Did you know that the average American spends almost $2000 a year on car repairs? If you’re the type of person who waits until something breaks before doing some maintenance on your car, you need to read this!
Rather than paying for repairs that could never have happened in the first place, it’s a good habit to learn how to take care of a car. It might even save you a lot of money in the long run.
If you’re looking for some car maintenance tips, you’re in the right place. We’re going to give you some basic guidance on keeping your car feeling like it’s brand new.
Keep reading as we dive in!
1. Change the Oil
Can you remember the last time you changed your oil? If not… you need to change your oil! It’s one of the most important aspects of owning a car.
The oil is arguably the most vital aspect of your car’s engine. Without it, your car would quite literally grind to a halt.
Your average car engine runs between 190-200 degrees Farenheit. That’s metal on metal—without healthy oil lubricating the moving parts, the temperature would skyrocket, causing irreprebale damage to the engine.
Changing the oil keeps your engine running efficiently.
2. Change the Brake Pads Regularly
If the oil is a key factor in engine safety, we’ll cover what’s probably the most important safety component in the other working parts of a vehicle—the brakes.
Not only will changing your brake pads regularly keep them working well, they’ll also lengthen the life of the discs (the part of the brakes that the pads press against to slow the vehicle down).
If the pads wear down, you have a similar story to what happens with an oil-less engine. The pads will make direct contact with the disc, damaging it and potentially overheating the brake system.
3. Check Your Air Filter
An air filter is an important aspect of an engine because it ensures that good quality air is getting into the combustion chamber. The cleaner the air, the better performance and efficiency of your engine.
There are many ways to customize your car, and a performance air filter is an effective one. It’ll further improve performance and doesn’t cost an arm and a leg.
4. Keep It Clean!
Keeping a car clean isn’t just about having it look good. A clean car will last longer, and that counts for both the exterior and interior.
The interior fabrics and fascias will fade naturally over time through sun bleaching. Window shields can prevent this, but even keeping the interior clean and tidy will make it last longer.
Cleaning the exterior regularly prevents the paint. Things like bird droppings can cause damage which can make your paintwork look patchy, so it pays to wash it a couple of times a month.
5. Check Your Tires
Checking your tire tread regularly is good practice. Fresh tires improve performance, efficiency, and safety. Not to mention the fact it’ll cost you a pretty penny in fines if you’re pulled over and found to have worn tires.
Check your local state laws on tire tread and make sure your tires are legal!
Did You Find These Car Maintenance Tips Helpful?
Even with these 5 car maintenance tips, you could both extend your car’s. life, and your own! Safety is of paramount importance, and maintaining your car is as vital for safety as it is for the aesthetic appeal and value of your car.
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