10 Car Maintenance Tips You Need to Know
Quickly becoming an essential part of modern-day life, cars are one of the most powerful features in our lives. From transportation to family time, cars have become a necessity for many people. However, because they are so integrated into society, it is important that we take care of them. Here are 10 car maintenance tips you need to know!
1) Get a tune-up
A certified mechanic will be able to find problems with your car and come up with repairs for them. Regularly getting tune-ups can help keep your car running smoothly, prevent future issues which could cost more money, and make sure that you are taking care of the most important parts of your vehicle!
Getting regular checkups is also helpful because then mechanics are alerted to any changes in behavior or performance. If you notice something off about how it runs, an inspection by a professional might reveal some problems before they become expensive or dangerous!
A tuneup usually costs between $100-$300 depending on what type of work needs to be done. It’s definitely worth spending this money if it means keeping your ride safe, smooth, and problem-free!
2) Check fluid levels
One of the easiest and cheapest ways to take care of your car is by checking the fluid levels. This includes oil, brake fluid, power steering fluid, transmission fluid, radiator coolant, and windshield washer solvent.
It’s best to check these levels regularly (every few months) so that you can catch any problems early on and avoid costly damages or replacements. Not only will this save you money in the long run- but it’s also a safety precaution! Checking fluids is an easy way to keep your car healthy and running well.
Most of these fluids can be found at your local auto parts store. The cost for most ranges from $0.50-$15 per container depending on the size/type.
3) Fix minor dings and scratches
Being a proud owner of a car, it is understandable that you want to keep it looking fresh. However, if your vehicle has small dents or paints damage from rocks, it may not be worth getting them fixed. A professional will usually charge $20-$100 for simple repairs which can turn into costly expenses when multiple items need work.
You also risk having the new paint job chip off with time if you do not take care of these issues in their early stages. Picking up touch-up paint at an automotive store would cost between $0.50-$15 depending on what type/brand you get!
4) Read the owner’s manual
It is important to stay up to date with your car manufacturer’s recommendations for maintenance. This includes everything from what type of fluids are ideal, how often you should get an oil change, and when it needs new tires.
By keeping up with these standards set out by the company that built your vehicle, you will be able to take care of all parts properly! If there is any specific information about how it operates or its history which you think would help a mechanic diagnose future problems, having this documentation on hand can sometimes save money in labor costs! The average cost for manuals ranges between $0.50-$30 depending on where/what brand they are. Make sure you have one before heading over to your mechanic!
5) Know when to visit the mechanic
Just like every person has an opinion on their favorite types of food, mechanics have different preferences for what type of car they enjoy working with. If you know somebody who is knowledgeable about your particular model and brand, bring them along with you! They may be able to point out issues that a less experienced professional might not catch.
This can save money in labor costs- but also ensures that all parts are taken care of properly since it’s coming from someone familiar with your specific vehicle. A good idea would be asking a friend or family member if they know anybody! The average cost ranges between $0.50-$30 depending on where/what brand this referral comes from.
In addition, another way to save on car maintenance costs is by visiting a specialist. If you know your car has problems with a certain system (ex: transmission, brakes), take it to a mechanic who specializes in that area.
Quickly becoming an essential part of modern-day life, cars are one of the most powerful features in our lives. From transportation to family time, cars have become a necessity for many people. However, because they are so integrated into society, it is important that we take care of them. Here are 10 car maintenance tips…