Ways to Keep Your Vehicle Well Maintained
Getting the most out of your vehicle means that proper maintenance is a top priority. Many parts and components keep a vehicle operating and smoothly taking you through the miles. Any of these parts malfunction and trouble ensues, leaving drivers unable to operate their vehicle as it should. Preventative maintenance keeps these issues at bay, giving drivers the chance to get the most out of their vehicle. Adhere to the nine maintenance tips below to keep your car in excellent condition.
1- Read the Owner’s Manual
The vehicle owner’s manual provides important details that help drivers keep their care in tip-top shape. Refer to the manual to learn the exact times to change the oil, the best type of fuel for the vehicle, how to maintain the warranty, and much more.
2- Change the Oil
The oil is one of the most important liquids inside the vehicle. It’s also one of the most frequently changed. Every 3,000 – 6,000 miles, an oil change prevents engine breakdown and keeps your vehicle driving smoothly down the road. DIY or schedule service at the auto shop.
3- Tire Pressure 101
Under-inflated tires wear out at a more rapid rate than properly inflated tires. They also increase the fuel consumption of your vehicle uses. Over-inflated tires, on the other hand, increase the likelihood of a blowout. Keep the tires properly inflated. Your owner’s manual will let you know the proper inflation rates.
4- Rotate the Tires
Tire rotation is recommended every few thousand miles that you drive. Rotating the tires ensures even wear on the tread of the tires and prevents blowouts and other trouble that could leave you stranded on the side of the road.
5- Change the Windshield Wipers
Changing the windshield wipers is inexpensive and beneficial to any driver. Why allow old, worn-out windshield wipers scrape and scratch your windshield or endure the hassles of wipers that do not remove the water from your windshield when it’s so easy to schedule this service and leave worries behind?
6- Become a Better Driver
No matter who you are, changing driving habits are easy to do and it minimizes wear and tear on your vehicle. Slow down when you approach speed bumps, avoid driving aggressively, and do not speed! These simple changes in driving habits make a big difference in the care of your car.
7- Change the Air Filter
The frequency of air filter changes depending on the vehicle make/model you drive. Refer to the owner’s manual to determine when it’s time to schedule this service and stick to the recommendations. Driving in harsh conditions clogs the air filter faster, thus requiring changes more often.
8- Change the Timing Belt
Most drivers will change out the timing belt on their vehicle every 60,000 miles, but there is no guarantee that it lasts this length of time. It is best to change the timing belt as recommended to avoid serious damages to the vehicle.
9- Coolant Fill-Up
Engine coolant prevents the engine from overheating, which is important for pretty obvious reasons. Without proper coolant, your vehicle’s engine is susceptible to many problems that may cause a variety of challenges with the vehicle and the engine. Check for fluid leaks regularly, particularly engine coolant, and take in the car when it’s time to change out the fluids/fill them up.
Drive safe everyone!
