5 Auto Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Car Running Smoothly

Keeping your car in great shape doesn't have to be complicated. With just a few routine checks and services, you can extend the life of your vehicle and avoid expensive repairs down the road. At Scotts Valley Transmission & Auto Care, we help drivers throughout Santa Cruz and Scotts Valley stay safe and confident behind the wheel. These auto maintenance tips will help you keep your vehicle running smoothly, whether commuting, heading up the mountain, or cruising around town.

Prioritize Regular Oil Changes for Engine Health

A regular oil change is one of the most critical parts of vehicle maintenance. Motor oil keeps your engine's internal components properly lubricated, reduces friction, and prevents overheating. Over time, oil breaks down and collects debris, making it less effective and risking your engine.

Depending on your vehicle and driving conditions, oil changes are typically recommended every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, though some newer models may go longer. Changing your oil a little more often may be wise if you regularly drive through the hills and curves of Santa Cruz County or make frequent short trips.

Our ASE-certified mechanics at Scotts Valley Transmission & Auto Care will not only perform the oil change but also inspect your engine for early signs of wear or leaks, giving you peace of mind and helping you avoid bigger issues later.

Select the Recommended Engine Oil for Your Vehicle

Choosing the right oil isn't a one-size-fits-all decision. Your owner's manual will list the recommended engine oil based on your car's make, model, and engine type. Using the wrong oil can lead to poor performance, increased fuel consumption, and premature engine wear.

There are different types of engine oil—conventional, synthetic blend, and full synthetic. Full synthetic oil offers the highest level of protection and is often recommended for high-performance vehicles, extreme temperatures, or heavy driving loads.

Are you unsure what's best for your vehicle? We're here to help. Our technicians in Scotts Valley can explain your options and make recommendations based on your driving habits and manufacturer specifications.

How and When to Change Your Car's Air Filter

A clean air filter is essential for engine performance. It ensures that the air entering your engine is free of dust, dirt, and debris. A clogged filter can reduce fuel efficiency, slow acceleration, and even cause your check engine light to come on.

So, how and when should you change the air filter? Generally, it should be replaced every 12,000 to 15,000 miles—or more often if you drive in dusty or smoky conditions, common in areas like the Santa Cruz Mountains during wildfire season.

Replacing an air filter is a quick and affordable service, and our technicians can check its condition during your routine maintenance visit. Clean airflow means better combustion, improved fuel economy, and smoother engine performance.

Regularly Check Spark Plugs in Your Vehicle



Regarding general car maintenance tips, don't overlook your spark plugs. These small but mighty components ignite the air-fuel mixture that powers your engine. Over time, spark plugs wear out, leading to misfires, rough idling, and reduced fuel economy.

How often should you check spark plugs? Most vehicles require inspection and replacement between 30,000 and 100,000 miles, depending on the type of spark plug and driving conditions. If you've noticed sluggish performance or trouble starting your car, worn spark plugs could be the culprit.

At Scotts Valley Transmission & Auto Care, we inspect spark plugs during tune-ups and other maintenance services during our auto repair services in Santa Cruz. Replacing them on schedule can help your engine run more efficiently and prevent avoidable damage.

At Scotts Valley Transmission & Auto Care, we believe in educating our customers so they can feel confident about their car care decisions. Following these auto maintenance tips can keep your vehicle performing at its best and help you avoid surprises on the road. Whether you need a quick oil change, a filter replacement, or a full inspection, our team is here for you. Contact Scotts Valley Auto and Transmission for more information about our auto repair services today.