So you've stopped by Southern Oregon Subaru Volvo Mitsubushi, and you've fallen in love with, and subsequently purchased a new Subaru, Volvo, or Mitsubishi. And by now, you've planned road trips and family vacations and other adventures in the new car. You've made rules about it, too, haven't you? You've told your kids: don't leave any trash in it, don't draw pictures in the fog on the windows, and don't let the dogs drool all over the back seat. But what are you going to do to keep your car looking and running like new for many years to come? You're gonna take it in for its regular service, that's what you're gonna do.

We know what a pain it can be to get your car to the mechanic. Half the battle is knowing when to bring it in. The best rule is to follow manufacturer's recommendations in your owner's manual. For most drivers, that means a regular checkup and routine changes of the oil filter, engine air filter, fuel filter, automatic transmission fluid filter, PCV/Breathers and cabin air filters.

You might see that your manual suggests bringing your car in for service more frequently if you drive under "severe" conditions. What are severe conditions? It might surprise you to hear that it's not just racecar drivers fall into this category.

Severe conditions include constant stop and go traffic, extreme temperatures, prolonged high speeds, multiple short trips (5 or 10 miles each), frequent cold start-ups, prolonged engine idling, towing heavy loads, dusty and/or muddy conditions, and mountainous terrain.

So, you might be driving carefully, (and keeping the dogs out of the car) but eventually, your car will need some extra love and attention. When it's time, give us a call here at Southern Oregon Subaru Volvo Mitsubishi, 3101 Biddle Rd Medford, OR 07504 - we're always happy to help Medford area drivers get the most out of their cars. You can call the service department at (877) 597-8594, or make an appointment via our website.