Driver's know they have to change their oil at the right time. Many service stations provide a sticker for the windshield that says, "When the odometer reaches 'X' miles, you're due." Years ago, people went for oil changes at the 3,000-mile mark. Today, engines can handle much more. The manual could say 5,000 or 7,500 represents the appropriate mileage duration. And there's also a time duration.

Check the vehicle's owner's manual for the set recommended timeframe. Six months is usually the average duration. 

The tires on your car are designed to hold up under great pressures and stresses, but they can only do so when properly mounted and inflated. The good news is, most tires include detailed visual markings on their sidewalls that give you important information. Many such tires have at least eight different symbols, and these represent various dimensions and capacities.

Examples are the letter "P", "W", and "R". In this example, the "R" would denote tire construction style, the "W" would be speed rating, and the "P" would stand for vehicle style which is a passenger car in this case…

A car can overheat unexpectedly when the radiator hose springs a leak. Worse, a vehicle may crash if brake fluid runs out of the lines without warning. Sadly, many drivers could learn about problems with hoses, belts, and lines had they requested an inspection at the dealership. Trained technicians can determine if there are any wear and tear.

Belts are durable, but they cannot run forever without eventually fraying and snapping. The owner's manual provides insights into when the drive and timing belts require changing. Drivers in Charlotte should follow the manual's suggestions. 

One of the great innovations of today's automobiles is the amount of technology they have in them. This includes sensors in your tires that let you know when they are low. There are a couple of common reasons why your tire pressure light is illuminated.

The most common reason your tire light comes on is that your tire is low on air. This could be due to a slow leak from a tiny puncture or it could be caused by tires that are at the end of their life and starting to fail. Another reason a tire light can…

Addressing safety concerns when considering teenage driving is the responsibility of a productive and healthy society. Teenagers need people to be looking after them to keep them safe when they get behind the wheel. Fortunately, there are a lot of resources to help anyone do just that.

Parents will take comfort knowing that their teenagers are kept safer by the fact that safety ratings are available on any vehicle that the parent may decide to purchase for that teenager. They have the power right in their hands to make an informed decision that works well for the teenager and for…

Car batteries seem to always go dead at some of the most inconvenient times. At Hendrick MINI, we want you to be an informed vehicle owner. The following tips will help you get maximum use from your car's battery.

Since your car's battery quietly supplies power, it can be hard to know when it needs to be replaced or repaired. Periodically examine your battery. If you see any swelling of its case or corrosion around the charging posts, you may need a new battery.

 

Used vehicles have gotten to the point where they are nearly as good as the new vehicles for sale. They don’t lose much value in terms of the technology on board or other features that are present. It is a good idea to check out used cars as a possible purchase idea.

New cars go for more than double the amount of the average used car. That is amazing because it means that there are huge savings for those who are willing to get into a car that has been previously owned by another individual. It is not like…

Worn brake pads are quick to alert Charlotte drivers of the need for maintenance. The distinctive squealing sound that the braking system makes whenever worn brakes are depressed is evidence enough for many consumers to seek service. In truth, however, you shouldn't wait for this system to become audibly distressed before paying attention to it. At Hendrick MINI, we want all motorists to know the following strategies for keeping their brakes in optimum condition all of the time.

Have Your Brakes Professionally Inspected When Rotating Your Tires

Tire rotations should be performed at 

It's finally spring in Charlotte! We encourage you to bring your vehicle down to Hendrick MINI for some routine spring maintenance. We won't take up much of your day, but it's good to know that your vehicle is ready to go this spring and summer. Here are some of our favorite spring car care tips.

• Our technicians can empty, flush and refill your cooling system. The specifications set by your owner's manual will be followed precisely to make sure your engine can maintain a good temperature.
• An oil change will remove old oil that can contain…

At Hendrick MINI, we care that your engine is running efficiently and that you are comfortable behind the wheel. Your engine and air filters are what keep both your engine and cabin air flowing properly. It's necessary to clean and also replace your air filters from time to time.

When Should I Service My Engine and Cabin Air Filters?

You should service your filters at about the same time you perform a brake fluid exchange which is every 20 thousand miles. We can inspect your filters at our location here in Charlotte to decide whether they need to be…