For many students at Michigan State University, having a car on or near campus can be a huge advantage. It’s your shuttle to class, a reliable way home for the holidays, and your weekend escape when you need a break from textbooks and lecture halls.
But with freedom comes responsibility, especially when it comes to keeping your vehicle in good shape.
If you’re attending MSU, whether you live in a dorm or off-campus housing, understanding how to take care of your car is just as important as knowing where to find your next class. This guide offers practical, easy-to-follow car maintenance tips for MSU students and their families, plus helpful advice for avoiding breakdowns, saving money, and knowing when to get help from a professional.
Let’s dive into what every Spartan with a set of car keys should know.
College Life Moves Fast, Make Sure Your Car Can Keep Up
It’s easy to let vehicle upkeep slide when you’re busy with exams, clubs, jobs, and social life. But ignoring basic maintenance can turn your reliable ride into a major expense.
Poor maintenance leads to:
- Unexpected breakdowns at the worst times
- Higher repair costs down the line
- Lower fuel efficiency
- Safety risks for both the driver and the passengers
Students often don’t realize that small tasks, like checking tire pressure or changing the oil on time, can save them hundreds of dollars and hours of inconvenience. That’s why building basic car care into your monthly routine is one of the smartest things you can do as a student driver.
The Real Cost of Neglecting Car Maintenance
Let’s put it in perspective.
An oil change might cost around $60 to $90 depending on your vehicle and whether it uses synthetic oil, which most modern cars do. Skip it, though, and you could be looking at engine repairs in the thousands.
Worn-out brake pads are another great example. Replacing them early is a quick, affordable job. Waiting too long, though, can damage your rotors and result in repairs that cost several times more.
In short, car maintenance isn’t just about taking care of your vehicle. It’s about protecting your time, budget, and safety while you’re at school.
Top Car Maintenance Tips for MSU Students
Here’s a quick rundown of the most important steps you can take to keep your vehicle reliable throughout the school year.
1. Stick to a Routine
Scheduling maintenance is just like prepping for finals. It pays off. Follow your vehicle’s recommended service intervals, typically found in the owner’s manual, or ask a trusted mechanic near MSU, like those at Jerry’s Automotive, for guidance. Regular services include:
- Oil and filter changes
- Tire rotations
- Brake checks
- Battery testing
- Fluid top-offs (coolant, brake, transmission, etc.)
2. Watch Your Dashboard
Your car’s warning lights are trying to tell you something. If the check engine light comes on, don’t ignore it. This light could be signaling something minor, like a loose gas cap, or something much more serious. Prompt diagnostics can prevent larger issues.
3. Don’t Forget the Tires
Michigan’s cold winters and hot summers can mess with tire pressure and tread. Low pressure reduces fuel efficiency and grip, while worn tread can cause hydroplaning in rain or snow.
Check your tire pressure monthly, especially as temperatures change, and inspect your tires for signs of wear or damage.
4. Keep Your Car Ready for Any Weather
From icy roads in January to blazing heat in August, Lansing’s weather puts your vehicle to the test. Make sure your heating and cooling systems are working properly and that your wipers and lights are in top shape. Visibility and comfort aren’t luxuries; they’re essentials.
An Unexpected College Lesson: Your Car is Part of Your Success
Here’s a perspective you might not hear every day.
Think of your car as an extension of your independence. It gets you to class, your job, internships, study sessions, and home for the holidays. In some cases, it might even serve as your mobile study lounge between lectures.
But when your car breaks down or becomes unreliable, it disrupts everything. You miss classes. You’re late for work. You stress out over costs. When you’re far from home, without your usual support system, even a simple repair can feel overwhelming.
That’s why smart car care isn’t just a skill, it’s a form of self-care. When you take control of your vehicle’s health, you’re making your life easier, safer, and a whole lot more predictable.
This mindset shift alone can set you apart. It shows responsibility. It reflects planning. It helps you avoid the all-too-common “my car died and I missed my exam” scenario that no one wants to repeat.
Need a Quick Check-Up Near MSU? Stop by Jerry’s for student-friendly service and real answers. Schedule online today.
The Go-To Auto Repair Shop for MSU Students and Families
Now that you’ve got the basics down, it’s important to know where to turn when your car needs expert attention here in Lansing.
At Jerry’s Automotive, we’ve been proudly serving Michigan State University students and their families since 1965. Located just minutes from campus, we’ve become a trusted name in local car care for those who value transparency, reliability, and honest service.
What Sets Us Apart
We’re not just another auto shop. As a third-generation, family-owned business with deep roots in the Lansing community, we’ve built our reputation on doing things the right way—prioritizing relationships, not just repairs. Our focus has always been on long-term trust, not quick fixes.
Our team includes ASE Master-Certified Technicians with over 120 years of combined experience, and every service we provide is backed by a 3-year, 36,000-mile nationwide warranty. So if your vehicle needs attention while you’re here in Lansing and you head home for break, your repair is still covered.
Here’s what we offer to make things easier for MSU students and families:
- Free shuttle service and loaner vehicles
- Secure overnight drop-off and after-hours pickup
- Digital Vehicle Inspections (DVIs) with real-time photos and videos
- Simple, clear communication and online scheduling
We’ve been a trusted source for MSU students and athletic programs, including football, soccer, hockey, track and field, and swim teams, handling everything from everyday maintenance to major repairs.
We’re proud to be part of the Spartan community, and we’re here when you need dependable, student-friendly auto care.
Services Tailored for Student Life
Students juggle packed schedules and tight budgets. That’s why we focus on fast, effective service that keeps you on the road without adding stress to your week.
Some of the most common services students request include:
- Oil changes (with synthetic options available)
- Brake repair and rotor replacement
- Suspension and steering service
- Engine and transmission replacements
- Heating and A/C repairs
- Check engine light diagnostics
- Pre-purchase inspections (especially helpful when buying a used car)
New to Lansing? Not sure what your car needs? No problem. We’re always happy to walk you through it. You don’t need to know everything. We’re here to help you feel confident about what’s under the hood.
Supporting Parents from a Distance
Sending your student off to college is tough enough. Add car trouble into the mix, and it becomes even more stressful, especially when you’re not nearby to help.
That’s why we keep parents in the loop every step of the way. From the first estimate to the final repair, we communicate clearly and consistently. You’ll get real-time updates, photos, videos, and full transparency before any work begins.
It’s the kind of peace of mind every parent deserves.
Free Oil Change for MSU Students
We’re proud to support the MSU community, and that includes offering a free oil change for Michigan State students with valid student ID. Just give us a call or schedule online to reserve your spot.
It’s a small way we give back and help Spartans stay road-ready, whether you’re just starting your first semester or preparing for graduation.
*Restrictions apply. Contact us for full details.
When to Visit Jerry’s Automotive
Not sure if it’s time for a visit? Here are a few signs you shouldn’t ignore:
- The check engine light is on
- Brakes feel soft, squeaky, or unresponsive
- The car is pulling to one side
- Fluid is leaking underneath the vehicle
- Heating or A/C isn’t working
- You’re heading out for a long trip or semester break
- You’ve just purchased a used vehicle and want it inspected
We’ll guide you through your options and answer your questions with no pressure, no upsells, just honest recommendations and reliable work you can count on.
Want to know more about us before you stop by? Watch our quick video on YouTube to see how we serve MSU students and what makes our shop different.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How often should college students have their car fully inspected?
A full inspection is recommended at least twice a year, ideally before winter and summer break. These seasonal shifts in Michigan bring major temperature changes that can affect everything from tire pressure to battery performance.
What are the best times during the semester to schedule car service?
Mid-semester (October and March) is often less busy than the beginning or end of a term. Scheduling maintenance during these windows helps avoid the rush and gives more flexibility with loaner cars or shuttle service if needed.
Should students consider an emergency kit in their car?
Absolutely. A basic kit should include jumper cables, a flashlight, a tire pressure gauge, a blanket, bottled water, and emergency contact info. In winter, adding an ice scraper, gloves, and sand or cat litter for traction is a smart idea in Michigan’s climate.
Can students get a maintenance history when buying a used car near MSU?
Most reputable sellers or mechanics can provide a vehicle history report, but it’s also smart to schedule a pre-purchase inspection with a local shop. This identifies hidden issues and gives peace of mind before making a purchase.
Stop In, Drive Out Confident: Schedule with Jerry’s Automotive
Car maintenance doesn’t have to be intimidating. With the right knowledge and a reliable repair shop nearby, it becomes just another smart habit that makes student life easier and safer.
So if you’re a Michigan State student, or the parent of one, looking for honest, experienced car care in Lansing, make your next stop Jerry’s Automotive.
Address: 5544 S Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Lansing, MI, 48911
Phone: 517-393-7240
Schedule Service Online: jerrysautomotivelansing.com
From oil changes to engine repairs, Jerry’s is here to help you stay focused on your education, not your car trouble.
