If you are a vehicle owner, you know that you have a responsibility to ensure that your car is getting the proper attention needed to keep it both safe and reliable. This duty is referred to as routine maintenance, and keeping up with it will increase the life and efficiency of your automobile. Here are some of the most common, and important, types of auto maintenance.
Servicing the Transmission
This includes removing and cleaning the pan, cleaning or replacing the filter, and getting a new transmission pan gasket upon re-installation. You can head to your local auto shop to get this done or answer any questions on how often or what is done to keep this clean. Keeping up with its cleanliness will definitely increase your car’s lifetime.
Checking the Brakes
You should get your brakes checked regularly by a brake service professional long before you hear or smell any signs of wear and tear. This is for both your own safety and the safety of others on the road. Setting a routine date on when to get your breaks checked is highly recommended, just so that you can be safe than sorry in the long run.
Flushing Fluids
Fluids are present in many of your vehicle’s specialty systems and include power steering fluid, brake fluid, transmission fluid, and coolant. Occasionally, these fluids need to be drained and refilled to keep the systems free from debris and contaminants. This is called a fluid flush. If this is not done regularly there is a chance one of the systems could get clogged, causing more issues.
Aligning the Wheels
If you feel that your automobile is veering to either side as you attempt to drive in a straight line, you may have a wheel alignment issue. Getting this fixed will allow your car to steer in the way that you intend to. If this happens to you, we highly recommend getting this fixed immediately to save you from any possible future crashes this may cause.
Changing the Oil
Oil changes are by far the most frequently needed service for any vehicle. It not only cleans your engine out, but it also ensures that the moving parts inside of it are properly lubricated. Not changing your oil frequently enough can result in serious engine damage. It is financially more stable to get a routine oil change than having to fix or possibly replace your entire engine.
Maintaining the Tires
Tires give you traction on slippery roads, so it is imperative that you check them for worn treads or low pressure. Worn-out tires may have bulges or lumps that can lead to blowouts, as can underinflated tires. To ensure peak performance, purchase a tire gauge to easily check your tire’s pressure. After all, damaged tires can lead to accidents or flats that leave you stranded if you aren’t careful. If needed, you can quickly refill your car’s tiers by heading to your local gas station and using their machine. Most gas stations have one in case of emergencies or just for a quick fix.
In conclusion, if you want to keep your car in peak condition and drive it for a long time, proper maintenance is key. And, not only will you extend the usefulness of the vehicle, but you will also keep yourself and others safe on the road by being able to maintain proper control of your auto. Simple checks on your lights or oil can go a long way. So, keep these items in mind the next time you get your car serviced or you go in for a tune-up.
