Regular car maintenance is an essential aspect for each car owner, whether new or old. While you may need to seek the services of an expert in most cases, sometimes you may be required to check on items before they get out of hand. Car maintenance is essential to maintain safety while on the road. Additionally, it reduces the cost of repair. Car maintenance involves both visual and diagnostic inspection.
Let us review essential vehicle maintenance to take note of:
1. Tire rotation
Tire rotation is a notable aspect. It is because tires are the direct contact to the road. Tires may get worn out quickly due to this reason. It is vital to rotate tires often since they do not wear out at the same time. The front and rear wheels wear out differently. It is recommended to rotate wheels after six months and when going for an oil change. Some of the methods are front to rear, x-pattern, and forward cross, to mention a few. It will save you money and keep the vehicle running smoothly.
2. Replacing worn wiper blades
It is one part that is easily noticeable when worn out. The worn-out wiper blades cause streaks on your windshield, skipping motion, and a screechy sound. Experts recommend replacing it after every six months. Worn-out wiper blades may reduce visibility; hence an individual is prone to causing accidents on the road.
3. Top up power-steering fluid levels
Car owners should maintain the power-steering fluid level because it keeps the energy flow in your steering operational. Some of the tell-tale signs that may cause you to check for the fluid level is ,if you notice screeching sounds, difficulty while turning, and slow response. Most reputable auto centers will check fluid levels every time you go for an oil change. The fluid levels are best checked when the car is running for some minutes.
4. Oil change
Oil is what keeps the vehicle running smoothly. For this reason, it is crucial to change the oil regularly. Experts recommend changing oil after covering a distance of 5,000 miles. If one ignores changing oil, the vehicle engine can seize up and cause significant damage. It can be expensive, costing you to buy a new engine or a new car. The engine is the lifeline of the vehicle. It is vital to keep it lubricated. It is best to change the oil to have the engine running at optimum levels.
5. Worn-out brake pads
It is vital to replace worn-out brake pads as they will save your life in case of an accident. Brake pads are often used, and every time you engage your vehicle brakes, a small part of the pads is worn out. After a while, it becomes essential to replace the brake pads. Some of the signs to watch out for are screeching sounds when the brakes are engaged. Some vehicles have indicator lights showing on the dashboard. Different vehicles may need replacing at specific times depending on the driver’s road and how they engage the brake.
The above mentioned are some of the parts that any car owner should maintain. The owner’s manual offers a complete guide on how you should conduct the checks. It will save you a lot of money in the long run and help in maintaining road safety. Some of the checks you can do on your own, and for the complicated ones seek the help of an expert.
