Tips & Advice

Follow Your Vehicle’s Maintenance Schedule

Your owner’s manual is the best source for service intervals and fluid specifications. Maintenance needs vary by vehicle, engine, mileage, age, and driving conditions, so avoid relying on a single schedule for every car.

• Check engine oil and other fluid levels regularly.
• Replace oil, filters, spark plugs, belts, and fluids at the recommended intervals.
• Inspect older vehicles more frequently for leaks, corrosion, and worn rubber components.
• Keep service records to track completed and upcoming maintenance.

Check Tires Regularly

Inspect tire pressure when the tires are cold and use the pressure listed on the vehicle’s door placard or owner’s manual—not the maximum pressure printed on the tire.

• Look for uneven tread wear, cracks, bulges, embedded objects, and slow leaks.
• Rotate tires according to the vehicle or tire manufacturer’s guidance.
• Have the alignment checked if the vehicle pulls, the steering wheel sits off-center, or tire wear is uneven.
• Replace tires when tread is worn or the tires show damage or age-related deterioration.

Pay Attention to Warning Signs

New noises, odors, vibrations, leaks, or dashboard lights can indicate a developing problem. Early diagnosis may help prevent a minor concern from becoming a larger repair.

• Stop safely and seek help if the oil-pressure or overheating warning appears, braking changes suddenly, or the vehicle loses power.
• A flashing check-engine light can indicate a serious misfire; reduce driving and arrange prompt service.
• Grinding brakes, steering changes, persistent vibration, or fluid beneath the vehicle should be inspected.

Protect the Battery and Charging System

Battery performance can decline with age and extreme temperatures. Keep terminals clean and secure, and have the battery and charging system tested if starting becomes slow, lights dim, or electrical behavior becomes inconsistent.

Prepare for Seasonal Driving

• Before hot weather, inspect the cooling system, air conditioning, battery, and tires.
• Before winter, check the battery, antifreeze protection, heater, defroster, lights, wipers, and tire condition.
• Maintain washer fluid suitable for expected temperatures.
• Keep an emergency kit with basic tools, a flashlight, warning devices, water, and season-appropriate supplies.

Use a Qualified Technician When Needed

Some checks are easy for vehicle owners, but repairs involving brakes, steering, suspension, airbags, high-voltage systems, refrigerant, or internal engine and transmission components require proper training and equipment. If a symptom affects safe operation, have the vehicle inspected before continuing to drive.