According to some recent studies, 5% of all motorist fatalities are caused by neglect to the automobile maintenance recommendations. Read the recommended inexpensive preventive checks below to greatly extend the life of your vehicle, ensure safer operation, and maybe even benefit the environment.
Please remember to always check your vehicle’s owner’s manual for specific service schedules. Maintenance requirements may vary slightly by manufacturer.
- By keeping your engine tuned you can avoid a common fuel efficiency reducer. A fouled spark plug or plugged/restricted fuel injector can reduce efficiency up to 30%. Costing you big in the long run.
- The best rule of thumb is to have the oil filter changed regularly – every 3,000 to 4,000 miles.
- Another helpful rule and time saver is to have all fluids checked while getting your oil changed.This includes brake, power steering, windshield washer solvent, transmission/transaxle and antifreeze. All of these fluids are necessary in the safety and optimal performance of the vehicle.
- The least expensive preventive and safety maintenance is to check tire pressure once a month. An under-inflated tire can result in a loss of fuel efficiency and a rough ride.
- To extend the life of the suspension system you should have the chassis lubricated frequently.
- Check the battery for corrosion and clean it away as needed. Unless you have a maintenance-free battery the fluid should be checked and filled when needed.
- Check all your vehicle’s lights frequently. I.E. headlights, turn signals, brake and taillights. Avoid a ticket and keep yourself visible to others as well as making others visible to you.
- Make sure you have the best and most safe visibility by checking windshield blades for cracks, tears and proper contact. It is recommended to replace them at least once a year, sooner if streaking begins.
- You should have engine belts inspected on a regular basis. Worn belts will affect the engine performance and could cause major injury or death due to vehicle accident. Look for cracks and tears and nicks along the edges.
- Have the air filters checked every other oil change for clogging or wear. Less about safety, A clean air filtration system ensures that the vehicle is performing at it’s most efficient.
Here we have divided the common recommended maintenance/inspection components into two categories. Monthly and every 3,000 miles.
MonthlyAutomatic Transmission Fluid Brakes and Brake Fluid Cabin Air Filter Check Engine Light On Coolant (Antifreeze) Lights Tire Inflation and Condition Windshield Washer Fluid
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Every 3,000 MilesBattery and Cables Belts Chassis Lubrication Engine Air Filter Exhaust Fuel Filter Hoses Power Steering Fluid Shock Absorbers and Struts Wiper Blades
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Oil and Filter should be checked monthly and changed at least every 3,000 miles.
Check level with engine off at every fill up. Change oil and filter every 3,000 miles or 3 months. Use specified oil grade and weight.