Purchasing and maintaining a vehicle is perhaps one of the biggest investments you’ll make in your lifetime. With the right preventative maintenance schedule, however, you can make your vehicle last longer and keep the purchasing part to a minimum.
Many vehicle owners fall into a trap, though. Since many of a car’s parts and systems are out of sight, they’re also out of mind … at least until something goes wrong. Instead of waiting until something needs to be fixed because it’s broken or malfunctioning, we recommend taking a proactive approach.
Check out these commonly overlooked car maintenance services that can actually prevent bigger problems and extend your vehicle’s life.
Filter changes
Most vehicles come equipped with four main types of filters – engine, cabin, fuel, and oil filters. While their function varies slightly depending on where they’re located, the general idea is that they keep good things in and bad things out. Over time, however, the filter becomes dirty or worn out and a filter change is required to keep it functioning as intended. Your owner’s manual or trusted mechanic can help you know the recommended intervals for this service.
Fluid fill-ups and flushes
Your vehicle also comes equipped with several different fluid types that have various functions. You’re probably most familiar with oil and its job as a lubricant. While many vehicle owners remember to get a routine oil change, they often overlook transmission service. Just like oil, transmission fluid gets dirty over time and should be flushed and re-filled. You don’t want to wait until your transmission starts to fail – that could cost thousands of dollars to fix.
Wheel alignment
Have you ever experienced your back being “out”? When things aren’t aligned properly, you feel pain in other parts of your body and simply don’t feel your best. The same can happen with your vehicle. Through use, and sometimes abuse (i.e. potholes!), your vehicle’s wheels get out of alignment. When they do, your ride might feel more uncomfortable in terms of how your vehicle handles. Poor alignment can also affect other parts such as tires and suspension. Keep your ride safe and smooth and prolong the life of your vehicle with a routine wheel alignment.
A/C service
Having a functional A/C system might be a luxury in some parts of the country, but here in Arizona, it’s a necessity. Even if your air conditioner appears to be functioning normally, we recommend A/C service every single year. You definitely don’t want to be stuck with a vehicle blowing hot air on one of our 100+ degree days.
Brake service
Squealing brakes shouldn’t be the first reminder that your brakes need attention. On the contrary … they should be thoroughly inspected at least once a year even if they’re not making a sound. Spotting potential brake problems before they become bigger issues is one of the easiest ways you can keep yourself and your passengers riding safely.
Battery terminals
You may not think about your battery much … until your car won’t start. The temperature extremes we experience here in Arizona can have a negative effect on car batteries and we’re positive you don’t want to be left stranded (did you get the pun?). Periodic battery service includes checking for corroded battery terminalsand inspecting for leaks and deterioration, among other things.
Don’t forget these commonly overlooked car maintenance items
At Good Works Auto Repair, we believe that when something isn’t broken, you should fix it … at least when it comes to vehicles. What you don’t see can hurt you and can even leave you stranded. The list above is certainly not every maintenance item you should remember but it’s a good start. Schedule an appointment for preventative maintenance today and long live your vehicle!
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