Basic Car Care Archives - Page 4 of 8 - Colonial Service Station

Road Hazards: Potholes

Posted on May 20, 2022 by Michael Lazo

While springtime is a great time to get out on the open road, driving can be hazardous this time of year for your vehicle because of potholes. According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), “…1 in 10 drivers sustained vehicle damage significant enough to warrant a repair after hitting a pothole. With an average price tag of almost $600 per repair, damage caused by potholes cost drivers a staggering $26.5 billion in 2021 alone (Source: AAA, March 2022).” Continue reading “Road Hazards: Potholes” →

Vehicle System Fluid Flushes

Posted on April 19, 2022 by Michael Lazo

Every driver knows the importance of regular oil checks and replacement. Oil is the lifeblood of your vehicle, and without it, the engine would cease to operate. Motor oil lubricates important engine parts, helps to regulate temperature, and works to keep your engine parts clean.

What many drivers may not know is that several of their vehicle’s systems also utilize fluids that share a similar purpose as oil does for the engine. While these fluids do not require the aggressive maintenance checks as oil, they do need to be serviced at some point in the lifecycle of the vehicle. Continue reading “Vehicle System Fluid Flushes” →

Repair or Replace Your Vehicle?

Posted on March 19, 2022 by Michael Lazo

With the costs of just about everything on the rise, making major financial decisions requires a greater emphasis on a process of research and practical economics. This approach is a wise one to apply to deciding whether to repair or replace your vehicle.

A new purchase decision should never be based purely on emotions but should be rooted in facts. In this month’s blog, we lay out five steps to help you arrive at a decision to repair your vehicle or make an investment in a new or used vehicle purchase. Continue reading “Repair or Replace Your Vehicle?” →

The Modern Tune Up

Posted on February 28, 2022 by Michael Lazo

In the not-too-distant past, vehicle owners often spoke about giving their vehicle a much needed “tune up”. The term “tune up” has a different meaning today, but it is still an important maintenance function that should not be overlooked.

In this month’s blog, we examine the modern “tune up”, share its purpose, and what is involved with this service. If you have not had your vehicle in to get a tune-up, we highly recommend it to increase the longevity and function of your vehicle. Continue reading “The Modern Tune Up” →

Do It Yourself Maintenance Tasks

Posted on January 26, 2022 by Michael Lazo

An important responsibility of vehicle ownership is making sure that you follow a routine maintenance schedule. Items such as oil changes, brake repairs, tire rotations, and other miscellaneous inspections to your engine components are vital to the longevity of your vehicle. Most vehicle owners use a trusted mechanic for this type of ongoing maintenance. However, there are many small, simple maintenance tasks that you can perform on your own. And they don’t take very long to complete! Continue reading “Do It Yourself Maintenance Tasks” →

Your Vehicle’s Steering System

Posted on December 22, 2021December 26, 2021 by Michael Lazo

Imagine sitting in your vehicle at a traffic light. Your engine is idling, and you are preparing to make a left turn. The left turn arrow turns green and as you go to make the left turn, nothing happens. Your vehicle does not turn even as you forcefully try to steer the vehicle left.

Your vehicle’s steering system is a critical function of driving, and without it you are unable to operate your vehicle. Steering is a necessity as well as a safety concern. Continue reading “Your Vehicle’s Steering System” →

Winter Weather Safety

Posted on November 26, 2021 by Michael Lazo

As the holidays near, so does the winter weather. While we cannot control the weather, we can take steps to keep ourselves safe during winter driving. This month’s blog addresses ways to handle tough winter driving conditions, especially when you have an unexpected breakdown. Continue reading “Winter Weather Safety” →

Fall Driving Hazards

Posted on October 27, 2021 by Michael Lazo

It’s that time of year again – fall! Football, sweater weather and hot cider are only some of the many things to enjoy about this season. But along with the many pleasures of the season come some possible fall driving hazards that drivers can be better prepared for to maximize their safety. Continue reading “Fall Driving Hazards” →

Back-to-School Vehicle Maintenance

Posted on September 25, 2021September 25, 2021 by Michael Lazo

Now that summer is behind us and many children are back-to-school this year in person, it’s time to think about the weekly carpool again. If you are a parent who participates in a neighborhood carpool, or you have sent your college-aged child back to college, vehicle maintenance should be a priority. Continue reading “Back-to-School Vehicle Maintenance” →

Automatic Transmission Problems

Posted on August 25, 2021 by Michael Lazo

Over the last few decades, drivers have opted for automatic transmissions over manual ones. This trend has changed the relationship many people have with their vehicles. In the past, drivers using the stick shift were directly connected to their vehicle’s performance through the clutch and the gear shifter. Despite the evolution toward automatics, this vehicle system is still one of the hardest working and most complex of all the vehicle systems and can develop problems. Continue reading “Automatic Transmission Problems” →

Category: Basic Car Care