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Car Habits That You Should Ditch You're behind the wheel on the roads, cruising down the open road of of Gaithersburg , and everything seems just fine. But what if I told you that some everyday habits might be slowly chipping away at your vehicle's health? As a responsible driver, it's essential to recognize these bad car habits and break free from them. Here are some of the most common culprits and how to kick them to the curb. 1. Ignoring Warning Lights It's easy to dismiss that little warning light on your dashboard, thinking, "I'll deal with it later." However, those lights are your car's way of saying, "Hey, there's a problem!" Ignoring them can lead to more significant issues and costly repairs down the road. Break this habit by addressing warning lights promptly and having your car checked by a professional. 2. Skipping Regular Maintenance Regular maintenance might seem like a chore, but it's your vehicle's lifeline. Skipping oil changes, neglecting tire rotations, or forgetting about scheduled check-ups can result in decreased performance and even engine damage. Embrace the habit of adhering to your car's maintenance schedule. It's an investment in your vehicle's longevity. 3. Riding the Brakes Do you tend to keep your foot on the brake pedal even when you don't need to? This bad habit not only wears down your brake pads prematurely but also reduces fuel efficiency. Practice coasting and using engine braking when appropriate to save your brakes and your wallet. 4. Overloading Your Vehicle Stuffing your car to the brim with cargo or passengers might be convenient, but it can strain your suspension and decrease your vehicle's fuel efficiency. Be mindful of your car's weight limits and distribute weight evenly to avoid unnecessary wear and tear. 5. Revving the Engine on a Cold Start Starting your car and immediately revving the engine might be satisfying, but it's harsh on your vehicle, especially when it's cold. Modern engines are designed to warm up efficiently without excessive revving. Instead, start your car and let it idle for a moment to allow the oil to circulate. 6. Resting Your Hand on the Gear Shift Resting your hand on the gear shift lever while driving can lead to premature wear on the transmission's bushings and synchronizers. Get into the habit of keeping both hands on the steering wheel, where they belong. 7. Running on Empty Driving your car until the fuel gauge hovers near "E" isn't just a bad habit; it's potentially harmful to your vehicle. Running low on fuel can cause your fuel pump to overheat, leading to costly repairs. Make it a practice to refuel when your tank is around one-quarter full. Breaking free from these bad car habits might take a little effort, but the benefits are worth it. You'll enjoy a smoother, more efficient, and longer-lasting ride while saving money on repairs. So, kick these habits to the curb and embrace a healthier, happier journey on the road. Don't forget to turn to the local auto repair experts at General Automotive Servicenter in Gaithersburg, MD for all your automotive needs!

8 Maintenance Tips to Transition Your car from Summer to Fall Just as you prepare your wardrobe for the changing weather, your car deserves some special attention to navigate the challenges that fall may bring. Here are some crucial tips to ensure your vehicle smoothly transitions from summer to autumn: Tire Transition : With rain and potentially colder mornings, traction becomes paramount. We advise you to check for proper tread depth and inflation . Fluid Check: As temperatures dip, your car's fluids may require adjustments. Please make sure your antifreeze mixture is appropriate for colder weather and that your oil is at the recommended level and viscosity. Braking Confidence : Wet leaves and slippery roads call for well-functioning brakes. We recommend having your brake system inspected, including the brake pads and rotors , to ensure your vehicle can stop safely. Battery Evaluation: The temperature changes can strain your car's battery. We suggest testing the battery's performance and checking the terminals to ensure they are clean. If it's nearing the end of its life, consider replacing it to avoid unexpected breakdowns. Heater and Defroster Check : Fall brings chilly mornings and foggy windows. Make sure your heater and defroster are in good working condition to keep you warm and maintain clear visibility. Lights and Visibility: With shorter days and longer nights, ensuring your lights are functioning properly is crucial for both your safety and the safety of others. Clean and adjust your headlights, taillights, and signal lights. Wiper Upgrade: Leaves and rain can obstruct your view. Therefore, you should change worn wiper blades and top up your windshield washer fluid to ensure clear visibility during inclement weather. Inspect Belts and Hoses: Cooler temperatures can make rubber components more susceptible to wear and tear. As a result, please have your belts and hoses inspected for any signs of cracking or damage. Consider taking your car to General Automotive Servicenter in Gaithersburg, MD, for a full fall maintenance check-up. Our professional mechanics can identify potential issues and ensure your vehicle is ready for the changing season. From maintaining proper tire traction to ensuring your battery is up to the task, these steps will help you embrace the autumn drive with confidence and comfort