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Oil Change in Kiawah Island, SC
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.
The Premier Oil Change Auto Shop in Kiawah Island, SC
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!
Here's Why Cars Need Oil to Function
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.
When Do You Need to Change Your Car's Oil?
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.
Other Benefits of Engine Oil
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.
- A few common additives found in engine oil include
- Viscosity index boosters that improve oil performance under extreme temperatures
- Corrosion inhibitors that prevent rust from forming
- Dispersants to help remove sludge from your engine and prevent it from forming
A+ Auto Service Pro Tip
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.
Top 5 Reasons to Get an Oil Change in Kiawah Island, SC
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 Charleston Collegiate School 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?
The Right Oil at a Price You Can Afford
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.
Oil Change Myth #1: Thicker Oil is Best for Your Engine
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.
Oil Change Myth #2: Black Oil = Immediate Oil Change in Kiawah Island, SC
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.
Oil Change Myth #3: You Must Get an Oil Change Before Road Tripping
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.
Superb Oil Change Service in Kiawah Island, SC, Starts with A+ Auto
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 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.
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Latest News Near Me Kiawah Island, SC
Kiawah Island Club | Kiawah Island, South Carolina
The First Call Golfhttps://www.firstcallgolf.com/home-front/feature/2025-06-03/kiawah-island-club-kiawah-island-south-carolina
About: Tucked into the serene landscape of South Carolina’s coveted barrier island, Ocean Pines represents a new pinnacle in luxury coastal living. Situated in West Beach, Kiawah’s newest residential enclave, this exclusive collection of seven buildings showcases a blend of modern design and classic Lowcountry charm. Thoughtfully designed two-, three- and four-bedroom residences are nestled among layers of coastal pines and overlook a central lagoon. Walking paths and quiet gathering spaces enhance the natural tranquility ...
About: Tucked into the serene landscape of South Carolina’s coveted barrier island, Ocean Pines represents a new pinnacle in luxury coastal living. Situated in West Beach, Kiawah’s newest residential enclave, this exclusive collection of seven buildings showcases a blend of modern design and classic Lowcountry charm. Thoughtfully designed two-, three- and four-bedroom residences are nestled among layers of coastal pines and overlook a central lagoon. Walking paths and quiet gathering spaces enhance the natural tranquility of the community. Among these exceptional residences, 1341 Beachwalker Drive stands out as a rare offering. One of only two four-bedroom homes available in the development, this fourth-floor retreat spans an impressive 3,232 square feet. Surrounded by lush maritime forest and perched above Kiawah’s sweeping landscape, the home embraces a calming color palette inspired by the sea, sand and sky — subtle ocean blues, weathered grays and muted greens drawn from the island’s untouched environment. A double-height design fills the space with natural light, while expansive windows and sliding glass doors offer panoramic views of the Kiawah River and surrounding pines. As part of the Ocean Pines community, residents also enjoy proximity to the newly introduced amenities at The Cape, including a sleek oceanfront infinity pool, al fresco dining at the bar and grill and a state-of-the-art fitness center — all within walking distance. With the purchase of a Kiawah Island Club membership, residents can access even more, including exclusive golf, dining and wellness experiences. The private club offers two of the top 100 residential golf courses in the country and is the gateway to the Island’s social and recreational lifestyle. Kiawah Island itself is a masterclass in coastal preservation and luxury. Just 21 miles south of Charleston, this 10-mile-long barrier island offers more than 30 miles of bike trails, world-class amenities and a collection of seven elite golf courses, including the legendary Ocean Course that has hosted the Ryder Cup and multiple PGA Championships.
This South Carolina beach ranks among the nation’s best — again. Here’s why
Simone Jasperhttps://www.thestate.com/news/state/south-carolina/article307066976.html
A South Carolina beach ranks among the nation’s best places for sand and surf — again.Beachwalker Park on Kiawah Island is No. 6 on a list of the top 10 coastal destinations in the United States. The results were published Thursday, May 22, the Naples Daily News reported....
A South Carolina beach ranks among the nation’s best places for sand and surf — again.
Beachwalker Park on Kiawah Island is No. 6 on a list of the top 10 coastal destinations in the United States. The results were published Thursday, May 22, the Naples Daily News reported.
The list comes from coastal scientist Stephen P. Leatherman, also known as Dr. Beach. To determine the top shorelines across the country, he studied 650 public beaches for several factors, including sand texture, water temperature, rip currents and pollution, according to his website and a news release.
“50 (criteria) with a sliding scale from 1 to 5 are used to measure beach quality,” Dr. Beach wrote. “The survey was primarily designed for swimming beaches, but this information is also used to determine the best beaches for walking, scenery, sports, and other activities.”
Beachwalker Park was the only place in South Carolina to land on the national list. The destination, a roughly 25-mile drive south from the popular travel spot of Charleston, was praised for offering visitors clean water that “provides fantastic seafood.”
“This is a nature-lovers coast so visitors can bring their canoes and kayaks to paddle through the tidal inlets,” Dr. Beach wrote. “It is also fun to walk or bicycle down the fine-grained sand beach to Captain Sam’s Inlet to see thousands of birds.”
The park — which said it has seasonal lifeguards, a boardwalk and other amenities — isn’t a stranger to receiving praise. Last year, it landed in the No. 5 spot on Dr. Beach’s list, The Sun News reported.
This time around, Dr. Beach said the nation’s No. 1 coastal destination was Coopers Beach on New York’s Long Island. Rounding out the top five:
Johns Island golf course developers seek deal with county, offer affordable housing money
David Sladehttps://www.postandcourier.com/business/kiawah-new-golf-course-development-johns-island/article_6d0e2e4d-d95c-4aed-bdb8-ec0757e3d56c.html
JOHNS ISLAND — A revised plan to create a 933-acre members-only golf course subdivision on Johns Island calls for the developers to pay more than $2.1 million toward affordable housing efforts and emergency vehicles.The Orange Hill investment group is offering those and other incentives as it seeks a 10-year development contract with Charleston County, which would lock in zoning and fee rules for a decade.Such agreements give builders certainty about regulations and costs — that wouldn't change during the life of a ...
JOHNS ISLAND — A revised plan to create a 933-acre members-only golf course subdivision on Johns Island calls for the developers to pay more than $2.1 million toward affordable housing efforts and emergency vehicles.
The Orange Hill investment group is offering those and other incentives as it seeks a 10-year development contract with Charleston County, which would lock in zoning and fee rules for a decade.
Such agreements give builders certainty about regulations and costs — that wouldn't change during the life of a contract — and usually offer public benefits in return. Land, money and minor road improvements are the most common concessions offered.
“It was a long negotiation with the (county) staff," said Jordan Phillips, a managing partner at South Street Partners.
South Street in 2013 acquired Kiawah Partners, master developer of Kiawah Island. The nearby Orange Hill development on Johns Island would include a private golf course with up to 120 homes and 68 guest cottages.
Development plans for the former farm date back to 2005, and what was previously approved would have allowed 181 homes. Updated plans with the golf course were rolled out in 2022.
County Councilman Joe Boykin of Johns Island said the plan now on the table "is about as good as it gets" because compared to the previously approved plan it calls for fewer houses and fewer miles of internal roads. It further shifts the entrance path from Bohicket Road to River Road.
The money the developers are offering is also a plus, Boykin said.
"It wouldn't call it 'impact fees' but it's sort of like that with a development agreement," he said. "It's good to have these contributions."
The county does not collect impact fees when new homes and businesses are built, but it has negotiated multiple contracts for large-scale developments, and those have resulted in contributions of land or money for public purposes.
The nearby Kiawah River development, for example, has an agreement with the county that requires construction of up to 117 units of "housing for the workforce" as part of the 1,428-acre project.
“It just has to conform to the state law on development agreements, then it’s up to council," said Andrea Melocik, the county's deputy director of zoning and planning.
Boykin noted that at a May 12 Planning Commission meeting no one spoke in opposition to the Orange Hill plan and that comments submitted by the public were running 10-to-1 in favor. The commission voted unanimously to recommend approval.
The Orange Hill developers are offering:
Phillips of South Street said it made sense to direct some of the affordable housing money to the Sea Island Habitat group because "something like 60 percent of our employees are from Johns Island or Wadmalaw."
The developers are seeking:
Plans submitted to the county say there are 3,125 grand or protected trees on the property, 418 of which would be removed. Phillips said the development group will be "setting up the first Johns Island-specific tree fund" for mitigation efforts, which would involve planting trees to replace those cut down "on an inch-by-inch basis."
Of the 933 acres in the development plan, 305 are wetlands. A 212-acre portion of the property, 90 acres of which are high ground, would be left undeveloped and protected with a conservation easement.
The development schedule calls for the golf course to be constructed first, potentially opening in the fall of 2027, before any homes. The property is currently used as a sporting club, with activities such as skeet shooting.
As an exclusive club, property ownership is required in order to buy a Kiawah Island Club membership. That could be one of the new homes, one of the guest cottages or a share in a portion of undeveloped land that won't be built upon.
The guest cottages are "only for members and sponsored guests of the club," said Phillips, and won't be available to rent by the general public.
The Kiawah Club also operates the River Course, Cassique and other resort amenities on Kiawah Island.
Reach David Slade at 843-937-5552. Follow him on X @DSladeNews.
This South Carolina Beach Has The Most Beautiful Blue Water
Lisa Cericolahttps://www.southernliving.com/coligny-beach-sc-11737026
And it offers lots of amenities for sun seekers too.In This ArticleAny time spent at the beach is sure to put you in a vacation state of mind. And while there are many important things to consider when planning a trip, blue waters and white sand beaches always earn bonus points. The good news is that if you're ...
And it offers lots of amenities for sun seekers too.
In This Article
Any time spent at the beach is sure to put you in a vacation state of mind. And while there are many important things to consider when planning a trip, blue waters and white sand beaches always earn bonus points. The good news is that if you're heading to South Carolina with family or friends this summer, the beaches are all truly magnificent so there's no wrong decision.
The Best Girlfriend Getaways In South Carolina To Plan Now
The Bluest Water In South Carolina
Coligny Beach on Hilton Head Island is where you should head for the bluest waters. Hilton Head is famous for its beaches, so it’s no surprise that the waters here are extra beautiful. While a good amount of Hilton Head is home to high-end resorts with private beach access, Coligny Beach is open free to the public, which makes it one of the most popular places on the island. Read on to learn more about this spectacular spot.
What Makes Coligny Beach’s Water So Blue?
The sand on Hilton Head Island is bright white, blissfully soft, and very fine, and the water is shallow, especially at low tide. Both of these qualities can make the water appear sparkling blue. When the ocean is relatively calm and shallow, there is also less plankton, sand, particles, and other materials constantly churning in the waves, which gives the water a clearer appearance.
There’s a scientific reason as well, of course. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, this phenomenon occurs when light passes through water and absorbs colors in the red part of the light spectrum, leaving colors on the blue end of the color spectrum.
How To See Coligny Beach’s Water
Coligny Beach, the most popular public beach on Hilton Head Island, is a local favorite for more than its aquamarine waters. It’s easy to access, thanks to a beautifully designed park that includes a pathway and boardwalk that leads you straight onto the sand.
The Coligny Beach Park also has lots of amenities too: gazebos with swings, a fountain with synchronized jets, seating areas (including rocking chairs), beach matting for wheelchair access, outdoor showers, and a free parking area. The Breeze, which is Hilton Head's free public trolley, makes stops as well. (Just be sure to check the seasonal schedule.) It’s truly a beach that everyone can appreciate—for the magical color of the ocean, and more.
The Best Charleston Beaches
Stephanie Burthttps://www.cntraveler.com/gallery/best-beaches-in-charleston
Charleston is a peninsula surrounded by water, but it isn’t necessarily a beach town, per se. If you’re after the best Charleston beaches, you’ll need to plan ahead to drive to visit one of the sea islands that flank the city. The decision will pay dividends, however, as each beach offers wide views to the horizon, the waters of the Atlantic Ocean, and plenty of space to enjoy both. Most on this list come ...
Charleston is a peninsula surrounded by water, but it isn’t necessarily a beach town, per se. If you’re after the best Charleston beaches, you’ll need to plan ahead to drive to visit one of the sea islands that flank the city. The decision will pay dividends, however, as each beach offers wide views to the horizon, the waters of the Atlantic Ocean, and plenty of space to enjoy both. Most on this list come with a “beach town,” to boot, from Edisto’s sleepy seafood shacks to live bands at the Windjammer as the sun sets on Isle of Palms.
Whatever you’re after, pack some sunscreen and keep these tips in your back pocket for assured fun in the sun: The later in the day you arrive, the more crowded it will be. If you are picky about your place on the sand, then go to Charleston beaches early. The combo of tourists who generally have later starts to the day plus locals who like to knock off work early to get a few hours of beach time equals an increase in traffic and a decrease in towel real estate nearest peak sunshine. Note that each beach has its own rules for parking, from Folly’s “wheels off the road” rule to Isle of Palms’ city operated lots. It’s a delicate dance between livable beach communities and visitor pressure, so respect and patience keep public access palatable for all.
Heads-up: drinking and smoking on most Charleston beaches is a big no no, and can cost you big time. It’s a rule that is consistently enforced, and most locals know someone (or have been someone) who came with beer or other alcoholic beverages in a beach tote and left with a tan and a fine of up to $1000. Also, note that vibes vary from beach to beach. Each one of Charleston’s beach towns has its own culture. While Folly Beach is a free-stylin’ hippie, Edisto is a genteel country cousin, and Isle of Palms a fun-loving student on spring break. This is, of course, a simplification, but can help with deciding which to-the-water trek most fits your interests.
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