Start the Year Strong: Essential Maintenance Tips for Your Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, or Ram

Jan 13, 2026

A service technician holding the tires of a vehicle lifted in the service center

A new year brings new opportunities to take better care of your vehicle and ensure it’s ready for every mile ahead. Whether you’re planning road trips, commuting daily, or simply wanting a smoother, safer ride, now is the perfect time to give your vehicle the attention it deserves. To begin the year on the right foot, explore our latest offers through our service and parts specials.

Key Points

Start the year with preventative care by scheduling a full inspection, prioritizing battery health, and keeping up with essential services like oil changes and tire rotations to maintain safety and performance.

Seasonal conditions make maintenance even more important, especially for batteries, tires, and Ram trucks that handle towing or heavy use.

Dealership support makes upkeep easier, offering certified technicians, genuine parts, and flexible service financing to help drivers stay on track and keep their vehicles dependable all year long.

1. Start With a Comprehensive Inspection

A fresh inspection is one of the smartest ways to kick off the year. Certified technicians can evaluate your vehicle’s essential systems, check fluid levels, and identify early signs of wear. This is especially important after the holiday season, when cold weather and heavy driving can put extra strain on your vehicle.

If you’ve been searching for a Dodge service center near you, choosing a certified dealership ensures your vehicle receives factory‑trained care and genuine Mopar parts designed specifically for your model.

2. Prioritize Battery Health

Cold temperatures can significantly affect your vehicle’s electrical system, making vehicle battery maintenance a top priority at the start of the year. A weak battery can lead to slow starts, dim lights, or unexpected breakdowns. Technicians can test your battery’s voltage, inspect for corrosion, and ensure your charging system is functioning properly. If your battery is more than three years old, now is the perfect time to have it evaluated.

3. Keep Up With Oil Changes

Routine oil changes are essential for long‑term engine health. Fresh oil reduces friction, prevents overheating, and keeps your engine running smoothly. Many drivers wonder how often should you change your oil, and the answer depends on your model, driving habits, and oil type. While modern vehicles can often go longer between changes, it’s always best to follow your manufacturer’s recommendations. If you’re unsure, your owner’s manual or a certified technician can provide accurate guidance.

4. Rotate Your Tires Regularly

Your tires play a major role in safety, comfort, and fuel efficiency. Uneven wear can lead to reduced traction, poor handling, and shorter tire lifespan. Knowing how often should you rotate your tires is key. Most vehicles benefit from a rotation every 5,000 to 8,000 miles. Pairing a tire rotation with your oil change is an easy way to stay on schedule and ensure even wear across all four tires.

5. Give Your Vehicle a Deep Clean

A clean vehicle doesn’t just look better; it performs better, too. Dirt, salt, and debris can accumulate on your exterior and undercarriage, leading to corrosion over time. Inside, dust and clutter can affect air quality and comfort. Starting the year with a deep clean helps protect your paint, preserve your interior, and create a more enjoyable driving environment.

6. Prepare Your Truck for the Year Ahead

If you drive a Ram, beginning the year with a thorough inspection is especially important. Whether you use your truck for towing, hauling, or daily driving, scheduling Ram truck service in Murfreesboro ensures your vehicle is ready for anything the year brings. From brake checks to suspension evaluations, certified technicians can help keep your truck performing at its peak.

7. Make Maintenance More Manageable

Unexpected repairs can be stressful, but dealership service centers offer flexible solutions to help you stay on track. Through convenient service financing options, you can spread out repair costs over time without delaying essential maintenance. This makes it easier to handle larger repairs, upgrades, or routine care while staying within your budget.