Cars don’t get credit for all they go through each day. They sit in the blazing sun for hours. They get piled high with snow. They hit potholes and speed bumps. They stop on a dime when you slam on the brakes.
And they keep going and going …
Unfortunately, not all vehicles keep going for a full life. The ones that do have something in common: preventative care.
Many costly car repairs can be avoided with preventative maintenance. Instead of waiting for something to go wrong, preventative care ensures your vehicle runs smoothly, efficiently, and safely.
Think of it this way: You don’t wait until you’re sick to take care of your health, right? You eat well, exercise, and schedule check-ups to catch potential issues early. Your car needs the same level of attention to stay in top shape.
With the right preventative care plan, your car can be a reliable asset for years to come – the average age of passenger cars currently sits at 14 years.
What does that look like?
Regular Oil Changes
We can’t stress this enough. It’s why we’ve put this at the top of our list. Your engine is full of moving parts that create friction and heat. Clean motor oil keeps everything lubricated, reduces wear and tear, and prevents overheating.
How often you should change your oil is debatable – you’ll find a lot of varying opinions online. In general, conventional oil should be replaced every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, while synthetic oil will last up to 10,000 miles. Always refer to your owner’s manual, as the original manufacturer knows best. We’re also happy to offer suggestions based on the age of your vehicle and how you drive it.
Age is one of the best ways to determine how frequently you should replace your motor oil. That’s why the 3,000 to 5,000 rule hangs on. If your car isn’t driven much, you should still change it out a couple of times per year.
If you notice dark, dirty oil on the dipstick when you check it or your engine is running louder than usual, it might be time for an oil change. If the oil change or check engine light pops on your dashboard, schedule your maintenance visit sooner rather than later. Skipping oil changes can lead to sludge buildup and reduced performance, which can lead to engine failure. Don’t put off regular oil changes – they matter.
Keep an Eye on Your Tires
There’s only one thing connecting you safely to the road … your tires. They impact ride comfort, fuel efficiency, handling, and safety. Underinflated tires wear out faster and reduce gas mileage. Overinflated tires increase wear on the center tread and decrease vehicle control.
Yes, it’s easy to rely on sensors – we tend to think they’ll remind us of everything. But that’s not always so. Preventative care goes the extra step of handling tire maintenance before it becomes an issue. Simple things like:
- Check tire pressure monthly – Use a pressure gauge and inflate to the recommended PSI (found inside the driver’s door).
- Rotate tires every 5,000–7,500 miles – This ensures even wear and extends tire lifespan.
- Check tread depth – If your tread is worn down to 2/32 of an inch or less, it’s time for new tires.
- Align & balance your wheels – Poor alignment can cause uneven wear and reduce fuel efficiency.
Don’t Ignore Your Brakes
Imagine flying down the mountain after a day of skiing, you tap on the brake pedal and nothing happens. Terrifying, right? That’s how important brakes are … literally life or death. If they aren’t working properly, you’re putting yourself and everyone on the road at risk.
A simple inspection will tell you the condition of your brake system. You should also be aware of warning signs of brake trouble:
- Squeaking or grinding noises
- Soft or spongy brake pedal
- Vibrations or pulling when braking
- Longer stopping distances
Brake pads have a wide timeline for replacement, with many factors impacting their useful life. How long you’ve had them, what materials they are made from, how you drive your vehicle – these are just a few of the factors. While brake pads can last 25,000 to 70,000 miles, with that varying time difference, it’s a good idea to schedule an inspection at the first sign of trouble. And have them inspected from time to time, especially if you take your car out for a long (or mountainous) drive.
Keep Your Battery in Top Shape
Have you ever noticed a dead battery can leave you stranded at the worst possible moment? While it does happen, you can beat the odds with a little preventative care. The average car battery lasts 3–5 years, but extreme temperatures and short trips can shorten its lifespan. (Yes, Colorado weather counts as extreme – ever noticed the temperatures changing 30, 40 degrees or more in one day?)
Luckily, there are usually early warning signs your battery may be failing:
- Slow engine cranking
- Dim headlights
- Corrosion on battery terminals
- Electrical issues (radio blinking on and off, power windows not working)
To extend battery life, clean terminals regularly and avoid leaving lights or electronics on when the car is off. If your battery is nearing 3 years of age, have it tested to ensure it’s still holding a charge.
Create a Preventative Maintenance Schedule
Every system inside your vehicle is created using dozens of parts. Those parts wear down and fail over time. Of course, manufacturers have installed sensors to give you a heads up, but even those aren’t infallible. If you want your car to last as long as possible, take control of preventative care to give it a fighting chance. Consistency is key to keeping your car running smoothly.
We suggest you draw up a preventative care plan to follow for as long as you own your car. Here’s a simple timeline to follow:
Monthly:
- Check tire pressure
- Inspect oil and coolant levels
- Look for leaks under the car
- Listen for unusual sounds
Every 3–6 Months:
- Change oil and filter
- Check brakes
- Test battery
Every 12 Months:
- Rotate tires
- Replace windshield wipers
- Inspect belts and hoses
Every 30,000–60,000 Miles:
- Flush transmission fluid
- Replace spark plugs
- Check suspension components
Of course, your routine should be built for the way you drive and your surroundings. You can talk with one of our mechanics as well to ensure your schedule is the best possible for your unique situation.
Following a maintenance routine will save you money, keep your car reliable, and prevent breakdowns. We’re here to help. Schedule your appointment today.