Car Maintenance You Need Even If You Don’t Drive Much

If you’ve found yourself driving less lately—maybe because you work from home, have a second car, or just don’t rack up many miles—it’s easy to think your vehicle doesn’t need as much maintenance. But that assumption can lead to some expensive surprises.

Even when your car isn’t being driven regularly, things like oil, rubber, and fluids continue to break down with time. Batteries lose charge. Brakes can develop rust. And problems can sneak up just when you’re ready to go.

This guide covers the key maintenance your vehicle still needs—even if the odometer is barely moving.

1. Oil Changes – Yes, Even When Your Car Isn’t Moving

It might seem logical to delay an oil change if you’re not driving much, but oil doesn’t just degrade from use—it breaks down with time. Moisture and temperature changes can cause oil to lose its lubricating properties, turning it into sludge that clogs your engine.

While there’s no public stat on how many engines seize from skipped oil changes, the CarMD Vehicle Health Index regularly ranks engine damage from oil neglect—like low oil levels or sludge buildup—as one of the most expensive and preventable repairs. Mechanic networks like RepairPal also report oil neglect as a leading contributor to major engine failures.

Most automakers recommend changing your oil at least once a year, even with low mileage. And they often warn that skipping oil changes can cause serious engine damage—or void your powertrain warranty.

2. Battery Maintenance – Sitting Too Long Can Leave You Stranded

Batteries slowly discharge even when the car is off. Modern vehicles continue to draw small amounts of power for systems like the clock, alarms, and onboard electronics. If a car sits idle for too long, especially in cold or hot weather, the battery can lose its charge entirely.

Roadside assistance providers like AAA consistently report that battery-related service calls double—or even triple—during colder months. And many of those calls come from cars that haven’t been driven regularly.

• Start it once a week and let it run for 10–15 minutes

• Take it for a short drive (idling alone isn’t enough)

• Consider a battery maintainer for long-term storage

Most car batteries last 3–5 years, but infrequent use can shorten that lifespan significantly.

3. Tire Care – Tires Age, Even When They Look Fine

Tires don’t just wear from driving—they also break down from exposure to sunlight, moisture, and time. When a car stays parked for too long, tires can develop flat spots or start to dry rot, especially in extreme weather conditions.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recommends replacing tires every six years, regardless of tread depth. That’s because rubber naturally degrades with age, and visual inspections don’t always reveal internal damage.

Underinflated tires are another hidden issue. Tires lose air slowly over time, and driving on low pressure can affect fuel efficiency, handling, and tread life.

• Check tire pressure monthly

• Look for cracks, bulges, or uneven wear

• Move the car occasionally to prevent flat-spotting

4. Brake System – Rust Doesn’t Take Long to Set In

When brakes sit unused, especially in humid or coastal environments, rust can form on the rotors. That surface rust may wear off during normal driving, but over time it can lead to pitting, brake noise, vibration, or sticking components.

Brake system issues are among the most common repairs reported by auto shops. In CarMD’s national repair data, brake-related problems consistently rank in the top five—often showing up in cars that aren’t driven regularly.

• Drive the car at least every week or two

• Watch for squeaking, grinding, or a “soft” brake pedal

• Get your brakes inspected once a year, even with low mileage

5. Fluids and Filters – Quiet, but Critical

Even when your car is parked, fluids like coolant and brake fluid continue to degrade. Coolant can become acidic, losing its ability to protect the engine from corrosion. Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time, which reduces its performance.

Manufacturers generally recommend replacing:

• Coolant every 2–3 years

• Brake fluid every 2 years

• Cabin air filter once a year, especially if parked outside

And while you may not think much about your cabin air filter, it collects dust, pollen, and moisture even when the vehicle isn’t in use—leading to musty smells and reduced airflow when you finally turn on the A/C.

These aren’t major repairs, but ignoring them can lead to bigger problems that are far more expensive to fix.

Driving less comes with some nice perks—lower fuel bills, fewer maintenance appointments, and less wear on your vehicle overall. But low mileage doesn’t mean no maintenance.

Some of the most expensive repair issues mechanics see actually come from cars that sit too long without attention. A simple, time-based maintenance routine—like annual oil changes, fluid checks, and occasional drives—can keep your car reliable and ready whenever you need it.

Because whether it’s a last-minute trip, an unexpected errand, or just a weekend cruise, it’s always better to turn the key and know your car is good to go.

If your car has been sitting more than it's been driving, it might be the right time to consider an upgrade. A newer model could better match your current routine—and you might get more for your trade-in than you think. Explore our latest inventory to see what fits your lifestyle now.

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When Hindsight and Commonsense Collide

They say hindsight is 20/20 — and when it comes to cars, some decisions are crystal clear... after the fact.

Here are a few real-world examples that prove it:

Real Decisions, Real Regrets

The Fake Plate Fiasco (Massachusetts, 2020)
In 2020, Massachusetts State Police pulled over a driver sporting a handwritten license plate. It didn’t fool anyone. Officers soon discovered over 3,000 bags of heroin hidden inside a cereal box. (When your paperwork and your breakfast both raise red flags, it’s probably time to rethink your strategy.)

A Grand (Theft) Entrance
Only in Florida: a man headed to court to face Grand Theft Auto charges — by stealing another car to get there. He made headlines, not bail. Sometimes irony drives faster than good sense.

Lockdown Speed Limits: Broken and Shattered (2020)
During COVID-19 lockdowns, with roads nearly empty, police departments nationwide reported record numbers of drivers caught going over 100 mph. NBC News called it "an epidemic within a pandemic." Empty streets made speed limits feel optional — and hindsight hurt for a lot of speeding drivers.

Stylish… But Questionable (Volkswagen Beetle Eyelashes)
Meanwhile, on the lighter side, Volkswagen Beetle owners across the country embraced a new trend: giant headlight eyelashes. Vision is important. But good driving decisions are even better.

Questionable Vehicle Choices: Towing Edition

The Tiny Car, Big Camper Dream
Viral photos in 2021 showed small sedans attempting to tow full-size campers. One setup failed dramatically — with the hitch bending, the bumper dragging, and the journey ending in a sad roadside collapse. Dreams are great, but towing physics still matters.

The Boat That Got Away (Florida)
On I-95 in Florida, a boat slipped loose from a poorly secured trailer and slid upright down the highway before tipping harmlessly onto the shoulder. Thankfully, there were no injuries — just one more lesson in securing your load before hitting the gas.

What These Stories Have in Common

Whether it's:

• Improvised license plates

• Towing loads their cars couldn't handle

• Trailers coming unhitched

• Or decorating a Beetle like it’s headed for a beauty pageant

One thing's clear: Some decisions are a lot easier to laugh about — or regret — in the rearview mirror.

When it comes to buying your next vehicle, don't let hindsight catch you off guard.
Whether you need serious towing power, upgraded tech, better fuel efficiency, or just more peace of mind, the right choice today means fewer regrets tomorrow.

Because when the road ahead is clear — and your car is too — you won’t need hindsight to tell if you made the right move.

Make The Smart Move Today

We’re here to help you drive forward with confidence — not second-guessing:

• Fast, fair trade-in offers

• A wide selection of new and pre-owned vehicles

• Expert guidance to match you with the right fit

Leave the “what was I thinking?” moments behind.
Find a used car you'll be proud to drive — today, tomorrow, and every mile ahead.

Visit us today — and let's make your next move your best one yet.

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Understanding What Dealerships Look For in Your Trade-In

Trading in your car can feel like a real hassle , but knowing what dealerships look for can simplify the process. Here is a quick checklist that can help you maximize your car’s potential trade-in value.

1. Condition Matters: First Impressions Count!

When a dealership evaluates your car, they look closely at its mechanical and cosmetic condition:

• Mechanical Condition: Cars that run smoothly, with no major issues like engine trouble or transmission problems, usually earn higher trade-in offers. Regular maintenance records can help demonstrate you've cared for your vehicle.

• Cosmetic Condition: Appearance definitely counts! Vehicles that are clean, dent-free, and have minimal scratches or rust are more appealing. Investing in professional detailing or minor cosmetic fixes can significantly boost your car's value.

   

Taking the time to thoroughly prepare your vehicle—such as addressing minor mechanical issues, professionally detailing the interior and exterior, and organizing your maintenance records—can enhance your car’s curb appeal and potentially lead to a better trade-in offer from a dealership.

2. Mileage: Less Really Is More

However, don’t worry if your mileage is higher than average. If you've kept up with regular maintenance, keeping good records can go a long way. Dealerships love seeing a detailed service history. It shows you've taken great care of your vehicle, and that can help you snag a better trade-in offer, even if you've driven it more than average.

3. Trim Levels: Features Can Make a Big Difference

Dealerships pay close attention to your car's trim level because it directly impacts desirability and resale value:

• Basic Trim: Offers fewer features and thus tends to have lower trade-in values.

• Mid to High-level Trim: These trims often include popular comforts like advanced safety systems, navigation, premium audio, and power seats, adding significant value.

• Luxury or Performance Trim: Typically commands the highest trade-in value due to exclusive features that appeal strongly to buyers.

Interestingly, certain trim packages can become especially valuable if they’re rare or particularly sought-after by buyers. For example:

• Limited or Special Edition Models: Cars produced in limited numbers, such as the Ford F-150 Raptor, Jeep Wrangler Rubicon special editions, or Subaru WRX STI limited runs, often hold higher value due to their exclusivity.

• Performance-Oriented Packages: Trim packages with enhanced performance or racing-inspired features, such as Honda's Civic Type R or BMW’s M-Sport packages, are highly sought after by enthusiasts and collectors.

• Luxury Trims with Rare Features: Luxury vehicles with exclusive interior materials (like rare leather colors or Alcantara upholstery) or advanced technologies can fetch higher trade-in values.

• Vintage or Retro Styling Packages: Modern cars with retro styling trims—like certain Mini Cooper, VW Beetle, or Ford Mustang special editions—can become highly collectible, enhancing their resale value.

• Off-Road or Adventure Packages: Vehicles specifically equipped with enhanced off-road or adventure capabilities, such as the Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro or the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, consistently hold their value well.

4. Options and Features: Extras Can Add Up

Extra features can have a surprising impact on your trade-in value. Features that enhance comfort, convenience, and safety often provide the best returns:

• High-Value Features: Navigation, sunroofs, heated leather seats, and advanced safety technologies like blind-spot monitoring can substantially boost your car’s value.

• Common Features: Options that come standard or are widespread might not significantly affect the trade-in value.

Thinking ahead when choosing options for your next vehicle can help maximize its future trade-in value.

5. Market Demand: Timing is Everything

The current market demand for specific types of cars significantly influences their trade-in values. For example, SUVs and trucks might have higher resale values when fuel prices are low, reflecting consumer preferences.

Keeping an eye on automotive trends helps you time your trade-in to get the best possible deal.

Getting the Most from Your Trade-In

Usually, it's not just one factor but a combination of things that determine your car’s trade-in value. By understanding how dealerships evaluate your vehicle—taking into account its overall condition, mileage, desirable features, and current market demand—you'll gain a clearer picture of what's behind the offer you're receiving.

Trading in your car doesn't need to be stressful or complicated. We’re here to make the process straightforward, easy, and transparent. Ready to see what your vehicle is worth? Learn more about our trade-in process here.

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Why Traditional Guided Tours Leave Us Wanting More

Have you ever been on a guided tour and felt a little stuck? Maybe you were rushed past a landmark you wanted to explore or stuck listening to a lecture about something you didn’t find interesting. Group tours often feel cramped, inflexible, and tied to someone else’s schedule. They’re packed with fascinating information—but wouldn’t it be better if you could explore at your own pace?

A Glimpse Into the Future of Travel

Imagine this: a car that not only drives itself but also acts as your personal tour guide. It suggests detours to hidden gems, narrates stories about your surroundings, and adapts to your schedule. Want to stop for a photo? Take your time. Ready to skip ahead? You’re in control.

Self-driving cars promise a future of completely personalized travel experiences. But while that future isn’t here just yet, there’s good news—you don’t have to wait to start enjoying the benefits of personalized guided tours.

How Guided Tour Apps Bring Freedom to the Journey

Thanks to innovative apps, you can already bring guided tours to your fingertips. These apps make your car the centerpiece of an unforgettable journey, combining storytelling, navigation, and freedom to explore on your terms.

GyPSy Guide acts as your virtual tour guide, providing fascinating commentary synced to your GPS location. It’s like having a historian, storyteller, and navigator all in one.

Shaka Guide is perfect for scenic destinations like Hawaii or Utah, blending cultural storytelling with music to enrich your experience.

Roadside America uncovers quirky roadside attractions you never knew existed, from giant statues to offbeat museums.

VoiceMap offers customizable audio tours worldwide, perfect for urban adventures or remote scenic drives.

Imagine driving through Yellowstone as GyPSy Guide points out a hidden trail where bison roam freely, or cruising the Big Island of Hawaii as Shaka Guide shares the legends of Pele, the Hawaiian goddess of volcanoes. These apps let you explore at your own pace, giving you the freedom that traditional guided tours simply can’t.

Making Your Car the Ultimate Travel Companion

These apps address common frustrations with traditional tours. There’s no more rigid schedule—you can pause, skip, or replay commentary whenever you want. You can avoid large crowds, take spontaneous detours, and spend as much time as you like at the places that interest you most. And because they offer offline capabilities, they’re perfect for remote destinations where cell service is unreliable.

Of course, the apps are only part of the equation. The right car makes all the difference in how much you enjoy these tools. Modern vehicles with advanced infotainment systems and features like Apple CarPlay or Android Auto make it easier to use these apps seamlessly. Be sure to check your car’s compatibility to maximize your experience.

If you’re shopping for a new vehicle, look for cars with cutting-edge driver-assist features or enhanced connectivity that make travel even more enjoyable. Ask about these options to ensure you’re ready for the future of guided travel.

Your Next Adventure Starts Here

While the future of fully autonomous guided tours is on the horizon, the tools to make every drive more enriching are already here. With the right car and the right apps, you can transform even a simple drive into an unforgettable experience.

Start exploring today by downloading one of these apps, and if you’re in the market for a vehicle upgrade, We'd be glad to help. you to find a used car that matches your needs. Your next adventure is waiting!

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How To Check Your Antifreeze

It may not cross most people's minds, but checking your car's antifreeze protection level is an important part of regular maintenance. Anti-freeze helps protect your car from damage caused by cold weather, and keeping it at the proper level could save you from costly repairs down the road. In this article, we will show you how to check your car's antifreeze protection level and what to do if it needs to be adjusted.

What You Need

Before you begin, there are a few items you need for the job:

• An anti-freeze tester: These are usually sold for just a few dollars at any auto parts store.

• Paper towel or rag: This will help keep the anti-freeze off of surfaces like paint that could get damaged.

• Ziplock bag: This will help keep dirt out of your anti-freeze tester while you’re not using it.

Step 1: Locate The Reservoir

The first step is to locate the reservoir where your car’s anti-freeze is stored. This is usually in the engine compartment, and it looks like a plastic container with a lid on top (as seen in Figure 1). There should also be a warning label telling you not to open the lid while the fluid is hot – so always make sure that your car has been sitting idle for at least two hours before proceeding! 

Step 2: Testing The Anti-Freeze

Now that you have located the reservoir, insert the end of your tester into the fluid (you may have to use a straw attached to the bottom of the tester). Then pump up and down until about half of the fluid has been drawn up into the glass chamber on top (Figure 2). Now look at how many “balls” are floating on top of the fluid; this number tells you how well protected your car is against extreme cold temperatures (see Table 1 below). Once done testing, pour any remaining liquid into its original container, then wipe off any residue with paper towel or rag. 

Step 3: Storing The Tester

After testing, take a ziplock bag and store your anti-freeze tester in it until its next use. This will help keep dust and dirt off of it when it’s not in use! And don't forget - always remember that antifreeze is poisonous so make sure none gets on any surfaces outside of its original container!   

Checking your car's antifreeze protection level doesn't have to be difficult or complicated; with these simple steps anyone can do it themselves! With regular testing every few months, you'll know exactly how well protected against extreme cold temperatures your vehicle really is - potentially saving yourself hundreds or thousands of dollars in repairs down the line!