Show Your Car Some Love This Valentine’s Month ❤️🚗

February 3, 2025

February is the month of love, and while you’re picking up chocolates and planning date nights, don’t forget to give a little TLC to the one thing that’s always there for you—your car! It keeps you safe, gets you where you need to go, and works hard every day. This Valentine’s month, treat your vehicle to the care it deserves and keep it running smoothly for years to come.

Here’s how to show your car some love with Wayside Garage’s recommended maintenance.

1. Treat It to an Oil Change

(The Ultimate Love Language)

An oil change is like giving your engine a spa day. Fresh oil keeps all those moving parts lubricated, reduces wear and tear, and improves engine performance. Plus, regular oil changes help prevent costly repairs down the line.

🌟 Pro Tip: Stick to every 5,000 miles or 6 months to keep your engine happy.

2. Give It the Gift of Fresh Air

Your car breathes too, through its air and cabin filters!

The engine air filter keeps dirt and debris out of your engine, ensuring it runs efficiently.
The cabin air filter keeps the air inside your car fresh and clean, which is especially important during allergy season.

Changing these filters annually not only improves air quality but also boosts fuel efficiency.

3. Don’t Forget the Heart: Check the Battery

Your car’s battery is its beating heart, powering everything from the engine to the electronics. If your battery is more than a couple of years old, have it tested to ensure it’s in good shape. Cold weather can take a toll, so February is the perfect time to check in on its health and replace it if needed.

4. Keep It Safe with a Brake Inspection

Nothing shows love like safety. Your car’s brakes are essential to keeping you and your passengers safe, so don’t skip this step. If you’ve noticed squeaking, grinding, or reduced stopping power, it’s time for a brake inspection. Even if everything seems fine, an annual check is always a good idea.

🔧 Pro Tip: Wayside Garage offers comprehensive inspections that check your brakes, tires, and suspension to catch any issues early.

5. Show Your Tires Some Love

Think of your tires as the shoes of your car—they need regular care to perform their best. Make sure they’re properly inflated and rotate them regularly to ensure even wear. Bonus: well-maintained tires improve fuel efficiency and extend their lifespan.

6. Give Your Car a Deep Clean

(Inside and Out)

A clean car isn’t just about looks—it can actually help maintain its value! Salt and grime from winter roads can cause rust and corrosion, so a good wash and wax will help protect the exterior. Don’t forget to vacuum and wipe down the interior, too.

Why Preventative Maintenance is the Ultimate Long-Term Commitment

Just like any good relationship, regular maintenance is key to a lasting bond with your car. Keeping up with oil changes, inspections, and tune-ups will extend your car’s lifespan and save you from expensive surprises down the road. And remember: maintaining your current car can cost as little as $0.30 per mile compared to $0.80 per mile for a new car. That’s real love for your budget! 💸

Special February Offer: Love Your Car Discount ❤️

To help you show your car some love, we’re offering 10% off any service scheduled in February. Whether it’s an oil change, brake inspection, or comprehensive checkup, we’ve got you covered. Call Wayside Garage to book your appointment today!

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Everything You Need to Know About Transmission Service and Repair at Wayside Garage

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Brake inspection, Car safety, Brake maintenance, Brake pad replacement, Wayside Garage

WHEN SHOULD I GET MY BRAKES INSPECTED?

By Stacey Diaz • October 14, 2025

Not sure when to check your brakes? Learn the signs and timing for brake inspections — and why October is a smart time to visit Wayside Garage in Seaside, CA.

ARE MY BRAKES SAFE?

By Stacey Diaz • October 14, 2025

October is more than just pumpkin patches and crisp fall air. For many families in Monterey, it's also the start of darker evenings, wetter roads, and more time on the road. That’s why October is the perfect time to think about one of the most important safety features on your vehicle: your brakes. At Wayside Garage, we participate in the Brakes for Breasts campaign every October. It's not just about brake repair — it’s about raising awareness, supporting breast cancer research, and keeping our community safe on the roads. ________________________________________ What Are the Signs Your Brakes Might Need Attention? Your brakes are your first line of defense in an emergency. If you’re noticing any of these symptoms, it’s time to get your brakes checked: • Squealing or grinding noises • A soft or “spongy” brake pedal • Car pulling to one side when braking • Vibration or shaking when you press the brakes • Increased stopping distance Ignoring these signs can lead to expensive repairs down the road — or worse, a serious accident. We always say: if it feels off, bring it in. ________________________________________ Why Brake Inspections Matter More in Fall With more rain, shorter days, and holiday travel ahead, your brakes are under more stress in the fall. At Wayside Garage, we see an uptick in emergency brake repairs this time of year — many of which could have been avoided with a quick inspection. Our certified technicians will perform a comprehensive brake check, looking at: • Brake pads and rotors • Brake fluid level and condition • Brake lines and hoses • Calipers and hardware And if you’re part of our Wayside Garage Maintenance Plan, your brake inspections are included with your scheduled services. That’s one more reason to stay on track with routine care. ________________________________________ Brakes for Breasts: Repair With a Purpose Every October, we join auto shops nationwide for the Brakes for Breasts campaign. Here’s how it works at Wayside Garage: • You get free brake pads (you only pay for labor and any additional parts if needed). • We donate 10% of the brake job to the Cleveland Clinic Breast Cancer Vaccine Fund. It’s a meaningful way to protect your family on the road while supporting groundbreaking research that could change lives. ________________________________________ Why Choose Wayside Garage for Brake Service? We know you have options when it comes to brake repair in Monterey. So why do so many drivers trust us? • Family-owned and operated since 1946 • ASE-certified technicians who care about doing it right • Honest inspections and clear explanations • Free digital vehicle health reports • A shop built on integrity, hospitality, and professionalism When you bring your vehicle to us, you're not just another ticket — you're part of the Wayside Garage family. ________________________________________ Schedule Your Brake Inspection Today October is the best time to have your brakes checked — and support a great cause while you're at it. Whether you’re noticing a problem or just want peace of mind before the holidays, give us a call or schedule an appointment online. Let's keep your vehicle — and your community — safe this fall.