Getting the oil changed in your car regularly is one of the most important things you can do to keep it running smoothly. A good rule of thumb is to flush and replace the fluids every 7,500 miles, but this may vary depending on the age and condition of your vehicle. Your mechanic can help you determine how often you should be bringing your car in for an oil change. However, this is not a be-all, end-all solution – you should also be checking the oil in between routine services. This can help you catch leaks and other issues early, before they get worse and become expensive problems.

Make sure that your car has been off for at least an hour, giving it plenty of time to cool down before you pop the hood. You'll want to wear some protective gloves and have clean paper towels or rags handy when you check the oil. Locate the dipstick, which is typically toward the front of the engine bay, and pull it out. Wipe it clean, insert it all the way back into the pipe and then pull it out again.

Take a look at the end of the dipstick to see how high the fluid level is. There should be markings to indicate the appropriate fill line. If the liquid is low, you'll want to add more – usually, a quart will do – and check back again in a few days. If the level has dropped again, this could indicate there is a leak, and you'll want to bring the car in to the garage as soon as possible.

The color and consistency of the fluid is also important. Clean oil should be golden to light brown in color and free of debris. Dark brown or black fluid may indicate it is time for an oil change, while dirt, debris or flecks of metal are signs there is likely a leak in the system.

If you notice any of these issues, you can bring you car to New Jersey State Auto Auction's Total Car Care Center. This auto shop is open to the public and staffed with experts ready to help get your vehicle back in working order.