Owning a vehicle is an investment. You’ve probably put a lot of thought and consideration into the model you wanted. Plus, cars typically cost a significant portion of one’s income. In order to get the most out of your investment, it’s important that you perform regular maintenance as recommended in your owner’s manual. These tasks can ensure better performance and a longer life for your vehicle. It’s possible they could even save you money in the long run by preventing breakdowns and getting you a higher trade-in or resale value. If you’re not sure how to best take care of your vehicle, read on for these seven services every car owner should know.
1. Oil and Filter
When it comes to car care basics, keeping up with oil and filter changes is essential. Clean oil is needed to lubricate your engine’s moving parts, reduce wear and tear, limit debris buildup and prevent overheating. The frequency with which you’ll need to change your oil will vary, based on the vehicle you own. Check out your manual for your particular specs.
2. Oil and Coolant Levels
While we’re on the subject of oil, it’s also important to check the levels of oil and coolant in your vehicle. Do this when the engine is cool. At least monthly and before road trips is a good rule to follow. A quick perusal of your owner’s manual can tell you how to do an inspection and fill-up of these essential liquids.
3. Tire Pressure and Tread Depth
Ensuring your tires are in good shape is crucial to the safety of you, your passengers, and other drivers on the road. Their condition can also affect fuel economy. You’ll want to check your tires’ pressure at least once a month, sometimes more if you’ll be carrying a heavy load or driving long distances. During the winter months, pressure may drop more quickly than at other times of the year. Follow your owner’s manual for recommendations on pressure guidelines. Check out the overall condition of your tires periodically. If they look worn or you notice variations in the tread, you may need to replace your tires. Sometimes they can be rotated by switching more heavily worn front tires to the back. A qualified mechanic or tire specialist inspects them and advises you.
4. Turn Signals and Lights
Small details such as the functioning of the lights on your vehicle are easy to overlook, but you’ll want to take some time to inspect them once a month or so. You can easily check these lights on your own. Just position your car in front of a flat surface. Turn your headlights on to see that they’re working and are in the proper position. Don’t forget to check your brights. Then, take a minute to turn on your signals and parking lights. You can stroll around the vehicle to inspect them. You’ll want to find a friend to help check your brake lights.
5. Air Filter
As the name implies, the air filter in your vehicle regulates airflow to your engine. It also reduces the intake of debris. Changing this filter regularly will lower emissions, improve fuel efficiency, ensure proper airflow and extend the life of your engine. Your owner’s manual will tell you how to change the air filter as well as how frequently you should take care of this task.
6. Battery Check
One of the most frustrating, yet easily preventable, car problems is a dead battery. Extreme temperatures can really drain battery power, so be sure to have it checked at least a couple of times a year to keep your vehicle running strong when you need it. Any repair shop, service center, or parts supply store can usually test your battery quickly and easily.
7. Windshield Wiper Replacement
Properly functioning windshield wipers allow you to have maximum visibility. You should get new wiper blades at least once a year, more if they don’t seem to be working well. There are winter wiper blades to cut through ice and snow for those who do a lot of cold weather driving.
8. Car Financing Services
If searching for a new or used car, you may want to consider using a car financing service to easily secure a line of credit. Nowadays you can skip the dealer and go straight to the financing source making it easier than ever for a new prospective car owner to get the financing they need for the vehicle they want.
Conclusion
If you’re a car owner, these are the most common services you should know. Taking time to keep up with them will provide you with a better return on your investment.
