My car’s control center was flashing “Inspection -300” so, the only thing I could assume was that I needed some sort of inspection 300 miles ago. I made an appointment with Maffee’s in Nashua. I’ve been going to them for years. When I called, I told grouchy Tom my story and he said, “huh!!!” So, I said, “I probably need an oil change so, can I just make an appointment for that?” I knew if I needed something else Steve, my mechanic, or nice Tom, my other mechanic, would know what to do.

Honestly, I don’t even know how I’ve gotten this far without more car damage. Putting oil in the car has been a mystery for years. I know that if you put too much you can hurt the engine and if there’s too little, that’s bad too. So, I avoid it altogether and just hope for the best before I take a long trip anywhere…

I went to lunch with a client a few weeks ago and my oil light had been on for at least a week. I did take the time to briefly check the manual and, apparently, it was low. Fortunately, it wasn’t flashing red because that means it needs oil immediately so, I knew I had some time. Towards the end of our meeting, I asked the client about what oil is best for spring/summer and explained my predicament. His first question was, “What does the manual say about which oil you should use?” Hmm, I thought, good question. He gave me a brief tutorial on the importance of reading your owner’s manual and the difference between 30W and 40W which I scribbled on a receipt that I’ve since lost.

I did eventually consult my manual. My car only takes synthetic which costs the most, of course, and when you buy oil at the gas station, it comes with a paper funnel which is VERY helpful. I have poured oil in past car engines without a funnel and if you spill, it smokes when you drive. That can be a little unsettling if you’re not 100% sure you put the oil in the right place…

Well, can I just tell you? After I put that oil in and the light went off, you’d think I won a Pulitzer. I was so proud of myself!

Now, I just need to figure out the proper tire pressure for maximum performance and gas usage.

Speaking of gas usage… Seriously, I don’t know how people with a long commute to work and families make ends meet. I almost had a heart attack when I surpassed the $65 mark to fill my tank!