Our cars are a big part of our lives; For many of us driving is a daily task. Whether you’re going to work, shopping, or on a trip, you want to be sure that your vehicle can get you there and back. There are things you can do to help make sure your car stays safe and reliable. Keeping up with regular maintenance can extend the lifespan and performance of your vehicle. But what, exactly, is regular maintenance? We’re here to make it simple for you.
Maintaining Your Car
Check Your Oil
Probably the most well-known tip for any driver, you’ll want to keep an eye on your oil. A good rule of thumb is to have your oil changed every 3 months or 3,000 miles, whichever comes first. You should also check your oil levels at least once a month, or if you hear knocking sounds or notice a decrease in performance while driving—these are signs of low oil.
Replace Your Air Filter
When it comes to your air filter, you should typically plan on replacing it once a year or after driving 10,000 miles. The environments you drive in can impact the life of the filter, however. If you frequently drive down dusty roads or through heavy traffic idles, you should probably replace your filter twice a year or after 5,000 miles.
Test Your Tires
At least once per month, you’ll want to check the air pressure in your tires. If you’re not sure how much pressure is ideal, you can check your owner’s manual for your vehicle. In the winter, remember that cold air can cause a loss of air in your tires. You’ll also want to keep an eye on your tread and watch for any signs of thinning. Rotating your tires at least twice a year can help keep the regular wear-and-tear balanced and extend the lifespan of your wheels.
Watch Your Lights
You may only need to change your lights when they go out, but you don’t want to wait until you’re driving home in the dark to realize that one of them has died. A good practice would be to test all of your lights once a month. Make sure that you’re checking your blinkers and brake lights as well as your headlights and taillights.
You may also want to take your car once a year to have your spark plugs, transmission fluid, coolant, and belts checked. If you do all of these things, your car should stay healthy and mobile for a good long while.
In the market for a vehicle to test these tips on? Give A&D Motors a call at 256-586-2276 or stop in 501 North Brindlee Mountain Parkway, Arab AL 35016. We’d love to help you find your next ride!
