Oil, Tires, and More: Car Service FAQs

If you’ve been prowling around the internet for “car service near me,” we’re sure your inquiries don’t end there. Rather, car owners generally have a long list of questions when it comes to car repairs, but many of these owners are afraid to ask the questions themselves. Whether there’s a worry of looking ignorant or potentially costing themselves some leverage (and at the same time, money), a car owners’ inability to ask for help could end up costing them in the long run.

Fortunately, we’re here to help. Below, we’ve compiled some of the most frequently asked questions regarding basic car service. If you’re looking for some guidance on some of the most simple concepts, then take a look at our guide below. Then, when it’s time to head into a dealership for your impending service, you’ll already know what’s in store.

Do I Need an Oil Change?

The answer to this frequently asked question can vary depending on who you’re asking. Some pundits base their answer on an actual timespan, while others cite the mileage on your car. Further complicating matters is the fact that each car’s oil-change interval can differ. In other words, good luck finding a definitive answer.

So what’s the general rule of thumb? While it’s a pretty broad range, many mechanics suggest changing your oil every 3,000 to 7,000 miles. If you’d rather rely on your calendar, it’s important to remember that most cars require around four oil changes each year. Therefore, you should be exploring this type of maintenance every three months or so.

If you’re fortunate, your vehicle will notify you when it’s time for an oil change. More likely, you should dig out your car’s manual and see what the brand suggests. It’s okay if your schedule isn’t entirely consistent, but if you somewhat turn to this reliable resource, you should be more than okay.

What Does This Oil Change Do?

It may sound silly that a five-figure purchase requires somewhat-frequent maintenance. However, if you want to get the most out of your vehicle, it’s important that you follow these regular oil changes.

As oil is running through your car, it’s collecting plenty of grime and dirt. Naturally, the oil eventually compromises due to all of this pollution, and the oil can eventually turn into sludge.

When oil is working properly, it should be lubricating every aspect of your car. This assures that everything is working properly, and it means that all of the accompanying specs are maintained. If you fail to change your oil, this sludge can compromise many aspects of your ride, and that could cause pricey repairs. Specifically, the various mechanical components won’t work properly when sludge is running through the system, and the entire vehicle (including the engine) can overheat. While you’ll have to dish out some extra money for these regular oil changes, you’ll be risking much pricier repairs if you ignore this maintenance altogether.

Is Oil the Only Fluid I Should be Keeping Track of?

No! It can be tough keeping track of all the various fluids that are put into your vehicle, and that conversation doesn’t end with that previously-mentioned oil. Besides the fluid that goes into your engine, there are plenty of other important fluids that will increase the lifespan of your ride.

There are specialized fluids for both your brakes and transmission, assuring that these aspects of your ride are operating properly. Depending on your nameplate, you may require some kind of power-steering fluid, and coolant is also required to keep your entire vehicle operating at a proper temperature.

So how often should you get all of these fluids changed? Well, it’s easiest to have a mechanic check these various levels as they’re changing your oil. Generally, these fluids need to be changed a bit more often, with many experts suggesting a two-month interval. Fortunately, this piece of maintenance can be completed by you, meaning you won’t have to dish out extra money for a professional.

What About Tires?

Ironically, while tires are one of the most important aspects of your car, they often get overlooked. While you don’t need to check in on your tires and wheels frequently, it’s important to get this part of your vehicle serviced every now and then.

While tires are intended to wear evenly, some spots of the rubber will naturally decline at a quicker pace. Therefore, many mechanics will rotate the tires to maintain consistent wear and tear, especially if the tires impact other aspects of the ride (including two-wheel-drive systems). If you don’t have these tires rotated, the tires could wear (and eventually compromise) unevenly, which can be a drastic safety concern. Furthermore, you’ll find that your acceleration, speed, and control are also diminished.

Fortunately, you won’t have to worry about your tires nearly as often as you’ll have to worry about your car’s oil. Generally, experts suggest having your wheels rotated twice a year, and they also point to a range of every 6,000 to 8,000 miles. Your vehicle will continue to operate properly even if you’re neglecting to rotate your tires. However, if you want to maintain the lifespan of your ride, it’s essential to follow these rotating schedules.

What About My Battery?

Ah, the complicated car battery. With car owners seemingly focused on their engine and all of the accompanying components, the battery often gets overlooked. Owners only tend to recognize the importance of this part when they’ve left their lights on all night, or the battery dies for another reason.

A compromised battery won’t impact safety, nor is it a time-consuming repair. In other words, you can literally wait until the last minute to switch out your battery.

Of course, that leads to the next question: when should you be changing your battery? Well, your vehicle should never have issues starting, regardless of the elements. If you find that your car is struggling to start in hot or cold weather, it could be a sign that your battery is at the end of its lifespan. It’s also worrisome if your vehicle is failing to start on ordinary, moderate-temperature days.

If you’re in need of a new battery, you can simply visit a dealership to have it switched out. There’s a good chance that you’ll even receive a deposit for your faulty battery, thus reducing your impending costs.

Now that you’ve received answers to those car-maintenance questions, it’s time to get those repairs completed! If you live near the Cincinnati, Ohio area, there’s no better place to get that service than McCluskey Chevrolet.

That’s right; the dealership does a whole lot more than sell cars. Rather, their service department is on hand on fix up your vehicle. The services are affordable and trustworthy, and thanks to their flexible hours, you’ll never have to miss work in order to fix up your ride. You can even rely on the parts department and repair your vehicle yourself! McCluskey Chevy is the perfect alternative to those private mechanics or expensive car stores.

McCluskey Chevy’s array of services don’t end there. Instead, the dealership’s finance department will help you with all of your financial needs, regardless of your financial situation. Ultimately, the dealership proves to be your one-stop-shop for all things vehicles, whether it’s before or after you’ve made your purchase.

Instead of searching around for “car service near me,” why not get that maintenance completed today? Head down to McCluskey Chevrolet to get your vehicle fixed up.