Maintenance Tips for Your Vehicle
Unlike in the past when cars required all sorts of service and maintenance to keep them on the road and running properly, contemporary vehicles require much less regular service to keep them going. With the overall reliability of cars having increased so significantly, you can keep your car going beyond the 100,000-mile and even 200,000-mile mark with regular upkeep.
Regular Checkups
By performing the following simple checks and procedures on a regular basis, your car will be able to live a long and happy life, keeping you happy and free from the financial burden of a new car payment.
Check Your Oil. You need to do this at least monthly, more if you notice an oil leak or start to realize you need to add oil routinely. Always check the oil when your car is parked on a level surface. If you have to add more, don't overfill the oil tank. Also, if there is a leak, find it and fix it as soon as possible.
Look over our How to Change Your Oil page for more information about the oil changing process, including how to cut costs by changing your oil at home.
Check Your Tire Pressure. Another monthly task to schedule is checking your tire pressure. Checking your tire pressure can best be performed by using an accurate tire-pressure gauge. Check the pressure before you drive your car or after a few miles of driving. Also, be sure to check each tire, including your spare. Review your vehicle's owner's manual to find the precise pressure amount for your tires, and always use the manufacturer's recommendation instead of what is printed on the tire.
Wash Your Car. Try to do this every week. Wash the body and be sure to also hose out the fender walls and undercarriage to remove any road salt and dirt. You also should wax your car, especially if it produces water beads larger than a quarter.
Long-Term Checkups
Over the long term, there are several additional regular maintenance steps to take in order to keep your car performing at its best. Review the list below, and consult a professional if need be.
Drain and Flush Your Coolant System. Given the challenges involved with collecting and safely disposing of your old antifreeze, this might be something you considering having done by an auto shop.
Change Your Automatic Transmission Fluid. The frequency of this repair varies by vehicle. For professionals recommend replacing the fluid and filter every 36,000 miles. Some cars can go as long as 100,000 miles, but if the fluid begins to take on a brownish tint, you'll need to do it sooner. Check your owner's manual for the specific information for your car.
Replace the Drive Belts and Hoses. This is usually a smart move to make every two to three years, even if your belts and hoses don't show any wear or tear. Any noisy belts should be adjusted between replacements as well. They may simply require a little tightening in order to stop those loud squeals.
Change Your Timing Belt. If your car has a timing belt, it usually needs to be changed every 60,000 to 80,000 miles. Refer to your owner's manual for the recommended replacement interval, and be sure to stay on top of this. Failing to replace an old timing belt can lead to an expensive engine repair if the belt breaks.