What You Should Be Doing

Owning a car can become quite expensive. There are monthly car payments, insurance expenses, and fuel costs. Eventually, your vehicle will also need repairs, which can add quite a lot to your car budget. However, keeping your vehicle well-maintained is an excellent way to keep it from requiring extensive auto repair too often. Keep these common tips in mind to add to the lifespan of your vehicle.

Take Care of the Battery

Your car’s battery is important all year, and it’s good to have it routinely checked to ensure its performing properly. Although you can check a traditional battery at home by checking its fluids or viewing the indicator light, it’s still a good idea to have it professionally tested. A professional may see problems you haven’t noticed yet and be able to help you on the spot.

Check the Oil

Your car’s motor oil typically needs to be changed every 3,000 miles (or according to the manufacturer’s instructions). Many people tend to skip changing the oil (waiting weeks or months after they were needed), but this can cause severe damage to your engine. A professional can provide lube service, including checking your vehicle’s other fluids, to ensure your car is in good working order. Ensure your maintenance technician uses a formula such as 5W-20 or 5W-30, which is best for modern vehicles. Don’t forget to ask him or her to check your coolant, antifreeze, and radiator and heater hoses at the same time.

Rotate the Tires

Maintaining your vehicle’s tires are essential not only for your safety but for the expenses related to your car. Balding or otherwise bad tires makes it more likely that you end up in an accident that could mean costly repairs. Ensure tires are always correctly inflated and have them rotated and replaced according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Owning a vehicle is always going to cost money, but it doesn’t need to break the bank. By keeping track of your vehicle’s fluids, hoses, tires, and battery, you help to ensure it has a longer, less expensive life. Contact a reputable auto repair expert now to see how your car is doing.