Courtesy of the Automotive Service Association

According to recent studies, 5 percent of all motor vehicle fatalities are clearly caused
by automobile maintenance neglect. The following simple and inexpensive preventive
checks will greatly extend the life of the vehicle, ensure safer operation and even benefit the environment.

Always consult your owner's manual for individual service schedules because
maintenance requirements vary by manufacturer.

• Always consult your owner's manual, but a good rule of thumb is to have the
  oil filter changed regularly - every 3,000 to 4,000 miles.
• Have all fluids checked, including brake, power steering, transmission/
  transaxle, windshield washer solvent and antifreeze. These fluids play a large
  role in the safety and performance of the vehicle.
• Check tire inflation. Under-inflated tires can result in a loss of fuel efficiency.
  This is the least expensive form of preventive and safetymaintenance. Tires
  should be checked once a month.
• Keep your engine tuned. A fouled spark plug or plugged/restricted fuel
  injector can reduce fuel efficiency by as much as 30 percent.
• Have the chassis lubricated frequently. This step extends the life of the
  moving components of the vehicle's suspension system.
• Check battery cables and posts for corrosion and clean them as needed.
  The battery fluid also should be checked and filled if it is low, unless it is a
  maintenance-free battery.
• Have the lighting system checked frequently, including headlights, turn signals,
  and brake and taillights.
• Check windshield washer blades for cracks, tears and windshield contact.
  Replace them at least once a year, or sooner if streaking begins.
• Inspect engine belts regularly. Worn belts will affect the engine performance.
  Look for cracks and missing sections or segments.
• Have the air filtration system checked frequently. The air filter should be
  checked every other oil change for clogging or damage. This system ensures
  that the vehicle is performing at its peak condition.

Look here's the deal. Everyone loves fast food. I know
that I do! It's convenient, fast and cheap. It's OK to indulge in fast food from time to
time. Most things are fine in moderation, your body can usually handle it. Well the 
same thing goes for your vehicle. Quick lubes and "convenience service centers" are
like fast food for your car. They are convenient and cheap maintenance for your car.
Like your body, your vehicle can handle this in moderation. But a steady diet of
quick lube maintenance WILL NOT and CAN NOT properly maintain your vehicle
and can lead to higher repair expenses in the future. In most cases these fast food
shops only inspect the items that they can quickly make money on. The services are
usually performed by lesser experienced technicians. Just like the teenager working
behind the counter at your favorite fast food joint.

If you want the best care for your car and don't like surprise repairs, you should
have your vehicle serviced by a qualified ASE certified technician. At least have
every other service performed at a "full service" professional shop which employs
seasoned Master ASE certified technicians. They are trained in servicing the whole
vehicle and helping avoid those unforeseen surprise expenses of a repair that would
not usually get noticed at a quick lube. Trust me, this will save you thousands of
dollars over the life of your car!

If you really think about it, it makes sense. Do the math. Ask yourself, how can 
someone properly inspect and service your vehicle in 15-30 minutes and offer a
price of $20 dollars to boot? The answer is: they can't! Today's vehicles are complicated and demand more detail in the services required. This level of detail
can only be performed by a quality technican who knows what's best for you and
your vehicle. With the cost of buying a new car these days, it's more important than
ever to properly maintain your vehicle and keep it reliable for many years and 100-300 thousand miles.

Yes, this is possible. Many of our clients are enjoying the freedom of
no car payment because they have been trusting Made in Japan/Made in America to
keep their vehicles safe and reliable for well over 200,000 miles.So in summary, fast food service is OK for your car from time to time. But I encourage you to put your vehcile on a fast food diet. That way you will be able to maximize on your investment.

Your car will thank you for it!