Taking good care of your car with regular preventative maintenance is essential to keeping it running smoothly and reliably for many years. By being proactive and addressing minor issues before they become major repairs, you save yourself money in the long run. Read on to learn about the different systems in your vehicle that need attention and how often to have them inspected and serviced.
Get Regular Oil Changes
One of the most important maintenance tasks is changing your engine oil and filter regularly. Most mechanics recommend getting this done every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, depending on your driving habits and the type of oil used. When you bring your car in for an oil change, the mechanic will also inspect vital components like belts and hoses. Don’t put this off – old oil can cause sludge build-up and clog filters. Stay on top of it for a healthy engine.
Inspect and Replace Air Filters
There are a few different filters in your vehicle that clean the air going into the engine and cabin. Over time, they collect particulates and become less effective. For the engine air filter, plan to replace it every 12,000-15,000 miles. The cabin air filter should be switched out every 15,000 to 30,000 miles since it doesn’t get as dirty. Ask your technician to check both and advise if they seem excessively dirty and need early replacement. This allows your HVAC system and engine to breathe easily.
Flush Transmission Fluid
The fluid in your transmission keeps everything operating smoothly, but it does break down eventually after miles of service. For most vehicles, manufacturers recommend a complete flush and fluid replacement every 30,000-60,000 miles. Signs like slipping gears indicate it’s past time for new fluid. Prevent expensive transmission repairs down the road by staying diligent with scheduled flushes.
Rotate Tires
You rely on your tires every time you drive, but they wear unevenly since the front wheels handle steering and braking forces. Rotating them every 6,000-8,000 miles ensures they wear evenly for full mileage potential. Your technician will move them to different positions on the vehicle so the rear tires end up on the front. Proper tire inflation is also key, so check pressure monthly. Addressing misalignment early on helps, too. Well-maintained tires equal better handling and braking.
Inspect Brakes and Shock Absorbers
The components that make up your brake system are designed to last but eventually wear out after years of use. Most mechanics recommend having them thoroughly inspected every 15,000 miles or so. They’ll check pad thickness, rotors, fluid levels, and lines for leaks or damage. This way, worn parts get replaced before they cause brake failure or a blowout. Shocks and struts also make for critical safety components, needing replacement around 50,000-70,000 miles. Listen for squeaking brakes or bouncy ride motions so you know when to have yours checked. Stay safe with sound brakes and shocks.
Replace Timing Belt
Most vehicles have a rubber timing belt that synchronizes the rotation of key engine parts like valves and pistons. It’s one of those components that works great until it fails, and then you’re facing major engine repairs. For most cars, it’s smart to just replace the timing belt every 60,000-100,000 miles based on age and manufacturer recommendations. A little prevention goes a long way to avoid being stranded with catastrophic engine failure due to a snapped belt.
Prioritize Preventative Maintenance for a Smooth-Running Car
By sticking to scheduled maintenance for fluid changes, filter replacements, parts inspections, and belt/hose changes, you keep minor issues from spiraling into major repairs over the years. Caring for your car pays off with reliable transportation in the long run. When in doubt, consult your owner’s manual or chat with the knowledgeable technicians at T & T Foreign Automotive Service in Wilmington, NC, at 910-838-2795. We can advise you on the optimal timeline for servicing your make and model. Invest a little in preventative maintenance now to keep your wheels happily rolling along.
