How Preventative Maintenance Can Save You Money Over Time
Preventative maintenance is one of the most effective and cost-efficient ways to keep your vehicle running reliably over time. Rather than waiting for something to break or malfunction, preventative maintenance focuses on inspecting, servicing, and replacing components before they fail. This proactive approach helps you avoid unexpected breakdowns, costly repairs, and the inconvenience of being stuck without a working vehicle.
The Hidden Costs of Changing Your Own Oil
Changing your own oil might seem like an easy way to save a few bucks. After all, how hard could it be? A few tools, some oil, and you’re good to go, right? Not quite. While a DIY oil change may seem simple on the surface, the reality is that it comes with hidden costs, safety risks, and missed opportunities for long-term vehicle health. In this article, we’ll break down the often-overlooked downsides of changing your own oil and explain why a professional oil change is a better investment for your car and your time.
6 Reasons You Shouldn’t Ignore Your Check Engine Light
When your car’s check engine light flickers on, it’s easy to brush it off, especially if your vehicle seems to be running just fine. But that glowing warning is more than just an annoying icon on your dashboard. It’s your car’s way of telling you something’s wrong. Whether it’s a simple fix or a sign of a deeper issue, ignoring it can lead to more significant, and potentially more expensive, problems down the road.
The Hidden Dangers of Using DIY Car AC Recharge Kits
When your vehicle’s air conditioning system stops blowing cold air, it’s tempting to reach for an easy, inexpensive solution. DIY refrigerant recharge kits, often sold at auto parts stores, promise quick relief by allowing you to refill your AC system at home. Many of these products also include sealants designed to fix minor leaks. While they may provide a temporary improvement, these kits can cause severe long-term damage to your AC system and wallet.
Why Is My Car Shaking At A Stoplight When Idle?
If your car is shaking when idle, stopped at a red light, or in traffic, you might wonder what’s going on under the hood. This unsettling vibration is often felt through the steering wheel or seats and is usually a sign of a rough idle. It could point to a deeper issue with your engine or fuel system. While some causes are minor, others may lead to bigger problems if left unchecked.
Why You Should Check Your Tires Before a Road Trip
Your tires are the only part of your vehicle that touch the road, so their condition plays a huge role in your safety, especially during a long drive. Whether heading out of town for a family vacation or planning a summer weekend getaway, checking your tires before a road trip is one of the most important steps to protect yourself, your passengers, and your vehicle.
Should I Get An Oil Change Before My Road Trip?
If you’re planning a long drive and wondering, “Should I get an oil change before my road trip?”, the short answer is: it depends. Getting your oil changed too soon, such as a few hundred miles after your last service, isn’t necessary and can be a waste of time and money. However, if you’re approaching your next scheduled oil change or can expect to pass that mileage threshold during your road trip, it’s a smart, preventative step to help your engine perform at its best.
What Does It Mean When an Auto Repair Shop Is ASE Certified?
At McCullough NAPA Auto Care in Sandy Springs, Georgia, we’re proud to employ ASE Certified mechanics. That distinction means our team includes ASE Certified mechanics who have demonstrated their technical expertise and commitment to high-quality repairs. But unless you’re already familiar with the auto industry, you may not know precisely what ASE certification is – or why it matters when choosing where to bring your car.
Dangers of Driving with Low Oil Level
If you’re wondering whether driving with low oil levels is dangerous, the answer is yes, it absolutely is. Engine oil plays a crucial role in keeping your car running smoothly, and even a short trip with a low oil level can cause significant engine damage. Whether you’ve noticed the oil light flicker or found that the dipstick shows a low level of oil, this article explains what happens when oil runs low, why it matters, and how to protect your engine by keeping oil levels topped off.
ABS Light Is On: What Is It & Why Your ABS Light Is On
If your ABS light is on, it’s a sign that something may be wrong with your car’s anti-lock braking system. While your vehicle may still drive normally, the ABS light being on indicates that the system designed to prevent your wheels from locking up during hard braking situations may not be functioning correctly. Driving with a disabled ABS system can increase your stopping distance in emergencies and on slippery roads. In this article, we’ll explain what the ABS light means and go over the most common reasons why it might turn on.