team about available amenities and estimated wait times when scheduling.
Will I receive an update if my vehicle needs additional repairs?
Yes. If our technicians identify an additional concern, our team will communicate the findings and discuss your options before additional work is performed.
Subaru Technology Questions
Can someone help me learn how to use my Subaru's technology?
Absolutely. Subaru vehicles offer a variety of technology and connectivity features, and our team is happy to help answer questions about your vehicle's technology.
I don't understand something on my touchscreen. Can you help?
Yes. If you're having trouble with your infotainment system, Bluetooth®, smartphone integration, vehicle settings, or other technology features, let us know. We can help you understand how your system works.
Can I meet with someone specifically about my Subaru's technology?
Yes. Budd Baer Subaru can connect you with our Subaru Technology Specialist, Steve Whitlach, for questions about your Subaru's technology and features.
Why Service With Budd Baer Subaru?
Why should I service my Subaru at Budd Baer Subaru?
Your Subaru deserves technicians who understand the vehicle and the manufacturer's recommended maintenance procedures. At Budd Baer Subaru, our team is focused on keeping your vehicle properly maintained, addressing concerns clearly, and helping you understand the work being recommended.
Do I have to wait until something goes wrong to schedule service?
No. Preventive maintenance is one of the best ways to stay ahead of potential problems. Regular inspections and scheduled maintenance can help identify wear or developing concerns before they become more significant.
Can Budd Baer Subaru help me keep track of my vehicle's maintenance?
Yes. Our Service Team can help you understand what maintenance has been completed and what services may be coming due based on your vehicle's mileage and maintenance history.
Still Have Questions?
We're here to help.
Whether you're due for routine maintenance, have a warning light, need a repair, or simply aren't sure what your Subaru needs, the Budd Baer Subaru Service Team is ready to help.
