Guide to Car Maintenance

One of your most significant assets is your car. Depending on the year, make and model of the car, your vehicle can be worth $10,000, $20,000, $30,000 or more! For many people, besides their house, this is the most significant asset that they own. That is why it is very important for car owners to treat their cars like it is an important asset and properly maintain your car.

Maintaining your vehicle takes many different forms. From simple things that you can do on a weekly basis to regularly scheduled maintenance, it is important that you do not neglect your auto.

Much of the maintenance that needs to be done to autos can be done on our own. Some of the items that can be done by just about anyone include:

Checking Tire Pressure – on a regular basis you should check your air pressure in your tires. An under inflated or over inflated tire can be dangerous to drive on; please by not having proper tire pressure will cause a reduction in gas mileage.

Checking Oil Level – driving an auto without oil can do damage to your car’s engine. This damage can ruin an engine and be costly to fix. So, when you fill up your tank remember to check your oil level.

Checking Other Fluids – when you check your oil, there are a couple of other fluid levels you can look at easily. Checking your coolant level and your washer fluid reservoirs is easy to accomplish and can help keep your car running smoothly.

Tire Tread – it can be dangerous to drive on worn tires. So, every so often take a look at the tread on your tire. If it is wearing out, your tire tread is getting low and the tire will need to be replaced soon.

Many drivers like to be more involved in the upkeep, and consider themselves “shade tree mechanics”. Some of the items that some people like to do include:

Oil Change – it is important to change the oil on a regular basis, and some people can enjoy doing their own oil changes. By simply using a ramp to put the car on in order to access the underside of your car, you can drain the old oil, and add fresh oil.

Brakes – if you have a good deal of mechanical ability, you may be able to replace the brake pads on your car. However, it is recommended that you have a good knowledge of autos before attempting it.

Tune Up – Today’s automobiles do not need to have the spark plugs changed as often as older cars did. However, with proper tools, changing spark plugs can be accomplished by someone with moderate mechanical ability.

Regardless of whether you are a do-it-yourself mechanic or rely on the knowledge of your local mechanic or service center, it is important to properly maintain your car. The best source of when your car needs servicing is your owner’s manual. The manufacturer has set a schedule of when your car should be serviced, and it is recommended that these guidelines be followed.

To assist in keeping up with the maintenance of your auto, we have collected a listing of helpful resources for car owners:

Online Maintenance & Repair Resources

Vehicle Maintenance – Prevention Basics

Do-It-Yourself Vehicle Maintenance

Car Talk Auto Maintenance Tips

Auto Repair Advice & Technical Tips

Do It Yourself Auto Tips

DIY Auto Maintenance Guide

Auto Repair Maintenance Schedule

Making Sense of your Car Maintenance Schedule

Driving a Used Car

Safe Driving Tips