JK Automotive wants to help you keep your car running at it’s optimal best and there are several things you can do to keep it running like new, make your car last longer, and keep you off the side of the road!

• Having your oil changed every 3,000 miles or according to your vehicle’s owner’s manual is mandatory for keeping your engine working like it should.  Some newer cars seem to allow more miles between oil changes but be sure to check your owners manual for specific instructions and your car’s maintenance schedule. If you use synthetic oil it is believed to lubricate the engine more efficiently because it breaks down at a slower rate. Synthetic oil made by Castrol, Chevron, Mobil, Havoline, etc can be found easily at your local auto parts or even super-mart store.

• Be sure to change your oil filter every time you change your oil.  Having fresh oil and a gummed up filter won’t do you or your car any good.

• Before driving your car off the lot, it’s important to know the location of your oil dipstick.  If you don’t know, have them show you.  You’ll need to check the oil level in between oil changes.  To check the oil, pull out the dipstick and wipe it off with a clean lint free cloth.  Put the dipstick back in and pull it out again.  Look at the markings on the end of the dipstick to see the oil level to make sure it is close to the full line.  If it’s not, you can add oil but be sure not to overfill.  It’s best to add just a little oil at a time. [Read more…]