Yes, we know you’ve heard it a million times.
Routine auto maintenance is key to keeping your vehicle in top-notch condition for many years! But just what is “routine auto maintenance?”
It’s easy for mechanics to assume you know, but the surprised look on so many customer faces tells us they had no idea!
Here are some maintenance and servicing basics you need to stay on top of that may help you to avoid some major auto repairs. To maximize the performance and life of your car, bring it in regularly to a mechanic to have these items checked. Some you may take a look at yourself and then bring your car in for service if needed.
Routine Oil change
This is a very important matter for all car owners. Keep your vehicle running and in good condition with regular oil changes. Oil and coolant levels should be checked at least every month and always before any long road trips. Low levels may lead to engine problems. Your car should be scheduled for regular oil changes to minimize the engine wear and maintain good performance. Motor oil is the lifeblood of a smooth ride. It lubricates moving parts, acts as a sealant against particulate, cools the engine, prevents corrosion, and reduces wear and tear. Depending on your car’s age, you should change the oil and filter either every three months or 3000 miles for older cars, or every 5,000-10,000 miles for newer ones. Depending on vehicle age or type, choosing the right oil can make the difference between getting to your destinations and breaking down.
Check the filters of your car
The engine’s air filter not only regulates air flow, it helps keep out particulate and debris. A properly operating air filter decreases emissions and protects the life of the engine. Have the air filter inspected when you schedule your oil change. Have other filters inspected as well.
Inspect the brake system regularly
This will help prevent your car from recurrent damage. Worn brake pads can lead to damaged rotors, which will need maintenance or replacement. Change the brake pads before that starts.
Always check the wheels and tires of your car before traveling
Well-maintained tires are a must for a safe, fuel-efficient ride. Make it a habit to check the tire pressure and tread depth every month or before a long trip or carrying a heavier than normal load. And don’t forget to check the spare! The owner’s manual tells you how much air pressure your tires need.
Proper tire inflation is required for the best handling of any vehicle. Some accidents might be avoided, if the driver had better handling from the right level of air pressure in tires. Tire rotation extends the life of your tires by more evenly balancing the tread wear that can be affected by things like alignment and usage. So you might also include checking the alignment.
Check your lights
There are a lot of important lights on your car. The turn signals, headlights, parking, and brake lights should all be working properly and well-positioned.
Ensure that belts and hoses are in good condition
Cracked radiator hoses can lead to unexpected, sudden coolant loss and overheating. Expensive auto repairs can result from such overheating.
In the long-term, make sure to have your transmission, transfer case, and front and/or rear differential fluids checked, the shocks, struts, and spark plugs inspected, and the coolant system flushed.
When you bring your car in for routine auto maintenance, your mechanic may also see if the windshield wipers need replacement, do a battery performance check, and recommend new tires.
Routine auto maintenance takes a little bit of effort, but you don’t have to be a mechanical whiz to keep your car running well. Knowing what needs to be done, and how often, will keep your car in good running condition and make it more valuable when it’s time to resell or trade it in. And the costs associated with routine auto maintenance are typically far less hefty than if you put it off and had expensive repairs down the road.
If you're looking for the reliable and trusted source for routine auto maintenance and car repair in Lumpkin, Georgia area then you should visit Harvey's Garage at 487 Florence Street in Lumpkin.
We provide all the vehicle-related services you need to keep your car running well any time of the year.
Stay On Top of Maintenance With a Regular Maintenance Schedule
Our Hours
Monday 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Tuesday 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Wednesday 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Thursday 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Friday 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Saturday Closed
Sunday Closed
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Call Us Today 229-331-8211
