The article discusses three traditional practices that no longer make sense about maintaining your car. These include the importance of proper interior, exterior, and mechanical maintenance, as cars become safer and more dependable. Modern cars use synthetic oils, which are more refined to resist build-up of sludge and deposits, and most vehicles have monitoring systems that alert drivers when they need an oil change. The article also notes that modern cars no longer require warm up for comfort or to defrost the windshield, but this is not necessary due to the rise of fuel-injected engines. It suggests that drivers should change their oil every 7,500 to 10,000 miles, which is also beneficial for the environment and for reducing waste and resources. The author also highlights that drivers need to check their car's oil level using the dipstick.