By Chelsea Pyne

Since automobiles are the most popular form of transportation for Americans, it is vital to the safety and efficiency of our livelihoods to maintain them. We often look at cars simply as the way to get from Point A to Point B, but we should not overlook the important role they play in our well-being.

A well maintained car is a much safer car. The driver, passengers, other vehicles, pedestrians, insurance rates, and environment all benefit when unexpected breakdowns or problems are avoided. Especially when getting ready for a trip, something always seems to go wrong, right? As the expression goes, “Failing to prepare is preparing to fail.” So taking the necessary precautions, even when on a regular commute, is imperative for smooth riding.

Andrew Willard and his wife opened Grease Monkey to offer Kernersville residents the peace of mind that comes from having a secure and stable vehicle. Setting out to run their own business, the Willards decided to open the Grease Monkey franchise in 2006. “Growing up my brother and I would work on his car and it became something that I really enjoyed doing. It made sense to look for opportunities that fell in line with my own interests and so that was the direction we pursued,” Andrew explained.

Other than the safety aspects, keeping your vehicle up to date will also decrease the overall costs of ownership. Following the old mechanics’ saying of “pay me now or pay me more later” can prevent the mailbox from overflowing with pricey bills. Andrew explains, “A well maintained vehicle can often thwart major engine problems that will be more costly down the road–literally. The other financial benefit of properly maintaining your vehicle is getting more miles per gallon of gas. Servicing your car at the manufacturer’s recommended intervals can actually translate into savings when it comes to fuel consumption. For example, proper tire pressure has been known to prolong the life of your tires as well as save on fuel consumption. Other examples of fuel savings can be achieved by using Synthetic oil vs. Conventional oil and changing dirty air filters, gas filters, and oil filters.”

America sees over 900 million oil changes a year– that is greasy. However, changing the oil is not the only liquid that needs replacing. Motor oil, coolant, power steering fluid, brake fluid, transmission fluid, and windshield washer fluid are all highly important to keep the automobile efficient. Grease Monkey, located at 524 Nelson Street, offers all of these services plus much more.

Grease Monkey is a convenient, value added alternative to dealerships and other service providers. Andrew adds, “We have the Pit Crew Guarantee. This is our systemized way of doing business and highlights the importance of our customer’s time. Simply said, Grease Monkey provides most manufacturer required maintenance services at an economic and affordable price– with no appointment necessary.” Since Grease Monkey is a national franchise, no matter where the road leads you, the standard of service remains the same. “Not only will current records be on file at every shop, but customers will know what to expect and that they are getting a great and timely service by our Certified Technicians,” Andrew adds.

Andrew and his team cannot emphasize enough that taking care of your car enables your car to take care of you. If you cannot remember the last time your car or truck was looked at by a certified technician, then stop into Grease Monkey for a 16-point inspection. “Our certified technicians can highlight and fix areas of concern. For example, low windshield washer fluid, wiper blades, and light bulbs can prohibit the driver’s ability to see during changes in weather. Just as important as it is to fill up your gas tank regularly, it is equally important to get your vehicle properly maintained,” Andrew shares.

However, Grease Monkey’s core business and most popular service is the Full Service Oil Change. Andrew explains, “Every Full Service Oil Change includes checking and topping all the fluids (Transmission, coolant, washer fluid), checking the air filter, wiper blades, and exterior lights. Along with vacuuming the interior, washing exterior windows, and setting the tire pressure. We also do a lot of NC State Inspections. The popularity of the other services are dependent on climate and driving conditions–such as preparing for storms.”

Keeping a vehicle in good shape is no joke. The security one gets from knowing the brake pads are in mint condition or the exhaust pipe is not emitting toxins means one less headache. In the long run, and sometimes even in the short run, it is a much better idea to uphold the value of the automobile. Stop by Grease Monkey at 524 Nelson Street, Kernersville or visit www.GreaseMonkeyKernersvile883.com to get your vehicle back on track.