Auto care can be a daunting task. Between oil changes, tire rotations, brake inspections, and looking for the best extended car warranty provider, you’ll find that something else needs to be done. But don’t worry—we’re here to help! Let’s take you through everything you need to know about auto care, from the basics to the more advanced tips. So whether you’re a first-time car owner or just looking to bone up on what you already know, keep reading for all the info you need.
The Basics: Oil Changes, Tire Rotations, Etc.
One of the most important aspects of auto care is making sure you’re doing the basics regularly. This includes things like oil changes, tire rotations, and brake inspections. Failing to attend to these things regularly can lead to more significant problems down the road, so it’s essential to be diligent about them.
For oil changes, most experts recommend changing your oil every 5,000 miles. Before the widespread use of synthetic oils, replacing the oil every 3,000 miles was quite frequent. But owing to modern lubricants, most engines now require 5,000 to 7,500-mile oil changes. Furthermore, it might go 15,000 miles between changes if your car’s engine requires full-synthetic oil. This number can vary depending on the type of car you have—whether a family car or a sleek sports car—and the type of oil you use, so be sure to consult your owner’s manual or an auto care specialist.
Tire rotations are another critical part of auto care. Rotating your tires helps them wear evenly, extending their lifespan. Most experts suggest doing this every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. But this number can vary based on your vehicle and the type of tires you use. So be sure to check your owner’s manual or ask an experienced mechanic about this.
Brake inspections are another vital part of auto care. This involves checking your brakes for wear and tear and ensuring they function properly. Most experts recommend having your brakes inspected at least once every six months. However, this can change depending on the type of vehicle you have, how often you drive, and how you handle your vehicle.
Looking for the Best Extended Car Warranty Provider
One of the most important decisions you’ll make regarding auto care is choosing an excellent extended car warranty provider. This is a crucial call, as an extended car warranty can help you protect your car from costly repairs. So how do you go about choosing the right provider?
There are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind when selecting an extended car warranty provider. First, be sure to ask around and do your research. There are plenty of good providers out there, so it’s crucial to find one that’s right for you. Second, always pay attention to the details of your plan. This is especially important for things like deductible amounts and service limits. Finally, be sure to get a quote from each provider you’re considering. This will help you compare prices and make an informed decision.
Tips That Can Help Take Care of Your Vehicle
While the basics are important, a few subtle yet effective tips can help keep your car in top condition. Here are a few of them:
1) Ensure Your Car Is Clean Inside and Out
This includes both the inside and outside of your vehicle. Your automobile is subjected to various factors, including road salt and ice melt in the winter, tree resin, and bird guano in the summer. Some of these dangers are not only ugly to look at, but they can also damage the paint and the underside of your vehicle. Keeping your automobile clean may help avoid long-term damage. Wash your car according to the specific car washing procedure that works best for you.
2) Replace the Windshield Wipers
If your windshield wipers are streaking or leaving lines on the glass, it’s time to replace them. Not only is this important for safety reasons, but it’s also vital for keeping your car in good condition. Worn windshield wipers can damage the glass and compromise visibility, which may prove disastrous when you’re driving in bad weather.
3) Keep an Eye on the Fluids
You must keep an eye on your car’s fluids, especially the oil level and the brake fluid. Checking these things can help you catch minor problems before they become big ones. It’s also important to use the correct fluid type for your car. For example, using the wrong kind of oil can damage your engine.
4) Test Your Car’s Lights
Testing your car’s lights is an excellent way to ensure they’re working properly. This is especially important for older cars, as the lights are often the first to wear out. Driving with faulty lights can be dangerous, not to mention illegal in some states. If you notice that a bulb is no longer functioning, bring your car to a mechanic to have it replaced immediately.
5) Check the Belts and Hoses
One of the most common causes of car trouble is a worn belt or hose. Checking these things can help you steer clear of any problem, especially when you’re on the road. It’s prudent to always have these components checked by a mechanic during every oil change.
6) Drive Carefully
This one may seem like a no-brainer, but it’s still worth mentioning. Driving carefully can help keep your car in good condition. This means avoiding potholes, driving the speed limit, and braking correctly. Don’t just jam the brake pedal to the floor when you see a stop sign—this will wear out your brake pads prematurely.
The Bottomline: Proper Auto Care Is Critical to Your Car’s Longevity
Auto care can seem daunting, but it’s important to remember that it’s not as complicated as it looks. By following the basics—oil changes, tire rotations, brake inspections, etc.—and by doing your research, you can ensure that your car stays in good shape for years to come.
