Properly maintaining your car can help make it last for much longer, help you save money on all kinds of repairs, as well as help you save money on gas. In order to be most effective, proper car maintenance needs to be performed on a regular basis. Keep in mind, though, that you do not need to be a car expert to properly maintain your car. However, you will need to acquire and improve your knowledge in regards to the basics of automotive equipment. The purpose of this article will be to familiarize you with some key steps you will have to take to keep your car operating smoothly.
Professional services
Before we continue, it is important to note that it is always a better option to seek help, in case you face some serious car issues. Even if you do possess some knowledge and skills in regards to car maintenance and repairs, experts, such as the ones found are much better suited for dealing with all kinds of issues. So, if you can afford and if there is a reputable car repair shop in your vicinity, make sure to visit one. If not, pay attention to the following:
Weekly maintenance
Make sure to check all your fluids on a weekly basis. These include brake fluid, transmission fluid, radiator fluid, engine oil, as well as windshield washer fluid. With the exception of the last one, all of these are of critical importance. If you notice some of these fluids are discolored or chunky, it is an indication that they need to be changed.
Bi-Weekly Maintenance
Every two weeks, you need to check your tire pressure. To do that, use a tire pressure gauge, which can be found at any parts store or gas station. To check the pressure, you will need to remove the valves off of tires and attach the gauge to them. If you are unsure about the recommended amounts of pressure, read your car’s manual. If your tires are low on pressure, you will probably need to add additional air to your tires. Do not worry, as this can be done at any gas station and at a very low price. Once you have added some pressure, make sure to check your tires again to see if everything is normal.
Maintenance on every three months
To keep your car in top shape, you will have to change your transmission fluid and engine oil every three months. You can do this on your own, or by taking your car to a reliable car repair and maintenance shop. Just like with every other car repair and maintenance procedure, it is always recommended to let the experts handle these tasks.
Keep in mind that regularly changing your engine oil will ensure your engine runs smoothly and without any issues. Also, by changing your transmission fluid regularly, you will ensure that there is no risk of damaging your engine. Doing both of these will also keep any debris out of your transmission and engine. Do not forget that debris can easily build up if you fail to change these fluids on a regular basis.
Six months maintenance
Try to change your windshield wipers every six months. These can corrode very quickly, which can severely affect their functionality. In order to ensure a perfect field of view and vision, you will need your wipers to properly function when it snows rains, etc. You definitely do not want to find yourself in a snowstorm, only to realize that your wipers are not working.