CAR CARE
GUIDE
Everything Cleveland drivers need to know about keeping their vehicles running right. Seasonal tips, mileage milestones, and warning signs explained by our technicians.
SEASONAL MAINTENANCE
Cleveland weather puts unique demands on your vehicle. Here is what to focus on each season.
SPRING RECOVERY
Undo winter damage
Alignment Check
Cleveland potholes are brutal on your suspension and alignment. If your car pulls to one side or the steering wheel vibrates, you likely need an alignment. Driving on bad alignment wears tires unevenly and costs you money.
Undercarriage Wash
Road salt corrodes brake lines, exhaust components, and suspension parts. Get the undercarriage washed thoroughly after winter to prevent rust damage.
AC System Check
Test your AC before the first hot day. If it blows warm air, the refrigerant may be low or the compressor may need attention. Catching it early is cheaper than an emergency repair in July.
Tire Rotation
Rotate your tires every 5,000-7,500 miles to ensure even wear. Spring is a good time to switch back from winter tires if you use them.
Fluid Top-Off
Check all fluids — oil, transmission, brake, power steering, and coolant. Winter driving is hard on every system.
MILEAGE MILESTONES
Here is when common maintenance items are typically due. These are general guidelines — check your owner's manual for your specific vehicle.
Oil Change
Conventional oil every 3,000-5,000 miles. Synthetic can go 7,500-10,000. Check your owner's manual.
Tire Rotation
Rotate tires to ensure even wear. Uneven wear means you replace tires sooner.
Air Filter Replacement
A clogged air filter reduces fuel economy and engine performance.
Brake Inspection
Full brake inspection including pads, rotors, calipers, and fluid. Some pads last 30,000 miles, some last 70,000 — it depends on driving habits.
Coolant Flush
Old coolant loses its protective properties and can cause corrosion inside the cooling system.
Transmission Service
Transmission fluid breaks down over time. A fluid change at 60,000-80,000 miles can prevent a $3,000+ transmission replacement.
WARNING SIGNS
Do not ignore these symptoms. Catching problems early saves money and prevents breakdowns.
Check Engine Light
Do not ignore it. Could be anything from a loose gas cap to a failing catalytic converter. Get it scanned.
Squealing or Grinding Brakes
Squealing means pads are getting thin. Grinding means metal-on-metal — you are damaging rotors. Come in immediately.
Car Pulling to One Side
Usually an alignment issue from potholes. Can also indicate uneven tire wear or a stuck brake caliper.
Vibration While Driving
Could be unbalanced tires, warped brake rotors, or worn suspension components. The cause depends on when it happens.
Burning Smell
Could be an oil leak hitting the exhaust, overheating brakes, or an electrical issue. Pull over safely and call us.
AC Blowing Warm Air
Low refrigerant, failing compressor, or electrical issue. Do not just add refrigerant — find the leak first.
QUESTIONS ABOUT YOUR VEHICLE?
Our technicians are here to help. Call us, book online, or use our free diagnostic tool.