How To Keep Your Car In Check This Year
Keeping your car running and in order means staying on top of the maintenance tasks your vehicle requires regularly. Your car will only work well as a machine if it’s taken care of and maintained as you add on miles. Ensuring your vehicle gets what it needs to keep you moving from place to place depends on your car situation. A preowned or used car may need more repairs and upkeep than a new car, but if you live in a snowy environment most of the year, your new car might require more work than someone’s used vehicle in a warmer part of the world. Here’s the rundown on how to keep your car in check this year, no matter the circumstances.
Check Your Oil On A Regular Basis
On a routine basis, check your oil levels. Ideally, you want to check your oil once a month to avoid roadside emergencies. If your car has a lot of miles, you should check on it at least twice a month. When you review your oil levels, you’re looking for levels that are too low or high and if there are any notable changes in how the oil looks. If you see color changes or the consistency looks off, head to an auto shop and purchase vehicle valuation services to have everything checked out.
Prioritize Car Safety
Before anything else, you must ensure your car can be driven safely. Simple tasks like replacing your car battery, keeping up with tire pressure and your wipers, getting your brakes checked, and checking your air filters regularly can make a massive difference in the safety of your car.
Setting reminders to check for these essential maintenance tasks as needed may be helpful. Set a reminder to check your air filters once a year; this is particularly important if your car has a lot of miles. Apply this concept to the timeframe for your other maintenance tasks to stay on top of everything.
Routinely Wash Your Car
When you don’t wash your car enough, you allow it to become more susceptible to rust and other blemishes. Aim to wash your car at least twice yearly, and sometimes more if you live in a harsh climate or want to prepare your car for winter.
For the safety and aesthetic of your vehicle, wash it regularly. Apply car wax to your vehicle every now and then to avoid rust as well. Washing your car is also essential to ensure that your windshield and mirrors stay clear so you can drive safely.
Likewise, make sure you have enough windshield wiper fluid so you can use your wipers effectively. It is not safe to drive in a car with a foggy view.
See The Same Mechanic
Just like you might not trust anyone but the hairstylist that you consistently go to, you want to have the same mechanic working your car over time. This way, they get to know your car and understand its specifics. You’ll avoid errors in vehicle assessments and upcharges by working with the same mechanic you trust every time.
Remember that finding a mechanic you trust does not mean settling for the mechanic with the cheapest rates. It might take a little time to find the mechanic you want to work with consistently but take the time to find the right person so your car can benefit as much as possible.
The Bottom Line
This year, stay committed to your car maintenance tasks so you can drive safely and protect yourself and others on the road. To keep your car in check this year, make it your priority to take good care of your vehicle as part of your general routine.