Most people are aware that they need to regularly get the oil changed in their automobiles. According to Nerd Wallet, the average vehicle should have its oil changed approximately every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. However, while you know you need to regularly change the oil, you may not know the reason why. Here are three reasons why regular oil changes are so important.

Help to Improve Your Engine’s Performance

One of the reasons why it’s so important to regularly have the oil changed in your vehicle is because the oil helps to improve your engine’s performance. But, if the oil is old, dirty, or starting to clump, it can have the opposite effect. It can negatively affect the engine or even cause problems that may lead to your engine needing repairs or replacement sooner.

Help With Fuel Efficiency

Another reason why you need to regularly change the oil in your automobile is that regular oil changes help with fuel efficiency. If you are approaching the timeframe in which your oil needs to be changed, or are past that timeframe, you may be getting fewer miles per gallon. And with the rising cost of gas, you likely want to do everything you can to help with fuel efficiency. Immediately following an oil change, your fuel efficiency will improve.

Help Your Car to Last

The final reason why routinely changing the oil in your automobile is important is because a regular oil change helps your vehicle last. The average car lasts 10 years in the United States, according to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics. By completing routine maintenance, including regularly swapping out the oil, you can help your car last 10 years or longer. You may also be able to maximize the amount you can sell the car for, if you so decide, by keeping up with routine maintenance.

Every car is different, and the frequency at which the oil needs to be changed can vary. Read your owner’s manual to find out how frequently the manufacturer recommends that you have the oil changed in your vehicle. If your vehicle is due for an oil change, we can help. Call us at Melton Automotive to schedule an appointment or bring your vehicle by and let us get to work replacing the oil.

In 2022, 80.4 million cars and trucks were manufactured worldwide, according to Forbes. That’s a lot of cars on the road that require regular attention and maintenance. Regular auto maintenance is one of the most important investments you can make and it has some significant benefits. Read on to find out why you should be a regular visitor at your local auto repair shop.

1. Increase the Lifespan of Your Vehicle

Regular auto maintenance helps increase your vehicle’s lifespan. The parts in a car consist of metal and other materials that can wear down over time, leading to potential issues if left unchecked. Regular oil changes and other preventative maintenance will help keep these parts running smoothly and efficiently for a longer period. Regular check-ups will also help detect any underlying issues that could become more costly if left untreated.

2. Enhance Safety

Safety is an important factor to consider with auto maintenance. Regular tune-ups and check-ups will help to ensure that your vehicle is up-to-date on any necessary repairs or replacements. It’ll help reduce the chances of an accident or malfunction while driving, keeping you and your passengers safe. Additionally, regular maintenance helps keep all the components in good working order to respond properly when needed.

3. Boost Fuel Efficiency

Auto repair professionals also help to increase your vehicle’s fuel efficiency. Regular tune-ups and oil changes will help maintain your engine’s power, allowing it to use less energy and save you money in the long run. Additionally, inspections will help identify any issues that may cause your car to use more fuel than necessary, such as a clogged air filter or worn spark plugs.

4. Avoid Costly Repairs

Going to your auto repair shop can help you avoid costly repairs down the line. With regular check-ups and maintenance, your auto technician can identify and address issues before they become major problems.

5. Keep Your Vehicle’s Value High

Regular maintenance can also help you maintain your car’s value. Good auto work will help keep it looking and running like new, which is essential if you’re planning on selling or trading it in.

Your car is an investment. The more you care for it, the safer you’ll be on the road and the longer it will last. Contact Melton Automotive today to give your car the upkeep it deserves.

Whether you’re about to head up to the mountains, on a lengthy road trip vacation or just around the corner for some ice cream, driving in the summertime can present a set of unique challenges for your vehicle. Intense sunlight, oppressive heat, etc. can take its toll on your car, meaning the more on top of your maintenance you are the better prepared you’ll be to handle whatever challenges you might face while cruising around in Alabama this summer.


Here are three easy ways to help maintain your car this summer driving season under these conditions.


Bring your car into Melton Automotive for an inspection
Certain parts and systems of your car take just a little more maintenance during the summer than what is normally required throughout the rest of the year. Bringing your car in to have it checked out by an ASE-certified technician is extremely important.


Your battery in particular can be affected as fluid inside the battery can evaporate, eventually causing it to stop working altogether. It’s important that you get your battery testes as part of your summer maintenance checkup.


The cooling system is also susceptible to summertime wear. Having a mechanic take a look at the hoses and seals for cracks and wear and tear are critical. Furthermore, you may want to a cooling system flush performed and your fluids changed out.


Pay attention to and maintain your tires
Over the course of a hot summer, your tires endure a fair amount of wear and tear. While this may decrease the lifetime of a tire in the long-term, it can also put you or your loved ones at risk for a tire blowout on the road in the short-term.


It’s important to have your tires rotated and to have a mechanic check for indications of unusual wear and tear, especially with increased driving during the summer months in warmer temperatures than normal.


In addition, hot weather can cause the pressure in your tires to increase. Check your tire pressure periodically, ensuring that it’s filled correctly and according to the manufacturer’s technical specifications.


Don’t forget about the exterior
The summer heat and sun can also take its toll on the exterior of your car as well. Regular washing of your vehicle will remove unsightly bird droppings, unwanted tree sap, etc. and help protect the paint of the car.


Of higher importance is your windshield wipers and their condition. Rain storms during this time of year can be particularly violent and it’s critical to have your wipers in good condition.


Keeping these maintenance tips in mind will not only help you enjoy your summer months, but keep your car in proper shape for the rest of the year as well!

What supports the weight of your vehicle? If you answered your tires, you are wrong. It’s the air pressure inside the tires that supports the weight. This is why proper tire inflation is so important.
  
The correct tire pressure can help you save money on fuel because over- or underinflated tires can cause your engine to work harder. It’s hard to say which is worse, over- or underinflated tires as both can cause serious problems.
  
Underinflated tires. Underinflated tires will have you driving on the sidewalls. The sidewall part of the tire is normally thinner than the part of the tire you drive on – that being the tread. If you are driving on an underinflated tire, a puncture could easily rupture the sidewall and result in a tire blowout. Underinflated tires increase the area of the tire you are driving on and can result in the sidewalls wearing out, since you are now driving on them. Also, fuel mileage can be reduced by one MPG or more.
  
Overinflated tires. Overinflated tires will cause uneven wear on the tread as all the wear is concentrated in the center. An overinflated tire is stiff and unyielding and the size of its footprint on the road is reduced. If weather conditions are less than optimal, you are reducing the amount of control you are exercising over your car. Overinflated tires cannot isolate road irregularities (potholes or debris) as well and will result in a harsher ride.
  
Best Practices. You cannot set tire pressure and forget about it. Tire pressure should be checked at least once a month and before starting on any long trip. You need to make sure the ravages of time, changes in ambient temperature or a small tread puncture have not caused it to change.
  
The recommended tire pressure is the vehicle’s recommended cold tire pressure. Tire pressure should be checked when the vehicle is cold, let’s say in the morning before you drive more than a few miles or before rising ambient temperatures. Checking your tire pressure is a very simple process and takes only one instrument. You can buy a tire gauge at any auto parts store, big- box store, or online. A good gauge will cost anywhere from $5 to $15.
  
Use the tire pressure recommended by your car’s manufacturer, not the “max pressure” numerals found on the tire sidewall. By using the recommended pressure, you will get the best combination of performance, ride comfort, tire life, and fuel economy.
  
If you have any questions about tire inflation or anything else related to your vehicle’s health, be sure to give us a call at 205-663-6088. If you suspect any issues with your vehicle, please come into Melton Automotive and have our trained ASE-certified technicians take a look!

Car batteries are one of the most important components of a vehicle’s engine. It must provide the electricity to start your car and power your accessories. Without a working battery, you’re going nowhere. But how do you know when it’s time for a new car battery?

You should always have an one of our certified technicians take a look at the battery as part of a thorough vehicle inspections. Heat, cold, and temperature swings can affect the battery’s performance, so check your battery at the change of seasons.

Watch for warning signs, including:
-Age
-Leaks
-Fraying cables
-Corrosion on the terminals
-Trouble starting your vehicle

An average car battery usually has a lifespan of 3-5 years. Keep track of the age of your battery and have it tested more frequently as it gets older. We recommend keeping the vehicle’s maintenance records for all services, including purchasing a new battery. Our technicians will also keep track of the maintenance schedule for your vehicle.

Between routine inspections, periodically check the battery yourself at home. Look for fraying cables, corrosion, and white or green powdery substance on the battery itself. Battery acid is very corrosive. If you find evidence of a leak, including the powder-like corrosion at the terminals, bring your vehicle and battery into Melton Automotive.

Our technicians will inspect your battery to determine if the corrosion can be cleaned and the leak fixed. If the damage is severe enough, your vehicle may be due for a new battery.

Even young batteries can be damaged in the summer heat we’ll be getting soon here in Alabaster. Don’t be left high and dry on the side of the road. Keeping track of your battery’s age, watching for warning signs, and regular inspections can help you ensure your vehicle has the power it needs to keep you safe on the roads in Shelby County.