Alleviate the Creaks and Squeaks (Chassis Lubrication)
December 29, 2024
If your vehicle creaks and squeaks when you drive down the road, it may mean that some of the metal parts are rubbing against each other and need to be lubricated. Those could be parts of the suspension, steering system and the drivetrain.
Years ago, most vehicles had to have their chassis (what you think of as the frame) regularly lubricated. Newer vehicles are made with what some call "lifetime lubrication," but there are still parts of the chassis that need to be maintained with lubricants. Your service advisor can help you know when that needs to be done.
In your owner's manual, the vehicle's manufacturer lists components that need regular maintenance. Things like u-joints, steering joints, sway bars, bushings and joints in the suspension. Some of them may have that "lifetime lubrication," while others may not. When you bring your vehicle in for service, a technician will look for any parts that have grease fittings. They will inspect these components, clean the fittings so dirt and other contaminants won't be forced into the part and then lubricate them with a lubricant that meets the manufacturer's specifications.
Sometimes a chassis lubrication is done at the same time as an oil change. That's also an ideal time for the technician to check other parts of your vehicle that may need attention. That could include greasing other parts such as the fuel door, trunk and door hinges, suspension springs and door latches.
Times have changed since the days when a "lube" job was synonymous with an oil change. Depend on your owner's manual and advice from your service advisor to know when "grease" is the word—and appropriate for your vehicle.
Charlie's Fast Lube Dexter
414 N 1 Mile Rd.
Dexter, Missouri 63841
573-614-7886
http://charliesfastlubedexter.com
Need Service?
More articles from Charlie's Fast Lube Dexter

Read a Good Tire Lately? (Tire Wear)
March 8, 2026
There's lots of good information to read in books and online. You might not know that you can also "read" your tires and learn a lot about what shape they're in and if they are in need of attention. It's important to know how your tires are doing because a tire failure can be very dangerous to y... More

The ?Man-Made? Engine Oil (Synthetic Oil Change)
March 1, 2026
If you own a newer vehicle, your vehicles manufacturer may require that it use synthetic oil instead of conventional oil. Synthetic oils are more stable, dont break down as easily, and provide better engine protection than conventional oil. All those things can prolong the life of your engine an... More

Positive Crankcase Ventilation ? PCV Valve Service at Charlie's Fast Lube Dexter
February 22, 2026
Hello Dexter! Did you know that the first federally-mandated emissions control device was introduced in the 1960's? The Positive Crankcase Ventilation valve, or PCV valve, has been installed in Missouri vehicles since 1964 and represents the first legislation by the United States government to re... More
