Regular oil and filter changes are required to keep the “blood” of your engine in top lubricating condition. With today’s oil change intervals becoming further apart, it is critical that the oil and filter be changed on time to make sure that it can handle all the stresses placed on it when you drive. Especially driving around Salem! Not only does oil lubricate your engine, it keeps the engine interior clean, keeps moisture from corroding parts, and removes heat from critical areas in the engine.

Over time the oil’s ability to do its job decreases, resulting in increased engine wear, sludge build up and other nasty things. Another item to consider is that though engines are designed not to, some oil can be used and burned in even a perfectly running engine. With oil change intervals being over 7,500 miles apart, this burning of oil can use up some of the oil making what is left work even harder. Worse case scenario the oil level can get so low that your engine willstarve for oil causing internal damage.

Dave Power Automotive & Marine knows how critical it is to have the oil changed in your vehicle especially as you drive around Salem. So, we go above and beyond what other shops in Salem do to get you back in time and mileage. We calculate your actual miles driven a day and based on the recommended type of oil your vehicle needs, print a sticker that is placed on your windshield to tell you when it is time to return. We also set a “soft appointment” for your next oil change and send you a reminder via text or an appointment reminder inserted in your smart phone calendar with a couple of finger taps. When you confirm that you are coming in for the oil change by texting us the letter “C”, we will be sure that we AT Dave Power Automotive & Marine have everything needed to get your vehicle in and out fast as possible. If you rather have your oil changed more often than the manufacturers’ recommendations because it’s your “baby”, we at Dave Power Automotive & Marine will make that happen. All you need to do is ask. Remember, Dave Power Automotive & Marine is your service destination in Salem for complete automotive service.

We recommend that if you start to experience any shaking or noises when applying the brakes, or a different feel in the brake pedal that you contact us immediately. If the brake warning, traction or ABS light goes on call us. If needed we will arrange to have your vehicle towed to our shop for the safety of everyone in Salem and your family.

When checking the brakes for proper operation, we will road test the vehicle first then do an inspection of the brakes at each wheel of your vehicle. The brakes will be disassembled and inspected part by part to assure that we find any issues that need to be addressed. Anything that is noted to be worn or damaged will be measured and documented.

Once we give you the estimate on repairs and/or replacement of the brakes, we can assure you that safety and proper operation are our priority. The parts that will be used for the repairs will meet or exceed the OEM standards and requirements guaranteeing proper operation all through the life of the brakes.

After we receive your authorization, the technician will clean and lubricate all the hardware as needed. If resurfacing of the rotors or drums is required, we will use state of the art equipment to make sure that everything is good to a thousands of an inch. During assembly, care will be taken to again inspect the hardware for any defects or issues. Once assembled and the wheels reinstalled, we will road test your vehicle to verify that the brakes are seated and operating exactly as they should. Only when we are confident that all is operating as it should, we then will return the vehicle to you.

Vehicle alignment is not just for getting the best wear and life out of your tires. It also helps keep your vehicle stable and predictable as you drive the roads of our area during all types of driving situations. Additionally, alignment affects your steering wheel position as well as how quickly it returns to straight after each turn. Adding to the ease and safety of driving.

In the past, most shops just looked at the front wheel alignment and made the required adjustments. But your vehicle has four wheels and the alignment of each one will affect the others and how the vehicle handles. Though the rear wheels are locked in the same position, they have a large effect on how the vehicle goes down the road. For that reason, it is best to get a four-wheel alignment every time you need one.

During every four-wheel alignment Dave Power Automotive & Marine does, we check all four tires for wear or damage and adjust the tire pressure as needed. Then the suspension and steering are checked for any damage or looseness prior to alignment. Bent or loose parts will change the alignment of the vehicle and/or make it impossible to adjust it to specification.

With every alignment Dave Power Automotive & Marine does, we measure all the alignment angles on all four wheels. If applicable, we make adjustments to the rear suspension first the we do the same for the front end. All adjustments are affected by all the wheel angles, so we constantly measure each angle as we adjust. On some vehicles, adjustments can only be made by installing shims or other parts. We will inform you of any additional costs before we do the work on vehicles that require these parts.

Dave Power Automotive & Marine knows that the check engine light is one of the most misunderstood warning lamps on all vehicles since about 1996! Worse yet, you may find that some businesses in Salem will plug into your vehicle, see what codes it is displaying and sell you parts that may not fix your vehicle based on those codes adding to the confusion about the check engine light.

As mentioned before, the check engine light is an indicator that lets you know that something is not quite right. When the tech gets a code, that code just tells the tech what sensor or system is not working correctly. So, if a code for an oxygen sensor is generated, it is telling the tech that the sensor is not operating properly, or the sensor is sending a signal that that is out of specification. It is not necessarily telling you that the sensor has actually failed. At this point a Dave Power Automotive & Marine technician will look up and perform a number of tests and readings to eliminate other possible causes for the code. When the testing is completed properly, the tech will have identified the actual failure which may not be the sensor at all.

In this case, if the cause is not the sensor, and the oxygen sensor is replaced, after a few miles of driving the check engine light will go on again and the same code will appear because the actual issue has not been fixed. This is why replacing parts just because the code points to them usually does not fix the issue.

Dave Power Automotive & Marine is one of the top shops in Salem because our technicians will read the vehicle codes and use them to look for TSBs or other issues that your vehicle may have commonly. Next, our technician will perform a series of “pinpoint tests” as directed by the manufacturer of your ride. These tests may be electrical, or engine mechanical based on the pinpoint tests that are given. Once the cause of the check engine light is determined, we will contact you with an estimate of what it will take to repair your vehicle.

Upon authorization from you, we will repair or replace the part in question and rerun our code testing procedure after a road test to confirm that the diagnosis was correct, and that the replacement of the part fixed the issue. Note, occasionally there maybe more diagnosis required after the replacement of the initial part due to another failure in the system that the first may have overshadowed.

Engine Air Filter: Your engine needs lots of clean air to make it run. Of course, the engine draws this air from the atmosphere all around us. As a resident of Salem, you know that there are different types of materials that float in the air such as pollen and dust. The engine air filter needs to remove these debris from the air before it gets into the engine where they will cause accelerated wear to occur, shortening the engine’s life.

Over time the engine air filter will become clogged with these debris resulting in a reduced air flow into the engine. If allowed to go long enough, this reduction in air flow will cut power and fuel economy for your vehicle. At Dave Power Automotive & Marine we will inspect and replace the filter when it is needed in addition to cleaning out any other materials that we may find in the air filter housing.

Cabin Air Filter: Many vehicles today are equipped with a cabin air filter that helps remove pollen and other debris from the air that you AC and heater system bring into your car. Being that these air filters remove pollen from the air you are breathing, you are less likely to be distracted by allergies when you drive making you a safer driver.

Cabin air filters are sometimes hard to get at so other shops may not check them. We at Dave Power Automotive & Marine want you to be comfortable and safe so we will check it during our inspections and let you know if it is time to replace it. If not changed when needed, these filters can limit the function of your AC, heat and defrosting of your vehicle resulting in discomfort or unsafe driving.

Fuel Filter: Though many gas stations do their best to be sure the fuel you buy is as clean as can be, it is possible that some debris can get into the fuel. These debris can affect how your fuel injectors function causing loss of power, rough idle, and other issues since the injectors have very small ports that can clog easily.

The fuel filter is generally located under your vehicle, so during our digital inspection we will be sure to check it and recommend the replace of the filter when it is due. Because the fuel system can be under pressure, we at Dave Power Automotive & Marine do not recommend drivers to change the filters themselves. Dave Power Automotive & Marine will depressurize the fuel system and use the proper tools to remove and replace the fuel filter when needed.

Hybrid/Electric Car Battery Filter: The drive battery in a hybrid or electric vehicle is one of the most expensive components of these vehicles. Heat is one of the worst enemies of these batteries so many hybrid and electric cars have a blower system and/or even an AC system built in to help keep the battery from getting too hot. An air filter is used to protect these systems from dirt and dust build up that will reduce the efficiency of these cooling components. Dave Power Automotive & Marine in Salem will inspect and recommend these filters when they are needed helping keep you drive battery cool.

Brake Fluid: While stopping your vehicle, brakes generate great amount of heat. Because of this brake fluid cannot have any moisture or water in it. Problem is brake fluid likes water. So over time brake fluid will become contaminated enough with water to start affecting your ability to stop.

During each digital courtesy inspection, we perform at Dave Power Automotive & Marine, we will not only check the brake fluid level. We will also check it for contamination. Our inspections will show the condition of your brake fluid during each visit. When it is time, we will recommend the flushing and replacement of the brake fluid, so you can continue to stop safely. Because we will checking the fluid during each visit, you can be better prepared for when it is time to replace it.

Transmission: The fluid in a transmission does not get the abuse that the engine oil does, but on many vehicles, it does need to be changed at an interval. Automatic transmissions driven around Salem are constantly shifting up and down and over time this will break the fluid down requiring change. During our digital inspections, Dave Power Automotive & Marine will check and adjust your transmission fluid as needed. We will also recommend that it be changed when the time and mileage arrive. Note: Some automatic transmission vehicles today do not have a dipstick and require a specific process to check the fluid. During our digital inspection we will look over the transmission and if we see leakage that may affect the fluid level, we will bring it to your attention.

When the time comes for the fluid to be changed, we may offer a transmission flush to not only exchange the fluid but to also rinse out any possible contaminants that may exist.

Coolant/Anti-Freeze: Can be very confusing and is often forgotten. It comes in many different colors and types; some manufactures say it is “lifetime” and others say it needs to be replaced every five years or so. Let Dave Power Automotive & Marine take the guessing out of what kind and what requirements your vehicle has for coolant. During each digital inspection we will check the coolant level and condition making sure that during the summers and winters here at Salem that the coolant cools and doesn’t freeze or boil over.

Regular inspection of the cooling system will help prevent breakdowns and leaks. When it comes time to replace the coolant, Dave Power Automotive & Marine will flush out the system and put in the manufacturer required fluid.

Transfer Case/Differential: Four-wheel drive vehicles and trucks can benefit from having the fluids in the transfer case and or differential monitored and changed. Many times, the intervals for changing these fluids is years and many miles apart unless the vehicle is used in extreme circumstances such as construction or immersion in water. Another factor that will contribute to the servicing of these units is leakage. During the Dave Power Automotive & Marine digital courtesy inspection we will check and note any leakage that needs to be addressed. When time for service arrives, we will be sure to bring it to your attention for consideration.

Power Steering: With the average age of vehicles on the road today being over 11 years, we suggest the changing the power steering fluid in your vehicle as per the OEM requirements. We will check and monitor the fluid over the life of your vehicle and bring it to your attention if and when the fluid needs to be address due to leakage or normal use.

At Dave Power Automotive & Marine, our people are what makes us special. We pride ourselves on exceptional quality and service. Our highly skilled technicians have what it takes to render a quick, accurate diagnosis, and then perform the expert repair service you deserve as our customer. When you work with Dave Power Automotive & Marine, you can be confident that you're working with some of the best auto repair specialists in the business.

Whether you use your car on a daily basis or for the occasional road trip, you deserve to be comfortable whenever you're out on the road. At Dave Power Automotive & Marine, our trained mechanics have the skill and knowledge to get your car's AC and heating system working properly. From newer cars to older, used vehicles, we can make temperature control a snap.

With convenient hours and reasonable rates, Dave Power Automotive & Marine is the place to go when you need reliable auto AC and heat repair work. 

At Dave Power Automotive & Marine, we understand that auto repairs can be expensive. And we also know that in most cases, auto repairs are a must, not a choice. That's why we go out of our way to keep our pricing affordable, all the while maintaining the high standard of quality our customers deserve. When you come to us for auto battery replacement, you'll benefit from our:

• Commitment to excellence
• Convenient hours and scheduling
• Attention to detail
• Knowledgeable, courteous auto repair professionals

If you need your car's battery replaced, trust our team to provide quality service that won't break the bank.

At Dave Power Automotive & Marine, our auto inspections are designed to give you a clear picture as to how your vehicle is running. Whether you have a relatively new car with low mileage or an older vehicle that's seen its share of wear and tear, we have the tools and skills to give you a comprehensive view of how your automobile is working. We maintain convenient hours to make appointment scheduling easy; and we keep our rates reasonable to serve our customers' needs.

There are a number of problems that can prevent a vehicle from starting properly. But effectively resolving the problem starts with an accurate diagnosis. At Dave Power Automotive & Marine, our technicians are some of the best in the business. We have the skill and experience to diagnose the problem quickly and accurately, and then repair your vehicle with the utmost attention to detail. At Dave Power Automotive & Marine, we treat your car or truck with the same care and respect we give our own vehicles. As our customer, you can expect exceptional service and results you can count on.

It may seem daunting to try to diagnose suspension problems on your own. But that's why we're here. At Dave Power Automotive & Marine, our technicians are familiar with the suspension systems of a wide variety of vehicle makes and models. We offer auto suspension repairs designed to get your vehicle back out on the road as quickly as possible.

With convenient appointment scheduling and reasonable rates, Dave Power Automotive & Marine is the place to go when you need auto suspension work. 

Dave Power Automotive & Marine is your source for car and truck electrical service in Salem, OR. Our team has the auto wiring expertise it takes to handle any repair, be it large or small. And our commitment to excellence means you can count on us to operate according to a strict code of ethics. From our estimates to our work product itself, we strive to create the best possible experience for our customers. Our technicians work hard to consistently deliver quality and precision, leaving no detail to chance

We know how much you love your car, so don't trust just anyone with your electrical work.

At Dave Power Automotive & Marine, we see axle repair not only as central to our professional services, but to helping local drivers safely get where they need to go. We pride ourselves on offering thorough, dependable service, and we go out of our way to keep our rates as affordable as possible. If you suspect that there’s something wrong with your vehicle, don’t let the problem fester any longer. 

Boat ownership is not a lighthearted endeavor, and Dave Power Automotive & Marine recognizes that a boat is a valuable asset. It is an investment you have put heart, soul, and money into, and to get the most out of your investment, boat repair will often become necessary.

Would you buy a house and never expect to do any repairs? Would you buy a car and never pay for engine part replacement or even regular oil changes? Probably not. Similarly, repairs come with the territory when you own a boat.

Generally speaking, CV joints can last a very long time if their boot covers do not crack. They do not require regular maintenance, however, it is important to keep in mind that they should be inspected regularly for damage. If caught early, it is likely that the boot covers will be the only component needing to be replaced. If the damage is not caught early, you may end up needing to replace the entire joint and drive shaft.

At Dave Power Automotive & Marine, we understand how important it is for you to have a reliable, meticulously maintained fleet on hand to suit your customers' needs. When you come to us, you can expect thorough, affordable maintenance and the attention to detail your vehicles deserve. Whether you're a repeat customer or are looking for a one-time overhaul of your fleet, we're up to the challenge and ready to serve you.

Give your vehicles the attention they deserve.

At Dave Power Automotive & Marine, we understand the importance of offering excellent service and great value. When you come to us, you can expect us to give your fleet our full attention. Whether we're dealing with minor repairs or your fleet requires more extensive work, we pledge to do our best to offer a quick turnaround without skimping on quality.

At Dave Power Automotive & Marine, we refuse to compromise on quality. In all we do, we strive to maintain a high standard for quality and excellence. Our friendly, knowledgeable auto repair professionals go out of their way to offer outstanding service; and we offer reliable radiator repairs while keeping our rates affordable

Thanks to the constant motion of your car or truck, your vehicle's shocks, which provide measured resistance when your wheels bounce or your chassis turns, can wear out after several years of use. With shock service from Dave Power Automotive & Marine, you'll get back the smooth ride you've been missing.

At Dave Power Automotive & Marine, we pride ourselves on performing reliable auto repair and maintenance work. When you come to us to have your timing belt replaced, we'll approach the task with the utmost attention to detail. Our goal is to not just meet, but exceed your expectations. And we work hard to keep our rates reasonable without ever compromising on quality or service.

Not all trailers are the same, and not all trailer owners need the same parts at the same time. That’s why we stock a wide variety of trailer parts.

A visit to our center can help you complete whatever repairs or additions you plan for your trailer.