Minimize Car Trouble. Preventive Maintenance can Help Avoid Costly Problems

January 4, 2015

A check engine light is lit up on a dashboard | Doctor of Motors

Unexpected car trouble is a headache. Here’s how to minimize it.

Many parts on your vehicle are interrelated. Ignoring maintenance can lead to trouble: specific parts — or an entire system — can fail.

Neglecting even simple routine maintenance, like changing the oil or checking the coolant, can lead to poor fuel economy, unreliability, or costly breakdowns. It also may invalidate your warranty.

What maintenance guidelines should I follow to avoid costly repairs?

Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule in your owner’s manual for your type of driving. Some repair shops create their own maintenance schedules, which call for more frequent servicing than the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Compare shop maintenance schedules with those recommended in your owner’s manual. Ask the repair shop to explain — and make sure you understand — why it recommends service beyond the recommended schedule.

Keeping your vehicle running at its best should not be complicated. Let our ASE–certified technicians take excellent care of your vehicle. Each of our technicians is up–to–date with the latest technology available.

Check Engine Light

The Check Engine Light indicates a problem that needs immediate attention. Bring your car in for service.

Doctor of Motors can help you follow manufacturers recommendation to get the most out of your vehicle.

We provide all standard maintenance services such as . . .

  • Alignments
  • Batteries
  • Brakes
  • Check Engine Lights
  • Inspections
  • Lubrication
  • Oil Changes
  • Smog Checks
  • Timing Belt Replacement
  • Transmission Service
  • Tune–ups
Why Your Car’s Power Windows Are Sluggish in Cold Weather | Doctor of Motors
December 19, 2025
Doctor of Motors in Chico, CA, explains why power windows can become sluggish in cold weather and what that means for the system.
5 Car Damages That Can Occur After Running Out of Gas | Doctor of Motors
December 15, 2025
Doctor of Motors in Chico, CA, explains five ways your vehicle can be damaged if you run it out of fuel.
What Happens When Your Car's Engine Mounts Are Worn Out | Doctor of Motors
December 14, 2025
Doctor of Motors in Chico, CA, explains what happens when your car’s engine mounts wear out and the signs you shouldn’t ignore.
What That Knocking Noise From the Engine Means | Doctor of Motors
December 13, 2025
Doctor of Motors in Chico, CA, explains the causes of engine knocking noises and what they mean for your car’s health.
What Is a Coolant Flush and Why Does My Car Need One? | Doctor of Motors
December 12, 2025
Doctor of Motors in Chico, CA, explains the importance of coolant flushes and how they protect your engine from damage.
What Does the Alternator Do in My Car? | Doctor of Motors
December 11, 2025
Doctor of Motors in Chico, CA, explains the vital role your alternator plays in keeping your vehicle’s electrical system running.
A man is kneeling down holding a tire in a garage | Doctor of Motors
June 27, 2025
Doctor of Motors in Chico, CA, outlines four major benefits of regular tire rotation and why it should be part of your routine maintenance.
A black car with a diagram of the engine on the hood | Doctor of Motors
May 23, 2025
Doctor of Motors in Chico, CA, explains why your car may shake during acceleration and what could be causing it.
A close up of a car engine with the hood up | Doctor of Motors
December 13, 2017
Radiator and Coolant Host: Okay, Robert, let’s talk about radiators, radiator flushing. I’ve always wondered about that. Flushing the ...
A man is standing next to a jeep on the side of a road | Doctor of Motors
December 13, 2017
Comprehensive Auto Insurance and Mechanical Damage Host: Robert, I think what you were saying is a lot of people don’t realize that if ...