Maintenance guide

When Does My Car Need Maintenance? A Guide for Drivers

Regular maintenance is essential to keep your vehicle running smoothly and safely. But with busy schedules and daily demands, it can be hard to keep track of when your car needs attention. In this guide, we'll cover the most common types of maintenance and when you should have them done.

As your neighborhood mechanic, we pride ourselves on providing trustworthy and reliable service. We keep our shop clean and offer an experience that's superior to other mechanics. Whether you need help with brakes, oil changes, checking fluids, diagnosing check-engine lights, electrical work, tires, or New York State inspections, we're here to help.

Brakes

Your brakes are one of the most important safety features of your car. They help you stop quickly and avoid accidents. But over time, the pads and rotors wear down, making it harder to stop effectively. Here are some signs that it's time to have your brakes checked:

• Squeaking or grinding noises when you brake
• A spongy or soft brake pedal
• Vibrations or pulsations when you brake
• Longer stopping distances than usual
• A warning light on your dashboard

We recommend having your brakes inspected at least once a year or whenever you notice any of these signs.

Oil Changes

Oil changes are another essential part of car maintenance. Your engine needs clean oil to lubricate its moving parts and prevent overheating. Here are some signs that it's time to have your oil changed:

• Your oil is dark or dirty
• You hear engine knocking or ticking sounds
• Your engine is running rough or stalling
• Your oil pressure warning light comes on

Most mechanics recommend having your oil changed every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, depending on your car's make and model. However, you may need to change your oil more often if you do a lot of driving or drive in harsh conditions.

Checking Fluids

Checking your car's fluids is a quick and easy way to ensure that everything is running smoothly. Here are some fluids to check regularly:

• Engine oil
• Transmission fluid
• Brake fluid
• Power steering fluid
• Coolant

Each of these fluids has a different purpose, and they all play a critical role in keeping your car running properly. We recommend checking your fluids at least once a month and topping them off as needed.

Diagnosing Check Engine Lights

If your check engine light comes on, it's essential to have it checked as soon as possible. The light can indicate a variety of problems, from a loose gas cap to a more serious issue with your engine. Here are some common reasons why your check engine light might come on:

• A faulty oxygen sensor
• A loose or damaged gas cap
• A malfunctioning catalytic converter
• A problem with your spark plugs or wires
• A failing ignition coil

Our expert mechanics can diagnose your check engine light and recommend the best course of action.

Electrical Work

Modern cars have a lot of electrical components, from the battery to the alternator to the starter motor. If any of these parts fail, your car won't start or run correctly. Here are some signs that you might need electrical work:

• Your car won't start
• Your battery is dead or weak
• Your headlights are dim or flickering
• Your dashboard warning lights are on
• Your radio or other accessories don't work

Our skilled technicians can diagnose and repair any electrical issues your car might have.

Tires

Your tires are the only part of your car that touches the road, so it's essential to keep them in good condition. Here are some signs that you might need new