What Car Maintenance is Necessary?

The key to keeping your vehicle running stronger and longer than expected knows how to take care of it.  An assessment of the condition of your car, which includes general wear and tears to fluids, brakes, engines, tires, and more, should be done about every 12,000 miles.  If you take care of minor car repair problems as soon as you can, you will save time and money later down the road on major car repairs. It could also prevent an accident and save lives.

A benefit of keeping up with the recommended vehicle maintenance item is that the engine and its components can run at their most efficient level. Thus, your car will be more fuel-efficient, saving you money at the pump.  Also, if you should ever want to sell your car, you can ask for a higher price because you will be able to show a complete history of the vehicle maintenance that’s been done.

What car maintenance is necessary as you head out on a summer road trip?  Take the time to read through your vehicle owner’s manual. There you will find the vehicle maintenance schedule together with the suitable mileage interval for each service, including the following items:

• Oil change, including filter replacement
• Inspect the lights, both interior, and exterior
• Tires, including rotation and air pressure, inspect
• Muffler and Exhaust system
• Brake inspection
• Inspection of the steering system
• The engine is “tuned” to run in its peak condition
• Inspect hydraulic fluid and coolant levels
• Inspect the cooling system (radiator, belts, and hoses)
• Suspension system
• Car alignment
• Condition of the battery, as well as the alternator

Most of today’s newer vehicles have an in-vehicle service reminder system that will illuminate on the instrument panel when it is time for an oil change; fluid level inspects component inspections or other maintenance services.  For an older car, it is still vital to follow your vehicle owner’s manual, as the vehicle maintenance schedule is still based on the number of miles driven within a time period.

Do you want to know more about what car maintenance is necessary? Consult our ASE Certified technicians at Proshop Automotive for more information about vehicle maintenance and to make an appointment. Our auto repair shop proudly serves residents in Colton, CA, and the surrounding areas.