Your vehicle can last for well over a decade with proper maintenance and
repairs. Compared with the cost of purchasing a new vehicle, it pays to
take good care of your car. Preventative maintenance will help you
retain your car's condition longer, and it also helps you prevent
unexpected automotive repairs. Regularly scheduled maintenance and
lubrication using the manufacturer’s recommended intervals is the best
way to proactively take care of your vehicle. Replacing normal
wear-and-tear parts before they break is also a good path to follow on
the road to long vehicle life.
At Certified Tire & Service, we want our customers in Orem, UT and
surrounding areas to get the most out of their vehicles. Follow the car
maintenance tips below to keep your vehicle around longer.
Keep an Eye on Fluids and Filters
- Your car’s engine is full of sensitive and delicate moving parts
that rely on fluids like oil, transmission fluid, and coolant to
function well. If you don’t keep an eye on these fluid levels or
periodically change its filters, these delicate parts could face
irreparable damage.
- Your car’s brakes also require brake fluid to transfers the force to
the brakes to slow or stop your vehicle. It's possible for brake
fluid to lose its effectiveness or for leaks to occur. If you
experience abnormal brake performance, make sure to have your car
checked.
- Coolant or antifreeze prevents overheating and freezing of the
engine's cooling system. Like brake fluid, recommended service
intervals vary by manufacturer and can range from roughly a few
years to a recommended check during every scheduled maintenance
service. Keep an eye on your coolant level to ensure there aren't
any leaks. If you ever see the engine temperature warning light turn
on, there might be something wrong with your coolant or the amount
of coolant remaining.
Automotive Part Replacement
- Your vehicle’s brakes should be examined at least once a year to
identify any wear and tear and need for repair. Brake pads and
rotors typically last anywhere from 35,000 to 60, 000 miles
depending on how often you stop while driving and how thin or thick
the rotors and pads are initially
- Your car’s battery typically lasts 4-5 years, depending on outdoor
temperature, driving frequency, and overall use among other
influences. To maximize battery life, keep your battery clean; don't
leave your car unused for an extended period, and don't forget to
shut off the interior lights and headlights when your car isn't in
use.
- Driving with bad headlights can be very dangerous. Restoring your
headlights can have it looking like new and can shine up to 3.4x
lighter when driving. You can slow oxidation caused by heat,
sunlight, pollution, and harsh chemicals by parking in a garage when
possible.
Tires and Wheels
- A car’s wheels and tires are essential to the safety and performance
of your vehicle. Inspect your tires and wheels regularly for
symptoms such as low inflation pressure, uneven wear patterns, or
excessive wear. You should also take time to keep them at the proper
pressure for better fuel economy.
- Tire services such as a tire rotation, wheel alignment, tire
balancing, and tire repair can help maximize tire life and improve
your safety. Your vehicle’s owner’s manual will provide a schedule
for the recommended time to perform tire services.
By following these tips and the service intervals listed inside your
owner’s manual, you can protect your vehicle from major repairs and
unexpected failures. Proper vehicle maintenance can save you money in
the long run and improve your safety and the safety of your passengers.
Stay on top of routine vehicle maintenance and visit Certified Tire
& Service in Orem, UT when your vehicle needs to be serviced by our
experienced mechanics.