A car can be a major investment, so it’s important to keep up with the maintenance. That way, you won’t have any unexpected repairs or replacements that come out of nowhere and leave you without your vehicle for an extended period of time. Taking proper care of your car at regular intervals will help prevent problems in the future.
Here are some tips on how to maintain your car correctly.
Keep Track of Your Mileage
The mileage of your vehicle is important. It tells you how your car is performing over time, and if there are any problems that develop or need to be addressed. To make sure your mileage is correct, fill up your vehicle with gas at the same pump each time. Keep track of the total miles you drive per year, and compare it with how many gallons of gas you use.
This way, you can tell how many miles per gallon your vehicle is getting. If the number gets lower over time, it might be time for an oil change because the oil has lost its lubricating properties and needs to be replaced with fresh oil.
Oil Changes
Regularly changing the oil in your car is crucial to maintain your engine’s cleanliness and long life. The oil in your car collects small metal particles and other contaminants from the engine and exhaust, which can damage your car if not removed. Oil breaks down over time, so make sure you get an oil change every 3 months or 3,000 miles, whichever occurs first.
Car Maintenance Services
While you can perform a lot of simple car repairs yourself, some jobs are best left to the professionals. Avoid wasting your time and money on DIY car repairs by taking your car to a professional mechanic if you notice any unusual sounds or smells coming from the engine, any warning lights on the dashboard, fluid leaks underneath the vehicle, or broken electrical parts for your car.
Most mechanics offer free inspections for new customers as well as flexible scheduling options so that they can work around your schedule instead of vice versa.
Your manufacturer may recommend specific maintenance services for your vehicle. Some of these services include tire rotations, affordable windshield replacement, air filter replacements, and brake inspections. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations and avoid taking your car in for certain types of service unless they are required because some car maintenance services can actually damage your vehicle instead of fixing it.
Tire Rotations
Your car’s tires are the only contact point between your car and the road, so it is important to make sure there is even wear on all of them. Periodically rotating your tires will ensure that each one gets an equal amount of wear, which can help you continue to drive safely. Your vehicle’s manual will have instructions on when to rotate the tires, but in general, you should do it every 6,000 to 8,000 miles.
Change Air Filter
Your air filter works with your vehicle’s engine to supply it with the proper amount of airflow and oxygen. An air filter that becomes dirty, clogged, or damaged will not properly supply the car with the needed materials for combustion. A clean filter can also reduce harmful emissions from your car. Your vehicle’s owner’s manual will tell you how often the air filter should be changed.
Wash The Car Regularly
Cleaning your car regularly, especially after driving in inclement weather, is an important part of maintaining your vehicle. Road salt and dirt can accumulate on the outside of your car if you drive frequently in these conditions, which can cause rusting or other damage. Make sure to take care of any dead insects or leaves that get stuck under your car’s windshield wipers too.
Gas Up Safely
When you go to a gas station, it is important to be mindful of safety. Make sure you are in a well-lit area and the pumps have security cameras. Use your debit card or cash when possible, since identity theft can become an issue when using a credit card at the pump. Also, make sure to use the correct grade of fuel for your vehicle’s engine type before filling up.
Drive Safely and Avoid Accidents
The best way to avoid damage and expenses due to accidents is by driving safely and carefully. Following road rules, not speeding, and avoiding distractions while behind the wheel will help keep you safe on the roads and avoid expensive repair costs if you do get into an accident.
However, if even practicing these safety reminders, you still got into an accident, you also might need a handy list of important contact details such as South Carolina car accident attorney, emergency family contact, etc.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your car stays safe on the road so that you don’t have to spend money fixing expensive damage after an accident or something else has happened.