Oil Changes

Schedules vary by car; particularly for newer cars requiring synthetic oil. Check owner’s manual (or trust your dashboard service reminders, which should be set to match the manual). 

Tire Pressure

The method vary by car, but we recommend you get in the habit of checking your tire pressure for optimal handling and fuel efficiency as well as prevention of costly abnormal wear or unsafe conditions.

If there are no physical issues, typically, changes in weather temperature affect tire pressure. 

Tire Tread Wear

1. Take a penny and place it with Lincoln’s head upside down between two ribs on your tire.
   
   
2. If part of the head is covered, your tires are still in good shape.
   
   
3. If you can see his entire head, your tread is worn to 2⁄32 inch or less and it’s time for new tires.
   
   

Although using a penny works, to get a more precise reading, buy a tire depth gauge from an auto-parts store. Usually, a 2/32-inch tread or less is considered unable to pass safety inspection. To prolong tread life, get tires rotated every 6,000 to 8,000 miles.

Wiper Blades

Schedules vary by car; particularly for newer cars requiring synthetic oil. Check owner’s manual (or trust your dashboard service reminders, which should be set to match the manual). 

Fluids

If your vehicle is newer, a monthly fluid check is probably not necessary. For older vehicles, catching a problem such as a leaking water pump or engine oil leak early can save plenty of time and money later.

• Engine oil level – The oil level should be between the low and full line on the dipstick. If your oil light comes on in the time between these level checks, you’ll need to check the level and top off on a monthly basis instead. 
  
  
• Windshield washer fluid – You can’t go wrong topping this one off whenever you’re under the hood. 
  
  
• Coolant – When the engine is cool, the level should be between the low and full lines on the reservoir.
• Brake fluid level – The level in the reservoir needs to be between low and full. If it’s low, have your vehicle towed to a pro shop if you’re not experienced in brake system repairs. Brake fluid is essential for your brakes to work, and a low fluid level indicates a serious safety issue.
  
  
• Transmission fluid – If you don’t have a transmission dipstick, skip this one. If you do, you’re going to look and smell the fluid. It shouldn’t be too dark or have a bitter, burned smell.
  
  
• Power steering fluid – Check the level.

Brakes

Schedules vary by car; particularly for newer cars requiring synthetic oil. Check owner’s manual (or trust your dashboard service reminders, which should be set to match the manual). 

Headlights, tail lights, and signals

Schedules vary by car; particularly for newer cars requiring synthetic oil. Check owner’s manual (or trust your dashboard service reminders, which should be set to match the manual).

Air conditioner

Schedules vary by car; particularly for newer cars requiring synthetic oil. Check owner’s manual (or trust your dashboard service reminders, which should be set to match the manual). 

Wheel Alignment

While you wait in our lobby, you can enjoy free coffee, water, snacks, and Wi-Fi. Vehicle inspections have never been so easy. Call us to learn more about our inspection services.

When You Visit Maryland Auto & Truck Repair

 You are always welcome to wait in our lobby when we are working on your vehicle. You can enjoy free coffee, water, snacks, and Wi-Fi.