7 Tips for Proper Vehicle Maintenance

The purchase of a motor vehicle is one of the largest purchases we make, and quite possible the most exciting purchase we make. Unfortunately, many people end up neglecting it due to the lack of regular vehicle maintenance. Here are seven tips for proper vehicle maintenance that Taylor and Sons Chevrolet recommends.

1. Check and replace your wiper blades. The spring rains may be pleasant for the plants and flowers, but along with rain in the summer and fall they gradually wear down your wiper blades. Using them in the winter to clear snow and ice doesn’t help either. Replace the wiper blades at least twice per year. Don’t wait until you see water streaks on your windshield while you’re using your windshield wipers. Replace them before that.

2. Change your oil regularly. While it may no longer be necessary to change your oil every 3,000 miles as it was for so many years, we recommend that it be changed at least every 5,000 miles. Oil lubricates the engine and absorbs heat, allowing the internal parts to work together effectively without overheating. This is very important in both the summer and winter.

3. Rotate your tires and check the air pressure. Rotating the tires will help the tread to wear evenly, extending the life of your tires. Maintaining proper pressure will also help extend tire life, as well as improve gas mileage. Maintaining your tires is good maintenance, and important for your safety. Tires should be rotated every 6,000 to 8,000 miles or every 6 months. Air pressure should be checked at least every time you have your oil changed.

4. Check your battery’s charge. Cold temperatures can cause your battery to become sluggish. The battery’s ability to provide sufficient power to start and run a car is diminished in colder weather. According to AAA, at 0°F a car’s battery loses about 60 percent of its strength, at 32°F it loses 35 percent. During cold temperatures starting an engine can take twice as much current as need under normal conditions. Be sure to have jumper cables with you at all times as well.

5. Replace worn down brake pads. Worn down pads can cause calipers to rub across the the rotors, damaging them. Damaged rotors may cause the steering wheel to vibrate or create a pulsing sensation. Not only can this be an expensive repair, it isn’t safe for the driver. Have your brakes checked when you change your oil.

6. Replace your air filter. Changing the air filter regularly helps prolong engine life. It traps damaging dirt and debris that can damage internal engine parts, such as the cylinders and pistons. Engine damage can occur from particles as small as a grain of salt. Repairs can be very costly.

7. Check hoses and belts. Checking them monthly can help prevent serious engine problems. They take the brunt of the duties a vehicle performs, such as kick-starting the alternator and helping operate the water pump. Cracked hoses and belts can spell trouble when least expected.

These are all very important vehicle maintenance tips. Regular vehicle maintenance will save unnecessary, costly repairs. More importantly, it will keep you and yours safer on and off the road.

Taylor and Sons Chevrolet will perform all these safety checks for you at no charge. Many of these items can be checked when you have your oil changed, but don’t wait that long if you’ve not had them checked in the past 30-60 days. It’s not worth waiting.

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