Lowell Gelin, pictured, will host a free car clinic that teaches women tips to maintain their cars.

PHOTO COURTESY OF LOWELL GELIN

Staff Report

MIAMI – In celebration of Car Care Month, On Call Mechanics is hosting a free car care clinic for women on Saturday, April 29 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Little Haiti Cultural Complex, located at 212 NE 59 Terrace in Miami.

The clinic will be conducted by Lowell Gelin, CEO and Automotive Diagnostic Specialist of On Call Mechanics, and will provide tips to keep vehicles safe, dependable and on the road longer.

Lowell opened On Call Mechanics to provide a mobile auto repair service that would accommodate individuals with limited time to service their vehicles. He has quickly gained a reputation for providing a high level of quality service and has been able to change some of the negative opinions most people feel about automotive technicians.

Known for his charismatic personality, deeply rooted work ethic and knowledge of cars and how they work, Lowell is also committed to premiere service and developing the young people in his community.

He mentors incarcerated youth with Monalisa Weber, creator of Probation Station, on a weekly basis and is dedicated to using his multiple talents to create a blueprint for young people interested in automotive technology.

April is the perfect time for car owners to take their vehicles in for service,” Gelin said. “We will provide straightforward and easy to follow tips for women to save themselves time and money by performing basic, but essential, maintenance tasks on their own.”

Gelin was awarded by Legacy Magazinefor his work in keeping South Florida moving and recognized as a visionary game changer. His professionalism and expertise combined with his investment in the success of the youth of South Florida has made him a well-respected businessman and role model.

Car Care Month is a nationwide effort to focus motorists’ attention on the importance of vehicle care and maintenance. Here are some car care tips from On Call Mechanics:

Oil Change Service: Consult your owner’s manual for the proper mileage to have your engine oil serviced. Generally this service is performed at 3,000 – 3,750 miles using conventional motor oil. For vehicles that use fully synthetic oil, the oil should be serviced every 5,000 miles contingent on your vehicle.

Procrastinating on your oil change can lead to oil sludge build up and internal engine wear. Engine oil is the lifeblood of the vehicle and it is the single most important service to perform on your automobile.

Fluids: During your oil change service, your fluids should be properly topped off. It’s always a good idea to double-check their work and to continuously check your transmission, brake, power steering, windshield washer and cooling system fluids monthly.

Improper fluid levels may cause premature wear and failure of important parts on your car as well as overheating.

Battery: Have your battery checked and tested at every oil change. Most shops will check it for free upon request. Replace it as necessary. A weak battery may leave you stranded at the worst possible time during your busy schedule. The battery terminals should also be inspected as the terminals become corroded over time.

Brakes: Having your brakes checked at every service may save you valuable time and money in the future. Typically a free brake inspection is included with an oil change service at most auto repair and service centers. Ask your mechanic for your brake specifications to ensure you and your family’s safety. Typically brakes should be serviced every 25,000 – 35,000 miles.

Wipers:Old and worn out wipers can affect your visibility during adverse weather conditions. Your wiper blades should be replaced every six months or at least once a year, more often in heavy weather areas.

Don’t get caught blind in a storm because of a $5 wiper. The more expensive wiper blades can last up to three years contingent upon the weather conditions.

Headlights: Check your headlights every so often to ensure that they operate properly. Have your local automotive service provider make certain that they are also aimed properly. The key to effective headlights is to see and be seen.

Belts and Hoses: A broken belt or hose can leave you stranded, or worse, cause severe engine damage. Have your belts inspected for cracking or fraying and your hoses for cracking or leaking. Drive belts and serpentine belts are normally replaced every 45,000 – 60,000 miles on domestic and Asian vehicles. European vehicles have a longer durability. Have your timing belt replaced at the manufacturer’s recommended mileage interval.

Improper maintenance of your vehicle can interrupt your busy schedule in a big way. Don’t just bring your car in for a quick oil change; bring it in for a full check-up.

Besides, most of these extra checks are free and will save you time and money in the long run.

Following these simple tips will keep you safely on the road, and on the go.

For more information call On Call Mechanics at 786-529-7188 or email ocmechanics@gmail.com.