Do you know how to give your car the love that it needs? Regular car maintenance is important to keep your car in good working order and avoid having unplanned and costly repairs done.
There are basic and intermediate procedures you can perform in your car. Then there are more in-depth repairs that an authorized car mechanic should only do. Knowing which procedures to keep up with and which one a professional should only do can be confusing.
Not sure where to get started? Here are some car maintenance tips for anyone wanting to get on top of their regular maintenance.
Checking and Replacing Your Oil, Filters, and Fluids
One of the most significant aspects is checking and replacing your oil filters and fluids regularly. This helps keep your car running smoothly, reducing engine wear and tear and extending its life span.
To begin, check your oil and filter every three to five months and change them if needed. If you don’t have enough oil or the filter needs replacing, do it as soon as possible.
Advanced maintenance further involves paying attention to other vehicle fluids like transmission, coolant, steering, and brake fluids, as well as checking other filters too. Doing this increases overall performance and is important during the summer to avoid roadside breakdowns.
Properly Inflating the Tires
Properly inflated tires can provide better handling and stability while improving gas mileage. If a tire is not adequately inflated, it will wear unevenly and can cause the vehicle to be less responsive when driving.
Your brakes should also be inspected regularly to ensure they are working and can stop your vehicle in a timely and safe manner. If you are having issues with your car, it is necessary to seek professional help to rule out any more serious repair and maintenance needs.
Having your vehicle check the brakes, especially if you hear an indicator sound, can help resolve any issues and extend the life of your car.
More Detailed Inspections of the Car Parts
For more detailed inspections of car parts such as the spark plug, battery, radiator, brakes, and engine, it’s vital to be thorough. Regularly check these items to ensure they are in proper working order. Replace a spark plug approximately every 30,000 to 40,000 miles and a spark plug wire every three years or 30,000 miles, whichever comes first.
Inspect for any rust or damage that could cause an electrical failure, and always ensure the radiator is full of coolant. The brake pads should not be worn down, and change the brake fluid every two years or 24,000 miles.
Pay Attention to the Suspension and Alignment
In maintaining your car, pay special attention to areas that experience more wear and tear, such as suspension and alignment. When inspecting these areas, look for signs of uneven wear, fraying, and rust. Make sure they are inspected and adjusted as needed.
Extreme temperatures and frequent use can cause the suspension to become loose or worn out, while alignment can become affected by bumps and road conditions. To keep your car running, check the parts for any visible defects and take it in for inspections at regular intervals.
Getting Regular Checkups and Tune-Ups
Regular checkups and tune-ups are fundamental for maintaining your car. Getting your car serviced at regular intervals is key to its longevity.
Regular tune-ups can help diagnose and prevent potential problems before they get out of hand. This can help extend the life of your car, avoiding costly repairs.
Regular checkups can identify and fix small issues that can turn into major problems. They can also help maintain the performance and fuel economy of your vehicle.
It is crucial to stay on top of regular checkups and maintenance to ensure your car keeps running smoothly and can increase its lifespan.
Follow These Car Basics and Advanced Maintenance Tips
Maintaining your car is essential to make it last longer and operate better. From basic to advanced maintenance tips, proper car upkeep is something anyone can learn. Regular checkups, replacing oil filters and fluids, paying attention to suspension and alignment, and more detailed inspections of car parts can save you time and money.
Take control of your car maintenance today and make sure you’re road ready.
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