Your car is one of the most important investments you make, and taking care of it should remain a priority. The better care you provide, the longer it should last.
There are some basic maintenance guidelines set by the manufacturer for certain mileage milestones. As your car approaches these benchmarks, your vehicle may alert you to the recommended items that need to be checked or replaced. Other than that, the only other time you may find out that something needs fixing is a check engine light or worse, a breakdown. Before taking your chances with that happening, it is a good idea to get in the habit of performing these three tasks and keeping them on your radar for regular upkeep.
1. Take Care of the Brakes
Perhaps one of the most crucial safety features installed in a vehicle is the brake. Without these discs, your vehicle will not be able to come to a stop, and in some instances, even slow down. Therefore, keeping tabs on their condition and function is critical to ensuring that you can stop the car quickly and safely. According to Car and Driver, brake pads should be inspected regularly and changed when they reach about 0.1 inches in thickness. A brake system flush can help rid the lines of debris and keep the brake fluid flowing as it should.
2. Monitor the Tires
Tire wear and tear is something that can go from nuisance to critical issue quickly. Without warning, you may blow a tire if the tread becomes too thin. One way to prevent this from happening is to regularly inspect the thickness of the tread to ensure the tire is still roadworthy. Also check the tire pressure, especially if you do not have a vehicle that alerts you if it is low. Riding on tires that do not have enough pressure can also result in a loss of control and blow out.
3. Change the Oil on Schedule
The engine oil is required to keep the engine’s moving parts slick and to take away some of the heat. Over time, oil begins to burn up, and the amount flowing through the engine starts to dwindle. Not having enough oil is dangerous as it leaves your engine unlubricated and subject to overheating. Car manufacturers recommend that the oil in most cars is changed every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. Some synthetic oil can last for 7,500 and up.
Having a car that lasts and continues to run for years can save you stress and headaches. Maintaining the vehicle will save you money and time in the long and short run.
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