Have you decided to keep your old car instead of buying a new one? You are not alone. Many people today are looking for ways to save. If your automobile is in great shape and only a few years old, it makes sense to avoid the monthly payments and the increased insurance premiums, and invest in a little auto repair and maintenance items instead.
One of the most important words in your car’s maintenance schedule can be summed up in one word … routine! You brush your teeth every evening for bed. You get your hair trimmed on a regular basis. Your auto maintenance should be just as routine.
Until it becomes a routine, it may be beneficial to mark it on the calendar. Schedule days to fit in with your normal routine; days when you can devote time to bringing your car in to a trusted auto mechanic – or do some of it yourself. Here is a list of regular auto maintenance items.
Monthly
Every month, check your brake, power steering, transmission, antifreeze and windshield washer fluids. While not all of these need to be changed each month, putting it into your routine can allow you to find problems before they turn into something more.
You should also check your tire pressure, and see if your head and tail lights are in working order.
Quarterly
Once a quarter, bring your auto in for an oil change. In many cases if you use a auto repair shop on a regular basis, they will develop a relationship with you and be able to inform you when they notice the little things that change in your car’s appearance. They can monitor your brakes, engine, battery maintenance and more, letting you know when they find something unusual that may affect your driving in the future.
Twice a year
Change out your air filter. Air filters help your auto “breathe” clean air. If these filters become dirty and aren’t changed on a regular basis, they may become clogged. If your engine doesn’t get the oxygen it needs, it can cause poor performance and inefficient mileage. You should also change your wiper blades going into the rainy and snow season.
Once a year
Many things impact your car’s performance. How many miles you drive each year, the condition your car is in, if you drive more highway or city miles, and more – all can have an impact on your car’s working condition. You car occasionally will need new belts, shock absorbers, struts, brakes, and other items. Instead of waiting until it wears out, running regular maintenance will give you an idea of when things need to replaced. You can budget for them without having the shock of waking up to a car that won’t start. And you can rely on a auto repair shop that will give the best service and the best relationship in the business.
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