Preventive maintenance is crucial to keep your vehicle performing at its best and to prevent costly repairs down the road. Even more if you live in the dynamic city of Birmingham, Alabama or its surroundings, where weather conditions can add wear and tear, it’s essential to keep your car in top shape
The 10 steps checklist to car’s preventive maintenance
We want to help you recognize the 10 key points to keep your car in perfect condition. Whether you are a city driver or a long distance one, it is always important to know how to maintain your vehicle running smoothly. Here are the10 key points for preventive maintenance that every car owner should prioritize.
1. Regular Oil Changes are very important
Changing your engine oil regularly is one of the most important tasks to keep your vehicle’s engine working efficiently. Oil lubricates the engine, preventing wear and tear and helping to prevent overheating. Make sure to check the oil level monthly and change it according to your vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations—usually every 3,000 to 7,500 miles.
2. Get your Tires Checked
Your tires are the only point of contact between your vehicle and the road, so ensuring they are in good condition is crucial for safety. Everyday you can make an “eye check” for uneven wear, cracks, or bulges, and in case something comes up, contact your nearest Auto Repair immediately. Keep your tires inflated to the correct pressure and don’t forget to rotate them every 6,000 to 8,000 miles to ensure even wear.
What happens if I don’t rotate my tires?
If you don’t rotate your tires regularly, they may wear unevenly, leading to reduced performance, poor fuel economy, and an increased risk of tire blowouts. Tire rotation helps to ensure even wear.
3. Inspect Brakes Regularly
Regular brake inspections can prevent costly repairs and potential safety hazards. Brakes are vital for the safety of your vehicle. Pay attention to signs like squeaking, grinding, or reduced stopping power. Brake pads should be checked every 12,000 miles, and any issues with the brake fluid should be addressed immediately.
4 . Monitor Car Battery Performance
Your car battery needs regular care to ensure it performs optimally, rememene that extreme conditions can affect them, high temperatures can accelerate battery corrosion, while cold weather increases the effort required for the battery to start the engine. Check the battery terminals for corrosion and test the battery’s charge and voltage annually, and replace it when signs of poor performance appear. (They usually last between 3 and 5 years)
5. Examine Belts and Hoses
Over time, these parts can wear, crack, or weaken, causing engine failure. Worn-out belts or hoses can lead to engine overheating or loss of power. Regular inspections help identify damage early, ensuring safe operation and avoiding emergency repairs. A proactive check improves reliability, and saves you money.
6. Inspect the Exhaust System
A well-functioning exhaust system is critical for reducing emissions and ensuring that your car runs efficiently. Regularly inspect your exhaust system for leaks or signs of rust. If you notice unusual sounds, such as loud noises when accelerating, it could indicate a problem with the exhaust system.
7. Check and Replace Fluids
You should regularly check all vital fluids in your car, including coolant, transmission fluid, brake fluid, and power steering fluid. Ensure the levels are within the recommended range. Low fluid levels or old fluids can lead to serious engine and transmission problems. Skipping fluid checks can lead to serious engine or transmission damage, follow a car’s maintenance schedule to replace these fluids.
8. Inspect Car Lights Conditions
Regularly inspecting your car’s lights is crucial for safety and legal compliance. Faulty or dim lights can reduce visibility, making it harder for you to see the road and for others to see you, especially at night or in poor weather. This increases the risk of accidents. Moreover, malfunctioning lights, including headlights, brake lights, and turn signals, can lead to fines if not addressed. Regular checks ensure that all lights function properly, enhancing your vehicle’s safety and performance on the road.
9 .Keep Your Windshield Wipers in Good Condition
Windshield wipers are often overlooked, but they play a crucial role in keeping your vision clear, especially during Birmingham’s rainy season. Check your wiper blades for damage or wear, and replace them every 6 to 12 months to ensure optimal performance.
10. Maintenance of your vehicle’s A/C and heating system
Last but not least, this point is essential for your comfort. A well-maintained system ensures optimal airflow, effective temperature control, and prevents issues like refrigerant leaks or clogged filters. Seasonal inspections by certified technicians help extend the life of your system and improve air quality inside the car.
Auto Repair 74: Your Trusted Partner for Maintenance and Repair
We are sure that you want the best automotive repair in town, that is why you have to know Auto Repair 74. A family-owned business located in the heart of Birmingham, that offers you a wide range of services performed by certified technicians.
Auto Repair 74 specialized in providing solutions in record time. For convenient, first-rated care contact us today to ask your questions or schedule an appointment, we would be happy to help you.
