Oil Changes — and 4 More Things to Do for Your Car in Winter

Regular maintenance can be the difference between your car running like usual or breaking down when you need it most. While it’s easy to tell when a car needs a new muffler or brakes, some maintenance services are a little trickier to evaluate. So how can you tell when it’s time to bring your car in for an oil change? Signs Your Car Needs an Oil Change The manual says so While mechanics in years past had recommended oil changes every three months or 3,000 miles, those days are over. With advanced engine components and better oil chemistry, vehicles today adhere to very different rules. The simplest way to know if it’s time for an oil change is to check your manual. Every model is different, so it’s best to leave nothing to chance. The manual will likely have different oil change schedules based on whether you engage in normal or severe driving conditions. Don’t necessarily assume your daily commute is normal because things like short driving distances and stop-and-go driving fall under severe conditions. The dash light is on Modern vehicles are designed to help you know when an oil change is needed. Oil life monitors evaluate climate conditions, engine temperature, vehicle speed, the number of cold starts, and more to decipher how your engine oil is holding up. If a change is in order, a warning light on your instrument cluster will appear, letting you know it’s time to head to a service center. The oil doesn’t look right Your manual will likely recommend that you take a look at your oil every month or so. This will allow you to notice any changes in your oil level and condition. Use your dipstick to check to make sure your oil level isn’t low. Your oil should also be a nice amber color. Old oil can get dark as sludge begins to form. If your oil is milky or contains tiny particles, there’s an issue with your engine, and you should get it checked out right away. Your car fails the eye and ear test Your car can let you know if you should get your oil checked. If you find an oil stain underneath when you drive away, you have a leak that needs attention. If your vehicle is making a ticking or a knocking sound, your old oil may be to blame. Schedule Oil Service in Crystal Lake, IL If you suspect your vehicle needs an oil change, bring it in for to Martin Chevy for Chevrolet service in Crystal Lake, Illinois. Should you need other repairs, our team of technicians will diagnose and attend to the problem, and we even offer Chevy service coupons.

When the temperatures drop and the weather takes a turn for the worse, being an active and prepared driver will make all the difference on the road. Here are three helpful tips for driving in winter weather. 3 Tips for Safer Winter Driving Allow yourself plenty of time If you’re heading to work or have errands to run on the weekend and the weather takes a turn for the worse, it can make a hectic day even tougher. But with some extra preparation, you can confidently and safely make it to your destination. Whether it’s snowing, a coating of black ice covers the roads, or you have a slushy mixture on your path, giving yourself extra time to drive slowly through the conditions will provide you with peace of mind. It will also allow you to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead of you. In the event that they slow down suddenly, you’ll have plenty of time to decelerate safely or make a necessary move to avoid a collision if your vehicle starts to skid. Mind the pedals No matter your car’s drivetrain, knowing how to harness and control its power is crucial to arriving safely at your destination. When you’re stopped at a traffic light, and it turns green, gently apply the accelerator. By doing this, you’ll be able to ensure your tires grip the road surface properly to move you forward without spinning out. On highways, city streets, and back roads, it’s sometimes safer to simply come off the gas and slow down rather than hitting the brakes. If you apply the brakes too aggressively, it could cause the tires to skid over the packed snow, ice, or slush. Check your tires and battery Stepping outside on a frigid morning to warm up your vehicle only to find a dead battery is not an ideal start to the day. During the fall, it’s a good idea to have your battery inspected by a certified technician. That will ensure that you’ll have the capacity and charge to start your car. Your tires are the only points of contact your vehicle makes with the road. If they’re not properly maintained, it’s a safety issue. With the right amount of tread and proper inflation, your tires will deliver the traction to stay on the road and the stopping power to bring your vehicle to a halt when you need to. Prepare Your Car for Winter at Martin Chevy Contact us at Martin Chevy in Crystal Lake, Illinois, to schedule a service center appointment. We’ll get your car, truck, or SUV ready for winter weather driving.

The road is often a bumpy place, and over time, it can put a lot of wear and tear on your car’s tires. Luckily, there are ways to slow that natural deterioration. Having your Chevrolet’s tires routinely rotated is one of them. Read on to learn more about how regular tire rotation affects vehicle performance and when you should stop in for service. 3 Reasons To Have Your Tires Rotated Longer Lifespan Your tires take the brunt of the action. That’s why the tread on your tires can wear down at an accelerated rate. It all depends on your vehicle's specific make and model, your turn tendencies, regular cargo loads, terrain, and more. Rotation helps ensure they wear evenly during their lifespan and helps minimize costly replacements. Optimized Performance Fresh off of the assembly line, your car is ready to take you virtually anywhere you need to go. Unfortunately, uneven tread can impact the way your vehicle handles on the road and fuel efficiency. Having your tires regularly rotated ensures the ride is as smooth as possible and that you’ll enjoy fewer pit stops along the way. Safety When the tread is at its peak, tires can firmly grip the road beneath you — which is especially important in adverse weather conditions. Even tread wear helps ensure your tires can help you reach your destinations safely. When Should My Tires Be Rotated? Many drivers have a tire rotation service performed when they go in for an oil change or every 5,000 to 8,000 miles, but you can check your Chevrolet service manual for information on the specific needs of your model. The way your tires are rotated is also specific to rear-wheel, 4-wheel, and front-wheel configurations. Ensure yours are properly cared for by having a professional take care of this service for you. The qualified technicians at Martin Chevrolet can work out a schedule that suits your vehicle best. Have Your Tires Serviced at Martin Chevy in Crystal Lake, IL We’ll be happy to let you know when you’re due for rotation. Contact us today to schedule an appointment for your Chevrolet car, truck, or SUV or to learn about our service center’s hours and directions. Be sure to check out our available Chevy service coupons to ensure you’ll be making the most of your visit with us.