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With temperatures soaring from coast to coast, many Americans are simply trying to stay cool this summer. As the mercury climbs, air conditioning systems are put to the test—many unsuccessfully. While a malfunctioning AC unit may seem like a mild inconvenience, its impacts extend beyond comfort. And because your health is the top priority at Santee SDJR, our team has revealed some key details about summertime AC safety. Read on to learn more, then schedule a tune-up to keep your car running right in the scorching South Carolina heat. more Understanding the Role of Your AC Your car's AC system is responsible for more than cooling its cabin. It also dehumidifies the interior and prevents your windshield from fogging. But a broken air conditioner may leave you sweaty, frustrated, and fatigued—prolonged exposure to high temperatures can even result in heat exhaustion, dehydration, etc. Keep in mind that a malfunctioning AC can also indicate a more serious issue, such as electrical problems. While this is less common, an overwhelmed AC system could lead to overheating and create more severe malfunctions. Broken AC? Here’s What You Can Do If your AC stops working, here’s what you can do to restore your vehicle’s health: Check the basics. A blown fuse or low refrigerant level may be to blame. Here at Santee CDJR Service Center, our highly trained service technicians perform quick checks to ensure your AC is in tip-top shape. After you conduct an initial evaluation, schedule a service appointment if needed. Electrical problems or a faulty compressor likely require professional help to fix. Trust our service pros to diagnose the issue and repair your car’s malfunctioning air conditioning system. If you’re waiting for help to arrive, it’s important to stay calm and stay cool. Keep your windows open to encourage air circulation, and use sunshades to block the sun’s direct rays. Schedule AC Repair in Manning, SC Driving with a malfunctioning AC system in Manning, SC, is undeniably uncomfortable, especially during the sweltering summer months. But it may also pose safety risks, from increased driver fatigue to diminished visibility. At Santee CDJR in Manning, SC, we recommend that AC problems be addressed as soon as they arise. Our on-site Service Center makes maintenance simple, with our certified technicians here to diagnose any issues. Schedule an appointment to repair your AC system today! Need other routine maintenance services? We can help with that too! As your local one-stop shop for all things automotive, our team is committed to your vehicle’s expert care. Come see us today for a quick oil change, and while you’re here, check out our new car inventory!

Your vehicle’s engine is made up of many components, and its function depends on proper lubrication. Motor oil keeps each part working as it should, reducing friction and maximizing efficiency. Regular oil changes are undoubtedly important, but most drivers postpone routine maintenance. Many of today’s vehicles are designed to remind you about scheduling service though, with warning lights and alerts indicating that it’s time for a tune-up. more Here at Santee Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM, our service technicians in Manning have made it simple to keep your car in top-notch condition. If your engine oil light comes on, here’s what you need to know – and need to do! Read on to learn more, then come see us today! Engine Oil Light – What Does It Mean? If your engine lacks oil pressure, it also lacks the ability to lubricate itself. Harmful deposits may build up, making your engine perform sluggishly and potentially causing serious damage. Most modern cars have two oil lamp lights, including the following: Oil change indicator: This light lets you know when it’s time for an oil change. Oil lamp light: Depicted as a lamp or the word “OIL,” this light may indicate that your vehicle has low oil pressure, dirty engine oil, or a leak – and requires immediate attention. What to Do When Your Oil Light Comes On An oil light indicates that maintenance is needed, so be sure to schedule a visit to our Service Center right away. Without the correct amount of oil, your engine can seize up and stop working – which often results in costly repairs! To avoid engine damage and keep your vehicle on the road where it belongs, get to your local Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM dealership in Manning! Our highly trained service technicians are committed to your car’s care, so come see us today. Check Your Oil At Home Preventative maintenance is key, at the intervals recommended in your vehicle’s owner’s manual. Checking your oil at home is simple, so just follow these steps: STEP ONE: Pop the hood and remove the dipstick. STEP TWO: Wipe off any residual oil before reinserting the dipstick. STEP THREE: Pull the dipstick back out and read the level. STEP FOUR: If oil levels are low, top off engine oil. Or schedule an oil change at our Service Center! How Often Do I Need an Oil Change? To ensure the oil system’s peak performance, most vehicles require an oil change every 3,000 miles or every six months. Even if you haven’t reached 3,000 miles, you should schedule an oil change at least twice a year. Keep in mind that these intervals are simply a general rule of thumb and vary based on driving habits and model. The Importance of Oil Maintenance Scheduling an oil change takes little effort, but it offers huge benefits! Routine oil system maintenance can boost your gas mileage as well as reduce wear and tear. The proper levels of clean oil help lubricate your engine and keep dirt and debris out. Simply put, routine maintenance keeps your vehicle on the road longer! Come See Us For An Oil Change in Manning, SC! Need an oil change? Schedule oil maintenance today at Santee Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM in Manning! Our certified technicians are equipped to provide expert service on all makes and models, and we’ve got the trusted reputation to prove it! In fact, we can handle all your auto repair and maintenance needs – under one roof! Visit our Service Center today, right here in Manning, SC! We’re conveniently located near Sumter and Florence, South Carolina, and our team is proud to serve drivers throughout Sumter County and beyond! If it’s time for a tune-up, come see us today!

If you're up for a day of walking and learning something new about Manning, South Carolina, there are some great ways to discover the city. Downtown Manning is full of history, local charm, and southern hospitality. Here's how you can spend a day taking in all that this town has to offer. more Tour the Historic District The Manning Historic District consists of 63 different buildings that have played a part in the establishment and evolution of the town since the 1800s. Starting in the Courthouse Square, the center of town when it was laid out in 1856, walk around and through several of the architectural treasures of the city. Keep an eye out for the Clarendon County Courthouse, Alderman's 20 in One Store, the People Bank and Trust Building, and the Levi Building. On North Brooks Street in Downtown Manning, you'll find the Clarendon Chamber building. Don't miss the historic marker outside the building and the Francis Marion statue. Francis Marion was known as the Swamp Fox for his early use of guerilla warfare against the British army during the Revolutionary War. Follow Along the Swamp Fox Murals Trail American history buffs will love to see the Swamp Fox Murals in Manning. Twelve of the murals along the trail are found in the downtown Manning area. The towns of Paxville, Turbeville, and Summerton host the other murals from the collection. The Clarendon County app is available for your phone and will help you find the various murals and tell their stories. Maps are available online to help you follow the story as you see the trail. The Swamp Fox Murals are painted on the sides of various buildings in Clarendon County and depict scenes from the American Revolution and the battles and historic moments that happened along the Santee River. If you have time, consider jumping in the car and visiting the other sites of the Swamp Fox Murals Trail outside of Manning. The newest addition to the murals is in Turbeville. All four towns are within a 25-minute drive of one another, so it won't take much of your day. Enjoy Dinner at Porter Jacks Grill On South Mill Street in the heart of Manning, Porter Jacks Grill is a local favorite spot for dinner and comfort food. Start with some potato skins and crispy, thin onion rings. If you like seafood, be sure to try the deviled eggs and fried oysters. Main course options include a mouth-watering BBQ Pork Rib-Eye and four different cuts of perfectly-prepared steak. For a traditional southern meal, the Charleston Style Shrimp and Grits are a Porter Jack favorite with shrimp, Andouille sausage, and peppers. If your long day of touring the town has taken your energy, consider ordering online and picking up your food to enjoy at home. Their full menu is available, so you won't have to prepare anything yourself. Don't miss out on the rich history of Manning and the surrounding area. You never know what interesting things have taken place around you until you take the time to learn and investigate. image via pixabay