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Essential Car Maintenance Services to Help Your Car Last Forever

maintenance required after oil change
juan-lara 2022-06-15

It’s no secret that taking care of your car is important if you want it to last as long as possible. But what are the essential maintenance services that you need to keep your car running like new? After all, there is so much more maintenance required after oil change. In this blog post, we’ll discuss some of the most important services that you should be sure to schedule regularly. We’ll also provide tips on how to extend your car’s life by keeping up with small repairs and maintenance tasks as they come up. So whether you’re just starting to take care of your car or you’ve been neglecting it for a while, read on for advice on how to get it back on track!

Never Ignore Gauges, Lights, or Alerts

It seems simple, but you’d be surprised how many people ignore their car’s warning lights or gauges. If your check engine light is on, there’s a reason for it! Don’t wait until it’s too late to get it checked out.

The same goes for other warnings and alerts. If your car is making strange noises, vibrating, or just not driving the way it used to, don’t ignore it! These could be signs of a serious problem.

Of course, it’s not always easy to diagnose a problem yourself. That’s why it’s important to take your car to a trusted mechanic at the first sign of trouble.

Keep Up with Oil Changes

One of the most important things you can do for your car is to keep up with oil changes. This simple maintenance task can make a big difference in how long your car lasts.

Most mechanics recommend getting an oil change every 5000 miles or so. But this varies depending on the make and model of your car, as well as your driving habits.

If you’re not sure how often to get your oil changed, consult your car’s owner’s manual or ask a mechanic. For maintenance required after oil change, be sure to check the oil level regularly and top it off if necessary.

Don’t Neglect Tire Maintenance

Your car’s tires are one of the most important parts of the vehicle. They’re what keep you moving, so it’s important to take care of them!

One easy way to extend the life of your tires is to check the pressure regularly and fill them up as needed. This will help prevent flat spots and uneven wear.

You should also have your tires rotated every 6000 miles or so. This helps them wear evenly and prevents problems down the road.

Finally, be sure to get your tires inspected regularly for any damage that could cause a blowout.

Drive the Right Way

Did you know that the way you drive can affect how long your car lasts? It’s true!

If you’re constantly flooring it and slamming on the brakes, you’re putting a lot of unnecessary wear and tear on your car.

Instead, try to drive smoothly and steadily whenever possible. This will help your car last longer and run better.

Of course, even the best-maintained cars will eventually need repairs. When that time comes, be sure to take your car to a trusted mechanic who can help get it back in top shape.

Try Our Maintenance Program

If you’re in need of professional automotive maintenance or repair, you can rely on us. We are available for your car emergencies and the little details like maintenance required after oil change that keep your car running smoothly and efficiently. Contact Lafayette German Car Repair by calling (925) 2284 – 3390. We offer great deals, excellent service, and long-lasting results!

 

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Your Basic Car Maintenance Checklist

basic car maintenance checklist
juan-lara 2022-03-15

If you want to keep your car running smoothly for years to come, it’s important to stay on top of your basic car maintenance. This includes things like changing the oil, checking the tires, and keeping the fluids topped up. If you’re not sure where to start, don’t worry – we’ve put together a Basic Car Maintenance Checklist that will take the guesswork out of it for you. Just follow these simple steps and your car will stay in good shape for many, many miles!

1. Check the oil level and top it off if necessary

Every time you get gas, pop the hood to check the oil level. If it’s low, fill up with a quart or two until the dipstick shows an adequate amount on its indicator strip (usually between “L” and “H”). This is important because without enough lubrication from clean motor oil running through your engine, the metal pistons and bearings will start to grind and wear down – causing costly damage in the long run.

Tip: don’t overfill your engine with oil. If you see that the oil is above the “FULL” line on the dipstick, pour some out until it reaches that marking.

2. Check the tire pressure and adjust if necessary

Under-inflated tires not only wear out more quickly, but they can also be a safety hazard. Driving on under-inflated tires at high speeds can cause them to blow out, resulting in an accident. You should check your tire pressure at least once a month (more often if the weather is hot or cold) and adjust it if necessary.

Tip: Use a good quality tire gauge to measure the pressure and make sure the tires are cold before you start (that is, don’t measure the pressure after driving for a while).

3. Inspect the brakes for wear and tear

You should inspect your brakes at least once every six months to make sure they’re operating properly. If you notice any signs of wear and tear, take the car in for a check-up ASAP! This will prevent costly repairs down the line – not only do worn out brake pads need replacing more frequently than new ones, but their failure can also cause accidents.

Tip: Listen for any unusual sounds when braking, and look out for brake dust on the rims (indicating that the pads are wearing down).

4. Check all fluid levels, including brake fluid, engine oil, transmission fluid, etc.

It’s important to keep all of your car’s fluids at their proper levels, and this includes checking the brake fluid, engine oil, transmission fluid, power steering fluid, windshield washer fluid, etc. You should check these levels at least once a month (more often if the weather is hot or cold).

5. Clean the car inside and out – this will help it look nicer and last longer

Keep your car clean both inside and out. Washing the exterior will prevent rust from forming, while vacuuming up crumbs or dirt on the inside will help prevent mold and mildew from forming.

Tip: Use a vacuum to suck out any dirt or debris that has accumulated between seats, under mats, etc., then wipe down all surfaces with mild soap (including the dashboard).

Bonus tip: Waxing your car every six months will protect against rust caused by salt.

6. Rotate the tires every 6,000 miles or so to extend their life span

Rotating your tires will extend their life span and improve gas mileage, because it ensures that all four wheels are getting equal wear. You should rotate the tires every six months or so (or every other oil change). Ideally this would be done by a professional mechanic if possible, but you can do it yourself with some basic tools – just make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Schedule Maintenance Services Today

If you’re in need of professional automotive maintenance or repair, you can rely on us. We are available for your car emergencies and the little details that keep your car running smoothly and efficiently. Contact Lafayette German Car Repair by calling (925) 2284 – 3390. We offer great deals, excellent service, and long-lasting results!

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Basic Car Maintenance Checklist Everyone Should Know

Basic Car Maintenance Checklist
juan-lara 2021-01-10

Did you know there’s some basic car maintenance checklist that you can DIY without having to go to an auto repair shop? Understandably, there are going to be some regularly scheduled visits for your make and model, but other things you’ll probably be able to handle on your own. You can stay ahead of the game and do these basic tasks yourself. Here are some great things to learn to ensure reliable auto performance.

Basic Car Maintenance Checklist 

Check Your Tire Pressure

A trip to the gas station used to be a good place for checking your tire pressure. These days, it’s easier to do at home. There are even handy air pumps that you can store in your trunk. They work by using the cigarette lighter plug-in. This option is more convenient. You don’t even need to leave the comfort of your driveway. One of the items you’ll want to have handy is a pressure gauge. They’re small enough to leave in a glove box. This tool tells you how much pressure you need and how much your current tire pressure is. It’s important to stay within range for safety reasons, and also to extend the life of your tires. After all, they’re a big investment.

Inspect the Battery

Car batteries are more advanced than they were decades ago, but that doesn’t mean they can’t go bad. It’s a good idea to check your battery from time to time. Look for corrosion that can form at the connectors. Also, examine the condition of your battery to see if there’s anything abnormal. Is your car slow to start? When you inspect the battery, notice if there’s an odd smell. Another sign of trouble is a bulging battery case. 

Related Content: Your Car’s Year in Retrospect: Did You Do Your Annual Maintenance?

Refill the Coolant Levels

A radiator works hard to keep your engine from overheating, so it pays to keep an eye on its coolant levels. Learn more about the best coolant for your model. An auto shop can help you make this decision, but it’s still good to do your own research. Using the wrong coolant can be bad for your vehicle, so only use what’s suggested by the manufacturer.

Check the Oil

Popping the hood can tell you what you need to know about the oil level in your car and if it needs to be changed. If you aren’t familiar with checking the oil level, the owner’s manual will explain more about this basic car maintenance service. There are also great YouTube tutorials on how to check your car’s oil level. It’s pretty simple once you understand the steps. The most important issue is keeping the correct oil levels topped off. Learn to identify which oil brand is meant for your make and model.

Related Content: Easy Ways to Maintain Your Car During the Pandemic

Listen For New Sounds

You already know how your car is supposed to sound because you drive it all the time, but listen for any little changes. New sounds can indicate a serious problem is forming. Issues like shaking or vibration are no laughing matter. If there’s a sound that you’re not familiar with, it’s one more sign to call for an appointment. Even little humming or knocking sounds shouldn’t be disregarded. Trust your ears and senses for any changes that happen. It indicates that your car needs more than basic car maintenance.

Beyond Basic Car Maintenance Checklist

When you need a local auto shop, call us at Lafayette German Car Repair (925) 284-3390. You can also view our current specials by clicking here. We want to save you money!

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How to Clean Foggy Headlights

Foggy Headlights
juan-lara 2020-01-15

Foggy headlights are not only a safety hazard on dark roads, but they also make your car look worn out. Luckily, the solution is usually pretty simple. This quick guide walks you through the DIY steps to restoring your car’s shine.

What Causes Foggy Headlights?

The lenses in car headlights used to be made of glass, but today they’re mostly comprised of a thick plastic. This means they’re more durable, but UV rays from the sun eventually degrade the outer layers of plastic, giving foggy headlights that yellowy, opaque look.

What You’ll Need

Auto supply stores sell headlight restoration kits, which provide a bottled cure for foggy headlights. But there are also home remedies that you can use in a pinch. Plus, most people already have these supplies just lying around.

Here’s what you need to get started:

  • Old towels
  • Toothpaste
  • Disposable gloves
  • Masking Tape
  • Water

Once you’ve gathered supplies, follow these simple steps:

  1. Rinse headlights and pat them dry.
  2. Protect the paint and plastic around your headlights with masking tape.
  3. Put on latex gloves, if you chose to wear them. Scrub foggy headlights with a dab of toothpaste and a little water, using a clean cloth, or soft-bristled brush.
  4. Rinse both headlights, and allow time for them to air dry. If you have it at hand, it’s all right to apply a small amount of car wax to protect your clean headlights.

Overall, this quick tip is a simple process that should only take about ten minutes, and next time you’re out for an evening drive, you’ll definitely notice better visibility.

If you have any further questions about headlight maintenance or replacement options, please contact us at our shop. We can be reached at (925) 284-3390.

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How to Make Your Tires Last Longer

Make Your Tires Last Longer
juan-lara 2019-12-19

New car tires aren’t cheap, but they’re vital to your safety. Before you hit the road, check out these maintenance tips to make your tires last longer.  

  1. Rotate Tires
    Uneven tire wear is common, even with all-wheel drive vehicles. Tires last longer when they’re rotated. The general recommendation is every 4,000 miles. A technician can move them to a new position during a routine oil change. It’s not a bad idea to have this done prior to a long road trip.
  2. Tire Pressure
    Maintaining the correct air pressure is the simplest way to ensure tires last longer. Extreme weather can affect tire pressure. Regardless, they’ll lose at least a pound of pressure per square inch (PSI) every month. This matters because the wrong air pressure can increase wear and breaking times. Additionally, it makes a blowout more likely.
    You’ll also get fewer miles to the gallon if there isn’t enough air in your tires, so check once a month.
  3. Alignment
    You can be sure your alignment is off if your car pulls to one side or the other, or the steering wheel shakes. Sometimes neither of these signs will be present when the alignment is off, though. Little things can shift the alignment, like driving over a pothole, or bumping the curb, so a mechanic should adjust your car’s alignment every six months.
  4. Tread: The Penny Test
    It’s dangerous to drive on bald tires. Check for uneven wear or flat spots, as well as any cuts or cracks. You can use a tread depth gauge. There should be a 2/32 inch tread depth. If you don’t have a gauge, you can use a penny. Slide the coin into the tread upside down and facing you. If you see all of Lincoln’s head, you need new tires.
  5. Balance Tires
    While you’re having your wheels rotated, you might as well get them balanced, too. Your mechanic uses a special machine to do this. Even new tires aren’t perfect. Regularly balancing them will promote even wear.

If you follow these five tips, your vehicle will be safer and handle better, and your tires will last longer. Just remember to keep track of basic car maintenance so you can stay on schedule. If you have any questions, please give us a call at (925) 284-3390 or request an appointment.

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Tips for Keeping Your Car in Storage

Car in Storage
juan-lara 2019-11-16

Cars need to be driven on a regular basis or they begin to break down. Issues can range from ruined tires to rodents nesting under the hood. But fortunately, if you plan on placing your car in storage, there are some steps you can take to protect it. Follow these simple tips to secure your car while you’re away.

 

Disconnect the battery

The battery is one of the first things to go when a car is in storage for too long. If there’s no one to periodically start the car, it’s a good idea to just disconnect the battery because otherwise it can leak corrosive acid that damages the engine. In particular, older batteries lose a charge more quickly, but jumper cables can be used when you’re ready to drive your vehicle again.

 

Tires

Jack stands take weight off the tires, which will prevent flat spots from forming. Otherwise, as tires lose air pressure, the weight of the car can create permanent flat spots where tires meet with the ground. This happens more quickly in cold weather.

 

Change the oil

Change the oil before leaving your car in storage for longer than thirty days. Dirty engine oil can thicken, making it difficult to start a vehicle that’s been parked for weeks.

 

Use a car cover

A car cover is an easy precaution. Wash and wax your vehicle to remove any grime that might damage the paint then cover your car for added protection.

 

Top off the tank

A full tank of gas prevents rust from forming while your car is in storage. It will also keep the seals from drying out. A stabilizer can be added to preserve the fuel for up to several months.

Whether you’re traveling for an extended time, or have a spare vehicle that just isn’t suitable for winter roads, carefully planning to put your car in storage will save you time and money later on.