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The Basics of Car Maintenance.

Whether you're new to caring for a car, or you're a veteran, it's important to take care of your car. If you're planning on driving back home for the holidays, it's doubly important to take a few steps for car care before you head out.

In the winter months, there are a few extra care tips to take into account before going on a long trip.

• Oil change. Always check to see what your oil levels are before going for a long drive. Check the sticker from your last oil change. If you are getting close to the mileage listed before your next change, have an oil change performed before your trip.
• Check your tires. How is the tread on your tires? If they look low, it may be time for new ones. If you have a newer model vehicle, you may have a tire pressure indicator on your dash. The tire pressure indicator lights up if your tire pressure is either low or too high. If you have All-Season tires on your vehicle, the tire pressure can change depending on the temperature outside. Make sure the tire pressure is what's recommended in either your driver's manual or the sticker on the inside of your driver's side door.
• Fluids. Aside from your engine's oil, you'll need to make sure that the other fluids in your vehicle are topped off. Your vehicle needs windshield washer fluid, coolant, transmission fluid, power steering fluid, and brake fluid. Ask a technician where those fluids should go or check your vehicle's owners manual.
• Headlights. Check your vehicle's headlights. Are both of them working properly and clean? The last thing you need on a trip is to not have working headlights. You also run the risk of being pulled over if one of your lights is out.
• Brake Lights. Speaking of lights on your vehicle, are your brake lights working properly?
• Turn signals. Check to see if you turn signals are also working as they should.
• Air cabin filter. A filthy cabin filter means you're breathing in that unclean air. For those with allergies, this can make traveling in your vehicle just as difficult as being outside with pollen.
• Wiper blades. Are your wiper blades clearing your windshield, or are they leaving huge streaks making it difficult to see?

All Services Are Important.

Keep in mind that all services are important for your vehicle, and they add to the overall health of your car. In between services, check in with your favorite repair shop for inspections.

Give Aspen Hill Exxon a call! We would be happy to check over your vehicle for you, whether you're heading back to school after the holidays, or are heading home. We're located in Silver Spring, Maryland and are a full-service repair shop.