In an ideal world, our vehicles would be able to directly communicate their needs to us when it’s time for a repair or replacement. Unfortunately, it’s up to us to know the signs when our car isn’t functioning properly.
Car owners need to pay attention to the signs that their vehicles need maintenance. It is essential to be aware of these five common services or replacements that your car may be begging for.
Oil Change, Please!
Your engine goes through a lot daily, and clean oil is necessary for its overall health and performance. Small particles like dirt and metals may enter the engine’s oil as it runs. This debris buildup can cause your vehicle to function less efficiently or cause engine damage.
Vehicles that use non-synthetic oil should receive oil changes every 3,000 miles, whereas those that use synthetic oil can last closer to 5,000 to 10,000 miles. Check your car’s oil levels regularly and follow manufacturer recommendations to improve your gas mileage and prevent your engine from overheating.
Rotate My Tires ASAP
Over time, your car tires will wear down unevenly, affecting your vehicle’s overall performance. Be sure to rotate your tires periodically to get maximum use out of them. To know when it’s time to rotate, monitor your tires’ tread depth and measure tire pressure regularly using a tire pressure gauge.
When your tires have a healthy amount of air in them, you’ll not only extend their lifespan but also save money on gas and maintain better fuel efficiency. Based on manufacturer recommendations, you should rotate your vehicle’s tires every 6,000 to 8,000 miles.
Let’s Get A New Battery
The battery is a key component of your vehicle, and they wear out over time regardless of mileage or use. Most car batteries last three to five years before they require replacement.
Many factors may contribute to the wearing of your battery, including extreme temperatures and long periods of going without use. It is important to periodically test and check your battery’s life to avoid emergency replacements.
Keeping your battery clean will also extend its lifespan. Corrosion and dirt that accumulate over time can lead to the deterioration of your battery. You can neutralize corrosion and battery acid using a simple mixture of baking soda and water.
Check on the Filters
Clogged fuel and air filters can negatively affect your ride and your vehicle’s performance. It is important to check on both every 15,000-30,000 miles to ensure they are clean and operating effectively.
Air filters should be changed more regularly depending on the environment in which you live and drive. Your vehicle will not function properly when your air filters are clogged due to pollution or debris. It may even result in costly damages or repairs.
Check your vehicle manufacturer’s recommendation on how often you should replace each filter. You can have your auto technician check the status of your fuel and air filters by performing a pressure test.
Time for a Transmission Fluid Flush
Making time for regular transmission flushes is critical to maintaining your car’s functionality. If you’re noticing a grinding noise, gear slipping, or your car’s inability to go into reverse gear, your transmission fluid most likely needs a flush.
You can also check your vehicle’s transmission by monitoring its fluid quality. Healthy transmission fluid is typically clear or tinted pink, whereas fluid that needs replacement is usually brown or rusty red.
When you ignore the signs of low or faulty transmission fluid, you risk severe damage to your vehicle’s transmission as a whole. It is important to monitor your fluid regularly and change it every 30,000 to 60,000 miles.
When hopping into your car each day, it is crucial to keep these five maintenance tips in mind to ensure the safety of you and others on the road. If it’s time to rotate your tires, change your oil or get a new fuel filter, make an appointment with our expert mechanics at any of the four Big Chief Tire locations. We provide Jacksonville, FL, with quality, affordable car maintenance you can trust.