Take 5 Blog

High-quality air is crucial for both your body and your car’s engine. That’s why you’ll find air filters in the engine compartment and the vehicle’s cabin. Learn more about engine air filters vs. cabin air filters and how to care for them here.

If you’re like many car owners, you probably devote a good amount of time each month to keeping the outside of your car clean. You take your car to the car wash, and maybe you even get the exterior waxed. But how often do you thoroughly clean your car’s seats? If you’re like many people we meet at Take 5, the answer is probably “rarely” or maybe even “never.” Your seats deserve a regular cleaning. Those comfortable cushions can become the target of crumbs, spilled coffee, and even pet hair. If you’re wondering what’s the best way to clean your car’s interior, including your seats, continue reading. This guide will cover everything you need to know to get started.

The color of your car plays a big role in how dirt and grime look on the surface of your vehicle. While your car’s color is ultimately a matter of personal preference, some shades can make it more obvious it’s time for a car wash. Here are the best car colors to hide dirt, with tips to keep your car clean and pristine no matter the color.

Cold temperatures can significantly impact engine oil, affecting your car’s overall performance. Keeping things running smoothly during winter requires preparation. That’s why choosing the right engine oil for winter is essential—so your car is prepared for whatever comes.

Regular oil changes are one of the most important preventative car maintenance services performed—perhaps the most important. Understanding the pivotal benefits of an oil change can help you make an informed decision about the quality and type of oil you use and how often you have your vehicle serviced. There are many reasons why oil changes are important, from improving engine efficiency to extending the life of your engine. Oil changes purge your engine of contaminants and replace the old, gritty oil with fresh oil to effectively lubricate your vehicle’s many components. In fact, failing to keep up with your oil changes can result in severe and often costly consequences. Today, we take a closer look at the most prominent benefits of an oil change—including why they’re essential and how Take 5 makes it easier than ever to have your vehicle serviced.

Eventually, every driver has to deal with an oil warning light. While receiving the message can elevate your anxiety, there’s no reason to panic as long as you take the appropriate action. What does the oil light mean? Well, you should know two types of warning lights: an oil change and an oil pressure light. Several reasons, such as a clogged filter, low oil levels, or faulty sensors, can cause both. Scheduling an oil change is the best way to keep your car running efficiently and deal with the problems those lights represent. Let’s examine what those lights indicate, the main causes, and what you can do when faced with this situation.

Check under the hood of your car, and you’ll find numerous electrical and mechanical components critical to the vehicle's performance. Among them is the oil filter, and its purpose is to prevent contaminants and dirt from cycling through the engine, preventing a breakdown. But how does an oil filter work? In this guide from Take 5, we’ll deconstruct the inner workings of this essential automotive component.

Every time you hit the road in your car, it faces an onslaught of airborne contaminants such as dust, dirt, and pollen. The engine air filter serves a vital role in managing these contaminants and keeping your car running smoothly. Like all components, the filter eventually wears out, leaving many car owners to grapple with the question: “How often should I replace my car’s air filter?”

Does cleaning your car increase its trade-in value? It's a question that nags us when we're getting ready to sell or trade in our vehicle. We've all been there, staring at a dirty dashboard, wondering if it's worth the effort. After all, cars are meant to be driven and enjoyed. But here's the thing—first impressions matter. While you might not think twice about that layer of dust on the dash or the mud on the hood, a potential buyer might think it points to poor upkeep. The cleanliness of your vehicle could have a more powerful effect than you anticipate. So, let’s dive into how keeping your ride spick-and-span could fill up your wallet.

Did you know the benefits of car wax go far beyond aesthetics? Waxing your car is essential for longevity, maintaining allure, and resale value. Waxing your car can help save you money, too.