Showing posts with label maintenance. Show all posts
Showing posts with label maintenance. Show all posts

Tuesday, October 8, 2013

Paint Protection Film


Chances are you probably haven't heard the term Paint Protection Film (PPF) thrown around too often. However, you probably have seen this unique thermoplastic urethane clear film before. Initially designed to protect military helicopter blades, this protective film has now made its way into the hands of the everyday consumer.

If you haven't heard of PPF before chances are you have seen it already because it has become a popular cell phone protection screen. But, did you know PPF can also be found on sections of your new car? Original equipment manufacturers have begun placing PPF in certain vulnerable areas of the car (e.g. leading edges of a car, hoods, front/rear bumpers).

Paint Protection Film helps maintain the beauty and integrity of automotive finish. This urethane film is significantly durable and even helps protect paint from stone chips, scratches, weathering, acidic bug damage and other abrasions. The film is nearly completely invisible and does not alter the appearance of the vehicle. Furthermore, after the Paint Protection Film had taken an extensive beating, it can easily be removed and replaced with a new film. The benefits of this film are instantly apparent as the integrity and resilience of the automotive paint job are intact and in great condition. Additionally, the benefits can be seen in the long run as maintaining the paint job can increase trade in value of your car.

Finally, it is exciting to note that Paint Protection Film is being manufactured and cut for thousands of car makes, models, and years. Additionally, film is being cut to mold to more sections of the car thus protecting more than just the leading edges and vulnerable places. Now you can rest assured knowing that there is another durable means of protecting your vehicle.


You can order Paint Protection Film from manufactures online and install the film yourself or find a certified application shop. The application process is consumer friendly and there are many videos and instructions provided by manufacturers. There are also alternative protective films that can be applied by spray bottles. For more information ask your local dealership about Paint Protection Film or enter Paint Protection Film into your favorite search engine.

Tuesday, October 1, 2013

Automatic Transmission Fluid Service

Do You Need An Automatic-Transmission Fluid Service?

Does your vehicle's automatic transmission experience:
  • Hard Shifting
  • Slippage or Chatter
  • Frequent Trailer Towing
  • High Operating Temperatures
  • Late or Infrequent A.T.F. Services? 
The Problem
More than one-third of all transmission problems are caused by fluid breakdown. More than just a lubricant, Automatic-Transmission Fluid (ATF) is actually a vital component in the operation of an automatic transmission. Under normal use, heat and friction in the transmission are a catalyst for oxidation and acid buildup. The result is the formation of sludge and varnish deposits in the system.
Once this process starts, these contaminates along with eroded metal particles, can build up in critical areas and clog filters, restricting the flow of transmission fluid. Traditional ATF services only remove about 30% of the old, oxidized fluid, leaving behind large amounts of contaminants and debris. If the transmission is not serviced properly, serious malfunction or even system failure can occur, causing costly repairs.
  
To learn more about the condition of your transmission look closely at the fluid on the dipstick.


Condition of Fluid
  • Dark Color
  • Varnished or Tacky
  • Pink, Milky Color
  • Metal Particles in Fluid
  • Burnt Odor

      
Possible Cause
  • Clutch-Pack Slippage
  •  Overheating
  • Water/Coolant Contamination
  • Internal Damage
  • Transmission Overheating and/or Slippage
An experienced technician, using a specially designed machine, will perform an Automatic-Transmission-System Fluid Exchange Service. First, ATF Cleaner is added to the old fluid system to clean and suspend residue, wear particles and varnish deposits. The vehicle's automatic transmission system is then attached to the machine.

The machine evacuates the contaminated fluid from the entire system, including the torque converter, housing, cooler and lines. Simultaneously, new, clean, ATF is introduced into the system. To complete the service, ATF Supplement is added to help fortify new fluid, resist oxidation breakdown, and keep seals soft and pliable.

An ATF service can help to:
  • Extend Transmission Life
  • Revitalize Seals & O-Rings
  • Reduce Hard Shifting & Slippage
  • Avoid Costly Repairs

Thursday, September 26, 2013

Cooling-System Flush Service

Are You Loosing Your Cool?!
Traditional “Drain & Fill” Services Are Not Enough!

Does Your Vehicle's Cooling System Experience
ñ     Overheating
ñ     Constant Stop & Go Driving
ñ     Frequent Trailer Towing
ñ     Extreme Driving Conditions
ñ     Infrequent Radiator Services

The Problem
            Cooling-system failure is one of the leading causes of mechanical breakdown. Over time, antifreeze/coolant can degrade, causing a loss in it's protective qualities. This causes rust, sludge and scale buildup in the hoses, radiator, water pump, heater core and engine.
            The traditional radiator "drain-and-fill" service leaves approximately 50% of the contaminated coolant behind. The residue formed can interrupt the flow of coolant throughout the system. This can cause the engine to run hot and allow corrosion deposits to deteriorate the metal surfaces. Left untreated, overheating problems, internal leaks and possible system failure can occur causing costly repairs.

The Remedy:
            An experienced technician, using a specially designed machine, will perform a Cooling-System Flush Service. First, Cooling-System Cleaner/ Flush is added to the old coolant and circulated throughout the entire cooling system, suspending rust, sludge and scale. The vehicles cooling system is then attached to a machine which uses a pumping action to flush the entire system.

            During the next step, contaminants along with the used coolant are extracted. The system is then filled with new coolant. To complete the service, Cooling-System conditioners are added to help resist corrosion, lubricate the water pump and help increase the heat-transfer properties of the cooling system by dissipating heat more effectively.

This Service Can Help To:
  • Prevent Overheating Problems
  • Lubricate Water Pump
  • Prevent Minor Leaks
  • Avoid Costly Repairs

Thursday, September 5, 2013

How to Change Your Air Filter

Your car needs air just as much as it needs fuel, and air filters help separate the good from the bad, keeping the inside of the engine free from dust and insects. Regularly replacing and cleaning your air filter is an integral aspect of car maintenance, and is generally a quick and inexpensive process that you can do yourself.

1) Obtain the correct replacement filter. 
It should be the same as the one you replace, and you can consult your owner's manual or auto parts store for assistance. Most are just $10-15.

2) Park the vehicle
Park the car on level ground in the shade, apply the parking brake, and turn off the ignition. Prop up the hood and let the engine cool for a few minutes.

3) Locate the air filter
The air filter is typically under the hood, enclosed in a black plastic casing (the cold air collector box) near the front of the engine compartment. It should be the largest non-metal assembly you see.

3) Open the air filter box and remove the dirty air filter
Unclasp the big metal clips that hold down the box and open the box. Some models have hose clamps and screws, others have wing nuts, and most are clamped on with a quick release system. Be sure to keep screws, fasteners, and other removable parts in a safe location, such as in a Ziploc bag on the front seat.

4) Look over the old filter
Remove the original filter; it is not fastened down. To determine whether your filter really does need replacing, hold it up to the sunlight or to a strong light. Do you see a lot of accumulate dirt and grime in the crevices? Is the orange/yellow paper mostly dirty in the center? You can try dropping it lightly on a hard surface to jar some dirt loose or even lightly vacuum, but if it is still too dirty to see through, you should replace it.

5) Replace with the new filter
Simply insert the new air filter into the box, making sure it sits snugly with the rubber rims facing up and sealed by the edges. Put the lid back onto the box, refasten all clips, and you're done!

Picture courtesy: http://t0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSQ_2PiDcBIGnvoX_2O6LvjyYbho80Hmq9nwjLYKn2T2_BCjBVGbA

Tuesday, September 3, 2013

5 More Tips to Keep Your Car in Great Shape

In addition to the five tips from earlier, here are five more tips you can follow to keep your car in tip-top shape as long as possible:

1. Keep an auto log:
Use your car's odometer to check the mileage of your car at the time of your fill up (e.g. 10,000 miles). Next, fill your car up (completely full). Then, at your next fill-up, check your car mileage again (e.g. 10,300 miles). Finally, , note how much gas you use to fill your car back up (10 gallons). The difference between the two mileages (300 miles) divided by the number of gallons you fill up gives you the miles per gallon of your car (e.g. 300miles / 10gallons = 30 mpg). Additionally, , being more conscientious about your gas consumption can help you conserve more gas and thus more money.. Keeping an auto log to record your gas fill-ups and mileage can help you detect early signs of problems; if you notice worsening gas mileage, contact a service adviser to address the problem.

2. Park in the shade:
Although a garage would be the ideal place to park your car,, parking in the shade is advisable to minimize interior damage caused by UV sunlight. If parking under trees leads to bird droppings, using an interior collapsible car shade can minimize the sun's damage. As a result, you will have a car that is cooler on hot sunny days, requires less AC usage, and lasts longer.

3. Clean the inside too:
At first glance, the exterior cleanliness of our vehicle may be the most noticeable thing. However, the exterior appearance is quickly forgotten as we step inside our vehicle. The inside of our vehicle is where we spend all our time, and yet it can easily be the most neglected aspect of a clean car.. Try to vacuum and sponge your interior every time you wash your car.. Spilled liquids, dirt, and oils can be corrosive to your car's interior, and you should vacuum your interior thoroughly with a powerful vacuum, using attachments to reach difficult places. You can wpe down plastic and vinyl surfaces with cleaning solutions that you can pick up at your local dealership.

4. Let floor mats take winters beating:
You can use floor mats to help maintain the cleanliness of your interior as well. Rubber mats can take the best beatings and are ideal for easy mud and dirt clean up. Carpet mats work as well, but may require a little more maintenance and scrubbing to keep clean. When mats begin to wear through or are beyond keeping clean, they can easily be replaced.

5. Wash mats:
Now that your are remembering to clean the interior of your vehicle as well, let's discuss how to clean your floor mats. The easiest way to clean them is with a de-greaser and a pressure washer to blast all the dirt and build-up off. If a pressure washer is not available, you can vacuum the mats and follow up with some scrubbing and rinsing from a hose. Be advised: while using soap on mats can help remove stains, the soap may not be so easy to remove. As a result, you may want to try a stain remover and follow the given directions. Lastly, , be sure to let the mats air out thoroughly before putting them back in.

Tuesday, August 13, 2013

How to Spray Paint Your Car


There are several reasons you might want to spray paint your car yourself, such as to save money or to achieve a personalized look. This article will provide some things you should know – both in preparation and in application – before you are ready to simply grab a can and go for it. The task will take some time, money, and devotion, but if you are prepared with the correct guidelines, your car can achieve the same perfect professional look, even if you do it yourself.

What you will need:
  • Newspaper
  • Large-grain sandpaper or sander
  • Painters tape
  • Car spray paint (using spray gun or aerosol paint)
  • Primer
  • Car wax
  • Safety goggles, dusk mask, disposable gloves, old clothing or overalls
What to do:
  1. Preparation. Warm and dry weather conditions are ideal; if this is not possible, a well-ventilated garage can suffice. Using newspapers and tape, sure the surrounding area is well-covered from any possible overspray (such as the floor).
  2. Sand the car. Use the sandpaper or sander to rub over the surface of the car, since paint won't stick to a slick, shiny surface. Finer sandpaper can be used to remove scratches or corrosion. If there are any holes, you will have to use some putty to repair the damage. Apply a rust treatment product if needed; rusted areas should be sanded down to bare metal to prevent it from spreading. Ensure that the car is fully dried and free of dust, dirt, and debris (completely wash the car if needed); any trace of water will mess up the paint later on.
  3. Primer. Apply the primer to help the paint adhere well and make sure you get an even coat. Spray in thin coats and allow some time for drying in between (about 15-minute intervals). Pay special attention to areas with  bare metal and areas near the door and door handles.
  4. Cover your car. Using painters tape and newspaper, tape off any part of your car that you do not want painted. This may include windows, chrome, bumpers, license plate, mirrors, trim, and tires. 
  5. Paint your car. Put on your safety goggles and gloves. Stand with your spray gun about 10 inches away from the car, and spray using a consistent, even motion from side to side, allowing the paint to slowly build up. Multiple light coats are better than one or two thick ones, which can look uneven, and wait about 20 minutes between each application. You should spray different parts of the car at a time – for example, finish the hood first, then the fender, then a door, et cetera.
  6. Finishing touches. You should finish off the painting with one or two clear coats not only for a glossy, finished look, but also for protection from the sun and natural elements (make sure the car is completely dry between coats). As a final touch, you may want to apply a layer of car wax.
Final tips: Take your time and do not rush or take shortcuts during any part of the process, or you may make a mess. When it comes to spray painting, it is wise to practice on a piece of cardboard or sheet metal first. Remember to use good-quality equipment and products, as well as proper safety equipment.

Tuesday, July 30, 2013

How to Save Money on Car Repairs


Owning a car can be expensive, and many car owners are filled with dread when they see the "check engine" light starting to flash. That warning usually means a trip to the car repair shop and spending a hefty sum, but here are some tips to help you save money on maintenance and repairs. If you are knowledgable about the process, you will certainly feel better about taking your car to the mechanic and confident that you are receiving the best value for your efforts.

1. Preventative mechanics.
An old adage says, "an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure." The same holds true for cars, and regular maintenance can ensure the safetyreliabilitydrivabilitycomfort and longevity of a car. Follow your owner's manual for all the recommended scheduled maintenance of your car; understand that each car has different needs, based on the number of trips/distance it is driven per day, climate conditions, nature of the roads, et cetera. While this may seem like a hassle, it will save you a lot of money by adding years of life to your car, helping you avoid big costly repairs in the long run. Some common maintenance measures include car washes, tire rotations, checking/replacing a number of parts (i.e. timing belts, engine oil, fuel filters, windshield wipers, battery terminals, coolants). Be sure to avoid common car maintenance mistakes - you can check out this article to learn more!

2. Find the right price.
If you are faced with an expensive repair, it is worth it to shop around for multiple estimates and quotes. This way, you will not only find one that is most cost-effective, but you will also gain more accurate idea of the general pricing of your repair. You should also browse online and know the usual charges for car repairs in your area; websites such as AutoMD and RepairPal can be a great resource. Know that all warranties are different, and review your own to see if any repair costs are covered. Also, before the warranty expires, have the car inspected and have any qualifying repairs performed.


3. Find the right mechanic.
The best way to find a great mechanic and price is through referrals from friends/family/coworkers and through Yelp reviews. A good repair shop should have certified technicians on staff, with certifications by ASE in one or more classifications (brakes, engines, steering/suspension, et cetera). You should also check the work area for a relatively clean floor, since a shop that has dirty shop rags, empty fluid containers, and other trash tends to imply sloppy mechanics. Note that getting repairs done at a dealership may be more expensive, but you can be 100% confident that all repairs will be done correctly. Thus, you might want to take your car to a dealership for more complex repairs.

4. Diagnose problems and (potentially) do it yourself.
If your car is not running properly, diagnose the problem yourself before going straight to a mechanic. Certain tasks (such as changing the wiper blade or air filter) can be done independently, even for those who are not mechanically inclined. If anything, one way to save money is to cut out the middleman and purchase your own parts to bring to the shop for installation.

Picture courtesy: http://t2.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRgkg1OPGSa-iPjDffwBrTgxDdqz8ONgChs85WILWTwWpzcSB6n

Thursday, July 4, 2013

Dangers of Old Tires

There is little quality control in the used car industry, and just because a tire looks like it is in perfect shape does not mean it's safe. Many people rely on the tread depth to determine its condition, but a tire could look completely brand-new, have never been used, and have never touched the ground, but be over-aged to the point where the rubber compounds cannot support the weight of your car. 

What happens as a car ages?
  • Rubber compounds oxidizes, causing cracks in the rubber develop over time. The internal adhesive bonds between the various layers of the tire begin to break down, and the steels belts in the tread may separate from the rest of the tire.
  • The tire becomes worn and more susceptible to malfunction or puncture.
What are the dangers of old tires?
  • Function. Old tires have a worn-out tread, causing reduced traction on the road and requiring a longer stopping distance.
  • Storage. The conditions of storage for spare tires can deteriorate the tires. Mounting the spare tire underneath or behind the vehicle exposes it to dirt and other elements, while storing in the trunk is comparable to baking it in a miniature oven. 
  • Blown tires. An old tire has a higher chance of puncture or completely blowing out, which can cause loss of vehicle control.
  • Temperature and weather. Worn tires can be especially dangerous during times of bad weather, such as rainstorms, since the reduced grip can cause sliding or hydroplaning. Warmer/coastal climates and exposure to sunlight can hasten the aging process.
  • Use. The duration of the tires can depend on the nature of its use. Rapid braking and acceleration, road conditions, bumping into curbs, and irregular maintenance can contribute to decline in quality.
How can I determine the age of my tires?
  • All tires are stamped at the factory with a Department of Transportation (DOT) code with 11-14 digits on the sidewall. For the last four digits, the first two represents the week of manufacture and the last two represents the year. Even when you are buying new cars, you should check the date to ensure that the tires were not stored in a warehouse for a long time prior to delivery. If it was manufactured more than 6 months earlier, consider asking for newer tires, since tires are still subject to oxidation even when not in use.
All in all, while it may be tempting to save money by equipping your vehicle with your old or used tires, consider the risks. Driving on unsafe tires can lead to serious accidents, and you should never take a chance when it comes to your vehicle or, more importantly, your own safety.

Picture courtesy: http://l.rgbimg.com/cache1n8lEo/users/j/ja/jazza/600/2djsV4n.jpg

Thursday, June 20, 2013

How to Properly Wash Your Car


There is nothing like a shiny clean car! However, we have all neglected washing our car at some point.

If you have a darker car, you have probably noticed these swirls or spiderweb-like scratches on the surface of your paint. These are micro scratches. They are usually caused by improper washing and drying techniques. We all get lazy and skip washing our cars and if we get really desperate, we will go to the surprisingly damaging automatic car wash. Never again! Lets clean our cars and do it the right way!

While it is important to wash your car often, you must also be careful that the dirt and grim on your car doesn't damage the paint when you are washing it off.

Here are some tips to remember:
  • Wash your car regularly: do try to wash your car once or twice a month.
  • Try to wash your car in the shade and away from the wind. This prevents the shampoo from drying on the car and dust particles from sticking to your paint and scratching it up.
  • Wash it carefully: use gentle materials. Start with a thorough rinse of the surface before you start washing. A sea sponge is a great tool for gently removing dirt and grime from your car. Look for wash mitts or sponges that have a high absorbency and are soft.
  • Wash your car from top to bottom to prevent contamination. The bottom of your car tends to be the dirtiest. Save it for last to prevent spreading it to other parts of your car.
  • Avoid using dish soap. Use soap that is designed for cars to minimize damage to your paint.
  • Use 2 buckets to wash your car. One to remove dirt from your sponge and one for soapy water. After you use your sponge to suds up your car, dip it in a bucket of water to remove the dirt before dipping it into the soapy water. This prevents the dirt from scratching up your paint. Keep your sponge as clean as possible throughout the washing process.
  • When you wash your wheels or particularly grimy areas, use a different set of materials to avoid cross contamination of your cleaning materials for future use.
  • Dry it carefully: Using a regular dish towel can scratch up your paint. Try using a waffle towel or a microfiber towel wick away the water.
Overall, most of us don't have time to be that person detailing their car daily. Nor should we. Keeping basic maintenance is easy to do. This diligence will ensure that our cars last us as long as possible. Don't be that person with the “Wash Me” sign written in dirt. Protect your paint and your car with regular washing.

Picture courtesy: http://www.carzy.co.in/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/car-wash-220.jpg

Tuesday, June 18, 2013

How to Extend the Life of Your Car


Many people are concerned with getting the most out of their car. A car is usually an individual's second most expensive investment behind their home. In order to protect your car and ensure that it lasts a long time, here are some important tips.

Most importantly: Read the manual.
This sounds simple, but for many, our manual sits in our glove compartment ignored. Take some time to read your car manual and learn about scheduled maintenance and other important information. Your manual will tell you how often you should get your oil changed, what your tire pressure should be, what fuel octane should be used, etc. Getting to know your car allows you to care for it better and more efficiently. This will help your car last longer and save you from expensive and unnecessary repairs.

Store your car well. Try to park your car in the shade or in a garage to protect it from the elements. If you are storing your car for extended periods of time, contact your mechanic for suggestions.

Check your oil and fluid levels. Many of the containers are clear or have a dipstick with level measurements. Take a look at your manual or speak to your mechanic to learn more about fluid levels.

Stay on top of your maintenance. Find out how often you should be bringing your car in. Keeping your car up-to-date on maintenance and repairs can prevent future car trouble and can extend the life of your vehicle. Here are some tips to keep your car in great shape.

Check your tire pressure and get your tires rotated. Low riding tires can decrease the life of the tire, decrease fuel economy, and effect stoppage time. Rotating your tires prevents the tires from wearing unevenly and allow you to get the most out of your tires.

Use your parking break. We often don't use our parking break unless we are on a hill. However, neglecting to use your parking break can cause unnecessary damage to your breaks and can decrease their life.

Wash your car regularly. Many people put off washing their car. Rust and corrosion can set in from dirt, acidic conditions, and scratches. Here's how to properly wash your car.


Thursday, June 6, 2013

5 Small Ways to Keep Your Car in Great Shape

1. The break-in period
After purchasing your new car, it is recommended to treat it with a little extra care for the first 1,000 miles. This initial period is known as the break-in period. Here are some things to remember while driving around in your new ride.
  • During this break-in period, (approximately the first 1,000 miles), keep your speed under 55 mph, or the speed recommended by your car's manufacturer. This can allow you engine to properly “break-in” like a well-oiled baseball glove. 
  • Use only light to medium acceleration for the first few hours of driving. Consult your manufacturer's info for more information. A good range of acceleration is below the 3,000 rpm range. 
  • Avoid heavy loads (e.g. towing trailers, loading up the roof rack or trunk with heavy materials)
  • Do not allow your car to idle for long periods of time. This is good practice for any car and for as long as you own the car. Oil pressure generated while idling may restrict the flow of oil to every part of the engine. 

2. Continue to drive with care
Taking care of your car should not stop after your break-in period. Driving with care can extend the life of your vehicle and extend the length of time between repairs. Here are some additional suggestions to consider:
  • Do not race your car's engine after starting it up. 
  • Accelerate slowly when you begin you drive. Most damage done by high acceleration is done within the first 10-20 minutes of operation. 
  • Less strain can be put on your transmission by shifting it into neutral while at red lights. 
  • When turning your steering wheel, don't hold it at extreme right or extreme left positions. Doing so can damage the power-steering pump. 

3. Refrain from using cheap gas: 
While the idea of cheapest gas prices may be temping, you should do you best to use reputable service stations. Ask the attendant whether or not the gas is filtered at the pump and how often they are changed. Furthermore, some stations may not filter their gasoline or worse, use poor by-products to stretch out their gas.


4. Don't refuel if you see the tanker
If you pull into the gas station and see the tanker refilling the tanks, come back another time. As the station's storage tanks are being filled, turbulence can cause sediment at the bottom of the tank to stir around. If you are refueling at this time, your car could pick up some of this sediment and lead to clogged fuel filter and fuel injectors.


5. Loosen the load on your key chain
Does your car key get lost amongst dozens of other keys? All this excess weight can put a lot of pressure and strain on your car's ignition tumbler. Additionally, the bumps and turns caused by driving can put extra strain on the ignition switch. Lightening your key chain can help prevent your ignition switch from failing and leaving you stranded someday.

Wednesday, May 15, 2013

How to Safely Dispose of Motor Oil



Motor oil is a tricky thing to dispose of. Many people have heard horror stories of oil disposal gone bad. Motor oil is very toxic and damaging to the environment. Even a small quantity of oil in our water systems can cause a lot of damage.

It is important to abide by the law and dispose of your oil safely and legally.

So, where are how are you supposed to dispose of this stuff?

Here is a clue: It is not your drain or trash can!

Motor oil can actually be recycled and used again.

Place your oil in a sealed container and take it to a toxic waste disposal center. There are also Certified Collection Centers that can accept oil for recycling.

Make sure your oil is not contaminated with other materials like antifreeze, gasoline, or water. If you attempt to bring contaminated oil to a recycling center, it will be rejected.

Help the environment and those around you by safely disposing of your motor oil. 
Here is a quick video on how to check your oil!  

Friday, April 12, 2013

Common Car Maintenance Mistakes


With our busy lives, we often forget simple maintenance of our cars. This can result in costly repairs and breakdowns.

It is important to take the time to learn about your car so that you can get the most money and time out of it. Here are a few mistakes that many make:
  • Parking your car outside: Why should one of your most valuable and necessary possessions sit outside where it can be damaged by the elements? Keeping your car in your garage can protect it from unnecessary damage.
  • Not Changing Your Air Filter: Your air filter takes impurities out of the air, but it can become clogged and needs regular changing. A clogged air filter can hurt your fuel economy and end up costing you more in gas.
  • Tire pressure: Check your tire pressure regularly. Tires with too little pressure can hurt your fuel economy and can affect your car's ability to stop quickly. Consult your manual for pressure levels.
  • Oil Change: There are a lot of misconceptions concerning regular oil changes. The rule of thumb used to be 3 months or 3,000 miles, but in today's world of synthetic oil and more efficient cars, it is important to consult your manual or your service representative for further information.
  • Wiper Blades: Often the rubber material on wiper blades deteriorates and can crumble. This can lead to a streaky windshield that is difficult to see through during rain. Check your wiper blades for cracking or loose pieces.
  • Taking Care of Your Brakes: If your brakes are making sounds or feel “funny” it is essential to take them in. Don't risk putting off a funny sound with your brakes. Safety First!
  • Headlights: People often drive around with a burnt out headlight or taillight. These lights are to allow others to see your car. They also allow you to see where you are going! When a light goes out, change it as soon as possible!
  • Cracked Windshield: We have all been there. You are driving on the freeway and all-of-a-sudden a rock flies into your windshield and leaves a nasty star. Taking your car in as soon as possible can save you $. Often, stars that are smaller than an inch in diameter can be filled-in saving you a lot of money. If you wait too long and the star begins to spread into a crack, the entire windshield will need to be replaced.

How To Check Your Tire Pressure
How To Check Your Oil
Service Tips