A car requires plenty of maintenance to keep it running safely and efficiently. But with so many different components, how can you know what’s most important?
The five areas detailed below provide a good foundation of routine maintenance basics to keep you centered in your lane. Pay special attention to these areas and you’ll extend the life of your vehicle, save money on repairs, and keep everyone on board safe.
Tires
This is where the rubber meets the road. Tires need to have proper air pressure, and that’s something that should be checked on a regular basis. Tread depth is equally important. Most tire manufacturers recommend a tire rotation every 7,000 to 8,000 miles. It’s also important for both tire life and safety to have an alignment done every 6,000 miles, after installing new tires, or after an accident.
Fluids
A well-lubricated vehicle is a well-running one. Routine oil changes reduce friction in the engine and eliminate a buildup of dirt and grime. And coolant and anti-freeze are critical components to keep your heater and A/C unit working properly and prevent overheating.
Battery
You won’t go anywhere with a dead battery. Keeping tabs on water and acid levels, keeping cable connectors clean and free of rust, and performing regular testing will all reduce your chances of being stranded. It’s also better to replace a battery too early than too late.
Brakes
Safety starts with braking, and this is a basic maintenance area that can’t be ignored. Periodically checking brake pads and rotors, flushing brake fluid and replacing any needed parts are all integral to keeping your brakes performing as they should and keeping you and your passengers safe.
Lights
Headlights, taillights, brake lights and turn signals are all overlooked parts of a safe (and legal) vehicle. Make a habit of regularly testing your lights and be ready to replace a bulb as soon as needed. You can check your lights with an eye test or use a multimeter for a more precise inspection.
Get Help with Your Car Maintenance at Matthew Motors
In addition to having a large selection of used cars for sale, we also happen to provide some of the best auto service in Wilmington, NC serving Leland, Hampstead and surrounding communities. Our auto repair shop performs a wide range of services including state inspections and we always have a variety of ongoing service coupons designed to help you save big on your next appointment.
Schedule your service appointment with Matthews Motors of Wilmington today.
