Despite what the Jetsons would have you believe, automobiles like cars, trucks, SUVs, and minivans are still a necessity in modern times. Whether you use your vehicle as a daily driver for running errands or as a weekend canyon carver, you rely on your automobile to get things done. But what happens when, out of the blue, your car quits working?
Imagine this: Your spouse is tied up with work, so you've got to pick up your kids and their friends from soccer practice. Suddenly, you hear a loud noise under the hood of your car. A yellow light comes on in your car's dashboard near the speedometer. You step on the gas to accelerate a little but get no response. You're not sure what's going on, but you do know that you've got to find a safe place to pull over. After a few minutes, smoke starts coming out of your engine bay, and you know you've got a serious problem on your hands. What could it be? And then, it dawns on you - it's been years since you had an oil change. Because of that, you've got to have a friend take your children and their friends back home while you wait for a tow truck to haul your vehicle away.
Scenarios like these are quite common in South Carolina. The truth is that it's easy to forget about having your oil changed in our fast-paced society, packed full of work obligations and after-school activities. Fortunately, having an oil change service is easy when A+ Auto Service is right down the road.
As a family-owned, independent oil change provider, we're proud to have served drivers with reliable car service and oil changes for more than 20 years. We are a full-service automotive shop that does everything from routine maintenance to major car repairs to engine and transmission rebuilds. We started off in 2004 as a Major Repair Auto Shop and made it through the 2008 recession, though it hit us very hard. We were able to rebuild and come back stronger in 2010 by adding more services and becoming a true full-service auto shop.
After growing our North Charleston location for the past 16 years, we decided it was time to expand and better serve the Lowcountry. In January 2019, we bought our Summerville location on Old Trolley Rd. With a limited budget and three months of labor-intensive work, we opened our doors with a new slogan: "Your Dealer Alternative."
When we say we're your car dealer alternative, we mean it. Car dealerships are notorious for long waits, shotty repair ability, high prices, and poor customer service. That's why, at A+ Auto, we prioritize hard work, quality repairs, fair pricing, and excellent customer service. Because, at the end of the day, that's the way we'd want to be treated if we needed an oil change in The Palmetto State.
As a family-owned and operated auto mechanic shop in Charleston, we are proud to serve the Lowcountry. After all, you're our neighbors, and neighbors must look out for one another. Swing by our shop to see the A+ Auto difference. We think you'll like what you see!
The primary function of engine oil is to lubricate the moving parts in your engine. There are many intricate and high-speed components that make up an engine, many of which need oil. They need oil to operate smoothly and minimize the effects of friction and wear. It might sound hard to believe, but sometimes, the only thing preventing engine parts from grinding together is a small amount of engine lubricant.
Despite having proper oil levels, even a well-lubricated engine generates substantial amounts of heat. Another important function of engine oil is to help draw this heat away from your engine's components. By maintaining the correct temperatures, your vehicle will run smoothly. Without engine oil, the engine would rapidly seize and could potentially overheat.
Understanding why cars need oil to function is important. But you've also got to know how to check your oil levels to see if you need more. Consistent oil changes are essential for maintaining the reliability and optimal performance of your vehicle. Neglecting regular oil changes can result in severe repercussions for your car's health, potentially leading to complete engine failure if operated without sufficient oil. That's why, even if you can't do it on your own, it's smart to work with a professional oil change auto shop like A+ Auto for help.
It used to be recommended to change your oil every 3,000-5,000 miles, but you might need to do it more or less often, depending on what your car manufacturer suggests. Always check your owner's manual for the recommended oil type, grade, and maintenance schedule. If a red oil light pops up on your dashboard, get your car checked right away because you could be dealing with low or no oil pressure or a serious oil leak.
Motor oil has evolved significantly since its initial use in the late 1800s. While its primary purpose remains to lubricate and cool engine parts, modern engine oils offer numerous additional benefits that enhance engine performance. Another role of motor oil is to help maintain engine cleanliness by filtering out dirt and other contaminants. Moreover, engine oil can contain various beneficial chemical compounds, known as additives, that can enhance its performance.
Despite what you may have heard, you can safely mix synthetic and regular (conventional) oil in your engine. That is, as long as they have the correct viscosity and meet the performance and quality specifications set by your vehicle's manufacturer. However, there are rare exceptions, such as some older Mazda rotary engines that do not allow the use of synthetic oils, so it's important to check your owner's manual first.
Regardless of the type of oil your car requires, it plays a crucial role in maintaining efficient engine operation. Plus, regular oil changes can help you save on gas by ensuring that engine parts are well-coated and protected from wear and tear.
A recent survey conducted by the Car Care Council revealed that 22% of vehicles are equipped with either low or contaminated engine oil. Taking proactive steps to change a vehicle's oil and filter can help ensure that the engine continues to operate at peak performance and can prevent drivers from incurring costly repairs in the future. Try comparing the average cost of a year's worth of oil changes (about $200) to the cost of damage caused by neglecting them ($4,000+). It's clear to see that having your car's oil changed regularly is hugely beneficial for your bank account.
Proper lubrication is essential for moving parts to prevent the creation of friction, which leads to the generation of heat. To avoid excessive friction and engine overheating, it is crucial to ensure that the oil is clean and at the right levels.
Imagine all the moving parts of your car's engine: its valves, pistons, and other parts moving at high speeds. If these parts are not properly lubricated with oil, they will generate a lot of heat and cause significant wear and tear on the engine. Consult the owner's manual to find out the exact viscosity and quality of oil that your vehicle needs, and make sure to maintain it at the recommended level.
When your engine isn't properly lubricated, it can consume more fuel than normal, so it's a good idea to ensure that your engine has enough clean oil. When you get an oil change to replace your dirty oil, it can improve your gas mileage by 1-2%. That doesn't sound like much, but for the average driver, it can mean big savings over time.
Dirt can be extremely harmful to engines. With time, dirt can lead to corrosion and reduce an engine's lifespan. Furthermore, as time passes, oil deteriorates and transforms into "sludge." The key is to maintain a clean engine. Regular oil and filter changes aid in eliminating particles and sludge, ensuring that engines remain in optimal condition.
You don't have to be a graduate from College of Charleston in Folly Beach, SC to know that routine car maintenance makes your vehicle last longer. Contaminant buildup from old oil reduces a car's fuel efficiency and performance and causes its internal parts to experience increased strain. Plus, an overworked engine is more likely to develop issues and have a shorter lifespan in the long run. Why deal with those problems when you can help prevent them with an oil change from A+ Auto Service?
Now that you understand why oil and oil changes are so important, you may be looking for reliable oil change services. Head to your local A+ Auto Service for a quality oil change and learn why so many South Carolina drivers trust our professional technicians to service their vehicles.
During the 1960s, when classic Camaros and majestic Mustangs dominated the drag strips, there might have been some truth to this. The clearances between engine parts were not as precise as they are today, and a thicker oil might have assisted in reducing certain types of engine wear. However, back then, it was mainly the anti-wear additives in the oil that offered proper protection in other types of engine wear - such as in the valve train - rather than the viscosity itself.
Using motor oil that is too thick nowadays could, at best, lower engine efficiency. At worst, it could impede proper lubrication (especially on cold mornings), affect the performance of certain engine parts that depend on oil pressure as a hydraulic fluid, and result in even greater engine wear. Some vehicles may display an illuminated check engine light if the wrong viscosity oil is used. This means that many newer vehicles necessitate lower viscosity grades to accommodate tighter tolerances and deliver improved fuel economy.
The bottom line is that thicker oil doesn't equal better. If your engine is stock, you should read your owner's manual to find out your oil recommendations.
It's a common belief that you should change your oil when it turns black, but it might not always be necessary. The darkening of engine oil occurs naturally due to oxidation from heating cycles. The detergents and dispersants in engine oil work to clean the engine by absorbing soot, carbon, and other combustion byproducts, which also darkens your oil.
Although changing your oil before it's time to do so isn't inherently harmful, it could hurt your wallet. Ultimately, black engine oil can be a natural occurrence and a sign that it's doing its job effectively. The best course of action is to change your engine oil and oil filter according to your vehicle manufacturer's suggested maintenance schedule.
Whether you're driving to see Folly Beach County Park near Folly Beach, SC or you're traveling to see family, road-tripping is one of the most fun and exciting ways to enjoy your vehicle. According to some drivers, though, you've got to change your oil before embarking on a long road trip. While it is important to ensure your vehicle is in good condition before a lengthy drive, changing your oil beforehand isn't always needed.
If your oil change interval indicates that there are still many miles left before needing service, you should be OK. However, it's still a good idea to check and make sure your oil levels are where they should be before road-tripping. If your car is scheduled for an oil change shortly after you return, you can probably wait until you get back from your trip. In any case, there's really no downside to getting your oil changed early - if it gives you peace of mind, go ahead and do it.
You may be on the fence about getting an oil change, but the consequences of not doing so can be horrible. At best, you'll experience diminished performance and gas mileage. At worst, you or a member of your family could end up in Indigo Hall Assisted Living and Memory Care in Folly Beach, SC because your engine failed and you got in a car wreck.
Why risk your safety when you can swing by A+ Auto every few thousand miles for a quality oil change? You'll benefit from a healthier car, and you won't have to wait for hours on end like you would at a dealership. Plus, you'll be treated with the care, compassion, and professionalism that only a local auto repair shop can provide. Contact A+ Auto to schedule your oil change service and learn more about why we're the Lowcountry's top choice for reliable auto repairs.
; ;FOLLY BEACH, S.C. (WCBD) – Construction crews are set to begin underground work on the east side of Folly Beach.The broke ground this spring and is still in the early stages. However, the city wants residents and visitors to know there will be temporary water and utility service impacts from July 21-25 on 8th Street E and the first block of East Cooper Avenue. Officials told News 2 the main roadway on the island has been prone to flooding for years.“Center Street has been flooding on a regular basis for qu...
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FOLLY BEACH, S.C. (WCBD) – Construction crews are set to begin underground work on the east side of Folly Beach.
The broke ground this spring and is still in the early stages. However, the city wants residents and visitors to know there will be temporary water and utility service impacts from July 21-25 on 8th Street E and the first block of East Cooper Avenue. Officials told News 2 the main roadway on the island has been prone to flooding for years.
“Center Street has been flooding on a regular basis for quite some time. It’s a pretty big impact for visitors and the businesses,” Eric Lutz, public works director of Folly Beach, said. “When it happens during the summertime, we’ll have a big rainstorm and high tide that will mess things up, especially near the traffic light.”
Officials said the project has been in the works for nearly 15 years, but this particular version started five years ago. The project will have larger stormwater pipes running down both sides of Center Street and on the east side of the island as well as new inlets. In line with the city’s green infrastructure plan, six rain gardens and 39 permeable parking spots will be added.
“That’ll be done with impervious material. It’s like the pavers that will let the water infiltrate into the ground, which actually takes away the amount of water that will go in the pipe,” Lutz said. “It increases the capacity of what we can handle out here. That will be up and down Center Street and a couple side streets as well.”
The project is funded by the South Carolina Infrastructure Improvement Program (SCIIP). Officials expect there to be some inconveniences such as different traffic patterns, pedestrian walkways, and business access. However, Lutz said it will be well worth it once complete.
“It should be huge. We should see a big difference because you won’t have that critical flooding down there at that intersection. That gets really bad right now sometimes, hopefully this will minimize to make it ankle deep instead of knee deep,” said Lutz.
FOLLY BEACH, S.C. (WCSC) — DJ Rich is projected to win the Folly Beach City Council special election.“I’m excited to get back on and help share my knowledge and history with everybody and then make sure that you know we keep moving forward responsibly,” Rich said. “It was a great day. Saw a lot of people, a lot of positive comments. So yeah, we’re just we’re excited, ready to go to work.”This special election brought in a total of 855 votes; residents making their voices heard on ...
FOLLY BEACH, S.C. (WCSC) — DJ Rich is projected to win the Folly Beach City Council special election.
“I’m excited to get back on and help share my knowledge and history with everybody and then make sure that you know we keep moving forward responsibly,” Rich said. “It was a great day. Saw a lot of people, a lot of positive comments. So yeah, we’re just we’re excited, ready to go to work.”
This special election brought in a total of 855 votes; residents making their voices heard on who they want to represent their community.
“Many people think that Folly Beach is just as, you know, it’s a one-issue town on the short-term rentals and so much more than that, too. It’s beach re-nourishment,” Folly Beach resident Nick Thomas said. “It’s our parks. It’s our infrastructure. And he’s so experienced. He brings that to the table. He wasn’t about one issue and that’s really what’s going to make the difference to help Folly grow.”
One resident explained why it’s important to come out and vote.
“Democracy is not a spectator sport. I mean, you can’t complain about your local government if you don’t participate,” Folly Beach resident Larry Powers said. “I am always making my policy to know who my elected officials are and help people with their campaigns here, go to council meetings. I mean, you’ve got to participate in the process because otherwise you don’t have a right to complain.”
With 499 votes, Rich is ahead of John McFarland, who received 355 votes, in a contest for the seat vacated by Chris Bizzell’s promotion to mayor.
Rich, a Folly Beach native, says his history and experience can help lead the way to make sure Folly Beach progresses responsibly. He is the owner of Planet Follywood and says he has a unique perspective to bring to the council in representing the community.
“He has just put so much faith and dedication into this community,” resident Jill Sneed said.
“Feel that the DJ will give us consideration and a voice in our concerns,” another resident, Jeannette Perna, said.
As Rich celebrated with the community, he shared his vision for what he hopes to see for Folly Beach.
“Addressing our parks, making sure they’re up to date, and they’re adequate for all the age range of children, increasing our community events. We have senior citizens’ yoga and things like that. Make sure we’re hitting all our demographics, so everybody feels represented and has something to do,” Rich said.
Below are the unofficial election results:
Residents say the fact that Rich is a small local business owner gives him a unique perspective on the council.
“Being a business owner on Center Street every day, we see things quicker if something’s a problem, we can address it faster. We’re right here, so we’re in direct contact with people all the time with residents. You know, they can get to me and talk to me about any problem they’re having,” Rich said.
Other key issues included improving pedestrian safety and sidewalks, beach renourishment, and flood mitigation. In this special election, the big-ticket item was indeed short-term rentals.
“We’ve been so divided with the short-term rentals. And I think we need a compromise and I think he’s a good person that can maybe help us get that,” Sneed said.
Overall, with Rich’s experience and community involvement, residents say they trust him to hold this council seat.
“He brings that Folly touch to it to help keep Folly funky. And it’s a very important part for us to continue to grow as that community that everyone knows,” Sneed added.
Rich will serve until November 2027. The county council is scheduled to officially certify the official results Thursday, with a swear-in ceremony planned for sometime next week.
“It’s important to be a community member. I think that was shown a lot tonight. You know, you have to be a part of the community and then the community’s been here for me for a long time,” Rich said. “I love this place, I love the people in it. It’s just a great place. We all come together. We can do great things.” Rich said.
FOLLY BEACH, S.C. (WCSC) — Folly Beach was transformed for its annual “Savory Saturday” event for Taste of Folly, bringing food and fun to the community.“Get a nice sampling of what this town has to offer. You know, we’ve got a very collection of food all over every part of this town. So we would finally like to show off as well,” co-owner of Planet Follywood DJ Rich said.Over 80 vendors and local restaurants turned the streets of downtown Folly into a food lover’s paradise.&ldqu...
FOLLY BEACH, S.C. (WCSC) — Folly Beach was transformed for its annual “Savory Saturday” event for Taste of Folly, bringing food and fun to the community.
“Get a nice sampling of what this town has to offer. You know, we’ve got a very collection of food all over every part of this town. So we would finally like to show off as well,” co-owner of Planet Follywood DJ Rich said.
Over 80 vendors and local restaurants turned the streets of downtown Folly into a food lover’s paradise.
“Food is another way of bringing people close, and when you’re eating good food and talking to good people, just makes for a good experience,” Marquise Bowens, chef and James Island resident, said.
There was plenty of seafood, different cuisines and even bacon on a stick.
“Places offer discounts to feature things, and you get to sample all kinds of different options from different restaurants you wouldn’t normally have. So you really find out what your town has to offer, and you get to go back and check it out more, you know, throughout the year,” Rich said.
“I’m passionate about cooking, and it makes me happy that they love it,” China King, owner of Sweet but Not So Sweet Gourmet Brownies, said.
And Taste of Folly didn’t just offer food; there were plenty of art and clothing vendors, too.
“We just wanted to find ways to kind of boost the economy and help all of our hard-working businesses out here,” Kelly Travers, Folly Association of Business Event Coordinator, said.
And local businesses say events like this help during the off-season.
“Business is down, you know, in January. It’s just really a kind of a boring month after the holidays. So it’s always nice to get a little boost with these street festivals,” Rich said.
While business was flowing, kids got to make pasta and play pots and pans percussion, and live music kept the energy high all day. There was even a hot dog-eating competition.
“There’s all kinds of small businesses out here, food to taste, talent to show, and it’s just a really fun environment,” Emma Amman, chef juggler of Good Clean Fun, said.
Taste of Folly showed how food can bring the community together, making a positive impact all around.
“This is our livelihood. We do this 24/7,” King said.
“My neighbor set up next to me here has been my neighbor for over 30 years, too, and she’s an artist as well. So, it makes for a great day,” Kelly Cane Wood, owner of UTH Art, said.
It's only 12 miles south of Charleston's historic homes and manicured window boxes, but the salty little town of Folly Beach ditches the Holy City's refinement in favor of an easygoing, barefoot sensibility that feels a bit more California than Carolina. Known to locals as the Edge of America, the super chill surf town is everything a beach town should be. Surf shops line the main drag; cover-ups count as appropriate lunch attire; and nobody takes themselves too seriously (they drop a pair of LED-lit flip-flops to celebrate New Year's Eve). ...
It's only 12 miles south of Charleston's historic homes and manicured window boxes, but the salty little town of Folly Beach ditches the Holy City's refinement in favor of an easygoing, barefoot sensibility that feels a bit more California than Carolina. Known to locals as the Edge of America, the super chill surf town is everything a beach town should be. Surf shops line the main drag; cover-ups count as appropriate lunch attire; and nobody takes themselves too seriously (they drop a pair of LED-lit flip-flops to celebrate New Year's Eve). Here's where to stay, eat, relax, and play in Folly Beach, South Carolina.
For a feels-like-home experience coupled with the charm and convenience of a boutique hotel, book The Regatta Inn. Complimentary breakfast and happy hour are provided daily, plus a free shuttle to the beach. Its best amenity of all, though, is the view: a spectacular vantage of Folly River and the surrounding marshland.
, 64 West 9th Street Extension, Folly Beach, SC 29439
Every single room at Tides Folly Beach comes with an ocean view. Perched at the end of Center Street, the town's main thoroughfare, the hotel is steps from both the beach and an array of local shops and eateries. There's plenty on-site for a relaxing getaway, including a heated oceanfront pool, tiki bar and lounge, and a beach bar and grill.
, 1 Center Street, Folly Beach, SC 29439
Looking for a stay with a kitchen and living space that feels like a home away from home? For families looking to stretch out a bit more, there are a boatload of rentals to choose from: Opt for oceanfront properties that will sleep a crowd or cozy cottages with marsh and Folly River views. And for people who wouldn't dream of traveling without their four-legged companions, there are plenty of pet-friendly rentals too.
You won't go hungry on this island. Fuel up for the day at Lost Dog Café, a local staple that serves coffee and all-day breakfast (so you can sleep in as long as you'd like). Don't miss their eggs Benedict, which they top with fried green tomatoes.
, 106 West Huron Avenue, Folly Beach, SC 29439
Fish tacos, Vietnamese-inspired lettuce wraps, and Cuban sandwiches all have a place on the colorful menu at Chico Feo, where the vibe is equally colorful. Its menu focuses on food from local farmers and fishermen. If you're in town for the wave riding, be sure to check out their website's Surf Report, complete with a live video stream.
, 122 East Ashley Avenue, Folly Beach, SC 29439
Don't let the easygoing atmosphere fool you: Rita's Seaside Grille is serious about its food and its cocktails. Order casual beach fare like burgers, sandwiches, tacos, and nachos, or opt for splurge-worthy entrees like steak, salmon, and seafood. Try one of the Signature Crushes, fruity sippers with flavored liquors that pack a punch.
, 2 Center Street, Folly Beach, SC 29439
End the night at Sand Dollar Social Club, a dive bar where you're invited to come as you are, so long as you're a member; membership costs $1, so bring your cash (you won't find a credit card machine here). Order from the bar, play pool or Ping-Pong, and take in the live music.
7 Center Street, Folly Beach, SC 29412
Though technically not on Folly (it's about two miles away), you'd be remiss to make a trip all this way without carving out time for a meal at Bowens Island Restaurant, a family-owned joint where the walls are graffitied, and the oysters are locally harvested. Start your meal with Southern favorites like pimiento cheese, fried green tomatoes, and boiled peanuts. Seafood platters are served with fries, hush puppies, and coleslaw.
, 1870 Bowens Island Road, Charleston, SC 29412
The island's six miles of beachfront are its main attraction, and it'd be easy to while away a week with no plans beyond putting your toes in the sand. Spend a day shelling, sunning, surfing, or searching for shark teeth. The Folly Beach County Park has everything you need for a day at the beach: parking, restrooms, changing areas, a boardwalk, accessible ramps, a picnic area, and a snack bar.
Note that Folly Beach County Park has 225 parking spots, and it usually fills to capacity by 10:30 a.m. on the weekends and holidays. We advise getting there early, otherwise, you can park at the City of Folly Beach parking lots on West Ashley Avenue.
, 1100 West Ashley Avenue, Folly Beach, SC 29439
At the northern end of Folly Beach, the Morris Island Lighthouse provides a stunning backdrop from the shore. Get a closer look from the Lighthouse Inlet Heritage Preserve or via kayak. Several guided tours leave from Folly Beach to visit Morris Island for shelling, photography, and lighthouse history. The historic lighthouse is not open for viewing. How close you can get to the lighthouse depends on the tides.
, 1750 East Ashley Avenue, Folly Beach, SC 29439
Pack your fishing poles (or rent one) to test your fishing luck off the beloved Folly Beach Pier, which reopened in December 2022 after extensive renovations. If you're visiting in the summer, put on your dancing shoes—flip-flops count—and head back to the pier for one of the Moonlight Mixers, a music-filled family event held once monthly, May through September.
, 101 East Arctic Avenue, Folly Beach, SC 29439, 101 East Arctic Avenue, Folly Beach, SC 29439
For those looking to build an action-packed itinerary, there are plenty of activities that highlight the destination's natural beauty: Book a guided kayak tour with Charleston Outdoor Adventures, rent a stand-up paddleboard to explore the tidal creeks, or hop on a boat to discover uninhabited beachfront, where you can look for sharks' teeth and other fossils. You can also book a fishing charter or tour a Charleston oyster farm.
, 1871 Bowens Island Road, Charleston, SC 29412
Stop by McKevlin's Surf Shop, South Carolina's oldest surfing outfitter, to peruse their selection of gear. You can also rent a surf or body board from the shop if you don't have one of your own; first-timers should consult their recommended list of surf instructors for lessons before heading out. Once you've got it down, catch some of the area's best waves at The Washout, a favorite local surf spot, or take a seat on the beach and see how the local pros do it.
, 8 Center Street, Folly Beach, SC 29439
One of the best ways to explore the island is by bike, because most of the island is residential and has little to no traffic. Folly Beach Bike Rentals offers free bike delivery, as well as bikes and beach gear.
(843) 701-9851
Schedule an Appointment
