Run: PV NEWS Automotive, 10/18/04

AAAs October Car Care Month Signals Time to Jumpstart Your Maintenance Efforts

by Dave Carney

Just like people, cars need love and attention, too! And, what better time than now, during AAAs October Car Care Month, to jumpstart your maintenance efforts.

Where does one begin? In reality, maintenance has never been easier. As I’ve been saying for years, “Change your oil often, nothing else matters”. That statement is truer than ever today. Oil is the lifeblood of your engine. Rule of thumb, change your oil every 3,000 miles without fail.

The only other thing you need to do is to follow the maintenance schedule for your vehicle as set forth by the manufacturer, and have services performed at 30,000, 60,000 and 90,000-mile intervals.

About 20 years ago, Japanese car manufacturers introduced the idea of preventative maintenance, namely, 30,000-mile, 60,000-mile and 90,000-mile services. This preventative maintenance concept was responsible for greatly increasing the life span of cars.

Additionally, the successful marriage of on-board computers and fuel injection, has boosted the efficiency factor of cars, and has enabled well-cared for cars to last up to 200,000 miles. That’s amazing!

I’m often asked about red Check Engine and Over Heating lights or gages---both of which cause many drivers to panic- big time! Let me explain. When your car’s Check Engine light comes on; it is NOT a danger sign. Rather it is a notification to the driver that something is not right, and service is needed. I like to equate the Check Engine light to a caution flag raised during a NASCAR race. Driving may continue, but you need to have your car checked as soon as possible.

An Over Heating light, on the other hand, is an indication to STOP driving immediately. Do not pass GO. If you do, it will cost you a lot more than $200! It’s really that serious.

As an automotive repair shop owner, I believe in the benefits of AAA membership, and my wife and daughter are members. AAA membership PAYS, it does not COST. Indeed, how does one put a price on peace of mind and knowing that help is just a telephone call away?

During October, AAA is offering significant savings on service at all of their affiliated repair shops. To download valuable coupons, simply log on to the AAA website at www.aaa-calif.com/repair or call 1.866.579.3396, or visit an Auto Club office.

Questions? Please feel free to call Hillside Automotive, 310.373.7676. Our Service Managers and ASE-certified technicians are on duty Monday through Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., the shop is closed on Sundays. Free rides to and from work or home, a free car wash, and complimentary coffee all part of the pleasure of doing business at Hillside Automotive.

Happy, safe driving!

Dave Carney