Tech Tips – “A Note from the Garage”
The Importance of Factory Authorized Scooter Service
As the top Vespa boutique in the USA, we work with large numbers of clients trying to buy a Vespa. And despite that large number, many more come in to get their Vespa or Piaggio scooter serviced. In fact, we receive thousands of calls and visits every year by people looking to get their questions answered or their scooter serviced. To say we have heard and seen it all would be an understatement but there are a few things that are always true…
Expertise
We are the ONLY authorized Piaggio Vespa service center in all of Los Angeles county.
Authorized means our techs are trained and continuously re-trained by the Piaggio factory and are provided the most current technology and service techniques and standards. In fact our A-tech is one of the highest rated Piaggio techs in the country, frequently contacted by other techs for solutions.
Authorized means we have direct access to factory OEM parts and communication with the Piaggio factory. We only use OEM parts, not mail-order parts that “might work”, or parts from “some guy”.
Authorized means that we use the most current diagnostic computer tools, we have the latest software for upgrades, and tools to measure factory torque settings.
Compliance
Getting your scooter serviced at an authorized center means your warranty stays in effect and if there is ever a recall, that your bike is properly cared for. The first thing Piaggio’s warranty system asks for is all service records of the bike before any work can be carried out. They also require the work to be performed by a current Piaggio-certified tech. Having your bike tinkered with by a non-authorized person voids the warranty and, in some cases, can make the bike unsafe.
Trust
We are a family business of Vespa riders that take great care in the way you are treated and that you receive the highest level of service and correct information by being in constant communication with Piaggio corporate offices and the factory. Our owner is a former Piaggio senior manager, and we can tell you that Piaggio North America and Vespa LA’s mutual goals are aligned to promote the Piaggio-Vespa lifestyle and keep you and your scooter happy and safe.
With the massive amounts of information on the internet, many people start to believe that there are quick fixes and shortcuts to handling repairs. Social media is packed with DIY hacks that promote cheap easy ways to get your bike fixed. While there are some experienced people that can do some work on their own, we can tell you that the vast majority of bikes that come into our service department with non-authorized work performed on them, come in with things missing or wrong so please be careful. We want you to be safe out there, so if you ever have a question please ask, we are happy to help.
Routine Serivce
Routine services are crucial for maintaining scooter health. Our service includes an oil change, filter replacement, spark plug inspection/replacement, air box cleaning, air filter replacement, battery terminal check, ECU update, brake and tire inspection, light check, and cleaning. Regular maintenance ensures proper lubrication to prevent metal shards from engine damage (pictured right). The first service is done at 625 miles and also includes hub oil replacement. For most modern Vespas routine services are every 3,000 miles. ET, LX, and GT 200’s are every 2,000 miles.
CVT (Continuous Variable Transmission)
The CVT on your scooter needs service every 6,000 miles for modern Vespas and every 4,000 miles for older models like ET, LX, S, and GT 200. Neglecting this maintenance can lead to safety issues from excessive belt wear (pictured left). If unsure about your last CVT service, watch for signs like lurching or delayed response. If you have another Vespa/Piaggio that wasn’t listed above and you aren’t familiar when this service is, give us a call! 818-906-0350
Carburetor Clean
Even with today’s fuel injected Vespas, we still remember our older carbureted friends. The carburetor is a vessel that pumps gas throughout your scooter and mixes with air to keep it running. Within the carb are tiny passageways called jets. Overtime, if the scooter doesn’t get ridden, gas will breakdown and create a “gunk” which clogs those little passageways resulting in an inoperable scooter and a bummed rider. Unlike routine services (oil changes) that have a set mileage and time-frame for getting changed, carb cleans are on an as needed basis. Some things to look out for could be stalling, rough idling, running poorly, or not starting. If you are starting to see those telltale signs, don’t worry, we can help you get back on the road safely. Seeing warning signs?
Contact us today.
Elettrica Maintenance
Congratulations on your Vespa Elettrica purchase! Going electric not only benefits the environment, but you also save on gas and service! One of the most important aspects of your Elettrica service is getting the MAP updates. The image pictured left is what the inside of your Vespa Elettrica computer looks like. Your ECU in your Vespa communicates with this computer as well as the factory service portal which houses all of the most up-to-date software updates and parameters. Your first service is at 625 miles, then every 3,000 miles to follow (or once a year).