Importance of Regular Maintenance
Engaging in regular car maintenance can prevent significant problems in the future and extend the lifespan of your vehicle. Consistent inspections and servicing can increase fuel efficiency, reduce emergency hazard occurrences and maintain lower costs in major repairs.
Essential Car Maintenance Tasks
OIL CHANGES- Oil changes are the most well known and adhered to maintenance task for your vehicle. Depending on the age, make and model of your vehicle, changing the engine oil every 5,000-10,000 miles is crucial for optimal engine health.
FILTER REPLACEMENT- Checking and replacing the air filter periodically ensures proper air flow to the engine.The engine air filter cleans the air entering your engine and protects its sensitive parts from debris and dust. These filters are located under the hood and are typically easily accessible.
TIRE CHECK- Inspecting the tire pressure and tread depth regularly contributes to safety on the road.
BATTERY HEALTH- Keeping up with battery maintenance prevents unexpected breakdowns. Keep an eye on the date your battery was changed. Additionally, with the excessive Arizona heat, opt for a warranty to guarantee the life of the battery.
WIPER BLADES- Regularly replacing the wiper blades ensures clear visibility during inclement weather.
DIY vs Professional Maintenance
Learning to perform basic maintenance tasks can save money in the long run. Following the owner's manual is essential to understand when professional maintenance is needed. However, learning DIY maintenace such as wiper blades, tire check, filter check, bulb replacement can be beneficial to any vehicle owner.
Signs of Potential Issues
SQUEALING BRAKES- Brakes can squeal for a number of reasons. Some brake pads are noisier than others, but if you hear metal grinding on metal, you should have your brakes checked.
VIBRATING STEERING WHEEL- Vibrating could signal a number of issues. Misaligned tires, worn suspension components or warped rotors are all common causes of a shaky vehicle.
ENGINE OVERHEATING- Engine overheating may point towards cooling system problems. If your temperature gauge is out of safe operating spec, the car smells hot or there is fluid on the ground, it may not be safe to operate.
Long-Term Benefits of Routine Maintenance
Routine maintenance is simple and commiting to it leads to lower repair costs over time. Regular upkeep helps in maintaining the car's resale value and you will have mproved safety and reliability.
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