Preventive Maintenance: The Key to a Long-Lasting Vehicle
Preventive maintenance entails performing small tasks and checks on a regular basis in Auto Repair in Santa Rosa, CA to keep your vehicle in good condition and to keep any potential problems from becoming larger and more expensive to repair. Here are three preventive maintenance methods that can help your vehicle.
1. Regular Oil Changes
One of your vehicle’s most critical preventive maintenance tasks is regularly changing its oil. Oil serves as a lubricant for the engine, and its properties deteriorate over time due to exposure to heat, friction, and contaminants. As a result, the engine may experience increased wear and tear, decreased performance, and reduced fuel efficiency.
The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) recommends changing the oil in most vehicles every 7,500 miles or every 6 months, whichever comes first. Depending on your driving habits, the type of oil you use, and the manufacturer’s recommendations, this is subject to change.
Regular oil changes can help your engine last longer and reduce the likelihood of costly car repairs. Vehicles that received regular oil changes lasted 15,000 miles longer than vehicles that did not receive frequent oil changes, according to the ASE study.
2. Regular Tire Rotations and Balancing
Another important preventive maintenance task for your vehicle is to rotate and balance its tires regularly. Tires play a crucial role in your vehicle’s performance and safety, as they provide traction and stability on the road. Over time, the tires wear down and can become unbalanced, causing uneven wear and decreased performance.
According to a Rubber Manufacturers Association study, most vehicles should have their tires rotated every 6,000 to 8,000 miles or twice a year, whichever comes first. This interval may vary depending on your driving habits and the recommendations of the manufacturer.
Regular tire rotations and balancing can extend the life of your tires and improve your vehicle’s handling and stability on the road. The Rubber Manufacturers Association study found that vehicles that received regular tire rotations and balancing had an average of 11,000 miles longer tire life than vehicles that didn’t receive regular tire rotations and balancing.
3. Regular Brake Inspections and Maintenance
Finally, it is critical to inspect and maintain your vehicle’s brakes on a regular basis. Brakes are responsible for slowing and stopping your vehicle, so they play an important role in its safety. The brake pads wear out over time, the brake fluid becomes contaminated, and other components wear out.
According to a National Safety Council study, most vehicles should have their brakes inspected every 12,000 miles or once a year, whichever comes first. This interval may vary depending on your driving habits and the recommendations of the manufacturer.
Regular brake inspections and maintenance can ensure that your brakes are in good working order and reduce the possibility of costly car repairs. Vehicles that received regular brake inspections and maintenance were 43% less likely to fail than vehicles that did not receive regular brake inspections and maintenance, according to a National Safety Council study.
Conclusion
Preventive maintenance is a crucial aspect of vehicle ownership and can help ensure your vehicle’s longevity and performance. By regularly performing tasks such as oil changes, tire rotations and balancing, and brake inspections and maintenance in auto repair, you can extend the life of your vehicle and reduce the likelihood of costly repairs. So, make sure to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations and schedule preventive maintenance appointments regularly to keep your vehicle in top condition.
