Practice Auto Maintenance to Avoid Auto Repairs

If you are like me, your life revolves around your car. I use it for everything from work, grocery shopping and errands, to dropping my kids off at school and to all their sports, dance, and music lessons. Now that summer is almost here, we are planning for our annual vacation road trip. The first thing on my to-do list is to get my car in for its routine auto maintenance and oil change. It’s the best way to avoid unexpected and expensive auto repairs while traveling on the road. Preventative maintenance gives me, and my family, peace of mind when traveling. That way, I can focus on more important things – like timing those important pit stops just right and answering the ever-present question, “Are we there yet?”

Routine Auto Maintenance

What is Routine Maintenance? It is quite simply, the examination and upkeep of the main components in your vehicle, as outlined in your owner’s manual. Each vehicle make/model has slightly different time and/or mileage markers defined by the manufacturer. It’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with your car’s specific recommendations. Many of the maintenance items you can do yourself, or you can schedule a service with a certified technician.

Fluids

Make sure to check fluid levels for all the fluids in your car and top off any that are low. Consult your owner’s manual for suggested types and weights of fluids recommended for your car and driving style.

• Oil – Synthetic or petroleum-based
• Transmission fluid
• Brake fluid
• Coolant/Antifreeze
• Windshield washer fluid

Filters

Your car has several different filters. Be sure to check your manual for the type and location of each, and when it should be changed. 

• Air filter – when clogged, it may affect the performance
• Oil filter – should be changed when your oil is changed
• Fuel filter – when clogged, engine may run rough
• Cabin filter – when clogged, car interior may smell ‘musty’

Lights & Wipers

• Check that your headlights, turn indicators, and tail lights are in working order. If not, check for blown fuses and bulbs. Replace as needed. If you can’t track down the reason for inoperable lights, bring it in for service.
• If your wiper blades leave streaks on the windshield, or are noisy, replace them.
• If any warning lights are lit up on your dash, check your owner’s manual to see if it is something you can fix. If not, bring your car in for a diagnostic service asap.

Brakes & Tires

Your brakes usually let you know when they need to be serviced. If you notice that they feel ‘squishy’ or make noises (squeaking, squealing or rattling), it is time to get them checked. A technician can quickly diagnose issues such as worn brake pads, rotors, or bad brake fluid.

Your tires should be visually examined weekly for any obvious signs of damage or wear. This may include uneven tread wear, bulges, low pressure, or cracks in the rubber. Fill any low tires to the proper pressure as indicated in your owner’s manual. If there is noticeable damage or wear, get your tire/s rotated, repaired, or replaced with quality tires that meet your manufacturer’s suggestions.

Routine Auto Repairs or Replacements

What are Routine Auto Repairs? Sometimes mechanical parts wear out and need to be replaced. This is normal and expected for all vehicles. Your owner’s manual outlines the basic consumables and parts that will need to be replaced at intervals of usually 30/60/90,000 miles. If you have reached the replacement milestone as outlined in your owner’s manual for a specific part, it’s a good idea to plan on replacing it soon. Pushing your luck by putting off replacing parts can become more costly down the road.

Schedule Your Oil Change

If you are getting ready to hit the road for your annual vacation, you should schedule a routine maintenance service before you go. If you are staying home this summer, but it has been more than 3 months since your last oil change, it is time to get your car in for a service.

Perris Auto Repair Center

Call us at (999) 999-9999 or visit us on the web to schedule your routine maintenance today!