5 Important Tips For Regular Auto Maintenance
Taking good care of your vehicle is super important if you want it to last long, perform well, and keep you safe on the road. By getting your car some regular TLC from an auto maintenance business, you can avoid expensive repairs, unexpected breakdowns, and even accidents.
Since the average number of annual car accidents in America stands at six million, you can greatly benefit from properly taking care of your car.
In this article, we’ve got five handy tips to share that will ensure your vehicle stays in fantastic shape for years to come.
1. Follow the Manufacturer’s Maintenance Schedule
When you buy a car, it comes with a handy maintenance schedule from the manufacturer. It’s like a guide that tells you when to take care of important things to keep your vehicle in top shape. Following this schedule is super important because it ensures that your vehicle gets the care it needs from an auto maintenance business at the right times. You’ll find tasks like oil changes, filter replacements, tire rotations, brake inspections, and more on the schedule. By sticking to it, you can catch any potential issues early and keep your vehicle running smoothly.
2. Regularly Check Fluid Levels
Taking good care of your vehicle means paying attention to its fluid levels. You’ve got some key fluids to keep an eye on, like engine oil, coolant, transmission fluid, brake fluid, and power steering fluid. If these levels get too low or if the fluids become dirty, it can cause all sorts of trouble like engine damage, overheating, transmission issues, or even brake failure. Of course, every car has its own schedule to go by, so make sure you check your owner’s manual. For example, generally, you should go for an oil change every 10,000 miles or once every year for a BMW.
3. Replace or Repair the Windshield
When your windshield is in good condition, it can handle impacts and debris much better, which means there’s less chance of anything breaking through and getting inside the car. Additionally, a well-maintained windshield supports the airbags properly, making sure they work correctly and keeping you and your passengers protected in case of an accident. According to Newsday, a windshield crack under 12 inches can be repaired by an auto repair business, but anything over 12 inches will have to be replaced, so act quickly if you notice any cracks before they become too deep and big.
4. Inspect and Replace Filters
Filters play a crucial role in maintaining performance and ensuring longevity. These filters include the air filter, which shields the engine from debris; the fuel filter, responsible for delivering clean fuel to the engine; and the cabin air filter, keeping the interior air fresh and clean. Regularly inspect them and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for replacements.
5. Keep Tires in Optimal Condition
Make sure to regularly check your tire pressure using a reliable gauge. You want it to match the recommended levels given by the manufacturer. Also, give those tires a visual inspection. Look out for any signs of wear, bulges, or uneven tread. If you spot something, it’s time to take action, and here’s another tip: rotate your tires at the recommended intervals. This little trick helps promote even wear and extends the lifespan of your tires.
Properly caring for your vehicle is a must if you want it to be reliable, safe, and perform at its peak. Remember, it’s much smarter to invest a little time and effort in preventative maintenance rather than dealing with expensive repairs or unexpected breakdowns. So, make it a habit to take care of this important business and show your vehicle some love and attention, and in return, it’ll give you a smooth and delightful driving experience.