As the weather warms up and spring turns the corner into summer, May becomes a month full of meaning. May in Chicago means a lot more than warming temps, Cubs, and White Sox baseball. Whether you’re planning a family BBQ, visiting a cemetery to pay respects, or just want your ride to survive another Chicago summer, May is the month to pay attention. Here at My Mechanic —where we’ve proudly served our community for over 20 years—we see May as a time for family, remembrance, and getting your vehicle road-ready.
Whether you’re celebrating Mom, honoring those who served, or prepping for a road trip, your vehicle plays a part in how smoothly your month goes. Let’s talk about it.
Mother’s Day – May 11, 2025
Mother’s Day is more than flowers and brunch. It’s about appreciation. Mother’s Day is the time to show appreciation to the women who raised, taught, and inspired us. While flowers and brunch are lovely, let’s not forget practical gifts that keep her safe and stress-free—like car care. And I’ll tell you—some of the most responsible car owners I’ve seen are moms. They don’t wait until the engine light’s been on for a month. They hear a rattle, they bring it in.
Here’s how to show love to the moms in your life—mechanic-style:
Mother’s Day Vehicle Checklist
Whether it’s Mom’s daily driver or her weekend convertible, here’s how to keep her ride in top shape:
- Oil & Filter Change
- Tire Pressure & Tread Check (uneven tread is a sign of deeper issues)
- Brake Inspection
- Windshield Wipers & Washer Fluid Top-Off
- Interior Cabin Air Filter Replacement (for fresh spring air!)
- Battery Check (no one wants a surprise jump-start needed)
Pro Tip: Surprise her with a car detailing gift certificate—it’s like a spa day for her car.
Memorial Day – May 26, 2025
Memorial Day is more than a three-day weekend. It’s a time to remember those who gave their lives in service to our country. Around Elmhurst and neighboring suburbs, you’ll see parades, flag ceremonies, and community events. Whether you’re attending a service at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery or heading out of town for the long weekend, your vehicle needs to be up to the task. It also marks the unofficial start of summer—so if you’re planning a road trip or family BBQ, your vehicle needs to be summer-ready.
Memorial Day Travel Readiness Checklist
Before you hit I-294 or take the scenic route:
- Coolant Level & Radiator Inspection
- AC System Test (Don’t sweat it later!)
- Lights & Turn Signals Check (Safety first)
- Tire Alignment & Rotation (for smooth highway miles)
- Emergency Kit Recheck (jumper cables, flashlight, etc.)
- Spare Tire & Jack Check
Respect on the Road:
Drive safely, buckle up, and if you’re hauling a trailer or gear, double-check your towing setup. No one honors our fallen heroes by driving recklessly.
Local Tip: If you’re staying in town, Elmhurst’s annual Memorial Day Parade is a great family event. Park early and walk—bonus points if your car’s running quietly after a muffler check!
Mechanic Talk – Spring into Summer Maintenance
This is the time of year we see it all—overheating engines, worn brake pads, winter-weathered tires, and forgotten oil changes. With over 20 years of owning this shop, we can tell you: preventative maintenance now saves costly breakdowns later. Every year, I see the same thing. Chicagoans wait until it’s 95 and their A/C won’t kick on to call in, or worse, they break down on I-90 headed to Wisconsin Dells. May is your chance to beat the heat before it beats your vehicle.
Our My Mechanic locations are running May Specials that you could use on:
- Mechanical work
- Synthetic oil changes, air filters, cabin filters, and more
- AC repairs and recharges
- Brake repairs and pad replacements
May Mechanic Maintenance Checklist
- Get a Full Multi-Point Inspection FREE
- Check for Winter Damage rust, undercarriage, suspension
- Flush Old Fluids brake, coolant, transmission if needed
- Inspect Belts & Hoses Cracks? Squealing? Summer will snap them.
- Swap Out The Cabin Filter Spring pollen & city smog clog it up fast
- Rotate Tires Helps them wear evenly and saves gas
- Update Registration & Emissions If Due
Did You Know? Illinois emissions testing is required every two years after the vehicle is over 4 years old. Check your registration renewal notice or ask us to verify your due date.
Final Thoughts from My Mechanic
We’re more than just mechanics—we’re part of the Elmhurst and Clarendon Hills communities. Whether you’re honoring your mother, remembering our heroes, or hitting the road, we’re here to keep your vehicle safe and reliable.
Stop by either of our two locations for honest service, neighborly advice, and over two decades of automotive know-how. May is a month for memories—make sure car trouble isn’t one of them.
Drive safe,
— Mike Larson
