Car issues are never convenient and never welcome, but they do happen. Fortunately there are steps you can take to prevent a lot of common car problems! With routine maintenance your car can keep going for miles and miles with very few issues during its lifespan. Having your engine checked on a regular basis and routine maintenance done at recommended intervals can save you time and money in the long run. Here are some things that need regular attention in order to keep your car running optimally.
Engine Check Ups
It is essential for the health of your car to have your engine checked for any major problems on a regular basis. Both the engine and transmission need to be checked to ensure they are running properly and no major issues are brewing. Your car can not run without an engine, so regular engine checks are imperative.
Fluid Levels
Various fluids are used in your car to keep it running smoothly, so periodically checking, or having your fluid levels checked is an important part of car maintenance. Low fluid levels could lead to overheating, improperly working air conditioning, could signal a leak in your transmission or brake system, or an impaired power steering system.
Oil Changes
Oil changes are essential to the health of your car. Oil should be changed on a regular basis, as described in your car’s owner’s manual. Because different cars require oil changes at different intervals it’s important to follow your specific car’s instructions. Checking your oil level on a monthly basis is also an important part of car maintenance because frequent low oil could signal a problem with the car.
Brake Maintenance
Routine brake maintenance is also an important part of keeping your car in tip top shape. Brakes should be checked each year, or every 12,000-15,000 miles, and brake fluid should be replaced every two years. With routine checks brakes should last about three years before needing to be replaced. Milestone maintenance checks can prevent premature wear on brakes, and save you money in the long run.
Belt Replacement
Your car’s timing belt is one of your most important service you can do to help maintain the reliability of your vehicle and keep your repair costs low. Failing to change your timing belt could lead to major engine problems, because your timing belt keeps your engine’s pistons and valves in proper timing. When your timing belt is not functioning properly, in some cases it can cause engine damage. On average timing belts need to be replaced around 60,000 miles, though some cars need replacements sooner, and some later. Your owner’s manual should give you an estimate of when your timing belt will need replacing, but regular checks for your car will ensure you never run into an unforeseen issue.
Car troubles can take up your precious time and money, but routine car checks at the milestones described in your car’s owner’s manual can prevent these frustrating situations. If your car is in need of a milestone check up contact us at Hillmuth today!
