Regular Oil Changes
Keeping your engine oil fresh and clean is essential for maintaining the longevity and performance of your Chevrolet vehicle. Regular oil changes help remove particles and sludge, ensuring a smoother-running engine.
Chevrolet Service Tips and Tricks
Lou Bachrodt Chevrolet Rockford
Service Tips & Tricks for Your Chevrolet
Service Tips & Tricks
Tire Maintenance
Proper tire maintenance, including regular rotations and alignments, ensures even wear and extends the life of your tires. Check your tire pressure monthly and adjust as needed.
How-To Guides
How to Change Your Oil
- Gather your supplies: oil filter, new oil, wrench, oil pan, funnel.
- Lift the car using a jack and secure it with jack stands.
- Drain the old oil into the oil pan by removing the drain plug.
- Replace the oil filter.
- Replace the drain plug and add new oil using a funnel.
- Lower the car and check the oil level with the dipstick.
How to Adhere to Proper Tire Maintenance
Rotate Your Tires Regularly
- Schedule tire rotations approximately every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, or as recommended in your vehicle's manual.
- Rotating tires involves changing their positions from front to back and side to side to ensure even wear.
Check Tire Alignment
- Have your vehicle's alignment checked by a professional at least once a year or if you notice uneven tire wear or your car pulling to one side.
- Proper alignment ensures that all four tires are parallel and the vehicle handles correctly.
Inspect Tire Tread
- Use the penny test: Insert a penny into the tire tread with Lincoln's head upside down. If you can see the top of Lincoln's head, your tread is too worn and needs replacing.
- Check for any signs of unusual wear patterns that could indicate alignment or other mechanical issues.
Monitor Tire Pressure Monthly
- Use a tire pressure gauge to check each tire's pressure, including the spare, at least once a month and before long trips.
- Refer to your vehicle’s owner's manual or the placard inside the driver's door for the recommended PSI (pounds per square inch).
Adjust Tire Pressure as Needed
- Inflate or deflate your tires to the recommended PSI to ensure optimal performance and fuel efficiency.
- Remember that tire pressure can fluctuate with temperature changes; adjust accordingly.
Visual Inspection
- Conduct regular visual inspections for cuts, punctures, bulges, or foreign objects lodged in the tire.
- Address any visible damage immediately to prevent further issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I change my oil?
It's generally recommended to change your oil every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, but always refer to your owner's manual for the manufacturer's guidelines.
What should I do if my check engine light comes on?
If your check engine light comes on, it's best to get your vehicle inspected by a professional as soon as possible to diagnose and fix any potential issues.