New Year, New You

Ringing in the New Year can also mean bringing positive change to our lives and daily routines. Most of us have had a New Year’s resolution...or at least heard about someone else’s. The number one resolution year after year is to join a gym and to get in shape. While it’s great to be healthy, come February the majority of people fall back into their old habits. So this year why not make more than one resolution. Focusing on your health is great, but why stop there? Make 2017 the year you also focus on the health of your car. Think about all of the activities your car allows you to do on a daily basis and where you would be without it. Are you taking the necessary steps to keep your car running for an extended period of time? Here are some simple things you can do to keep your car running smoothly for years to come.

Utilize the Parking (Emergency) Brake

Most drivers assume that the parking brake is only needed when parking on steep hills or in case of emergencies. Although these things are true, it is called a parking brake because it should be used each and every time you park. The parking brake holds the car’s transmission in place when the car is stopped and static which helps the engine. By not utilizing the parking brake, over time, can lead to added stress on the car’s transmission and wear and tear under the hood. It only takes a second to pull up the lever when stopped...just remember to put it back down before moving again. This simple act can be a lifesaver for a car during its usable life.

Change the Air Filter

If you get your oil changed every 3 months or 3000 miles as recommended, the mechanic will most likely check your car’s air filter and recommend when it is time to replace it. He is not trying to upsell you!!! A car’s air filter should be changed once a year or every 12,000 miles, but most drivers neglect this simple and inexpensive fix, and some never have theirs replaced. Dirty and clogged air filters lead to lower gas mileage, the engine backfiring or the engine shutting down completely. These big problems can be avoided by spending just $10 a year and 10 minutes of your time to change the air filter in your car.

Get Your Cash Washed Regularly

It is recommended that you get your car washed every other week, and as frequently as once a week during winter months, to remove debris and harmful contaminants. Colder temperatures and roads covered with salt can make your car unrecognizable.

Rust can show up anywhere - under the paint, under the car where there is bare metal, and in nooks and crannies that you didn’t even know existed. The best way to avoid this is by getting your car washed regularly.

If you need more information on keeping your car in shape or any questions at all, don’t hesitate to contact your friends at Expressway Dodge! Visit our website at expresswaydodge.com for information on our locations and their contact information.