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Have you ever heard phrase, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure? It's true in so many different aspects of our lives. From taking care of oneself to taking care of things around the house.

But what about your vehicle? For most people. A vehicle will be the second largest investment folks will make. Doesn't it make sense to take the proper care of it?

Most of the vital systems in your vehicle are cooled, lubricated, and protected by some type of fluid. These fluids can wear out. And when they do, the delicate, expensive parts they protect fail. These systems include your engine, transmission and drive axles, to name a few.

Everyone knows that oil needs changing but most don't really know how often. The matter is confused further by different manufacturer's giving different service intervals. Some car makers say to change it every 5000 miles while most professional technicians still agree with the 3000 mile interval. So, what to do?

Every vehicle is different. Driving habits are different and climates are different. All of these factors affect when to change your oil. Dirty and dusty climates, stop-and-go or short trip driving increase the need for the oil change at 3000 miles. The oil gets dirty more quickly under these conditions and can't properly protect your engine. Longer trips, or highway driving keeps the oil hot enough to burn off some of the contaminants and can therefore go a bit longer.

The same holds true for most of your other fluids.

Only you know which interval is best for you based on individual driving habits but whichever interval it is, the important thing is to do the preventive maintenance on time.

The next question is where to have the services done. We recommend using a shop with certified mechanics, people with the experience to know what to do and to be able to identify problems BEFORE they arise. Ask yourself this, when looking for a surgeon, do you look for the cheapest price? No, you find out their qualifications. The same should hold true for your mechanic. From shop to shop, most independents will have charges that are within a few dollars of each other. Find out who is the best and stick with that shop. You won't find this quality of service at a local mega-oil mart.

Ask for references from potential shops. Ask for their qualifications. A family owned, independent repair center has a vested interest in your happiness and your vehicle's reliability. Find one that you're comfortable with and continue to use them. Trust is never built up if you're continuously shopping around for that $12.95 oil change. When you do develop that level of trust, when a repair is recommended you'll know that it's truly needed and you will have the confidence that it is being done right.

We here at Springboro Automotive are committed to earning your faith and trust through the services we provide for you. We will work with you in establishing a personal car care maintenance program that is based on your individual needs and requirements. Call us today!

Until next month.

Bob

Car Care Articles

An Ounce Of Prevention

Wet Weather Driving

You can't predict every hazardous situation down the road, but it's a safe bet you will have to deal with rainy weather. Rain and fog can make it difficult for you to see road signs, obstacles, and other vehicles. On wet roads, you can lose control when wheels spin or lock due to loss of traction. A little preparation can make a big difference in how you and your vehicle perform in bad weather.

Reduce Your Risk
Driving in wet weather can be stressful, so it makes sense to minimize any other risk factors. Try to postpone your travel if you are also facing a long night drive,
or if you are angry, upset or fatigued. Foul weather gear can be cumbersome. Remove bulky coats and gloves before you get into the driver's seat.

"Waterproof" Your Vehicle
Rain, slush and mud are hard on your vehicle. Be prepared for the rainy season by thoroughly checking your tires, brakes,
heating and cooling system, battery and ignition system, wipers, and lights.

Head Into the Storm, or Wait It Out? Driving in the rain is often most dangerous in the first 10 minutes of heavy downpour. When rain initially begins, it brings oil and debris to the surface of the road and the ground does not have time
to absorb the moisture. This makes it more likely that cars will hydroplane, skid, or get stuck in the mud. If you can, delay you travel for a few minutes.

Review Your Wet Weather Driving Skills You've prepared your vehicle, so it is roadworthy even in bad weather. You know you should remain aware of road conditions and reduce your speed.

What else can you do to minimize your risks? Brush up on your response to wet weather driving risks:

Steer around an obstacle rather than braking, if possible.

In wet weather, sudden braking can put you into a skid. Review the push-pull-slide method and fixed-hand method of steering.

Do not rely on cruise control in wet weather. Control speed and avoid hard braking and sharp turns to reduce your risk of hydroplaning and skidding.

Increase your following distance. Focus your attention as far ahead as possible - at least 20 to 30 seconds.

If you become stuck, and you are driving a vehicle with manual transmission, rock your way out by using second gear.

If you become stuck, and you are driving a vehicle with an automatic transmission, use low gear. Move forward until the vehicle stops, then shift into reverse and move backwards until momentum stops. Repeat this process using minimum power to prevent wheels from spinning and digging in deeper.

If necessary, create traction by using mats, gravel, or kitty litter. Article from AAA.com.

When was the last time you had your tires checked?