There’s a reason you trade in your old car for something new. You expect it to run better, with fewer trips to the repair shop.
Yet fewer trips to the repair shop isn’t the same as never scheduling an inspection. Because your car is new, it’s important to get in the habit of scheduling regular maintenance visits to ensure it stays in optimal operation mode for as long as possible.
Here’s something to consider. Only 1 percent of cars built each year will make it past 200,000 miles. While the average distance driven is different for every driver, on average, drivers put on 13,476 miles per year.
No matter how many miles you put on each year, or how your driving habits compare to other drivers, there are ways to make smarter decisions while driving, to keep your car newer longer. Just a few maintenance tips can make your new car ownership a more pleasant experience. Here’s how.
Start With Motor Oil Changes
You might hear it all the time, but there is truth in the theory that motor oil changes increase the longevity of your vehicle. It’s fundamental to the health of the engine.
Motor oil lubricates the engine’s moving parts, reducing friction and preventing wear and tear. Without regular oil changes, the oil can become dirty and less effective, leading to increased friction and potential engine damage. Motor oil also helps dissipate heat generated by the engine. Over time, oil breaks down and loses its ability to cool the engine effectively, which can lead to overheating and damage.
Oil plays a crucial role in keeping the engine clean. It picks up dirt, debris, and metal particles as it circulates, ensuring these contaminants are removed and the engine runs smoothly. Regular oil changes ensure that the engine remains clean and in optimal condition. Fresh oil ensures optimal engine performance. As oil degrades, it becomes thicker and less efficient, causing the engine to work harder and reducing fuel efficiency.
Need another reason? Regular oil changes help to prevent sludge buildup. Old oil can turn into sludge, clogging engine parts and leading to severe damage. Regular oil changes prevent sludge buildup and keep the engine components functioning correctly. Many car manufacturers require regular oil changes to maintain the warranty. Neglecting oil changes can void the warranty, leaving you responsible for costly repairs.
It’s also one of the least expensive insurance policies you can give your car. Regular oil changes are relatively inexpensive compared to the cost of major engine repairs or replacements caused by neglecting oil maintenance. This simple maintenance item ensures your vehicle runs smoothly, efficiently, and reliably for years to come.
Ensure Safety By Performing Tire Maintenance Regularly
Even driving off the lot can present vehicle challenges. Imagine running over a nail on the way off the lot. Or hitting a pothole on the way home. Your tires can instantly become a challenge in keeping your car well-maintained.
Of course, there are easy ways to overcome these challenges, and ensure the tires are always in good working condition. Tires are incredibly important to the overall safety and drivability of your vehicle. Properly inflated tires ensure better handling, fuel efficiency, and reduce the risk of blowouts.
Luckily, today’s cars are more technology-focused than ever before. They monitor things like tire pressure, alerting you with a dashboard icon the moment it strays from its suggested reading. Even knowing that, it’s a good idea to check your tire pressure at least once a month and before long trips.
In addition to maintaining the right tire pressure, balancing and rotating your tires can help your car perform better and last longer. Tire rotation helps distribute wear more evenly across all four tires, extending their lifespan. Balanced tires prevent uneven tread wear and reduce vibrations, which can improve driving comfort and vehicle stability. In all cases, it helps you stay safer while on the road.
This isn’t something you should forget or put off. Instead, calendar it. Make it as regular as an oil change. And find a trusted repair shop that can help you get each of these jobs done in a timely manner.
Get To Know Your Owner’s Manual
Sounds easy enough. Yet how many new car owners sit down with their owner’s manuals and digest the information inside? Not many. And it’s no wonder when studies show some makes and models can have owner’s manuals hundreds of pages long, requiring hours of studying just to get a basic understanding of how their vehicles work.
This manual is a valuable resource that provides detailed information about when to perform various maintenance tasks. Understanding your vehicle’s specific needs helps you keep it in top condition. Yet we get why that’s not always possible.
So we have another idea for you. Find a mechanic you can trust. A reliable mechanic can ensure that regular maintenance becomes a part of your routine, helping you address any issues before they become significant problems. They keep track of your car’s condition, offering suggestions along the way to keep your car in good working condition.
They can help you make the best decision for your car, and for your wallet. You can trust them knowing they won’t steer you in the wrong direction. And you’ll have more peace of mind knowing you can keep driving your car for many years to come.
Proactive … Not Reactive
Even from this friendly advice, we hope you’ll take away the knowledge that being proactive is always the better road than reacting to repairs as they surface. Plan on routine maintenance rather than waiting for problems to arise.
And if you’re looking for a mechanic to help you along the way, reach out today. We’re family owned and operated, and take pride in getting to know our customers.
Have a question about your new car? We’re here to help. All you have to do is ask.