Love Your Car: 3 Easy Steps to Taking Care of Your Vehicle

Your car is more than just transportation; it’s your companion on daily commutes, road trips, and quick errands. Showing it a little love not only keeps it running smoothly but can also save you time and money in the long run! At Advantage Automotive, we’re here to make car care simple and stress-free. Today, we’re sharing three easy steps to help you keep your car in top shape—because when you love your car, it loves you back.

1. Battery Care

Your car’s battery is its heartbeat, powering everything from the engine to the radio. Regular maintenance can help you avoid that dreaded “click” of a dead battery when you least expect it.

Here’s how to care for your battery:

• Look for corrosion on the terminals and give them a gentle cleaning with a baking soda and water solution if needed.
• Ensure the battery is securely mounted to prevent vibrations, which can shorten its lifespan.
• Check the charge level, especially before winter or summer—extreme temperatures can take a toll on battery performance.

Still not sure if your battery is holding up? Swing by Advantage Automotive, and we’ll test it for you!

2. Oil and Filter Changes

Think of oil as your engine’s lifeblood. It lubricates moving parts, reduces heat, and helps your car run efficiently. Neglecting regular oil changes can lead to unnecessary wear and tear, so staying on top of this simple task is essential.

Here’s why it matters:

• Old oil becomes dirty and thick, making it harder for your engine to work properly.
• A clogged oil filter can block circulation, causing potential damage to critical engine components.

How often should you change your oil? It depends on your car and driving habits, but a good rule of thumb is every 3,000 to 6,000 miles (or as recommended in your owner’s manual). Don’t want to get your hands dirty? Our team at Advantage Automotive is ready to handle oil and filter changes quickly and professionally.

3. Anti-freeze Maintenance

Anti-freeze (or coolant) plays a vital role in keeping your engine at the right temperature—whether it’s sweltering hot or freezing cold outside. Low levels or the wrong mixture can lead to overheating or freezing, which is the last thing any driver wants.

Here’s what you can do:

• Periodically check the coolant levels (when your engine is cool) and top off if needed.
• Make sure the mix is right—typically a 50/50 blend of water and anti-freeze is recommended for most cars.
• Look out for leaks; a sweet smell under the hood or puddles under your car could mean your system needs attention.

If you’re unsure how to check or refill, our experts can inspect and adjust your anti-freeze system so you’re ready for any weather.

Partner with Advantage Automotive for Expert Care

These three simple steps are all it takes to keep your car performing at its best. While some of these tasks can be done at home, there’s nothing like having a pro make sure everything is running smoothly. At Advantage Automotive, we specialize in car care that’s fast, reliable, and affordable. Whether it’s testing your battery, performing a quick oil change, or ensuring your anti-freeze is just right, we’ll treat your car as if it were our own.

Show your car some love today—call or visit Advantage Automotive to schedule your next service appointment. With a little care now, your vehicle will continue to take you wherever you need to go with ease and confidence!