Tips & Tricks
Smart, easy tips to help you save money, stay safe, and keep your car in great shape all year long!
Seasonal Car Care
Different seasons bring different challenges for your car. Here's what to focus on throughout the year.
Winter Car Care
Check Your Antifreeze
Make sure your coolant mixture is right for cold weather. Most auto stores can test it for free!
Check Tire Tread
Good tread is extra important in snow and ice. Consider winter tires if you live in a snowy area.
Keep an Emergency Kit
Pack a blanket, flashlight, snacks, and a phone charger in your car. Being prepared is always smart!
Spring Car Care
Replace Wiper Blades
Winter can wear out wipers. Fresh blades help you see clearly during spring rain showers.
Check Alignment
Potholes from winter can knock your wheels out of alignment. If your car pulls to one side, get it checked.
Clean Under the Hood
Leaves and debris can pile up over winter. A clean engine area helps everything run cooler.
Summer Car Care
Check Your AC
Make sure your air conditioning is blowing cold before the hottest days arrive.
Watch for Overheating
Keep an eye on the temperature gauge, especially in traffic or on road trips. Heat is tough on engines!
Check Tire Pressure More Often
Hot pavement and warm air make tire pressure go up. Check it in the morning when tires are cool.
Fall Car Care
Clear Leaves from Vents
Fallen leaves can block your car's air intake and clog drains. Keep the area around the windshield clear.
Test Your Battery
Cold weather is coming and weak batteries fail in the cold. Get yours tested before winter hits!
Check All Lights
Days get shorter in fall. Make sure all your lights work so you can see and be seen in the dark.
Save Money on Car Care
Taking care of your car doesn't have to be expensive. These tips help you save money while keeping your car happy!
Keep Tires Properly Inflated
Under-inflated tires make your engine work harder, using more gas. Correct pressure can improve fuel economy by up to 3%!
Don't Skip Oil Changes
Regular oil changes cost a little now but prevent expensive engine repairs later. It's one of the best investments in your car.
Replace Air Filters on Time
A clogged air filter makes your engine work harder and use more fuel. A new filter can improve gas mileage by up to 10%!
Drive Smoothly
Gentle acceleration and braking are easier on your car (and your wallet). Aggressive driving wears out brakes, tires, and uses more gas.
Read Your Owner's Manual
Your manual tells you exactly what your car needs and when. Following the maintenance schedule can prevent costly surprise repairs.
Fix Small Problems Early
A small squeak or tiny leak today can become a major repair if ignored. Address issues when they're small and cheap to fix!
Safety First!
The most important thing about car care is staying safe. Here are some rules to always remember.
Always Wear Your Seatbelt
Seatbelts save lives. Always buckle up, even for short trips. Make sure everyone in the car is buckled too!
Never Work Under a Car on a Jack
Jacks are for lifting, not holding. Always use jack stands before going under a car. Better yet, leave under-car work to the pros.
Let the Engine Cool Before Checking Fluids
Hot engine parts and fluids can burn you. Wait at least 30 minutes after driving before opening the hood to check things.
Know Where Your Emergency Kit Is
Keep a flashlight, jumper cables, first aid kit, and reflective triangles in your trunk. You may not need them, but you'll be glad they're there.
Keep Your Phone Charged
A charged phone means you can always call for help if you break down. Keep a car phone charger handy!
Trust Your Instincts
If something feels wrong with your car — a strange noise, weird smell, or odd handling — get it checked out. It's always better to be safe!
You're Doing Great!
Just by reading these tips, you're already on your way to being a car care expert! Remember, everyone starts as a beginner. The more you learn, the more confident you'll feel. Keep exploring and don't be afraid to ask questions!