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 The Ocean Course in Kiawah Island, 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 Kiawah Beachwalker Park near Kiawah Island, 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 Bishop Gadsden Episcopal Retirement Community in Kiawah Island, 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.
The South Carolina House of Representatives slipped funding for a $32 million legal settlement into the 2026-2027 budget – despite failing to even discuss the controversial payout during the committee process.The appropriation would end decades of litigation, appeals, and mediation over on Kiawah Island – an exclusive barrier island located approximately 25 miles southwest of Charleston, S.C.The settlement involves the Conservancy of the Sea Islands, the Town of Kiawah Island, the ...
The South Carolina House of Representatives slipped funding for a $32 million legal settlement into the 2026-2027 budget – despite failing to even discuss the controversial payout during the committee process.
The appropriation would end decades of litigation, appeals, and mediation over on Kiawah Island – an exclusive barrier island located approximately 25 miles southwest of Charleston, S.C.
The settlement involves the Conservancy of the Sea Islands, the Town of Kiawah Island, the Kiawah Island Community Association, Kiawah Partners and the State of South Carolina. If it makes its way into the final version of the spending plan, it would compensate developers for lost income from a land parcel that extends from Beachwalker Park to the Kiawah River after the state compelled developers not to construct housing there due to ecological concerns.
Under the agreement, the land would be placed into a conservation easement held by the Conservancy of the Sea Islands. This easement would eliminate future residential development rights and preserve the land in its natural state. The spit is one of the few remaining undeveloped native habitats for multiple Palmetto State native species, including sea turtles and migratory birds.
If the deal goes into effect, the Town of Kiawah Island would acquire ownership of Beachwalker Park ensuring public access to the beach, while the state would take ownership of the remaining land, with portions potentially designated as a Heritage Trust Preserve under the auspices of the S.C. Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR).
Skeptics of the appropriation agree the land should be preserved, but insist developers were forewarned that their speculative investments would be valueless at the time they decided to buy the land, and are therefore unlikely to prevail in legal challenges demanding the state compensate them for lost potential revenue.
Opponents of the settlement argued during the budget debate on Tuesday evening (March 10, 2026) that regardless of the validity of the deal, it is unfair to ask lawmakers to approve a multi-million dollar expenditure that wasn’t discussed as the budget made its way through the committee process.
S.C. Freedom Caucus’ chairman Jordan Pace protested the line item – opposition unexpectedly buttressed by representative Gil Gatch, who pointed out during the floor debate that the developers have already struck out repeatedly in state courts.
Gatch, a lawyer-legislator, also claimed federal case law in support of the plaintiff’s case was shaky at best.
“Why would the attorney general settle with the developers in Kiawah when the developers don’t have a legal theory to win,” Gatch asked, questioning why attorney general Alan Wilson would “give a handout to the developers.”
Wilson’s office declined to comment on the settlement citing it’s inability to speak about pending litigation.
“I wanted to amend (the budget) to take ninety days to do due diligence to make sure that what we’re doing makes sense,” state representative Joe White told FITSNews in an interview conducted the day after the House approved funding for the settlement in the budget. “The ramifications for the future of South Carolina are that once you settle one of these out of court without litigating, every developer in South Carolina can claim ‘you cheated me out of something, and now the state owes me something.'”
White warned the case “could alter for the future what we can defend in South Carolina.”
After having conversations with attorneys familiar with this type of litigation, White said he wanted more due diligence done on the recommendation from the attorney general’s office that the state settle the case.
“I talked to administrative law judges here in South Carolina that said we would win this lawsuit if we pushed it forward,” White said.
White likened the deal to the General Assembly’s decision to ramrod Scout Motor’s economic development deal, which was also was also expeditiously funded with astonishingly little public input or oversight.
“This is similar to the Scout Motor deal which I voted against three years ago,” he said. “We did no due diligence on that, we did no due diligence on this. It never went to subcommittee or committee in the House. It just appeared in the budget, and most of the legislators knew nothing about it until last night.”
White lamented their approval of the expenditure, but added the process has run its course in the House.
“We approved it,” he said. “It’s done.”
Opponents of the appropriation must now rely on the S.C. Senate to remove it from the state’s spending plan, as governor Henry McMaster – who included the expenditure in his executive budget – is obviously not going to veto the money in the event it makes it to his desk.
(Via: Travis Bell)
Dylan Nolan is the director of special projects at FITSNews. He graduated from the Darla Moore school of business in 2021 with an accounting degree. Got a tip or story idea for Dylan? Email him here. You can also engage him socially @DNolan2000.
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The phrase “island vacation” may evoke images of turquoise Caribbean waters, bright white beaches, and temperatures over 80 degrees even in the depths of winter. But islands directly off the Southern U.S. mainland do it a little differently—and no two are the same.South Carolina islands have palmetto trees growing alongside ferns and pines. Georgia’s barrier islands, including St. Simons and Jekyll Island, boast diverse landscapes made up of beaches, marshes, dunes, and maritime forests. And Texas islands, with...
The phrase “island vacation” may evoke images of turquoise Caribbean waters, bright white beaches, and temperatures over 80 degrees even in the depths of winter. But islands directly off the Southern U.S. mainland do it a little differently—and no two are the same.
South Carolina islands have palmetto trees growing alongside ferns and pines. Georgia’s barrier islands, including St. Simons and Jekyll Island, boast diverse landscapes made up of beaches, marshes, dunes, and maritime forests. And Texas islands, with their shallow bays and seagrass meadows, are home to extensive wildlife.
No, not all of these Southern islands offer year-round swimming conditions, but they do have their own unique appeal, even in the colder months. To help pick the top islands in the South, we tapped Mary Helen Law, a Georgia-based travel advisor and owner of Law Luxury Travel.
Law describes Longboat Key as “one of the region’s best-kept secrets." Located on Florida's Gulf Coast, the quiet barrier island is just a 20-minute drive from Sarasota, making it relatively easier to get to if you’re flying to the Sunshine State. The island does lean more residential—and, thus, the beaches are typically less crowded—but there’s still plenty to do if you want to stay busy. Activities range from kayaking with dolphins and manatees to sunset cruises and pickleball matches. Plus, Law notes that with the 2024 opening of The St. Regis Longboat Key Resort, “visitors can now enjoy elevated luxury alongside beloved local favorites like Shore and Whitney’s.”
Neighboring Hilton Head Island may have more name recognition, but Daufuskie Island earns a spot on this list due to its remoteness (it’s only accessible by boat), incredible beauty, and dedication to preserving its Gullah culture. Visitors can take in everything that makes Daufuskie so special in a variety of ways. Start by enjoying a classic beach day on its three miles of public beaches, or head out on horseback with Daufuskie Trail Rides. Take a tour with sixth-generation native Sallie Ann Robinson, who specializes in Daufuskie Island history, then pop into Daufuskie Island Distillery to sample some of its American-made rum. The island also features a number of historical sites—First Union African Baptist Church and the Bloody Point Lighthouse among them—and the best way to see as many as possible, and get around the island in general, is via golf cart.
“Call it cheating, since the Golden Isles is a collection of islands off Georgia’s southern coast, but it’s nearly impossible to pick just one,” says Law. “Choose Sea Island for a luxury retreat at The Cloister, Cumberland Island for the simplicity of roaming horses and untouched landscapes, St. Simons Island for lively beaches and dining options, or Jekyll Island for a vacation full of old-world charm.” No matter which island you visit, you can expect a relaxed atmosphere with gorgeous sunsets, mild weather, and some of the best meals you’ve had in your life (Southern Soul Barbeque on St. Simons is a highlight).
If you’re searching for a tropical vacation spot but want to stay stateside, look no further than Dauphin Island. A barrier island in the Gulf of Mexico, the 14-mile-long destination is known for its clear blue water and picturesque white sand. It’s also affectionately called the “sunset capital of Alabama,” a title you’ll quickly understand as you take in the horizon on the far west end of the island. To reach the island, you’ll need to come by ferry or via the three-mile bridge that connects it to mainland Alabama. Upon arrival, the world is your oyster. Explore the 164-acre Audubon Bird Sanctuary, Shell Mound Park, and Historic Fort Gaines. Alternatively, you can spend your days on the water, kayaking, snorkeling, or paddleboarding until dinnertime.
“A sleepy beach town known for its rich history, Pawleys Island is home to independent restaurants—such as Chive Blossom, Bistro 217, and Frank's Outback—several art galleries featuring the work of local artists, and Downtown Pawleys, a quaint shopping area surrounding a tranquil pond,” says Law. A little under four miles long, the island is easily explored on foot or by bike, and visitors spend their days fishing, crabbing, golfing, or just appreciating the beauty and the slower pace, preferably while lounging in a locally made hammock. “A visit wouldn’t be complete without exploring the historic Hammock Shops, where handcrafted rope hammocks have been a tradition for generations,” adds Law.
The Outer Banks of North Carolina are made up of several islands, stretching from the Virginia border to Ocracoke Island. One of the best ones to visit is Hatteras Island, home to Pamlico Station by Edgecamp, a coastal hotel designed by Jonathan Adler that opened in 2024. Dotted with towns like Rodanthe, Salvo, Waves, and Hatteras Village, the barrier island is long—nearly 50 miles from end to end. With that much space, visitors and locals alike have plenty of room for water sports, leisurely beach days, and sightseeing. Notably, kiteboarding and windsurfing are extremely popular on the island; if it’s your first day, sign up for a private or semi-private lesson with Real Watersports.
South of the Golden Isles, just over the maritime boundary between Georgia and Florida, is Amelia Island. “Spanish moss drapes across oak trees as you cross the bridge onto a stunning Amelia Island, where visitors can enjoy nearly empty beaches, five championship golf courses, and a variety of land and water activities for all ages,” says Law. It’s a true family-friendly destination with a range of accommodations, including the luxurious Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island and Omni Amelia Island Resort & Spa—both of which come recommended by Law—and charming bed-and-breakfasts housed in the historical buildings downtown. Law adds that the island has “an active food scene.” with “everything from tapas at España, a nod to former Spanish rule of the island, to local seafood cuisine at Down Under, a favorite oyster bar for locals.”
Many non-Texans may associate the Lone Star State with miles and miles of flat, landlocked plains, but this part of the world has an impressive amount of variation in its climate and landscape. Take South Padre Island, for example: a tropical paradise on the Gulf of Mexico, just off the southern tip of Texas. It’s warm year-round, has 34 miles of white-sand beaches and blue water, and gets more than 300 days of sunshine annually. Like many of the best islands in the South, this is a place where you can be as relaxed or as busy as you want. Spend your days chartering a boat, learning about wildlife at South Padre Island Birding, Nature Center, and Alligator Sanctuary, or horseback riding along the beach at Island Adventure Park.
“Some might call Kiawah Island a golfer's paradise,” says Law, “but don't discount this 10-mile-long oceanfront resort as anything less than a perfect destination for the entire family.” Along with the famed Ocean Course, which hosted the 2012 and 2021 PGA Championships, Kiawah has miles of bike paths, wide beaches, and salt marshes teeming with wildlife. There are various vacation rentals available on the island—some oceanfront, some riverfront—but Law says you’ll find “ultimate relaxation” at The Sanctuary, a repeat winner in Travel + Leisure's World’s Best Awards.
Ship Island is 12 miles off the coast of Mississippi. The barrier island, which is part of Gulf Islands National Seashore, is a true getaway in every sense of the word. According to the National Park Service, cell phone service is limited, and the island is only accessible by boat. While there's no lodging on Ship Island and camping is not allowed, visitors can take advantage of its Caribbean-like waters and white-sand beaches during the day. Chairs and umbrellas are available to rent at the designated swimming beach, which has amenities like restrooms, drinking water, and a snack stand to keep you comfortable. Just be sure to bring plenty of sunscreen and stay hydrated—summers here are notoriously hot and sunny.
KIAWAH ISLAND, S.C (WCIV) — A settlement reached after nearly two years of negotiations is said to guarantee the permanent protection of Captain Sams Spit, a haven for nature lovers for decades, according to a release from the Conservancy of the Sea Islands.“It will be preserved. There will never be a building there," said Executive Director of the Conservancy of the Sea Islands Donna Windham.The agreement, made between the Conservancy of the Sea Islands, the Town of Kiawah Island, Kiawah Island Community Assoc...
KIAWAH ISLAND, S.C (WCIV) — A settlement reached after nearly two years of negotiations is said to guarantee the permanent protection of Captain Sams Spit, a haven for nature lovers for decades, according to a release from the Conservancy of the Sea Islands.
“It will be preserved. There will never be a building there," said Executive Director of the Conservancy of the Sea Islands Donna Windham.
The agreement, made between the Conservancy of the Sea Islands, the Town of Kiawah Island, Kiawah Island Community Association, Kiawah Partners and South Carolina, still needs to be legally approved. However, once that is finished, the entirety of Captain Sams Spit – from Beachwalker Park to the end of the Spit – will be under a conservation easement holder and steward. The Town of Kiawah will control the Beachwalker Park parcel. Meanwhile, South Carolina will take ownership of the remaining portions of the Spit.
"Captain Sams Spit is truly a unique natural treasure," Kiawah Mayor Bradley D. Belt said.
The town will be able to continue all ongoing activities, enforcement, and wildlife research. Additionally, Beachwalker Park will remain in public hands, assuring access to the beachfront.
The state is planning to contribute $32 million to the conservation of the area, while the town puts in $3.7 million and the conservancy $1.3 million. Officials tied to the settlement say Gov. Henry McMaster is in strong support of the measure.
The conservation easement prohibits development and would significantly restrict human impact across Captain Sams Spit, according to the announcement.
The settlement also establishes a framework for long-term coordination among municipal, state and nonprofits, ensuring oversight for future generations, officials said.
Kiawah Island residents say they are pleased by the outcome.
“It's a one-of-a-kind place. We need to protect it, so I'm thrilled," says resident Kathy Ladner.
“One of the reasons people come to this place is to see the natural part of it and live with nature," said resident Carol Medendorp. "We need Captain Sam's to be Captain Sam's and be able to see the dolphins and the turtles.”
The peninsular spit is attached to the southern end of Kiawah. It provides a habitat for federally threatened species, including the rufa red knot, piping plover and loggerhead sea turtles. The area also supports diamondback terrapins and bottlenose dolphins.
It has been the site of intense legal wrangling, as the Kiawah sought to ensure the area saw limited development and environmental preservation. With the newly announced agreement, officials believe that conservation of the area is a top priority.
“It means we get to protect a very important spot, not only for the wildlife on the island, but we also get to protect an area where we get to study this wildlife," said Lee Bundrick, a senior Ecological Health and Conservation Coordinator with the Conservancy of the Sea Islands. "We want people to connect with nature because we're just as much as part of nature. And being out in nature is just as important as protecting it as well."
Peggy Barnes, chair of the Conservancy of the Sea Islands board of trustees, added: “Captain Sams Spit is an invaluable habitat for birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians and crustaceans. Placing the entire Spit under conservation easement ensures these habitats are preserved in perpetuity, benefiting rare, threatened and endangered species. This is a defining conservation achievement for our organization and for the South Carolina coast.”
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