Like Atlas hoisting the Earth, tires tirelessly carry cars atop their rubbery backs, preventing vehicles from being sent hurdling into the ocean or the Crab Nebula. Keep oil fresh and tires from overtiring with today’s Groupon: for $19, you get an oil change and a tire rotation at Kirkwood Auto Center in Wilmington (a $50 value).

The ASE-certified technicians at this AAA-approved tire-and-auto center temper tire wear and infuse engines with pints of fresh, piston-massaging oil. After emptying dingy engine goo, mechanics restore motor mojo by filling vehicle veins with conventional motor oil. In a similar swap, a new filter replaces the car’s aging sieve, which is repurposed to pan for harmful particles inside each vehicle’s flowing oil rivers. After the oil change, techs rotate tires during an undercarriage barn dance to ensure even wear, steady handling, and increased fuel efficiency while owners enjoy free WiFi access in the waiting area. At Kirkwood's, family-owned-and-operated since 1979, the three generations of techs have always treated everyone as family, even if it means having to constantly reaffirm the adorableness of newborn trucks.

Reviews

Four Yahoo Locals give Kirkwood an average of four stars:

• I was handled very professonal [sic]. the work was performed for the price that I was quoted and the vehicle was done when promised. – Norm
• Brought my car in for routine maintenance. Noticed a problem with my transmission. Gave it to the shop next to him to inspect for free. Great customer service! – a Yahoo Local User on 01/02/2006