Americans place a high value on their cars. It represents freedom and status and allows us to show off ait about who we are. If you love your car and want to keep it running at optimum performance levels for as long as possible, or you simply want to get the best gas mileage possible, you’ll want to make preventive maintenance a priority. Here are a few basic maintenance and cleaning tips to keep your car loving you as much as you love your car:
Preventive maintenance pays off in the short term and the long run. Some of it you can easily do yourself and some you’ll find helpful to have a trained, qualified auto mechanic with the skills and equipment to do the job right. Listen to your car and get to know the regular noises it makes so you will know when something is off-kilter. Also, get to know what is in your owner’s manual and use it as a guide for staying on top of your preventive maintenance.
Here are some of the simple checks and procedures you can do to help prevent problems as well as extend the life of your vehicle:
Regular oil and filter changes
Your owner’s manual will give you an idea of what’s best for your particular make and model but also work with your auto mechanic to factor in other factors such as how much you drive and how hard you drive your vehicle.
Check all fluids
This includes oil, brake, power steering, transmission, windshield washer, and antifreeze fluids. Again, your owner’s manual will help you with how to check these fluids. Make sure to check for debris, color, and consistency to help guide you on when it’s time to change or flush some of these fluids. Fill the ones that need filling! :)
Check the air pressure in your tires at least once a month
Your owner’s manual will guide you and there should be a sticker on the inside of your driver’s side door with the proper psi.
Check to make sure all lights are working
This includes headlights, turn signals, brake lights, inside lights, and taillights.
Wiper blades
If your wiper blades aren’t doing their job right, inspect them for cracks or tears. Sometimes all it takes is to wipe debris off of them and other times, they need to e replaced. Don’t wait for a rainstorm to find out you need new ones!
Inspect the engine belts
They should not have cracks or missing segments.
Check the air filter
Check for cleanliness and damage. Since your air filter keeps the debris away from the engine and the cabin filter keeps allergens away from you, both of these filters should regularly checked to make sure they are able to properly do their jobs.
When you need some help with preventive maintenance or even repairs, bring it into CARSTAR Robert's Auto Repair. We are here for all of your auto repair and maintenance services, auto body repair, tire needs, or full auto detailing. We strive to be your one-stop auto shop and we work hard to provide you with an outstanding customer service experience! Our skilled technicians provide the best service in the region. Make your appointment today! We’re located at 234 Ramona Ave, Monterey, CA. 93940. We look forward to your visit!