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What do you do when you start your car, and see that your check engine light is illuminated? If you’re the type that instantly begins to worry about what it will cost you, take a deep breath! Today’s cars have highly-advanced monitoring systems that continually check your vehicle’s health, and a simple visit to your dealer can easily reveal the issue – perhaps a gas cap is not screwed on tightly, or a painless maintenance issue has been over-looked for a bit too long. If the light is on, it’s a good time to revisit your owner’s manual for additional information and ideas about what the issue could be. Keep in mind, however, that a blinking check engine light could indicate a more serious problem such as a loose oil cap or a hazardous condition that could ultimately ruin your engine. Though you need not panic if the light comes on, it is a time to check-in with your car’s health. Next time that little light illuminates, head on over to your dealer to keep your car healthy, and to ensure the safety of you and your passengers!

We all know that our car’s mirrors allow us see around blind spots, and serve to keep us safe when we are driving. Given their position on our vehicles, mirrors are particularly vulnerable to minor accidents and scraps as we navigate our way through the world. Perhaps, you’ve even had a time when you returned to your car to find that your mirror was broken or damaged. If so, put that duct tape away, and head on over to your dealer. Your dealer will be able to order a replacement mirror, and will also be able to install it as per the factory specs. Having a proper, functioning mirror will protect you and your car, and will also prevent moisture from getting inside of the door. Driving with a damaged mirror could lead to more problems, such as inspection failure, or even worse it could fall off, and hit another vehicle at high speed. Don’t engage in risky behavior, instead, contact your dealer and have them fix your damaged mirrors today!

With the ever skyrocketing cost of gas, people are always looking for ways to save. One of the easiest and best ways to make the most of your tank is to check your car’s tire pressure. If you are one of the 85% of people who fail to check their tire pressure monthly, then you could be missing out on some significant savings. Tires that are under inflated often run hot, wear down faster, and result in lower gas mileage. So, once you realize your tires need a little air, you may begin to wonder which is better, air or nitrogen. If you’ve ever seen a green air cap on a tire that means the tire is filled with Nitrogen. Nitrogen is currently used in airplanes and race cars, and has larger molecules than standard air, so if you happen to have a leak in your tire, the nitrogen will leak out more slowly than compressed air. Also, nitrogen has no moisture or oxygen, which means that it will not result in the deterioration of the rubber or the rusting or pitting of the rim. If you’re still wondering what is best, ask your dealer for their recommendation for your vehicle.

In the past, your car’s interior temperature was as the mercy of the weather. On chilly days, you would find yourself shivering until the heat finally warmed it up, and on hot days, you would find yourself sweltering until the AC cooled the car down enough to provide some relief. But today is a different ball game, as new technology puts temperature comfort at your fingertips. With remote start options, you can pre-program your heat or air conditioning setting before you exit your car. Then, when you are just about ready to return to your vehicle, you can hit your remote start, and the car will get the AC or heat going before you enter your car. That way, when you open the door, your desired interior environment will greet you – no more shivering or sweltering! If this option intrigues you, visit your dealer to see if they can install a remote starter in your current car. If not, it might just be the perfect excuse to treat yourself to a new vehicle!

Overall, your car is running well and in good shape, but you notice a noise that could be the sign of a bad muffler. If you’re like most, the immediate fix is to turn up the radio, and try to ignore it. But, we all know that a “fix” such as that is short-lived. Without a properly working muffler, exhaust could be leaking into your car, which is certainly not healthy. Also, your car’s efficiency could be affected due to the change of airflow, which can in turn cue the “check engine” light to illuminate. Instead of ignoring the issue, and crossing your fingers that it goes away, bring your car to your dealer. Many times your dealer’s mechanics can order the specific part you’re in need of before the whole exhaust system is in need of replacement. Moral of the story – if your car is making an unfamiliar sound, or the check engine light is on, give your dealer a call, and keep your car noise (and problem) free!

There is no denying that today’s automobiles are becoming more and more computerized. Knowing what the consumers want, the industry has kept up with the demand for more intuitive cars by offering onboard navigational systems, "on line" help, and vehicle communication services like GM's OnStar and Mercedes’ system. If creating a more intuitive driving experience is important to you, talk to your dealer about the onboard services they offer for their cars. And, even if they don’t currently offer the service you want for your specific make and model, chances are they will be able to add it to your car upon your request. To stay connected and safe, talk to your dealer about the right vehicle communication system for you!

What did we do before we all had cell phones?! It’s hard to even remember the day when you had to track down a pay phone to make a call from the road. Well, the times have certainly changed -- but, despite their many, many benefits, cells phones have been proven a deadly distraction to drivers. To combat unsafe driving, state laws have not only outlawed texting while driving, but have recently prohibited talking on your cell phone while driving. If you typically use your drive time to catch up on phone calls, you’re not completely out of luck. To stay connected and compliant, you can have your dealer install a hands-free device that allows you to safely chat while you drive. If you’re interested in getting one of these options added to your vehicle, call your dealer (not while driving!) to schedule an appointment that could save your life.

When you hear the term “mud flaps”, your mind probably conjures up an image of a large truck or 18-wheeler. But, believe it or not, mud flaps and splash guards are becoming more and more popular for cars. Yes, cars! Splash guards not only keep your car more clean, they also provide protection from rocks and road debris that might otherwise damage your car’s body or undercarriage. Just as with mud flaps on larger vehicles, there are many styles and colors available, many with your car’s logo – so you can be as plain or flashy as you wish! If this option sounds like something of interest, talk to your dealer at your next oil change – many times they can be installed during your short visit. Splash guards may just give your car that little “extra something” you were looking for!

More than ever before people are seeking out cost-cutting, creative ways to lower the family's budget. If you’re looking for ways to make the most of your monthly allotment, keep in mind that many car dealers offer oil changes and other routine maintenance at reduced rates to entice customers. Though you may not find many coupons for car repairs in your weekly circular, talk to your dealer about special programs they’re offering that can save you a buck or two. Being proactive with your car’s maintenance, and having your dealer’s skilled mechanics fix problems before they get worse, can result in huge savings down the road. Why pay the neighborhood mechanic an hourly wage when the tech who’s working on your vehicle may have very little experience? Your dealer’s mechanics can repair your vehicle correctly and quickly the first time you bring it in. If you’re hoping to save on current and future car expenses – while keeping your budget in check -- get your vehicle to your dealer, where your car’s longevity and safety are the top priority.

Spring is a time of newness and rejuvenation – it signifies new growth, tax time, warmer weather, and it’s also a great time to assess your car. Winter can be particularly damaging to our vehicles, so spring is a good time to perform some yearly maintenance to give your car a much-needed boost, or to consider trading it in for a newer model. In addition, a favorable tax return can provide you with some unexpected funds that can be allocated toward maintaining your vehicle, or investing in a new set of wheels. If you feel it’s time to trade-in and start fresh, spring is a fun time to window shop at your local dealer. Not only will you get the chance to see some of the newest cars available, but you can also check-out certified pre-owned vehicles that offer a great value. If you think your car needs a bit of overhauling after the long winter, or if you’re ready for a new vehicle just in time for spring, visit your dealer and see what programs and specials they have available.

Just as people have landmark birthdays, cars have milestones – fifty thousand miles, one hundred thousand miles, and even more! You may not realize it, but most cars have a 'suggested maintenance schedule' listed in the owner’s manual. (If your car doesn’t have a maintenance timeline, you can always check with your dealer.) The schedule will outline when you should have things like your transmission fluid, radiator fluid, and timing belts checked. It’s always best to take your car back to the dealer, because they will have the correct fluids for your make and model. Not only that, but they also know how to dispose of the old fluids properly. If you want your older car to continue to run like new, invest in its long-term care. Your dealer will be just as happy seeing your high-mileage vehicle come in for service as they were when you first drove it off the lot.

Cars today are designed to be as problem-free as possible. Maintenance items, like oil changes, now have dashboard indicators that signal when it’s time to change the oil. Though it may seem like your car can basically take care of itself, it is important to be proactive with certain maintenance items like your air filter. The air filter keeps dirt and debris out of the engine. So, when the filter gets clogged, your engine has to work extra hard to pull in air and run efficiently. If you feel like your car is a little sluggish and cannot remember the last time your filter was checked, call your dealer today. This easy and inexpensive preventative measure will get you a peppier car and a few more miles to the gallon. Sometimes spending a few bucks can save you a bundle, so be an advocate for your car, and you’ll surely reap the benefits.