Want to get the most out of your INFINITI? Here are some frequently asked questions about the best practices for maintaining your vehicle.
How often do I need an oil change?
Check your vehicle owner’s manual for a recommended service interval for oil changes. As a general rule, it’s a good idea to have your car’s oil changed every six months, or every 3,000-5,000 miles. Your car also needs an oil change if you check the dipstick and the oil appears to be dark or gritty.
With all that said, the amount of time your car can go between oil changes varies depending on many factors, including the age of your vehicle and how you drive. If you tow or haul heavy loads, drive in stop-and-go traffic, make many short trips around town, or drive on difficult terrain like gravel roads or mountains, your car will need more frequent oil changes.
Why are oil changes so important?
Fresh, clean oil keeps your vehicle’s engine running smoothly by lubricating its internal parts and preventing rust. Dirty oil contains metal shavings and bits of grime that can lead to excess friction inside the engine. All of that friction leads to overheating, which can warp the precisely crafted parts inside your vehicle’s engine. That warping can cause your car’s engine to seize and fail — which means you’ll either have to scrap your vehicle or pay for a costly replacement engine. However, this catastrophic damage can easily be prevented with regular oil changes.
Why do I need to get my tires rotated?
Tire rotation ensures that your car’s tires wear down evenly. This ensures that you enjoy optimal handling, safety, and efficiency throughout the life of your tires. On top of that, tire rotation helps you extend the lifespan of your tires by preventing them from developing bald patches.
Do my tires need air even if they don’t look flat?
Once your tire starts looking flat, its pressure problems have gone on long enough to cause unnecessary wear and tear to your vehicle. Even slightly under- or over-inflated tires can have a noticeable impact on your vehicle’s performance, efficiency, and handling. Instead, it’s better to take a preventive approach.
It’s a good idea to use a pressure gauge to check your car’s tire pressure once every week or two, just to ensure that your car’s tires are appropriately inflated. You can find the proper PSI in your vehicle owner’s manual or on the decal inside the driver-side doorjamb.
Why is my check engine light on?
Your car’s “check engine” light can activate for a variety of reasons — it’s simply your vehicle’s on-board diagnostic system urging you to have your vehicle inspected at your earliest convenience. If the light is red or blinking yellow, then your vehicle needs immediate service to prevent costly major damage.
Some common causes for a standard yellow “check engine” light can include bad spark plugs, a faulty gas cap, a damaged catalytic converter, or an airflow sensor that needs to be replaced. However, these are just a few possibilities — the only way to know for sure is to bring your vehicle in for diagnostic service.
How often should I clean my car?
To maintain your vehicle’s appearance and value, consider washing your car at least once per month, and waxing it every six months. Don’t forget to spray the undercarriage and wheel wells.
These washing practices prevent corrosive substances from building up on your vehicle, while regular waxing gives your car’s paint job an extra layer of protection from the elements.
Are electric cars lower or higher maintenance?
In many respects, electric vehicles are lower maintenance than their combustion-engine counterparts. EVs don’t need oil changes, oil filter replacements, fuel filter changes, or spark plugs. However, their instantaneous torque and peppy acceleration can cause them to wear through tires faster.
Whether you have more questions or you’re looking to schedule an appointment, we’ll provide top-of-the-line service at INFINITI of Memphis.
