Preventing Auto Repair through Proper Service and Maintenance

Posted: Dec 05, 2012
Author: Country Town Tire & Auto Service Center

Proper maintenance and service is key for any vehicle owner who wants to avoid frequent and expensive auto repair.  Negligence can cause endless hassle, stress, time, and money in the long run, so staying on top of things is definitely worth it. So what are the main things to keep up in maintenance in order to avoid expensive auto repair? Well, here's a list of a few of the most common:

• Oil Change: Yes, the oil change is perhaps number one of the necessities of car maintenance, though it is often neglected by car owners, especially younger ones. Check your vehicle's owner's manual for exact specifications of when you should have your oil changed, but otherwise every 3-5 thousand miles is an okay rule of thumb. Another tip is to keep a book with records of all your oil changes and other maintenance and auto repair; this will help you keep on track and also increase the re-sale value of your car should you decide to sell it down the line.
• Wheel Alignments and Tire Rotations: As you drive, each tire will become worn down at an angle specific to its position. Too much wear in one direction can cause the car to drift to one side though the steering wheel is straight; excessive wear can also be dangerous, as it may lead to an unexpected tire blowout. Wheel alignments and tire rotations can help to extend the life and performance of the tire, and are a periodic necessity. Again, check your owner’s manual for when you should have these services performed or ask your mechanic to check your tires if you are unsure.
• Basic Check-ups: This is the easiest for a single person to do, and also free. Things like checking your oil and transmission fluid levels can help you to save a lot of money and time later. Also check your tire pressure; bad pressure can reduce fuel economy, tire lifespan, and can increase the likelihood of a tire blowout. Watch your gauges in the car for signs like oil level low, bad tire pressure, overheating, and the check engine light, but don't rely on these indicators completely. It's a good idea to take a proactive role in general check-ups for the wellbeing of your vehicle and the avoidance of expensive and unnecessary auto repair.