3 SWEET TIPS AND TRICKS FOR GENERAL MAINTENANCE
Need some help learning the in’s and out’s of a vehicle’s general maintenance? Look no further than this must-read guide!
Routine auto maintenance can prevent unexpected vehicle breakdowns and accidents. So, it’s worth investing the time and the effort to do so.
But do you know what it takes to ensure your car spends more time out on the roadway and less time in your mechanic’s service bay?
The good news is that there are some tried, tested, and proven methods you can use to improve your vehicle’s longevity. Consider these 3 sweet tips and tricks for general maintenance.
1. Car Owner’s Manual Is Your Friend
When it comes to vehicle maintenance and repairs, your car owner’s manual is your friend. The manual has answers to a lot of the questions you may have.
According to research, people hold onto their cars for an average of almost 12 years. No one wants to hold onto a car that long if the vehicle turns into a money pit. You can avoid this problem with preventative maintenance.
That’s where your owner’s manual will come in handy. It’ll outline things like:
What components to check and at which intervals
When to change fluids
How to troubleshoot common problems
Half the battle is knowing what needs to be done and when it needs to be done. The other half is finding the right auto shop to help you.
2. Look Under the Hood
It’s a good idea to check under the hood of your car. You should make weekly checks to ensure that everything’s as it should be. Look for the following:
Check Battery
How is your battery doing? Are the terminals clean? If you have problems starting the car, make note of it and inform an auto repair shop.
Check Air Filter
Your mechanic will usually replace your air filter when you get your oil changed. But that doesn’t mean you can’t check it occasionally. The air filter stops dirt and dust from getting into the engine. Change it as needed.
Check Fluids
Another good idea is to check fluid levels. That means oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, and windshield washer fluid. Ensure that the fluid levels are within an acceptable range.
Check Belts
When under the hood of your car, visually inspect the serpentine belts, also called drive belts. These belts power the air injection pump, air conditioning compressor, and more.
If you check the car owner’s manual, you’ll see how often the belts should be inspected and when they should be changed.
3. Check Your Tires
When it comes to car maintenance, you also need to check your tires. They’re the only parts of your car that have contact with the road, so you need to make sure they’re in good condition and have adequate tread depth.
The place you go to for car repairs will sell you the right tires for your car. They’ll also be able to rotate your tires at the appropriate mileage intervals.
General Maintenance Will Make a Major Difference
If you’re a car owner living in or around Fredericksburg, Virginia, we’re here to help you with all your general maintenance and auto repair needs.
Our trained mechanics are skilled at working on all makes and models. You can book an appointment online or get in touch by phone
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