Old School Automotive

Mastering Engine Care: Essential Tips and Insights from Old School Automotive & Tire

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 09:02:39 GMT

Expert engine repair services by Old School Automotive & Tire in West Columbia, SC. Get top-quality auto care from trusted professionals. Visit us today!

Your Guide to Battery Replacement in West Columbia, SC

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 09:02:51 GMT

Get expert battery replacement at Old School Automotive & Tire in West Columbia, SC. Ensure reliability & performance. Visit us today for exceptional service!

Brake Repair Expertise: Ensuring Your Safety in West Columbia, SC

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 09:02:34 GMT

Get reliable brake repair from Old School Automotive & Tire in West Columbia, SC. Ensure safety and performance. Schedule an online appointment now!

The Ultimate Guide to Tires and Wheels: Expert Tips from Old School Automotive & Tire in West Columbia, SC

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 01:57:53 GMT

Discover expert tire care advice at Old School Automotive & Tire in West Columbia, SC. Enhance performance and safety. Visit us today.

The Ultimate Guide to Oil & Filter Changes: Keep Your Engine Running Smoothly

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 09:03:34 GMT

Enhance your car's performance with expert oil & filter changes at Old School Automotive & Tire in West Columbia, SC. Schedule an online appointment now!

Mastering A/C Service and Repair at Old School Automotive & Tire in West Columbia, SC

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 09:03:44 GMT

Experience expert A/C service and repair at Old School Automotive & Tire in West Columbia, SC. Stay cool and comfortable on the road. Schedule an online appointment now!

Optimize Your Ride: The Importance of Regular Wheel Alignments

Mon, 18 Aug 2025 09:03:26 GMT

Enhance your vehicle's safety and performance with expert wheel alignments at Old School Automotive & Tire in West Columbia, SC. Visit us today!

Power Up: Understanding Battery Replacement and Care with Old School Automotive & Tire

Mon, 21 Jul 2025 09:02:52 GMT

Expert battery replacement in West Columbia at Old School Automotive & Tire. Stay charged with top services. Call us today!

Mastering Engine Repair: A Guide for West Columbia's Drivers

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 09:03:03 GMT

Discover top-tier engine repair in West Columbia at Old School Automotive & Tire. Experience quality service and expertise. Call us today!

The Ultimate Guide to Tire and Wheel Care for Optimal Vehicle Performance

Mon, 26 May 2025 09:03:52 GMT

Discover expert tire and wheel care at Old School Automotive & Tire in West Columbia, SC. Enhance your vehicle's performance. Visit us today!

How Often Should I Change My Car's Air Filter?

Wed, 15 Nov 2023 16:31:11 GMT

One vehicle component that is often overlooked is the engine air filter. A clean air filter equates to a clean engine. This filter helps the engine run smoothly and seamlessly by blocking out external impurities like dust and debris. Whenever this filter gets clogged, you may experience various issues with your vehicle and its performance.

SIGNS THAT YOU NEED TO CHANGE YOUR CAR AIR FILTER

Filter appears dirty
Check engine light comes on
Decrease in engine power
Lowered fuel economy
Exhaust smoke
Unusual engine sounds

Clean air plays a crucial role in the combustion process. If contaminants get into the engine chamber, it can cause significant damage to your engine parts. You may also struggle to accelerate your vehicle. To avoid having your engine working overtime, please remember to periodically change the air filter.

HOW OFTEN SHOULD I CHECK AND CHANGE THE AIR FILTER?

On average, you should check the air filter on your car at least once a year. Depending on your car manufacturer, the interval for the filter change may vary. However, most mechanics notice that an air filter can last anywhere between 15,000 to 30,000 miles. How frequently you should replace your engine air filter can depend on how much driving you do.

Nevertheless, you should still check up on it once a year. If the filter looks dirty or off-colored, it is best to go ahead and change it. A brand-new air filter is the wise choice to guarantee your engine will run its best and stay in tip-top shape.

If your car needs any filter changes, including the engine air filter, please do not hesitate to visit Old School Automotive in West Columbia, SC. Our technicians will gladly help you with all your auto maintenance needs!

5 Reasons To Never Skip An Oil Change

Wed, 15 Nov 2023 16:31:11 GMT

No matter what kind of car you drive, an oil change is an essential service you need to get. It is also the most frequent service that your vehicle receives. It is typically required every 3-6 months or 5000 miles, but these numbers can vary depending on your car. Your vehicle's owner's manual is the best resource to understand your oil changes.

You might be wondering why engine oil is so important anyway. To start, engine oil, or motor oil, has the utmost importance of keeping your engine parts lubricated and clean. However, it tends to wear down faster than the other fluids inside your vehicle. If you are due for an oil change soon, please do not put it off! Skipping an oil change has terrible consequences. Here are some of the reasons:

Ignoring an oil change can lead to severe engine damage (and engine overheating) , which can be expensive to repair.
Running on old or poor-quality motor oil can lead to lower fuel efficiency .
Skipping an oil change can void your warranty with the manufacturer.
A poorly maintained vehicle equates to a decrease in your vehicle's resale value .
Any damages to your engine can cause an overall reduction in vehicle performance and a rough running engine .

Overall, when considering both the monetary and time cost of an oil change versus engine repair, oil changes are a no-brainer. You'll save yourself so much money by avoiding major engine problems, and your vehicle will run at its optimal efficiency. If you're due for an oil change, please give our expert team at Old School Automotive a call or visit today!

Tips for Night Time Driving

Wed, 15 Nov 2023 16:31:09 GMT

Driving at night is dangerous because of poor visibility. Many people fear driving cars at night because of the horror stories about night journeys. Driving at night is challenging for both new and seasoned drivers. Fatal accidents are likely to occur at night when compared to daytime. You see less of the road at night; therefore, you have minimal time to react and stop the car. Although the lights are essential during darkness, they can create glares for you and pose a hazard for an accident.

Here are helpful tips for helping you stay safe at night.

AVOID DRIVING WHILE DRUNK

Driving while under the influence of drugs poses a risk during the day, but it is worse at night. Alcohol impairs your brain and inhibits cognitive functioning. You will find it difficult to see the vital traffic signs at night, leading to an accident. Put your defensive-driving instincts on high alert and take the back seat.

TAKE CARE OF YOUR EYES

Schedule an eye checkup annually to ensure you have excellent eyesight. Your glare becomes problematic as you age. Therefore, you may need different specifications for the night.

TEST THE CAR LIGHTS BEFORE DRIVING

Make checking your car lights a habit; check the low beams, high beams, brake lights, and daytime lights. Ensure the headlight is on for visibility during the night when it is raining and during hail and snowy weather conditions.

BE WATCHFUL OF WILDLIFE

Some wild animals love moving at night, usually from October to January. You can easily see an animal's glowing eyes if the high beams are on. Instead of swerving, it will help if you slow down and stop avoiding hitting the animal.

AVOID DRIVING ON TWO-WAY HIGHWAYS

It is risky to drive in two-way traffic as it exposes you to the risk of fatal accidents. During the night, the glare from the headlight of oncoming cars lowers your car's overall light. A two-way traffic road also has many curves and hills, so it is easier to collide head-on with other vehicles.

GETTING STARTED

Driving at night is riskier than driving during the day. Part of the risk is often associated with drunken driving and fatigue during the night hours. Poor visibility also can lead to accidents during the night. Therefore, all road users need to remember and practice safety tips to avoid accidents.

Are All Vehicle Batteries the Same?

Wed, 15 Nov 2023 16:31:01 GMT

A common question that you may wonder is if all car batteries are universal! The short answer to this question is no, but there is more to it! You need to keep in mind various factors and characteristics when choosing the correct car battery for your vehicle.

Different types of vehicles have varying sizes. Since car batteries are not all the same, how do you find which one fits your vehicle?

You have to consider the size , features , and more. There are starting, lighting, and ignition (SLI) batteries , lithium-ion batteries, wet-cell (or flooded) batteries, and lead-acid batteries. Selecting a suitable battery for your vehicle is essential. If you are not sure how to even begin, you can consult with a professional for advice.

With advancements in the automotive industry, you can see more cars on the road that rely heavily on their electronic systems. In fact, there are more electric-powered cars on the road now than ever before. The complicated features of the modern vehicle can only run smoothly if the car battery is functional.

TIPS ON PICKING A BATTERY FOR YOUR CAR

Check out the recommendations from the vehicle manufacturer. We highly urge you to follow the manufacturer's suggestions on what type or model of battery is best for your vehicle. You can always go to the vehicle's owner's manual to get the relevant information on all your car's parts.
If you reside in a colder climate area, it would be ideal to select a battery that meets the standards of your surroundings . You want a battery that will last you through any harsh weather that you may face.

Lastly, it would help if you considered what you want to get out of your battery. Are there a lot of electrical components in your car? What are your driving habits? How much power do you need? All of these questions should be taken into thought when getting your car battery replaced. If you need vehicle battery replacement, please give Old School Automotive a call or visit today!

How to Drive Safely in School Zones

Wed, 15 Nov 2023 16:30:59 GMT

With most of our children heading back to in-person school this fall, you should remind yourselves to take extra precautions when driving near school zones. Regardless of the time of the day, it is imperative to slow down, monitor your surroundings, and keep your eyes peeled for pedestrians when driving in these areas.

If you are a parent who drops off your little ones at school or has to go through a school zone to get to the office, we highly recommend that you follow these tips to ensure everyone's safety:

Always stop for stopped school buses. It is very illegal to pass a school bus. If you notice a bus stopped and children are both getting on or off, make sure you come to a stop and patiently remain where you are.
Do not block a crosswalk. Make sure to stay behind the marked white lines on the road, just if pedestrians are trying to get by. When vehicles sit on the crosswalk, children often have to go around the car, causing them to be in the path of traffic.
Yield to pedestrians . This rule goes without saying, but it's the law.
Be attentive and respectful to the crossing guard. Occasionally, you may see crossing guards at intersections where children are most at risk. A crossing guard is tasked to protect children in school zones.
Limit your speed. You would be surprised to learn that many drivers don't slow down in school zones. To be on the safer side, always assume children are present during the school season and slow down!

If you have to drive through school zones on an everyday basis, you need to be mindful of the tips above. Lastly, you should always make sure you are operating a safe vehicle. To maximize safety for every party, you should ensure each component of your car, from your lights to your brakes, is working correctly. Feel free to give us a call or come by Old School Automotive for all your automotive maintenance and repair needs!

SHOULD I TAKE MY CAR TO A PROFESSIONAL FOR A LIFT KIT INSTALLATION?

Mon, 23 Oct 2023 13:46:49 GMT

Lift kits are a convenient way to enhance the look of your vehicle. Lift kits increase the height of your SUV or truck, but they offer a wide range of benefits as well, including:

Increases clearance
Enables you to drive through rougher terrain
Provides you a smoother ride
Gives you better visibility of the road and other smaller cars
Makes towing a simpler process

Most of these kits will raise a vehicle by 1-3 inches using spacers between the body and frame. Another method to boost your truck is suspension lift kits, and these can go beyond 3 inches.

If you're considering lifting your vehicle, here are some things to consider and how to go about the installation.

GO TO A PROFESSIONAL FOR INSTALLATION

A lift kit will ultimately change your driving with night and day differences. You should know that the ride, the steering, and the handling will all change. That is why if you improperly install a lift kit at home, you can damage the suspension, the frame, or the body, leading to extensive repairs. That's why we recommend taking your vehicle to Old School Automotive for this kind of complex job. We can do the job precisely and keep your vehicle's specs in mind.

CHOOSING THE PERFECT HEIGHT

As mentioned earlier, lift kits are ideal for off-roading because you get more clearance. The higher you want to lift your vehicle, the more expensive the service will be because of the additional time and labor.

You should pick a height that best suits your everyday needs.

If you want to have your vehicle lifted, please get in touch with the professional team at Old School Automotive in West Columbia, SC! We can give you our recommendations and make it right for you from start to finish.

DOES THE PENNY TEST ACTUALLY WORK?

jtaopo@tekmetric.com (Jonathan Taopo) — Mon, 23 Oct 2023 13:43:20 GMT

If the tread on your tires is excessively worn out, it will prevent you from operating a safe car. Luckily there are various techniques that you can use to check the tread on your tires. One of them is the easiest and most talked about method of checking your tire tread, and all you need is some spare change and a couple of minutes of your time. The penny test will help you know when it's time to replace a tire on your vehicle.

MEASURING TREAD WITH THE PENNY TEST

Brand new tires generally have 10/32-11/32 inches of tread. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, it is advised that drivers should swap out their tires once they have reached the 2/32 inch range. In fact, most states in the U.S. enforce operators to replace their tires at that depth. The tricky part is that it is not simple to pull out a ruler to measure something so small. The simplest way to measure your tread depth is using the penny test.

Here is the procedure:

Place the penny with Lincoln's head upside down between the tread of your tire.
If part of the head is covered, that means your wheels are still in good shape.
If you can see Lincoln's entire head, then your tread has been worn to 2/32 inch or less, and it's time to get your tires replaced! If you do not see his head, your tread is still measured to be above 2/32 inches.

In some cases, you might be able to skip the steps of the Penny Test. Newer vehicles come with indicator bars that alert you when your tread is worn down to 2/32". No matter how you choose to measure your tires, you should always be aware and regularly check your tires.

THE DANGERS OF OVERWORN TIRES

As tire tread wears down, your car becomes less capable of channeling water, and the risk of hydroplaning increases. It is even more dangerous in the winter when driving on snowy or icy roads, as it becomes more challenging for your tires to make contact with the road. If you are driving with aged tires, please be wary about giving yourself some extra time to come to a complete stop.

Let us know if you try the Penny test works for you! If you find that your tires need repairs or a replacement, give us a call or bring your vehicle to Old School Automotive today. Our expert technicians can get your automobile back in excellent running condition.

WHAT ARE THE CONSEQUENCES OF DRIVING WITH MISALIGNED WHEELS?

Mon, 23 Oct 2023 13:41:47 GMT

A wheel alignment is an essential service to uphold the integrity of your vehicle. However, it is also necessary to ensure you're safe. Driving with misaligned wheels can significantly increase your chances of an accident or collision. Normal wear and tear or poor driving habits (hitting curbs, potholes, and more) can knock your wheels out of place; as a result, you may need to take it into an auto shop for a correction.

The alignment process ensures that the wheels on your car are parallel with one another and perpendicular to the street. This explains why your misaligned wheels may cause excessive tire wear and lack of vehicle handling. Turning your vehicle may be more challenging, causing you to exert more effort to steer. One common symptom that misalignment causes are vehicle vibrations.

As mentioned before, a vehicle with improper wheel alignment will likely experience premature tire wear. If the problem goes unnoticed (or you neglect to fix it), you will have to replace your tires very soon. Not only will your tires suffer, but misalignment can also put stress on your vehicle's suspension parts, increasing your repair bill. Lastly, your car will burn through more fuel when your tires are misaligned.

If you suspect that you have misaligned tires, it's best to take your car to a trusted auto repair shop to have them checked. At Old School Automotive, our certified team can help correct your wheel's angles, so you don't have to worry about compromising your safety and vehicle's efficiency. If you're interested in a wheel alignment, please call or visit our West Columbia auto service shop today!