Routine vehicle maintenance can be a difficult task to keep
up with. However, there can be serious implications of not staying up to date
on your car’s maintenance schedule.
Results of the Car Care Council’s yearly check lane events
show 80% of cars have at least one component in need of maintenance.
The Basics
There are some basic items in or on your car that should be
regularly checked or replaced.
• Air filter
• Antifreeze
• Battery
• Belts
• Brakes
• Engine oil
• Exhaust
• Hoses
• Lights
• Oil filter
• Power steering fluid
• Shock absorbers
• Tires
• Transmission fluid
• Washer fluid
• Wiper blades
The best way to ensure each maintenance item of your car is
in order is to consult your owner’s manual or take your vehicle taken into an
auto service facility get it inspected by a certified mechanic. Getting a
thorough inspection is the best route to ensure you do not miss anything.
Another way to keep you car well-maintained is to wash it
frequently. Regular washing and waxing helps maintain your car’s value as well
as appearance. Vehicles with oxidized paint or a rusty body cannot be
economically restored.
Consequences of Procrastinating
Failing to take care of your vehicle by having it regularly
maintained can have negative effects.
• High expenses – A reason many people use for not keeping
their car maintained is cost. Unfortunately, regular maintenance left
uncompleted can lead to much higher expenses down the road.
• Accidents – Sometimes your car is trying to tell you something.
Things such as squeaky brakes left untreated can lead to much worse problems
such as brake failure that can lead to serious accidents.
• Severe damage – As you can expect, leaving little problems
unrepaired can lead to increased damage to your vehicle. A little problem is
much easier to remedy than trying to undo severe damage.
Ways to save
There are a few ways you can help yourself and save a few
dollars while still keeping your car’s maintenance up to date.
• Coupons – Many auto service facilities provide coupons or
discounts.
• Proactive inspection - Using your owner’s manual as a
guide, always follow the recommended maintenance schedule of your car. Check
fluid levels and inspect components inside and outside of your car regularly.
• Trust – Find a reputable, honest auto service facility you
can trust.
Those who treat their vehicles well and commit to routine
maintenance end up saving money in addition to enjoying their car for much
longer.
