We know we need to take care of our cars, but it just seems too hard to remember to do it.  We generally accept that there are many things in life that require regular maintenance, but we just may not have applied it to our vehicles yet.

For example, we water and mow the lawn regularly.  Most of us weed the flower beds and rake leaves in the yard.  We go to the dentist twice a year and some of us even go to the gym regularly in an effort to maintain our health.  Flu shots and doctors check-ups for the kids before they start school.  We all have a maintenance mindset when it comes to life, we just have to learn to apply that mindset to our vehicles.  If you never brush your teeth or go to the dentist, you’ll become painfully aware of your neglect when you get cavities.  And if you never maintain your vehicle with regular oil changes and inspections, your vehicle isn’t going to run.  Too many people have had to learn the hard automotive lesson when they have to bring their vehicle to the auto center on the back of a tow truck.  So many times, a little routine maintenance would have prevented a breakdown.

A maintenance mindset will help:  The key to good vehicle maintenance starts with the oil change.  Think about it – when you go in for a full-service oil change, your tech will check all your fluids.  If one of them is low, he can look for the reason why.  If your serpentine belt is worn, he’ll see it and let you know.  Corroded battery cable- they’ve got you covered.  All of this takes a trained and experienced eye – more than you find at a quick lube center.  And they’ll check to see if your manufacturer has recommended any services at your current mileage.

To get started on your maintenance mindset, come in for an oil change, and you’ll get a visual inspection and a reminder for recommended services so you can avoid total failure.  And remember your service adviser can help you work out a maintenance and repair plan, prioritizing and scheduling the work to make sure you and your family are safe and help you avoid expensive breakdowns.