Extending Your Vehicle’s Lifespan with 9 Tips for Car Maintenance

Your car is a vital part of your daily life and deserves to be treated with utmost care. However, with a busy schedule, it’s easy to neglect the simple maintenance tasks that keep your car running smoothly. The good news is that by following a few simple tips, you can ensure that your car remains in excellent condition and retains its resale value.

Top 9 car care tips

Whether your car is brand new or has some mileage on it, you can keep it in exceptional shape by giving it the care it deserves. Here are some car care tips to help you get started:

1. Keep your vehicle clean

Make it a habit to schedule regular wash and wax treatments for your car, ideally every six months. This not only helps preserve the paint job but also prevents corrosion caused by road salt, especially if you live in a cold climate. You can either take it to a professional or do it yourself to save some money. Either way, maintaining your car’s appearance is crucial to preserve its value when it’s time to sell.

2. Stick to routine maintenance

All vehicles come with a recommended maintenance schedule based on the number of miles driven. You can find this information in the manual or request it from the dealership.

Most cars require routine maintenance every 5,000 miles or six months, but some models allow for longer intervals between services. During these maintenance visits, mechanics perform essential tasks like oil changes and multi-point inspections to ensure that your vehicle is running smoothly. They also check for any worn-out components like air filters or windshield wipers that may need replacement. Additionally, they inspect fluid levels and alert you to any potential issues. If you want to save money in the long run, you can learn how to perform basic maintenance tasks, such as oil changes, on your own.

The cost of an average oil change ranges from $32 to $75, depending on factors like the type of oil used, your vehicle’s make and model, and your location.

3. Don’t neglect major services

When it’s time for a tune-up, certain parts of your vehicle will need to be swapped out for new ones. This includes spark plugs, oil filters, fuel filters, PCV valves, belts, and hoses. The lifespan of these components varies depending on your car’s make and model. It’s a good idea to ask the service department for cost estimates before these tune-ups become necessary, so you can be financially prepared.

4. Regularly check your brakes

While there’s no fixed interval for brake checks, it’s recommended to have them inspected every time your tires are rotated or every six months. However, if you notice any changes in your brake performance while driving, it’s crucial to get them inspected as soon as possible.

5. Monitor your fluid levels

Set aside a specific day each month to check your fluid levels and make a note of it on your calendar. This simple task only takes a few minutes, and you can create a handy checklist to ensure that you’re covering all the necessary fluids. Be sure to include engine oil, coolant, power steering fluid, and windshield washer fluid.

By following these car care tips, you can keep your vehicle running smoothly, maintain its appearance, and preserve its value in the long run. Remember, a little effort goes a long way in ensuring that your car stays in great shape.

You must inspect the brake fluid and transmission fluid biannually, ideally every six months.

You don’t have to wait for an oil change to have your fluid levels checked. In fact, low fluid levels might be a sign of bigger problems with your vehicle. Ignoring them now could mean spending even more money on repairs later.

6. Keep an eye on your tire tread

Having worn-out tread on your tires can be dangerous, especially in wet or snowy conditions. Luckily, there are two simple and affordable ways to check your tire tread. You can either invest in a tread depth gauge or use a penny.

If you choose the penny method, just insert it into the tread with Abraham Lincoln’s head facing out. If you can fully see his head, it’s time for new tires. However, it’s always a good idea to have a tire dealer confirm it.

7. Maintain proper tire inflation

Keeping your tires properly inflated is not only crucial for your safety but also for fuel efficiency. If you have a newer vehicle, you may receive alerts on your dashboard when the tire pressure is low. Otherwise, consider purchasing a tire-pressure gauge to monitor the air levels in your tires.

Consult the sticker inside the driver’s door pillar to find the recommended inflation levels for your car. If the pressure is low, make sure to fill up the tires to the correct level.

8. Don’t ignore leaks, sounds, or odors

Have you noticed any fluid stains beneath your car? Does it make strange noises during certain actions? Or maybe there are unfamiliar smells coming from your vehicle?

Don’t brush these signs off, as they could be indicators of underlying issues that require attention. Ignoring them now might result in costly repairs down the road.

9. Take alerts seriously

Whether it’s the dreaded check engine light or any other unfamiliar icon, never disregard them. Your car is trying to communicate that something might be wrong. It’s always better to have your car checked out to be safe rather than sorry.

The key takeaway

While the maintenance costs of your specific vehicle may vary, taking a proactive approach and practicing preventive maintenance can save you a significant amount of money and prolong the lifespan of your car.

Frequently asked questions

• How often should I change my oil?

  Engine oil should be replaced every 5,000 to 7,500 miles.

• How frequently should I check my tire pressure?

  You should check your tire pressure every few weeks, preferably when the tires are cold.

  Car Maintenance Frequently Asked Questions

• How often should I get my brakes checked?

  When it comes to the crucial task of brake maintenance, it is recommended to change your brake pads every 10,000 to 20,000 miles. Additionally, routine service should include a thorough inspection of your brakes. Don’t forget to have them checked during your regular tune-ups as well.

• How often should I check my car’s fluids?

  Maintaining your car’s optimal performance requires regular monitoring of its essential fluids. It is advisable to check your engine oil, coolant, power steering fluid, and windshield washer fluid on a monthly basis. Furthermore, brake fluid and transmission fluid should be inspected biannually, ideally every six months.

• How often should I replace my battery?

  To ensure your car’s reliable starting power, it is recommended to replace your battery every three to four years.

• How often should I get a tune-up?

  Tune-ups play a significant role in keeping your vehicle running smoothly. Experts suggest getting a tune-up every 30,000 to 50,000 miles to maintain optimal performance.

• Will a tune-up affect my auto insurance rates?

  While it varies among different car insurance providers, some may view your dedication to vehicle maintenance as a sign of responsible ownership. For specific details on how this may impact your insurance rates, it is best to consult directly with your insurance provider.