February is all about love—and while we usually think of hearts, chocolates, and flowers, there’s another relationship worth celebrating: the one you have with your vehicle. Your car is there for the daily commute, weekend errands, school drop-offs, road trips, and everything in between. It’s reliable, hardworking, and always ready to go… until it isn’t.
That’s why February is the perfect time to show your ride a little appreciation. It’s Love Your Car Month, and the best way to celebrate is with a few simple maintenance habits that can help your vehicle last longer, run smoother, and avoid expensive surprises down the road.
Why Love Your Car Month Matters
Your vehicle is one of your biggest investments, and like anything valuable, it needs regular care to stay in great condition. Skipping basic maintenance can lead to poor fuel economy, uneven tire wear, rough handling, and repairs that could have been prevented with a quick inspection or routine service.
The good news is that taking care of your vehicle doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, the small things you do consistently are often what makes the biggest difference over time.
Keep Up With Oil Changes
If there’s one maintenance item that truly impacts the life of your engine, it’s your oil change schedule. Oil lubricates the moving parts inside your engine, reduces friction, and helps keep temperatures under control. Over time, oil breaks down and becomes dirty, which forces your engine to work harder than it should.
When you stay on top of oil changes, your vehicle tends to run quieter, perform better, and stay reliable for the long haul. If you’re not sure when your next oil change is due, the service team at Kunes Auto Group can help you find the right interval based on your vehicle and how you drive.
Don’t Forget Your Tires (Especially in Winter)
Cold weather can cause tire pressure to drop, and driving on underinflated tires can affect everything from fuel economy to handling and braking. It can also lead to uneven wear that shortens the life of your tires, meaning you may need to replace them sooner than expected.
Checking tire pressure regularly is a quick habit that can pay off in a big way. And while you’re at it, it’s a great idea to have your tread depth checked too—because traction matters even more during snow, slush, and icy road conditions.
Rotate Tires to Help Them Last Longer
Even if your tires look fine at a glance, they may not be wearing evenly. Tire rotations help spread wear more evenly across all four tires, which improves ride comfort and can extend tire life.
If you’ve ever noticed your vehicle pulling slightly, vibrating on the highway, or feeling less stable than usual, uneven tire wear could be part of the issue. A rotation is a simple service that helps keep your vehicle driving the way it should.
Pay Attention to Your Brakes
Brakes are something you never want to ignore. If you hear squealing, grinding, or feel vibration when you stop, those are signs your brake system may need attention. Even if your brakes feel “okay,” regular inspections are one of the smartest ways to catch wear early and prevent more expensive repairs later.
Your brakes are one of your vehicle’s most important safety features, and making sure they’re working properly helps keep you and your passengers protected every time you hit the road.
Replace Air Filters for Better Performance and Comfort
Air filters don’t always get the spotlight, but they matter more than many drivers realize. Your engine air filter helps your vehicle breathe properly, which supports performance and efficiency. Your cabin air filter helps keep the air inside your vehicle cleaner, improving comfort and airflow from your vents.
If your vehicle feels sluggish, your airflow seems weaker than normal, or you notice unpleasant odors when the heat or A/C is running, a filter replacement might be exactly what your car needs.
Check Your Battery Before It Leaves You Stranded
Winter weather can be hard on car batteries, and a weak battery often shows signs before it fails completely. If your engine is slow to start, your lights look dim, or you’ve needed a jump recently, it’s worth having your battery tested.
A quick inspection can help you avoid the frustration of a dead battery—especially when it’s freezing outside and you’re trying to get somewhere important.
Keep an Eye on Fluids Beyond Oil
Most people remember oil, but your vehicle depends on several other fluids to run safely and efficiently. Coolant helps prevent overheating, brake fluid supports proper braking performance, and transmission fluid helps your vehicle shift smoothly.
If you notice leaks under your vehicle, unusual smells, or changes in how your car drives, it may be time for a fluid check. Staying ahead of fluid issues is one of the easiest ways to prevent bigger problems later.
A Clean Vehicle Is a Protected Vehicle
Keeping your vehicle clean isn’t just about looks—it can actually protect your car. Winter road salt and grime can cause corrosion over time, especially underneath your vehicle. Regular washes help protect the paint and reduce the chance of rust developing.
Inside your vehicle, keeping things tidy can help preserve your seats and surfaces while making every drive feel more comfortable and enjoyable. It’s a simple way to “love your car” that you can feel every time you get behind the wheel.
Get Professional Service at Kunes Auto Grou
Love Your Car Month is the perfect reminder that a little maintenance today can save you time, money, and stress down the road. And when you want expert help, you can count on Kunes Auto Group to keep your vehicle running at its best.
Whether you need an oil change, tire rotation, brake inspection, battery test, or seasonal maintenance check, the experienced team at Kunes Auto Group is ready to help. With trusted technicians, quality service, and a commitment to keeping drivers safe and confident on the road, Kunes makes it easy to stay on top of the care your vehicle deserves.
To schedule your next service appointment, visit Kunes Auto Group online or contact your local Kunes dealership service department and let their team take it from there.
Final Thoughts: Love Your Car and It Will Love You Back
Your vehicle works hard for you all year long, and February is a great time to return the favor. With a few simple maintenance steps—and support from the experts at Kunes Auto Group—you can keep your car running smoother, driving safer, and lasting longer for many miles ahead.
Happy Love Your Car Month from all of us at Kunes Auto Group!
