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.

Wondering what Does Regular Car Maintenance Include?

As a conscientious driver, you want to make sure your vehicle is as safe as potential while going down the road.  While some things may seem too small to be concerned about, when it comes to vehicle maintenance, everything is vital.  And of course, it is always wise to double-check the vehicle maintenance checklist listed in your owner’s manual.  

So what does regular car maintenance include?  Here is a general list of vehicle maintenance items:

1. Windshield Wiper Blades –. When the blades are exposed to excessive heat or cold for months on end the rubber may stiffen and no longer wipe the water off the glass.  Replace wipers at least once a year, or more if you live in a rainy climate
2. Car Battery, Starter, and Alternator – A car battery should be replaced about every 5 years.  If your lights appear dim and you run a lot of accessories, it may want to be replaced more often.  Have the starter and alternator inspected out too.
3. Brake System (rotors, pads, and calipers) – Replace the brake pads at about every 50,000 miles.  If you do a lot of stop-and-go driving, you may want to replace these braking components more often.
4. Accessory Drive Belt/Serpentine Belt – This belt should usually be replaced about every 60,000 to 100,000 miles.  This belt is crucial as it operates many parts, including the alternator, water, and power steering pump, air pump and the A/C compressor. 
5. Radiator, coolant, hoses, and belts – The radiator circulates coolant and water throughout the engine to prevent it from overheating.  Have it checked and the coolant/water mixture inspected about every 6 months.  Hoses may want to be replaced about every 75,000 miles.  
6. Air Filter – For most cars, the air filter should be replaced about every 15,000 to 30,000 miles, depending on the driving conditions.  If you don't do a lot of driving, have it replaced at least every 3 years, as it becomes brittle.
7. Transmission – Don’t wait until you have shifting issues and a major repair before having a checkup of your transmission.  You may simply want a transmission flush.
8. Tires – Keep the correct inflation pressure in your tires, and have tires rotated about 6 months.  Depending upon the tread wear, tires should be replaced about every 45,000 miles.
9. Oil and Filter Changes – This is a small but critical service that keeps your engine running smoothly and efficiently.  Follow the recommendation stated in your owner’s manual for the right oil change interval.

What does regular car maintenance include?  Call 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.