Simple maintenance tips to extend your car's life, save money, and avoid expensive repairs. Knowledge is power (and savings).
Save Money
Prevent Problems
Drive Worry-Free
Better Resale
Follow this schedule and your car will thank you with years of reliable service.
Tire Pressure
Check when cold, adjust as needed
Lights & Signals
All lights working properly
Fluid Leaks
Check ground under car
Unusual Noises
Listen for strange sounds
Oil Level
Check dipstick, top off if low
Coolant Level
Check reservoir when cold
Windshield Washer
Keep topped up
Tire Tread Depth
Use penny test, min 2/32"
Oil Change
Oil + filter replacement
Tire Rotation
Rotate & balance if needed
Brake Inspection
Visual check of pads/rotors
Air Filter Check
Replace if dirty
Cabin Air Filter
Replace for clean air
Fuel Filter
Replace if applicable
Battery Test
Load test & clean terminals
Alignment Check
If uneven tire wear
Transmission Fluid
Drain & fill or flush
Coolant Flush
Complete system flush
Spark Plugs
Replace all plugs
Timing Belt
Critical! Check manual
Always Check Your Owner's Manual!
These are general guidelines. Your specific vehicle may have different requirements. Always follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule in your owner's manual for best results.
Master these basics and you'll save thousands in repair bills.
Oil is your engine's lifeblood. It lubricates moving parts, reduces friction, and removes contaminants.
Frequency: Every 3,000-7,500 miles depending on oil type
Synthetic vs Conventional: Synthetic lasts longer, protects better
DIY Difficulty: Easy with ramps/jack stands
Pro Tip: Change oil AND filter together. A new filter is cheap insurance.
Tires are your only contact with the road. Keep them healthy for safety and fuel economy.
Pressure: Check monthly when cold, follow door jamb sticker
Rotation: Every 5,000-7,500 miles for even wear
Penny Test: Insert penny upside down. If you see Abe's head, replace tires
Pro Tip: Underinflated tires cost you 3% fuel economy per PSI!
Brakes are critical safety components. Don't skip brake checks!
Pads: Replace at 2-3mm thickness (squealing = too late!)
Rotors: Check for grooves, warping, minimum thickness
Fluid: Should be clear/amber, not dark or contaminated
Pro Tip: Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time. Flush every 2-3 years.
Your car has 6+ fluids that all need attention. Check them regularly.
Engine Oil: Check monthly, change on schedule
Coolant: Check level, flush every 30-60k miles
Transmission: Pink/red color, check hot on level ground
Power Steering: Should be full, not foamy
Pro Tip: Leaks = problems. Address any fluid leaks immediately!
Listen to your car. It'll tell you when something's wrong.
Brake pads have wear indicators. Squealing = replace NOW before you damage rotors.
Don't ignore it! Could be minor or major. Get it scanned ASAP.
Pull over immediately! Driving hot = engine damage in minutes.
Could be wheel balance, alignment, worn suspension, or drivetrain issues.
STOP DRIVING! Low oil pressure destroys engines. Check level, add oil, or call for help.
Oil, coolant, or electrical fire. Pull over safely and investigate immediately.
Prep your car for extreme weather to avoid breakdowns.
Know your limits. Some jobs are easy, others require pro skills.
Air Filter Replacement
5 minutes, no tools needed on most cars
Wiper Blade Replacement
Simple clips, takes 2 minutes
Headlight/Taillight Bulbs
Usually just twist and pull (check manual)
Tire Pressure Check
$10 gauge at any auto parts store
Fluid Top-Offs
Easy to check and add as needed
Brake Jobs
Safety-critical, requires proper tools & knowledge
Transmission Work
Complex, expensive if you mess up
Timing Belt Replacement
Catastrophic failure if done wrong
AC System Repair
Requires specialized equipment & EPA cert
Alignment
Needs computer-controlled alignment rack
Smart strategies to keep your car healthy without breaking the bank.
$100 in maintenance prevents $1,000+ in repairs. Stay on schedule!
Follow manufacturer intervals, not shop upsells. You don't need services every 3k miles.
Build a relationship with a trusted mechanic. They'll treat you fairly over time.
YouTube + owner's manual = save hundreds on simple tasks.
Documented maintenance history increases resale value by thousands.
Small issues become expensive repairs. Fix it now while it's cheap!
Whether you need a simple oil change or major service, we've got you covered with honest pricing and expert care.
Oil Changes
Brake Service
Tire Services
Full Service
✓ Fair Pricing • ✓ Expert Technicians • ✓ Quality Parts
Questions? Call us or email [email protected]
Regular maintenance isn't an expense—it's an investment. A well-maintained car lasts 200,000+ miles, saves you money on repairs and fuel, and gives you peace of mind. Start today!