A car can be like a dream come true. To make sure that your vehicle stays in prime condition, though, you need to stay on top of its maintenance requirements. Here are some tips for keeping your car in fantastic shape while avoiding the nightmare of costly major repairs somewhere down the road.
Wash and wax your car regularly
Take your automobile to a car wash, or wash it yourself, every week, if you can. Wash the body and the interior. Also, when needed, hose out the undercarriage and fender wells to get rid of dirt, sand, and road salt that can cause rust and corrosion, advises nonprofit organization Consumer Reports.
Wax the finish every six months to protect the paint and keep the car looking new, suggests Kelley Blue Book (KBB).
Once a month: Check engine oil and tire pressure
Guard your engine by checking the oil at least once a month, and even more often if you’ve discovered a leak. If you do have a leak, find the source and get it fixed as soon as possible.
Once monthly and prior to any long road trips, check the inflation pressure for all tires, including the spare. Use the pressure recommendations of the car manufacturer. Also examine tires for uneven wear, cuts, and sidewall bulges.
Under-inflated tires can wear out faster and negatively affect car performance, gas mileage, and safety, notes the Car Care Council, another nonprofit.
Every six months: Change the oil and inspect brakes
Generally, you should change the engine oil and filter once every six months or 7,500 miles, whichever comes first, for normal driving. For severe driving, make the swap once every three months or 3,000 miles.
When changing the oil, also clean the radiator and check the brakes, battery, air filter, fluids, exhaust system, and constant-velocity-joint boots, says Consumer Reports.
However, the Car Care Council emphasizes that you check your brakes immediately if at any time the brakes start to grab, pull, or make unexpected noises, the vehicle pulls to one side while braking, the brake light illuminates on the dashboard, or the brake pedal isn’t engaging properly.
Also take action right away if your check engine light illuminates at any time.
Every few years: Replace belts and do other long-term chores
Replace drive belts and hoses once every two to three years. Drain and flush the antifreeze in the cooling system once every year or two.
Also, if your car has a timing belt rather than a chain, replace the timing belt according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, typically between 60,000 and 80,000 miles.
Change the automatic transmission fluid, too, also per manufacturer’s recommendations, but only if your vehicle requires you to do so, says Consumer Reports.
Consider comprehensive car maintenance coverage
To help you manage both routine maintenance tasks and any needed repairs, you can purchase an extended warranty plan, which kicks in after your initial warranty expires, through either your auto manufacturer or a third party.
The best plans offer perks like low deductibles, 24/7 roadside assistance, and complimentary towing and rental car services, according to ConsumerAffairs.com.
Take great care of your car, and it will take great care of you. Staying on top of your vehicle’s maintenance needs will thwart serious issues from arising that could cramp your style (and your bank account).
