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 Trident Technical College Mount Pleasant Campus in Mount Pleasant, 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 Mount Pleasant Memorial Waterfront Park near Mount Pleasant, 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 The Palms of Mt Pleasant in Mount Pleasant, 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.
For the last 23 years, Mount Pleasant’s annual ArtFest has created a gathering place where residents can connect, explore diverse art forms and support local talent. And this year promises the same experience.ArtFest will take place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m on March 21 at Mount Pleasant Towne Centre, 1218 Belk Drive.The free community celebration invites families, art lovers and curious visitors to spend the afternoon immersed in inspiration and imagination.Throughout the day, attendees can enjoy live performances by ...
For the last 23 years, Mount Pleasant’s annual ArtFest has created a gathering place where residents can connect, explore diverse art forms and support local talent. And this year promises the same experience.
ArtFest will take place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m on March 21 at Mount Pleasant Towne Centre, 1218 Belk Drive.
The free community celebration invites families, art lovers and curious visitors to spend the afternoon immersed in inspiration and imagination.
Throughout the day, attendees can enjoy live performances by area music and dance groups. Visitors can also wander the Art Walk lined with regional artists and makers of photography, jewelry, woodwork, candles, macrame and more. During the Plein Air Paint Out, artists will paint in various places throughout the venue to be judged and awarded during the event closing.
“Art in all its forms has the ability to transform and enlighten both the creator and the viewer,” said Nicole Harvey, community affairs chief with the Mount Pleasant Recreation Department. “We hope that festival participants will leave inspired to pursue their own possibly neglected creative sparks."
ArtFest will also feature a variety of interactive kids' activities. Young artists can try pedal-powered spin art with Good Clean Fun, have their faces painted and enjoy balloon creations and fairy hair styling.
Sweetgrass basket weaving demonstrations and additional craft stations will offer hands-on opportunities to learn about local traditions and artistic techniques. And come hungry, because vendors will be serving up goodies like gyros, chicken sandwiches, Italian ice and Bundt cakes.
“Events like ArtFest help strengthen community pride, encourage cultural appreciation and contribute to the local economy,” said Kathi Herrmann, Towne Centre's marketing director.
“For the local artists specifically, ArtFest provides a valuable platform to showcase their work, connect with new audiences and build relationships within the creative community,” she said.
MOUNT PLEASANT — An apartment complex off Ben Sawyer Boulevard must still pay a mother and daughter $1 million for black mold exposure that left them seriously ill, a court has ruled.The S.C. Court of Appeals on March 4 rejected a Mount Pleasant apartment complex’s appeal of a 2022 jury verdict that found it negligent in its response to Karolina and Krista Richardson’s complaints about black mold in their apartment.The mother and daughter lived at the Oyster Park Apartments at 1421 Shucker Circle complex for a...
MOUNT PLEASANT — An apartment complex off Ben Sawyer Boulevard must still pay a mother and daughter $1 million for black mold exposure that left them seriously ill, a court has ruled.
The S.C. Court of Appeals on March 4 rejected a Mount Pleasant apartment complex’s appeal of a 2022 jury verdict that found it negligent in its response to Karolina and Krista Richardson’s complaints about black mold in their apartment.
The mother and daughter lived at the Oyster Park Apartments at 1421 Shucker Circle complex for about four months in 2017 soon after it opened to tenants. At issue was how long it took for management to respond to their complaints about the presence of mold and how long they knew about it, according to court records.
The two began reporting the symptoms and the presence of black mold in late May 2017 after they were moved to a new unit due to flooding. It wasn’t until they made several requests for mold testing for a month did management hire a lab on July 10, 2017.
The results confirmed what the mother and daughter already knew because of their history of asthma and other conditions that made them sensitive to mold exposure.
The family was moved to another unit. Their health problems related to mold exposure persisted until they left the complex in September 2017. According to the lawsuit, both contracted toxic mold disease as a result of their four months at Oyster Park.
Ninth Circuit Court Judge Jennifer McCoy presided over the 2022 trial. The apartment’s attorneys argued on appeal the judge erred in not providing a directed verdict. They also argued McCoy should not have found them in violation of evidence disclosure rules after notebooks were released on the eve of the trial. McCoy ordered the apartment complex pay the Richardson’s legal fees as a result, according to court records.
An attorney for Oyster Park did not immediately return a request for comment. The appeals court noted that the complex did eventually remediate the mold.
During litigation, Clay McCullough, who represented the Richardson’s, presented several other complaints from residents at Oyster Park that had also struggled with mold and water infiltration in the newly opened complex.
“Our overwhelming hope is that the apartment will pay out what is owed so the Richardson’s can get on with their lives,” McCullough said.
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