Keeping your Vehicle Running Smoothly

Regular oil changes are the most important maintenance procedures you can do for your vehicle, both in terms of extending the life of its engine, and keeping it running smoothly.  Automotive oil should be changed every 3000 miles if using natural oil, if you do a lot of city driving, or if you drive in areas of extreme fluctuation of temperatures.  Extreme heat as well as extreme cold will break down engine oil viscosity and cause it to lose its lubricating properties.   If you use synthetic oil and live where the temperature is consistently moderate, most automotive manufacturers will suggest that you do an automotive oil change between five thousand and seventy five hundred miles.  In any case, be sure to change the oil filter at the same time because, while oil keeps things lubricated, the oil filter keeps out the impurities.

When you bring your vehicle to a reputable auto service shop for an oil change, you should expect to have all the fluid levels, belts and filters inspected.  If your shop performs tire services as well, this is also a good time to have your tires rotated to insure even wear.

If you’re planning an extended road trip, you don’t want to chance breaking down somewhere unfamiliar.  It’s a good idea to have your vehicle checked out 2 weeks or so before leaving, by a full service mechanic. 

Of course, it is always preferable to develop a relationship with a mechanic that you know and trust, and who is familiar with your vehicle, so give your mechanic time to make necessary repairs, and some room for adjustments. If repairs need to be made, give yourself a week or so "break in period" to test the fix(s) before you hit the road. In most cases, if anything goes wrong after major repairs, it will be in the first 100-200 miles.