Start 2026 with Smarter Car Care
A new calendar might not magically transform your car, but it’s the perfect excuse to give it some overdue attention. We all get busy, and it’s easy to push oil changes and tire rotations down the to-do list. But with just a bit of planning, we can avoid those annoying roadside hiccups… and worse. We’re heading into 2026 with fresh checklists, clearer schedules, and a few smart tips to make sure our vehicles are just as ready for the road as we are. If something does catch you off guard, Wilsonville roadside assistance can help get things back on track.
The Basics Matter More Than You Think
We’re not reinventing the wheel here, just keeping it spinning the way it should. Routine maintenance isn’t glamorous, but it’s the best line of defense against breakdowns. A car doesn’t need fancy add-ons to stay healthy; it just needs consistency.
- Check your fluids monthly. That means oil, coolant, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid.
- Inspect your tires. Look for wear, check pressure, and rotate them every 6,000 to 8,000 miles.
- Stay on top of battery health. Especially if your car sits for long stretches.
- Replace wiper blades every 6-12 months. Clear vision matters, even when it’s “just” drizzle.
It’s tempting to skip over these because nothing seems wrong. But that’s the thing: preventative care works best before you notice trouble.
Look Under the Hood
We get it. Popping the hood can feel like opening a portal to confusion. But even if you’re not doing the work yourself, familiarizing yourself with what’s under there helps. You’ll spot leaks, frayed belts, or unusual smells faster. That’s half the battle.
Don’t Ignore Dashboard Lights
Your car talks. Those little symbols lighting up the dash aren’t just suggestions. A check engine light can mean anything from a loose gas cap to something more serious. Ignoring it never ends in your favor. Too many folks call for Wilsonville roadside assistance after pushing things just a bit too far.
Filters Deserve More Respect
Air and cabin filters don’t get much love, but they play a big role in keeping things running and breathing smoothly. Swapping them out on schedule improves performance, protects your engine, and helps your heat and A/C work better.
Make Brake Checks a Habit
Your brakes won’t just give out all at once, but they will wear down over time. Grinding noises, vibration, or longer stopping distances are signs it’s time for service. We’d much rather remind you to check than meet you on the shoulder with a tow.
Wash It—Yes, Even in Winter
Salt, dirt, and grime do more than make your car look tired. They can eat away at paint and metal. A good wash (and wax) during the colder months keeps corrosion at bay and helps spot any hidden damage early.
Keep an Emergency Kit in the Car
Maintenance helps prevent surprises, but life still throws curveballs. Pack a kit with jumper cables, flashlight, blanket, snacks, and a first aid kit. Toss in a phone charger and a spare tire that’s actually inflated. It’s a small step with big peace of mind.
Wilsonville Roadside Assistance from Newhouse Towing
At Newhouse Towing, we’ve been offering trusted Wilsonville roadside assistance long enough to know what really helps drivers stay safe and what tends to go wrong. Our Wilsonville roadside assistance experts are the ones who get the call when a tire’s ignored too long or a battery gives up after one too many cold mornings.
We don’t just show up, we notice the little things. A lot of roadside issues trace back to skipped maintenance. That’s why we’re such big believers in keeping your car in top shape all year, not just when something goes wrong.
If you’re ever in a jam, we’re ready to roll. But if a few of these tips save you the hassle of calling us in the first place, that’s a win in our book. And hey, if you do need Wilsonville roadside assistance, we’re always just around the corner.
Here’s what our Wilsonville roadside assistance offers:
- 24/7 towing and roadside help
- Battery jump-starts and replacements
- Flat tire service and lockouts
- Local and long-distance towing
- Friendly, responsive drivers who actually know the area
Keep your car in shape, and let us handle the rest. Here’s to smoother rides in 2026 with fewer surprises and faster help when it counts.