The most advantageous way to keep your vehicle running efficiently and reliably is by making a commitment to preventive maintenance. We all know it’s important to have the oil changed on a regular basis. Did you know that by following recommended service intervals and replacing parts before they fail, you will not only keep your vehicle on the road for many years to come, but you will also save money over the long run on auto repair?
Information from the Car Care Council shows that despite the fact preventive maintenance is the key to owning and operating a dependable vehicle, the majority of cars, trucks and vans fall into one or more of these categories:
- 38% of vehicles have low or dirty engine oil
- 54% have low tire pressure
- 28% have inadequate cooling protection
- 19% need new belts
- 16% need cabin air filters
- 10% have low or bad brake fluid
Is your vehicle one of them? Here are some simple preventive maintenance tips to keep your vehicle running its best so you can minimize your auto repair costs:
- How well do you know your vehicle? The owner’s manual will tell you a lot about your vehicle, especially when it comes to identifying service intervals, the types of fluids to use, and special safety precautions.
- Change the engine oil and filter regularly. The actual schedule depends on the type of engine oil you use and the conditions in which you drive. Your technician at Luke’s Auto Service can let you know the optimal schedule for replacing the oil and filter.
- Take care of other vital engine fluids. The transmission, cooling system, braking system and steering system all use fluids to keep them lubricated and help prevent corrosion. When fluids are old or the level is low, your engine doesn’t run well, and in some cases, it’s not safe to operate. Check the fluid levels and conditions at least once a month. If you have to add fluid to any of those systems, there’s a problem that needs to be corrected right away before the system breaks and you need to schedule auto repair.
- Have belts and hoses replaced before they break.
- Pay attention to what your brakes are telling you and if you have any doubt about whether they are working properly, have us do a brake inspection for you. Visit our Brake Repair page to learn some of the signs there may be a problem with your vehicle’s brakes.
- If you notice a smell, see a leak, hear a funny sound, or you feel like your vehicle isn’t running properly, get it checked out right away. In doing so, you will be able to replace a part that is starting to show signs of a problem before it becomes a major repair.
- Know the meaning of all your dashboard lights. When a dashboard light comes on, your vehicle’s on-board computer system is letting you now there is a problem. A little key to the severity of the problem. “Red” dashboard lights are alerting you to a critical engine problem. When one comes on while you are driving, safely pull off the road and call for a tow. A “yellow” or “orange” warning light (check engine light, etc.) that comes on and stays on is similar to a caution light. It’s letting you know to be careful because something isn’t working right. While you don’t need to call for a tow truck, you do need to get the system checked as soon as possible. Delaying repairs for a “yellow” or “orange” warning light that stays on could end up turning into a serious engine repair.
- Maintain your tires by checking tire pressure at least once a month, having them rotated every 6-7,000 miles, and inspecting them for signs of uneven or premature wear.
- Make sure to optimize your visibility. Change windshield wipers in the fall and spring. If there are cracks or dings in the windshield, have it repaired or replaced. Check your lights to make sure all of them are working properly.
- Wash and wax your vehicle regularly to keep car finish shiny and protected from corrosion. While you do, vacuum the interior and apply a protectant to leather and vinyl surfaces.
When it comes to your vehicle, trust its auto repair and maintenance to Luke’s Auto Service, a 3rd generation, family-owned shop located in Verona, New Jersey. At Luke’s Auto Service in Verona, NJ, we make sure our customers’ vehicles are safe and reliable. Schedule your next auto maintenance service today.