The average Canadian drives 15,200KM a year. That's a lot of wear and tear on your vehicle. Unfortunately, many people ignore car maintenance. Yet it is a necessary aspect of road safety. Plus, it is also imperative to the efficiency and lifespan of your car. Read on for 10 car maintenance tips to keep your car running smoothly.
CHECK TIRE PRESSURE
Under-inflated tires can cause accidents, as well as reduce the gas mileage you get. Check your tire pressure every month. Your owner’s manual will tell you the appropriate pressure for your tires.
KEEP FLUIDS TOPPED UP
There are various fluids in your car, such as:
Coolant
Windshield washer fluid
Power steering fluid
Transmission fluid
Brake fluid
Be sure to check these fluids regularly as part of your car maintenance. Ideally, this should be done once a week. Ask your mechanic to show you how to check these.
CHANGE THE AIR FILTER
The air filter improves your engine's performance. It also stops debris and dust from clogging your engine. Replace your air filter as indicated in your owner's manual. This is usually every 20,000 km.
PAY ATTENTION TO WARNING LIGHTS
Don't ever ignore illuminated lights on your dashboard. Your owner's manual will tell you what each light means. Ignoring these warnings could result in expensive repairs. Don't delay.
ROTATE YOUR TIRES
It is important to rotate your tires so that they sustain wear evenly. This extends their lifespan. Tire rotation gets you balanced handling, traction, and even out tire wear.
CHANGE THE OIL
One of the essential tips for caring for your car is to check your car's oil routinely. This is vital to keep the engine in top condition. Get in the habit of checking the levels each month. Then, book an oil change when directed by your owner's manual.
CHANGE YOUR WINDSHIELD WIPERS
Windshield wipers are often overlooked when people talk about car maintenance tips. But this is an important part of car care. When wipers leave streaks across the windshield, it's time for a new pair.
WASH YOUR CAR
Washing your car isn't just about it looking good. It also allows you to keep your lights bright and luminous. It's a good chance to inspect the paint for chips and scratches, too. When you wash your car, be sure to hose off the underside to remove all potentially harmful substances.
TEST THE LIGHTS
A burnt-out or broken bulb is a safety hazard. Plus, you could get a ticket for non-working lights.
Regularly check your lights turn on. When a bulb is out, bring it into Calgary's reliable auto shop for repair.
SCHEDULE REGULAR TUNE-UPS
Regular tune-ups are last but not least on this list of maintenance tips for your car. A tune-up includes a complete visual and diagnostic inspection of your engine. It often involves changing filters and spark plugs, checking fluid levels, and examining the engine's belts and hoses. This maintenance allows your engine to run efficiently. It also increases the life span of your car.
FOLLOW THESE CAR MAINTENANCE TIPS
By following these 10 car maintenance tips, you are prioritizing your safety, as well as the lifespan of your car. At Change Auto and Diesel, we want your trust. That's why we offer free estimates and never do unnecessary work on your vehicle. Book your appointment now, and keep your vehicle maintained all year long.