Atlantic Tire & Service offers professional maintenance to ensure your car is safe, runs efficiently and is always prepared for the road
Atlantic Tire & Service offers professional maintenance to ensure your car is safe, runs efficiently and is always prepared for the road
Your car’s maintenance schedule depends on factors such as manufacturer recommendations and your driving conditions. For best driving performance, keep these in mind.
City vs. Highway Driving
While it might seem surprising, highway driving is actually easier on your vehicle than city driving. The frequent stop-and-go traffic in urban areas tends to wear down your engine, brakes and other essential components more quickly.
City Driving Tips
City driving can be hard on your car’s brakes, engine and transmission. The constant stopping and starting leads to increased wear over time. For instance, brake pads degrade more quickly with frequent use, and your engine experiences more strain in stop-and-go traffic. To reduce this impact:
Highway Driving Tips
While highway driving is easier on your brakes, prolonged high speeds can place stress on your engine, transmission and tires. Over time, this may result in uneven tire wear and weakened suspension. To keep your vehicle in optimal condition, consider these tips:
Addressing these services can help avoid future issues and keep your vehicle in top condition:
Brake System Maintenance
Regular inspections of brake pads, rotors and calipers are essential for maintaining proper functionality. As brake pads wear over time, their stopping power decreases. Replacing worn pads improves your vehicle’s safety and provides smoother, more reliable braking performance.
Filter Replacements
The primary function of your air filters is to prevent harmful contaminants from entering your engine and cabin. While this may seem straightforward, failing to replace them regularly can lead to dirty filters that obstruct airflow. This additional strain on your engine can decrease fuel efficiency and create performance problems. Additionally, neglected air filters can lower the air quality inside the cabin, allowing dust and allergens to enter your vehicle.
Tire Maintenance
Consistent tire maintenance is essential for both safety and performance. Regular tire rotation promotes even wear, extending tire life and improving handling. It’s also important to frequently check tire pressure — properly inflated tires improve fuel efficiency and provide better control, especially in challenging driving conditions.
When it comes to replacing tires, keep an eye on tread depth. If it reaches 2/32 of an inch, it’s time for new tires. Consider your driving conditions as well; wet, icy or uneven surfaces may necessitate earlier tire replacement for optimal safety and traction.
Fluid Changes
For most vehicles made in the last decade, oil changes are generally recommended every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, especially when using synthetic or full synthetic oil. Some newer models may have longer intervals specified in the owner’s manual. However, older vehicles or certain engines may still benefit from the traditional 3,000-mile oil change, particularly if conventional oil is used.
It’s also important to replace other vital fluids like transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid and coolant. Failing to do so can lead to serious issues. For example, old transmission fluid can cause shifting issues or even transmission failure, while degraded brake fluid reduces braking effectiveness, jeopardizing your safety. Ignoring power steering fluid can cause steering difficulties, and not changing your coolant could lead to engine overheating.
Battery Health
Most car batteries typically last between three to five years, so it’s a good idea to have yours tested when it reaches the three-year mark to ensure it’s still in good condition. Warning signs like decreased vehicle performance, dimming lights or a rotten egg odor may suggest that a replacement is needed.
To help maintain your battery’s health, remove any visible corrosion from the terminals. If your car isn’t driven often, take it for a drive occasionally to keep the battery charged and prevent unexpected issues down the line.
At Atlantic Tire & Service, we’ll support you with these maintenance intervals, ensuring your vehicle stays in optimal condition by customizing our services to fit your driving habits and specific needs.
At 5,000 Miles:
At 15,000 Miles:
At 30,000 Miles:
At 60,000 Miles:
At 90,000 Miles and Beyond:
These intervals are general guidelines and may vary depending on your vehicle’s make and model. Always refer to your owner’s manual for manufacturer-specific recommendations.
Your vehicle is a lot like your body — it gives you warning signs when something is wrong. By paying attention to these signals, you can prevent bigger issues down the road. Here’s what to look out for:
Unusual Sounds or Smells:
Grinding or squeaking noises usually signal issues with the brake pads or rotors, while burning smells may indicate fluid leaks or overheating parts in the vehicle.
Dashboard Warning Lights:
Don’t ignore these warning lights! They are your vehicle’s way of signaling that something requires attention. Issues like low oil pressure, battery problems or overheating can quickly escalate if not addressed. If a light comes on, it’s best to have it checked as soon as possible.
Visible Wear and Tear:
Take a moment to inspect visible damage on your car. Worn windshield wipers can reduce visibility in bad weather, while cracked or frayed belts and hoses could result in more significant issues if ignored. By keeping an eye on these components, you can catch potential problems early and prevent more costly repairs down the line.
Neglecting simple and affordable services like oil changes or brake inspections can result in significant damage that could have been easily avoided. While routine maintenance requires an upfront cost, it helps your vehicle run more efficiently, reduces emissions and keeps it healthy in the long run.
Skipping these services might seem like a way to save money, but it often leads to larger and more expensive problems later. By following a maintenance schedule, you prolong your vehicle’s lifespan and save yourself the hassle and frustration of dealing with major repairs.
At Atlantic Tire & Service, we understand that every car and driver has unique needs, so our maintenance services are customized just for you. Whether you require routine maintenance or more intricate repairs, our experienced technicians deliver professional and reliable service.
If you’re looking for car maintenance in your area, our local expertise makes us the ideal choice. We are committed to providing outstanding care and ensuring your vehicle stays in excellent condition wherever you travel.
Take advantage of our current promotions and apply today for flexible financing with the Bridgestone CFNA credit card. Enjoy exclusive benefits, including no annual fees, budget-friendly monthly payments and more.
Get $10 off your next oil change at Atlantic Tire & Service.
Cannot be combined with any other offer. Must present at time of service.
Expiration Date: 12/31/2024
Get a free brake inspection on your next trip to Atlantic Tire & Service.
Cannot be combined with any other offer. Must present at time of service.
Expiration Date: 12/31/2024
Get a free alignment check on your next trip to Atlantic Tire & Service.
Cannot be combined with any other offer. Must present at time of service.
Expiration Date: 12/31/2024
Get $20 off your first visit to Atlantic Tire & Service.
Cannot be combined with any other offer. Cannot be used for NC State Inspection service. Must present at time of service.
Expiration Date: 12/31/2024
Don’t wait for problems to occur — schedule your maintenance with Atlantic Tire & Service today. Our experienced technicians are prepared to keep your car running smoothly, ensuring you reach all your destinations safely.
