It’s Time for a Vehicle Check-Up
April is National Car Care Month — the perfect time to give your vehicle the attention it deserves. For many of us, our car is the second-largest investment we make after our home. With the right care, it can provide years of safe, reliable service — and even save you money in the long run.
Routine maintenance isn’t just about keeping your car looking good (although a spring wash never hurts). It’s about making sure your vehicle is ready for everything the road — and life — throws your way. That includes unexpected weather, unpredictable traffic, and the wear and tear of daily driving here in Savannah.
Sure, you know to change your oil and keep up with your vehicle’s service schedule. But it’s easy to overlook smaller details — like wiper blades, tire pressure, or fluid levels — that play a big role in how your vehicle performs in everyday conditions. And let’s be honest, it’s usually during a pop-up thunderstorm that you remember those wipers are long overdue for replacement.
What Counts as “Normal” Driving Anymore?
These days, the way we drive has changed. Most drivers fall into what the industry calls “severe” driving conditions — and not just because of rugged off-road adventures. According to the Car Care Council, severe driving includes things like:
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Stop-and-go traffic
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Heavy loads like trailers, cargo, or boats
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Dusty or flooded roads
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Rough pavement or frequent potholes
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And of course — extreme temperatures
Sound familiar? That’s a typical day in and around Savannah. Between the heat, humidity, and seasonal rainstorms, your car deals with a lot — and it deserves a little TLC to stay road-ready.
The 80% Rule
According to the Car Care Council, a staggering 80% of vehicles on the road are in need of some kind of service. During our collision repairs, often technicians see find low fluid levels, dirty air filters, worn-out wipers, and dashboard warning lights ignored. These aren’t just small oversights — they’re signs that it’s time to pay your vehicle a bit more attention.
As Rich White, former executive director of the Car Care Council, put it: “It’s easy to postpone vehicle maintenance when things get busy, but don’t put it off. Addressing minor service needs before they become major will help you avoid unexpected car trouble and unplanned costly repairs.”
Accidents Happen. We Get It.
At Hollingsworth Auto, we know that even the most cautious drivers can end up in a fender bender. When that happens, we’re here with friendly, quality collision repair you can trust. But we’d also love to see you avoid those accidents altogether.
Since April is National Car Care Month, take a few minutes to check the basics. A new set of wiper blades, properly inflated tires, topped-off fluids, or a quick brake inspection can make a world of difference in your safety and peace of mind. And if you’re not sure where to start — hopefully this post will point you in the right direction.