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Fox Lexus of El Paso in El Paso, TX provides specialized care that keeps your vehicle performing at a high level. Bringing your vehicle to a Lexus Service Center in El Paso, TX means your car is in the hands of people who know it best. From the moment you schedule your appointment to the moment you drive away, the experience is designed around your comfort and your vehicle's long-term health. Lexus maintenance is about more than fixing what is broken. It is about preserving the performance, safety, and refinement that made you choose Lexus in the first place. A dedicated service center follows Lexus-specific procedures and uses the right tools and genuine parts to keep everything working as it should. What Certified Technicians Bring to the Table Not all service providers are created equal. Certified technicians who specialize in Lexus vehicles undergo rigorous training to stay current with the latest models and technologies. If you drive a 2026 GX, a 2025 UX Hybrid, or any other vehicle in the Lexus lineup, these professionals understand the nuances of each model inside and out. When you trust your vehicle to certified technicians, you are not just getting someone to replace a filter or rotate your tires. You are getting a trained expert who can identify potential issues before they become costly repairs, helping you protect your investment for the long haul. That level of care is especially important for luxury vehicles, where precision and attention to detail matter at every level. Lexus Maintenance Services That Keep You on the Road Staying on top of Lexus maintenance is one of the simplest things you can do to extend the life of your vehicle and maintain a smooth, confident driving experience. Regular service intervals typically include oil and filter changes, tire rotations, brake inspections, fluid checks, and multi-point vehicle inspections. Each visit helps ensure your Lexus continues to perform the way it was engineered to. Drivers in El Paso, TX deal with a range of driving conditions from highway commutes to city traffic that can put real demands on your vehicle. Keeping up with scheduled maintenance helps your Lexus handle those conditions with the reliability and refinement you expect. LexusCare and the Full Ownership Experience Lexus ownership extends well beyond the showroom floor. Through LexusCare, Lexus provides a complete suite of standard services and benefits designed to support you at every stage of ownership. This program covers everything from your in-vehicle experience to the care you receive when you bring your vehicle in for service. Complimentary loaner vehicles may be available so your day does not have to stop just because your car is in for service. That kind of thoughtful support reflects the broader Lexus commitment to making ownership as seamless and enjoyable as possible. Luxury vehicle service should feel like an extension of the luxury vehicle itself. Schedule Your Service Appointment Today Staying current with your Lexus maintenance schedule is one of the best decisions you can make as an owner. The right service center makes that process easy, transparent, and even enjoyable. With certified technicians, genuine Lexus parts, and a commitment to the standard of amazing, Fox Lexus of El Paso in El Paso, TX is the right place to keep your vehicle at its best. If you are due for a routine checkup or need more specific attention, do not wait. Reach out to Fox Lexus of El Paso at https://www.foxlexusofelpaso.com/ to book your visit and experience the care your Lexus deserves.

Luxury, at its best, is not loud. It is intentional, intuitive, and deeply human. That philosophy sits at the heart of Lexus, where craftsmanship, innovation, and performance are guided by Omotenashi —the Japanese approach to hospitality that anticipates needs before they are spoken. For drivers in El Paso, the 2026 Lexus lineup delivers a driving experience that feels tailored to both the rhythm of daily life and the vast openness of the desert landscape. From the flow of traffic along I-10 to quiet evening drives beneath the Franklin Mountains, Lexus creates an environment where every moment behind the wheel feels composed, connected, and distinctly elevated. A Tech-Forward Cabin Designed Around You Step inside a 2026 Lexus and the cabin immediately feels less like a cockpit and more like a sanctuary. The latest Lexus Interface anchors the interior, highlighted by an available 14-inch high-definition touchscreen engineered with anti-glare technology—crucial under the bright West Texas sun. The system responds smoothly and intuitively, minimizing distraction while maximizing clarity. Voice control becomes second nature through the Intelligent Assistant. A simple “Hey Lexus” allows drivers to adjust climate settings, navigate with cloud-based guidance, or curate music effortlessly, keeping attention where it belongs—on the road ahead. Yet Lexus luxury has never been solely about screens. There is warmth and intention in the details: hand-pleated door panels, available Kiriko glass accents that catch the light subtly, and seating designed to support the body through long stretches of open highway. These are elements you feel more than notice, especially on extended drives across the Texas desert. Precision Performance, Calmly Delivered Performance in a Lexus is not about drama—it’s about balance. The Lexus Driving Signature prioritizes smooth, linear response, creating a sense of confidence that feels natural rather than forced. Available DIRECT4 all-wheel drive on electrified models continuously distributes power between the front and rear wheels, adapting instantly to changes in traction and road conditions. For drivers who enjoy a more spirited edge, F SPORT Handling models introduce an updated Adaptive Variable Suspension that adjusts in milliseconds. Whether carving through the curves of Transmountain Road or settling into highway cruising, the vehicle remains poised and composed, responding seamlessly to driver input. Electrification Without Compromise The 2026 Lexus lineup reflects a clear vision of the future—one where sustainability and capability coexist. Hybrid models such as the RX and TX deliver impressive efficiency while retaining the strength needed for real-world demands, including towing capability that fits the expectations of Texas drivers. The fully electric Lexus RZ advances this philosophy further. With expanded range and an available steer-by-wire system, steering input feels precise and remarkably smooth, creating a sense of connection that is both modern and reassuring. Across electrified models, the latest Lexus Safety System+ enhances confidence with features designed to support awareness and reduce stress in dense traffic environments. Experience Lexus in El Paso Lexus luxury is not defined by excess, but by intention—by how effortlessly technology, design, and performance work together to support the driver. For those ready to experience this refined approach firsthand, Fox Lexus El Paso offers the opportunity to explore the 2026 Lexus lineup in a setting that reflects the same care and attention found in every vehicle. Here, luxury isn’t just seen. It’s felt—quietly, confidently, and every mile of the way.

Owning a Lexus is about more than simply getting from one place to another. It is about consistency, refinement, and the quiet confidence that comes from knowing your vehicle is cared for properly. Regular maintenance is what preserves that experience, keeping everything working together as intended. For drivers in El Paso, TX, the Fox Lexus Service Center provides the kind of attentive, brand-specific care that a Lexus deserves. Care Built Around Lexus Expertise The Fox Lexus Service Center in El Paso is designed specifically for Lexus ownership. Certified technicians work exclusively with Lexus vehicles, which means every service visit is informed by deep familiarity with the brand’s engineering and technology. From routine maintenance to detailed diagnostics, each task is approached with precision and care. Genuine Lexus parts and accessories are used throughout the service process, ensuring proper fit, long-term durability, and performance that aligns with factory standards. This attention to detail matters, especially for hybrid, electric, and performance-focused Lexus models that rely on advanced systems working in harmony. Essential Lexus Maintenance Services in El Paso Maintaining a Lexus is about consistency and timing. At Fox Lexus El Paso, maintenance services are tailored to your vehicle’s specific needs and mileage, helping preserve performance and reliability over time. Common services include regular oil changes using Lexus-approved oil and filters, brake inspections and repairs with genuine components, and tire services that support proper handling and ride quality. Battery inspections help prevent unexpected issues, while specialized service for hybrid and electric Lexus models ensures efficiency and system integrity remain intact. Each visit is designed to support long-term ownership, not just address immediate concerns. Why Routine Maintenance Makes a Difference Regular Lexus maintenance does more than keep the vehicle running smoothly. It helps maintain fuel efficiency, reduces the likelihood of major repairs, and protects resale value over time. A well-documented service history also reflects careful ownership, something future buyers value highly. Beyond the technical benefits, the Fox Lexus Service Center focuses on convenience and comfort. Amenities such as available loaner vehicles help ensure your schedule stays on track while your Lexus receives the care it needs. It is a thoughtful approach that respects both your time and your vehicle. Schedule Your Lexus Service in El Paso, TX Your Lexus is designed to perform beautifully for years, and proper maintenance is what allows it to do so. For expert service, genuine parts, and a calm, professional experience, visit Fox Lexus El Paso. Schedule your service appointment and experience how attentive care can preserve everything you value about driving a Lexus.

Winter in El Paso, Texas, may not come with heavy snowstorms or freezing temperatures, but it still requires attention to your Lexus to ensure optimal performance. From protecting your vehicle's exterior to maintaining efficient operation in cooler weather, staying on top of Lexus winter care is essential. Let's explore the top five tips to keep your Lexus in pristine condition during the winter months. Ensure Your Tires Are Winter-Ready Even though El Paso's winters are mild, temperature fluctuations can affect your Lexus' tire performance. Colder weather may cause tire pressure to drop, reducing traction and fuel efficiency. Regularly check your tire pressure and inspect for any signs of wear. If you plan to drive to colder regions, consider equipping your Lexus with all-season or winter tires to handle icy roads safely.   Keeping your tires in excellent condition not only improves safety but also enhances the luxurious ride quality Lexus vehicles are known for. It's one of the most important winter tips for Lexus in El Paso. Keep Your Battery Charged Cold weather, even when mild, can strain your Lexus' battery. Test your battery's charge and ensure it’s in good condition. Clean any corrosion from the terminals and make sure the connections are secure. If your vehicle is equipped with advanced features like a hybrid powertrain, consult your Lexus service center for specific winter care recommendations.   Proper battery maintenance is crucial for avoiding unexpected breakdowns, especially during holiday travels or early morning commutes in El Paso's cooler temperatures. Protect Your Lexus' Exterior Winter can still bring occasional rain and dust storms to El Paso. Protect your Lexus' exterior finish by washing and waxing the vehicle regularly. A good coat of wax acts as a barrier against dirt, grime, and moisture. Additionally, if your Lexus is exposed to morning frost, consider using a car cover to prevent ice buildup on the windshield and paint scratches from scraping.   This preventative care helps maintain the sophisticated appearance of your Lexus, ensuring it looks its best year-round. Maintain Optimal Fluid Levels Cooler weather can impact your vehicle’s fluids. Check and maintain proper levels for essential fluids, including engine oil, coolant, and windshield washer fluid. For optimal performance, consider switching to a winter-grade oil if recommended for your Lexus model.   Additionally, ensure your washer fluid contains antifreeze properties to prevent freezing and maintain visibility during chilly mornings. This simple step is a key aspect of Lexus winter care in El Paso. Schedule a Lexus Winter Service The best way to prepare your Lexus for winter in El Paso is by scheduling a seasonal inspection at a trusted service center. A comprehensive winter service includes checks on your vehicle’s heating system, brakes, wipers, and all essential components. It ensures that your Lexus is ready to handle any weather challenges while maintaining its luxurious performance.   Trained Lexus technicians at Fox Lexus El Paso are equipped to provide expert winter care and ensure your vehicle performs seamlessly throughout the season. Visit Fox Lexus El Paso for Premier Winter Care Keep your Lexus in peak condition this winter with professional care from Fox Lexus El Paso. Their expert team is here to ensure your vehicle is ready for El Paso’s mild yet unique winter conditions. From tire inspections to seasonal service, trust Fox Lexus El Paso for all your Lexus winter care needs.   Whether it’s ensuring your tires are ready for cooler temperatures or scheduling a seasonal inspection, taking proactive steps for Lexus winter care in El Paso keeps your vehicle running smoothly and looking its best. With these tips, you can enjoy winter driving with the confidence and luxury only Lexus provides. Visit Fox Lexus El Paso for expert service tailored to your Lexus’ needs this season.

Winter-Proof Your Lexus: Essential Winterization Tips for El Paso Drivers Living in El Paso, TX, you may not experience the harshest winters, but that doesn’t mean you should skip preparing your Lexus for colder temperatures. Proper winterizing ensures your vehicle remains safe, efficient, and reliable, especially when venturing into higher altitudes or unexpected icy conditions. Let’s explore essential Lexus winterizing tips tailored to our unique climate, so you can enjoy winter road safety in El Paso with confidence. Why Winterizing Your Lexus Matters Even in El Paso’s mild winters, temperature fluctuations can affect your Lexus. Cold mornings and occasional frosty conditions can impact your tires, battery, and even windshield visibility. Winterizing your Lexus not only protects these vital components but also enhances your driving experience. For drivers who may travel to colder regions or higher elevations, preparing for winter road safety in El Paso is a must. Key Considerations for Lexus Winterizing in El Paso - Tires:   Ensure your tires have adequate tread depth and check for proper inflation, as cold temperatures can decrease tire pressure. - Battery Health:   Batteries tend to lose power in colder weather, so testing and, if necessary, replacing your battery is a smart move. - Windshield Protection:   Replacing wiper blades and using winter-appropriate windshield washer fluid can improve visibility.   These proactive steps ensure your Lexus is ready for whatever winter throws your way. How to Prepare for Winter Road Safety in El Paso Safety is paramount during the winter months. Even in El Paso, TX, where icy roads are rare, staying prepared can make all the difference. Start by reviewing your Lexus owner’s manual for specific winter care recommendations.   - Inspect Your Brakes:   Proper brake function is critical for safe driving, especially in slippery conditions. Have your brakes examined at a trusted Lexus service center. - Check Your Lights:   Shorter days mean more time driving in the dark. Make sure all exterior and interior lights are functioning properly. - Stock Emergency Supplies:   A simple winter emergency kit with items like a flashlight, first aid kit, blanket, and jumper cables can prove invaluable.   These measures enhance your preparedness and ensure your Lexus delivers optimal performance during colder months. Winter Maintenance Services at Fox Lexus El Paso Fox Lexus El Paso is here to help you keep your vehicle in top shape this winter. From tire inspections to battery checks, our certified Lexus technicians provide expert care tailored to your vehicle’s needs. We understand the importance of winter road safety in El Paso and offer services designed to give you peace of mind.   Our service team can also assist with winter-specific upgrades, such as all-weather floor mats to protect your Lexus interior or winter-ready wiper blades for improved visibility. Conclusion Winterizing your Lexus in El Paso, TX, is a straightforward but essential process that ensures your vehicle remains reliable, safe, and enjoyable throughout the colder months. By following these tips and relying on the expert services at Fox Lexus El Paso, you can drive confidently no matter the season.   Take the next step towards winter road safety in El Paso by scheduling your Lexus winterization service today with Fox Lexus El Paso. Don’t let the colder weather catch you off guard—prepare your Lexus now and enjoy a worry-free driving experience!

If you've never purchased a car before, you're going to need to know about car insurance. While there are a lot of nuances to auto insurance, you should at least understand the basics so that you get the coverage you need. Liability vs Full Coverage The difference between liability coverage and full coverage is probably the single most important thing you need to understand about auto insurance. Liability insurance only covers damage that you do to others in the event of a car accident. The insurance company will issue payment to cover the other party's vehicle damages and medical costs if you are determined to be at fault in the accident. Most states require a minimum of liability insurance to be held on all vehicles. Full coverage, on the other hand, covers the damage to the other party's vehicle and their medical costs, as well as damage to your own car and your own medical costs. Additionally, full coverage will provide reimbursement for non-collision incidents, such as theft and vandalism. If you lease or finance your vehicle, your lender will likely require you to have full coverage on your vehicle until it is paid off. There is a deductible you'll need to pay first. Mandatory Coverage As mentioned above, all states require minimum liability coverage on any vehicle on the road. The two components of this minimum coverage are bodily injury liability and property damage liability. The bodily injury component pays for costs associated with injuries and death that are caused by you or another person driving your car. The property damage component pays for costs associated with the other party's damaged vehicle or property that is caused by you or another person driving your car. Optional Coverage Even though there are several auto insurance components that are considered optional, they are usually only optional if you purchase your car outright or if you pay off your car loan. These components are collision insurance, comprehensive insurance, and glass insurance. However, it's a good idea to have full coverage on your car at all times, even if you've paid it off, just to be safe, unless the cost of the insurance is more than what the car is worth. Collision Insurance This is the insurance component that covers damage to your vehicle that was caused by an accident when you're at fault. If you're not at fault, the other party's insurance will cover these costs. This insurance does not cover damage related to mechanical failure or normal wear and tear. This insurance will be required for financed and leased vehicles. Comprehensive Insurance This insurance component covers non-collision-related issues such as theft, vandalism, and natural disasters. Finance companies will usually require you to carry this type of insurance on your vehicle until you pay it off. Glass Insurance Usually, glass breakage is covered under comprehensive policies, but you'll have to pay the deductible before the insurance company pays any portion of the damage. Typically, deductibles are higher than the cost of replacing broken glass. Insurance companies offer glass insurance as an additional option, which will cover glass replacement without a deductible. Don't be caught without auto insurance! Contact Fox Lexus of El Paso to learn more about auto insurance – and perhaps even help you find a new ride! Image via pixabay.com | Licensed under Pixabay License

Recognizing that your vehicle has a problem allows you to have it serviced before it breaks down, saving you time and money. Here are nine signs that indicate it is time for a Lexus service appointment: 1. Warning Light Your vehicle has computerized components and sensors that monitor engine performance and emissions. A warning light on your dashboard indicates failure in one of the processes. The car may be running fine, but it is crucial to address the issue to avoid long-term problems. 2. Reduced Fuel Mileage All vehicles, including the Lexus, decrease efficiency over time. However, the depreciation is generally minimal over the vehicle's lifespan. It could be a sign that the car needs servicing if you start getting considerably fewer miles per gallon. 3. Ignition Issues If your car coughs each time it starts or produces a click when you turn the key but no ignition, your battery could be on its last legs. A faulty alternator can also cause ignition failure. Whatever the cause, you should have it checked as soon as possible. 4. Brake Problems Modern Lexus brakes are ultra-responsive so if your brake pedal feels too soft and needs to be pushed almost to the floor to stop the car or the brakes produce a grinding sound when applied, consider getting them serviced immediately. The brake pads and fluid might be the problem. 5. Leaks Stains or spills on the parking spot when you move your car are indicators of leakage. Look out for dark spots from brake fluid and oil leaks. Filthy emissions from the exhaust can also suggest an oil leakage. You should get your car serviced as soon as possible if you notice any leaks coming from it. 6. Smoke from Under the Hood Smoke occurs as a result of overheating and problems with the radiator. Overheating can cause severe damage to your engine. When the smoke appears, have a look at your vehicle's temperature gauge. Pullover if it is at maximum, wait for the engine to cool, and consider getting assistance immediately. 7. Vibration If your car starts to vibrate as you drive, there is a high chance that you either need the alignment adjusted or new tires. The vibration might be so mild and gradual that you barely can notice it. Your tires wear out unevenly if they are not correctly aligned. 8. Squeaking Sound Under the Hood A loud squeaking sound from your Lexus hood is a symptom of drive belt deterioration. The belt system keeps the engine accessories like the alternator, cooling system, and air conditioner working efficiently. Producing a whining sound is a telltale sign that it needs servicing. 9. Grinding Gears Gearbox fluids and parts often need replacement since the gearbox suffers a lot of wear and tear. A grinding or crunching sound while shifting gears is a clear sign that you need to service your car. Although these signs will help you identify when your car needs maintenance, it's essential to have regular service appointments for the best performance and to prevent future problems. To schedule a service appointment, contact Fox Lexus of El Paso in El Paso, TX. Image via lexus.com

No one wants to waste money – which is why the manner you drive in can be so important. By following these simple tips, you can improve your car’s gas efficiency, saving you money in the long run! Read on for cost-cutting tips. Develop Better Driving Habits Rapid acceleration, speeding, and other forms of aggressive driving are not only a nuisance to other drivers, but they're also costing you big. Stopping gradually and slowly accelerating from a stop can help cut fuel consumption by as much as 30 percent. When driving on the highway, turn on cruise control, as this handy feature will boost your vehicle's gas mileage by a noticeable amount. As long as you take it easy and develop good driving habits, you're already coming out ahead. Download a Mobile App Smartphone apps like GasBuddy and AAA Triptik are designed to help you locate the cheapest gas stations in your area, which makes them invaluable tools to have since prices are constantly fluctuating. You can even save gas by using your mobile phone to check traffic conditions. Waze or even the Maps app for iPhone, for instance, give you a helpful traffic report so that you can plan your route accordingly, avoiding all that gas-wasting idling. Reduce the Weight Hauling unnecessary cargo, especially on the roof of your vehicle, can really cut into your gas mileage. Luggage racks, cargo containers, and other exterior add-ons create more wind resistance, making your vehicle less aerodynamic. Any extra weight in the trunk or cargo space can also be detrimental to your fuel economy. Unless you're setting out on a road trip and require all that extra gear - leave it at home. Turn Off the Air Conditioning Cranking up the air conditioning is a necessity in the summer months, but it really puts a dent in your gas budget. Try wearing lighter clothing and rolling the windows down. If you're commuting in the early morning during the coolest part of the day, you may not even miss the A/C. You'll also want to park your car in a shaded area to help keep it cool. At the very least, try using your A/C less to help save on gas expenses. Time Your Fill-Ups Gas prices tend to rise on Thursdays just before weekend travel, so try to fill up your tank just prior to that on Wednesday or Thursday morning, since 10 a.m. is generally when most gas stations set their prices for the day. Whatever you do, don't buy gas from Friday to Sunday, or even during the holidays, as prices always seem to rise during these periods. Sign Up for a Gas Rewards Card Many grocery stores offer gas rewards cards that allow you to accumulate points with every purchase, which you can put toward gas. If you can get the entire family to share the same card, you can build up points even faster. Sticking to your gas budget is easy when you shop and drive smarter. Try out a few of these suggestions and see just how much you can save! Image via pixabay.com | Licensed under Pixabay License

Keep your investment looking new and dashing for as long as possible with the tips listed below! By protecting your paint job, you’ll increase your vehicle’s resale value. Find out how easy it is to take care of your car’s paint job below! Get it Pressure Washed Salt and road dirt build up on the undercarriage of the car when you drive on snowy, icy roads during the winter months. This is nearly impossible to see but can break loose as you're driving and move around to other parts of the car. If this occurs, it can cause significant damage to your vehicle. When there is a break between snowstorms, head to a car wash for a pressure wash service. Make sure to add the undercarriage wash to get rid of salt and grime, since this area is hard to reach. Washing your car regularly is another easy way to protect the paint, especially throughout the colder months of the year. Apply a Protective Layer When the temperatures drop, many people put on gloves to protect their hands from the harsh conditions. Your vehicle needs similar protection from the elements, and a coat of wax is the perfect option. There are several choices on the market, from wax products that have a glossy, shiny finish to those that offer a matte look, spray-on to wipe-on, and everything in between. Find the product that works best for you and that you'll actually use since it won't do you much good sitting in your garage all winter. A coat of wax helps to protect the paint from sleet, rain, snow, salt, and other grime on the roads. Reconsider Your Ice Scraper Getting ice off your car is a safety concern that must happen before you drive, but hard plastic scrapers can cause damage to painted areas if your hand slips. Instead of one of these, opt for a soft-bristled or foam brush to gently wipe away snow and ice. In order to melt the ice, turn on the defrost system in the car to get the temperature up since this will make it easier to sweep away the frosty parts instead of scraping vigorously. Take Protection a Step Further If a coating of wax isn't doing enough to protect your paint job, you may want to invest in an auto paint protection film that covers the exterior of your vehicle. Often referred to as a clear bra, this film goes on transparent and protects the paint from chips, dings, dents, and other damage. The most common areas to apply it are around the headlights and front bumper since these tend to take a lot of abuse when tires kick up rocks and other debris from the road. Keep your car's paint looking nice and new by following these simple tips, no matter what season is coming! Image via pixabay.com | Licensed under Pixabay License

Should your vehicle break down, you don't want to be left in a dire situation. With a well-stocked emergency supply, you can rest assured that you'll be able to navigate the situation without added risk. Read on for tips on what items to keep handy in your car, just in case you're ever in need during an emergency situation. Take Food and Water If you get stuck in a remote area because your car broke down, you'll need food and hydration, so you should keep a case of six to eight water bottles in your car's trunk. If you're going to be traveling with more people during bad weather or to an isolated location, bring one or two more cases. For food, you can keep trail mix, protein bars, and other non-perishable items that will give you a burst of energy if you find yourself stuck someplace. Travel with Something to Keep You Warm A wool blanket is an ideal choice because it can warm you up even if it gets wet. It's also a good idea to store several hand-warming packets, the kind sold at sporting goods stores. To help you stay dry, buy a poncho that's folded in a small plastic bag. It won't take up space but will be invaluable if your car dies and you need to walk to a gas station in the rain. You may also want to keep an extra sweatshirt in your vehicle. Getting stranded in cold or damp weather puts you in a vulnerable situation if you have no way to stay warm. Keep Light Sources on Hand Because you may get stranded in the dark or simply need better lighting to check under the hood, you need to carry a flashlight and extra batteries for it in your car. It's also a good idea to have other light sources such as matches, candles, and glow sticks. Remember to Take a First Aid Kit Any good emergency readiness kit for your car should include the basic components of a first aid kit. As for medical supplies, carry bandages of varying sizes, alcohol swabs, gauze pads, burn cream, nitrile gloves, scissors, an instant ice pack, and medical tape. You can augment these basics with supplies such as antibiotic cream, insect sting wipes, toilettes, and tweezers. Pack Emergency Equipment for Your Car So far, this list has focused primarily on taking care of you. Don't forget to travel with items that help you get your car up and running again. A spare tire, jumper cables, a fire extinguisher, and foam tire sealant are a few essential emergency items for your car. To help you address your car's problem on the roadside, you should also think about packing a tire jack, tire iron, duct tape, a Swiss Army Knife, and a small tool kit. If you can get your car moving, you may not need some of the survival items included on this list. Wherever you're going, it's always a smart idea to take along your cellphone and charger. They're a critical component of being prepared for roadside emergencies. Image via pixabay.com | Licensed under Pixabay License

As the saying goes, "better safe than sorry" - and that pertains just as much to your vehicle. If you hope to get the most out of your investment, prevention is a key factor - staying on top of regular services can extend the lifetime of your vehicle by years. Read on for some of the warning signs that signal you may need to make an appointment with a service center. Smells If you have ever been in your car and smelled something like rotten eggs or gas, your vehicle may need some serious maintenance. Most of the time, if you can smell something coming from under the hood of your car or from the vents, you should get your car checked. If the smell is of gas, you could smell a gas leak coming from underneath your car, which causes a fire hazard. Burning smells are a sign that your brakes need changing or that you need a new clutch. No matter what the smell is, if it's not something you normally smell - you should have it checked. Warning Lights on Your Dash The lights on your dash are often overlooked. If any of the maintenance lights come on, you could have one of many issues occurring with your car that ought to be looked at right away. Even if the vehicle is operating like normal when the light comes on, that doesn't mean there isn't an issue - there simply may not be measurable effects, yet. The issue just hasn't become bad enough for your car to break down. A battery light could be a problem with the car's alternator or any of the other electrical components. If any of these components give out while you're driving, your car will die and leave you stranded wherever you are at that time. Your best choice is to have it checked out, no matter which light comes on. Preventive Maintenance Preventive maintenance covers everything that you can do before a problem occurs. If you take care of this maintenance on a regular basis, you shouldn't have any issues with your vehicle for a very long time. These consist of oil and oil filters, air filters, brake pads, shock absorbers, and more. Typically, your vehicle's owner's manual will have a schedule for you to follow to keep up with your regular maintenance. Engine Noise You should know what it sounds like when you start your car and what it generally sounds like while you are driving down the road. If the noises start changing and you start hearing a squealing noise, you may have an issue with the alternator or a belt. Noises that sound like a knocking sound might be an issue with the valvetrain. If you hear a strange noise, it would be wise to get it looked at by a mechanic to find out what it might be. If you can smell, hear, see, or if you just feel like something is off, a trip to the mechanic would be your best bet. Making sure that you won't end up stranded is always the best choice, and that means ensuring that your vehicle receives the proper maintenance when it is needed. Image via pixabay.com | Licensed under Pixabay License

We've all grown up hearing at least some of these recommendations from older drivers - but with advancements in technology and improvements to the various features of vehicles, they're no longer tried-and-true fact. Read on for 5 of the common car myths that no longer apply: Manual Transmissions Offer Better Gas Mileage This myth persists because it once was true back when automatic transmissions were new, but this is no longer the case. Advances in technology, particularly with options like continuously variable transmission (CVT), offer a broader range of gear ratios, which is where manuals once had the edge. Today, automatic vehicles offer the same (or even better) fuel economy than their manual counterparts. Which one you end up buying all depends on your personal driving preference! Cranking Up the Air Conditioning is Better Than Cracking the Windows This myth is so commonly held that Mythbusters tackled it on the popular Discovery show. There is some basis in the myth, however, because rolling down the windows causes more wind resistance, making your vehicle less aerodynamic. Still, Mythbusters and other experts have found that cranking up the A/C actually leads to a slight decrease in a vehicle's fuel economy, even though using the air conditioner is generally recommended to help keep drivers alert. You Should Change Your Oil Every 3,000 Miles The rule that you should get an oil change every 3,000 miles exists because, like most myths, it was once the truth. Older cars did require more frequent oil changes, but this simply isn't the case anymore. Many modern cars can actually go as far as 10,000 miles without needing new oil. We don't recommend pushing your car to the limits, however, since engine oil gets grimy over time and will stop lubricating your engine altogether. You're better off checking your owner's manual for your specific model's recommendations and sticking to that recommended schedule. Premium Fuel Makes Your Car Run Better It seems like a no-brainer. More expensive fuel should make your run-of-the-mill SUV run like a high-performance coupe, right? Actually, no. Premium gas isn't any cleaner or purer than regular – it's just less combustible, which is necessary for cars with more powerful engines. Using a higher octane gas for your non-premium car offers no benefit whatsoever, so unless you enjoy wasting money at the pump, stick with regular. Let Your Car Warm Up Before Your Drive In the winter months, it's tempting to let your car idle to allow both the engine and cabin to warm up. Not only does this bad habit waste gas, but it's also bad for your car. Unnecessary idling in cold weather causes your engine's moving parts to wear down faster, resulting in the need for more frequent repairs. With so many car-related myths out there, it is difficult to separate fact from fiction. Keep these common car myths in the mind so you can make smarter choices when it comes to car care. Image via pixabay.com | Licensed under Pixabay License