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 Citadel, the Military College of South Carolina in Sullivan's 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 Thomson Park near Sullivan's 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 South Bay At Mount Pleasant in Sullivan's 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.
SULLIVAN’S ISLAND — On Ion Avenue, close enough to the beach that you can hear seagulls caw, an overgrown parcel sits in stark contrast to the manicured lawns and beach houses that line the street.Thick shrubbery partially shrouds its entrance that’s set far back from the residential street. Topped with cacti and pine, a concrete bunker is built into an earthen mound here. The World War II-era bunker spans six properties, with gun batteries bookending the structure.Now, three of those properties are poised to ...
SULLIVAN’S ISLAND — On Ion Avenue, close enough to the beach that you can hear seagulls caw, an overgrown parcel sits in stark contrast to the manicured lawns and beach houses that line the street.
Thick shrubbery partially shrouds its entrance that’s set far back from the residential street. Topped with cacti and pine, a concrete bunker is built into an earthen mound here. The World War II-era bunker spans six properties, with gun batteries bookending the structure.
Now, three of those properties are poised to be developed.
Developer Patrick Marr, a Sullivan’s Island resident, had ambitions of placing homes atop the bunker. Marr, who’s worked on other high-profile island developments like the newest iteration of the “Wedding Cake House,” worked with Charleston-based firm Loyal Architects to bring three concepts for the homes to Sullivan’s Island’s Design Review Board in February.
The designs consisted of homes cascading down the mound, with at least one story of each home perching on top of the bunker. Each property would be unique, constructed with different materials and design elements to avoid a row of identical homes, Marr said.
“These houses are going to be able to stand on their own with completely distinct designs, just as private owners of each lot would do. We will ensure that the houses will reflect the island character,” he said.
The bunker is listed in the town’s historic resources survey as the Fort Marshall gun battery. Built for use in World War II, the bunker held munition for the army’s coastal defenses on Sullivan’s Island.
When a property is a town-designated landmark property, the appointed body of architects, interior designers and preservationists evaluate developments to ensure they preserve the historic character of the property.
The South Carolina Court of Appeals has handed down two separate decisions that have the potential to affect both quality of life and property ownership on Sullivan's Island.In a 2-1 ruling on Feb. 18, the Court of Appeals overturned a Circuit Court decision that SC Lighthouse, doing business as Pacaso, a California-based company that sells fractional ownerships in luxury homes, was operating as a short-term rental on the island, which banned short-term vacation rentals around 25 years ago. According to the Appeals Court decision, sel...
The South Carolina Court of Appeals has handed down two separate decisions that have the potential to affect both quality of life and property ownership on Sullivan's Island.
In a 2-1 ruling on Feb. 18, the Court of Appeals overturned a Circuit Court decision that SC Lighthouse, doing business as Pacaso, a California-based company that sells fractional ownerships in luxury homes, was operating as a short-term rental on the island, which banned short-term vacation rentals around 25 years ago. According to the Appeals Court decision, selling shares of the vacation home "does not constitute commercial use of the property."
A week later, on Feb. 25, the Appeals Court upheld a Circuit Court ruling that the town's Oct. 7, 2020, settlement agreement in Bluestein vs. Sullivans's Island concerning property abutting the Maritime Forest is invalid. As part of the agreement, the town opted to settle the lawsuit by implementing a "selective thinning" plan for the Forest that would consist of the removal and trimming of vegetation on the accreted land.
The parties in the long-term lawsuit stipulated that the settlement agreement could not be "modified or amended, nor could any of its provisions be waived, except upon mutual agreement of all parties or their authorized agents in writing."
The agreement also provided that it would be “binding upon and inure to the benefit of all the parties, and their heirs, successors and assigns.”
However, after a new City Council was elected in May 2021, the Town brought a declaratory judgment action against Property Owners in February 2022 seeking an order that the settlement agreement was invalid and unenforceable, arguing that it unfairly bound future councils to this agreement.
The Court of Appeals sided with the town, finding, “Our courts have consistently invalidated contracts that bind future governing bodies because the contracts involved the bodies’ legislative functions or governmental powers.”
SULLIVAN’S ISLAND — A unique forest on this barrier island will stay wild with minimal intervention.The South Carolina’s Appeals Court rejected efforts from a pair of homeowners to enforce a “selective thinning” plan that would have required an unprecedented number of trees in the lush forest to come down.The Feb. 25 decision closes the door on a 2020 settlement between Sullivan’s Island and property owners who live near the wooded area that’s cropped up on accreted land over the past 7...
SULLIVAN’S ISLAND — A unique forest on this barrier island will stay wild with minimal intervention.
The South Carolina’s Appeals Court rejected efforts from a pair of homeowners to enforce a “selective thinning” plan that would have required an unprecedented number of trees in the lush forest to come down.
The Feb. 25 decision closes the door on a 2020 settlement between Sullivan’s Island and property owners who live near the wooded area that’s cropped up on accreted land over the past 70 years. The agreement laid out a maintenance plan that included removing small trees and clearing vegetation in areas near homes and beach paths throughout the forest.
In 2023, the settlement was tossed but two property owners, Nathan Bluestein and Theodore Albenesius, III, filed an appeal to restore the agreement and push the town to maintain the forest.
Attorneys for the town and the homeowners argued their cases before the state’s appellate court last fall.
The homeowners’ attorney, James Hood, told The Post and Courier shortly after oral arguments were heard last October that he and his clients were “hopeful that the Court of Appeals will order the town of Sullivan's Island to do what it agreed to do.”
But the court ultimately sided with the town.
In an opinion authored by Judge John Geathers, the court found that the agreement would bind future town councils to the terms of the settlement.
“As a result of this settlement agreement, the decision of the current or future town councils to alter or stop the selective thinning plan … would require and be conditioned upon the consent of private individuals,” Geathers wrote.
Attorneys for the homeowners did not immediately respond to requests for comment in time for publication. Town Administrator Joe Henderson declined to comment on the Feb. 25 outcome.
The decision brings to close another chapter in the maritime forest’s highly-litigated history.
The forest is somewhat of a novelty in South Carolina. Where many beaches are eroding faster than sand can be replaced, Sullivan’s Island is growing. The placement of the Charleston Harbor Jetties blocks sand that would flow away from the town’s shores keep much of the sediment in place on the island’s south end.
The accretion of sand and sediment has become the site of a lush, young forest where visitors can trek through a shaded trail system to access the beach, the Charleston Light overlooking the path.
The town purchased the 200-plus acres from the Lowcountry Land Trust in 1991. Under the property’s deed restrictions, town leaders are able to trim vegetation to maintain public access and keep mosquitoes under control. However, the forest was to largely remain in its natural state.
Some residents view the forest as a revered resource. Others are less-than-thrilled by its untrimmed nature. Overgrowth and mosquitoes, coyotes and rats, loss of both beach access and ocean views were among the chief complaints from neighbors of the lush forest listed in a 2010 lawsuit filed by a handful of homeowners against the town of Sullivan’s Island.
Litigation dragged on for years. It seemed the matter was all but settled in 2020, when the town agreed to maintain the maritime forest through “selective thinning.” The thinning would remove trees in specific areas near homes, with some exceptions, and clearcut vegetation near beach paths.
Some, though, called for the conservation of the forest with a desire for it to remain wild. Sullivan’s Island For All, a group formed by concerned residents in support of preserving the maritime forest, lobbied for the town to re-examine the agreement.
It took a new slate of town council members, led by current Sullivan’s Island Mayor Pat O’Neil, to do so. In 2021, town leaders voted to hire an outside attorney to conduct a legal review of the settlement.
In 2023, Charleston County Circuit Judge Jennifer McCoy deemed the agreement “unenforceable.” The agreement restricted council from adopting future regulations preserving or maintaining the land as public interests change, McCoy determined.
The Feb. 25 decision from the appeals court affirmed that judgment.
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