Auto Repair Tips

5 Warning Signs Your Car Needs Attention

Ignoring small problems often leads to big repair bills. Here are the top signs that your vehicle is trying to tell you something — and what you should do about it.

1. Check Engine Light: That little light is your car's way of saying "something's not right." It could be a loose gas cap or a serious engine problem. Our diagnostic fee is just $89 — cheaper than ignoring it and risking bigger damage.

2. Strange Sounds: Squealing brakes, grinding when turning, clicking from the engine — these aren't normal. Early diagnosis saves money. A $150 brake job can become a $500 job if you wait until the rotors are damaged.

3. Changes in Performance: If your car pulls to one side, shakes at high speeds, or feels "off," don't ignore it. Suspension and alignment issues affect safety and tire wear.

4. Leaks Under the Car: Different fluids have different colors — clear (condensation), green (antifreeze), brown (oil), red (transmission). Any leak is worth checking.

5.Dashboard Warnings: Beyond the check engine light, watch for ABS, battery, oil pressure, and temperature warnings. These indicate specific systems need attention.

Schedule Inspection

How Often Should You Really Change Your Oil?

The old rule was every 3,000 miles. Modern engines and oils have changed the game. Here's what you need to know for your vehicle.

For most modern vehicles: 5,000 to 7,500 miles with synthetic oil is standard. But there's more to the story than just mileage.

Short trips are hard on oil: If you frequently drive under 10 miles, especially in cold weather, your oil breaks down faster. Short-trip driving creates condensation that contaminates oil.

Heavy loads matter: Towing, hauling heavy cargo, or driving in extreme temperatures? Cut your interval by 25% or so.

Check your manual: Different manufacturers have different recommendations. We can look up the exact schedule for your vehicle.

When in doubt, check it: The dipstick tells the truth. If the oil is dark and smooth, you're probably fine. If it's gritty or sludge-like, change it sooner.

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