Regular vehicle maintenance is a wise investment from both a safety and an economic standpoint.
“Maintenance checks and service intervals are the best medicine for limiting problems and expense,” says Ken Lavacot, a certified auto technician and co-operator of 2CarPros.com in La Habra, Calif. Here are some general guidelines, but always check your owner’s manual first.
Oil and Fluids. One of the fundamental tenets of good car care is to change the oil frequently. The standard recommendation is every 3,000 miles, but that depends on your car, your driving habits and the type of oil used. Check your owner’s manual to be sure.
In addition to changing the oil, check your brake, and coolant and transmission fluid levels regularly. Top off reservoirs as needed, and flush and replace them as recommended in your owner’s manual. Be alert for any telltale leaks. Low fluid levels can damage components or, as in the case of brake fluid, can lead to equipment failure.
Filters. Replace the oil filter as part of each oil change. Air filters and cabin filters can be replaced less often depending on driving conditions. It’s a good idea to replace fuel filters every two years or 24,000 miles, whichever comes first, or as part of a scheduled tune-up. Change cabin filters, featured on newer model vehicles, about once a year or when the filter plugs with dirt.
Tires. Rotate tires at least every 8,000 miles, and have wheels aligned and balanced as needed. Symptoms of a problem can include a steering wheel that shakes or tires that pull to one side.
To prolong tire life, check air pressure monthly and keep tires inflated to the recommended PSI. Properly inflated tires wear more evenly and improve gas mileage. Check your owner’s manual for PSI information.
Belts and Hoses. Check belts and hoses for visible wear and replace as necessary. As a general rule, they should last four years or 60,000 miles. Unusual sounds can be a warning signal.
“Worn-out belts can make all kinds of weird noises, from high-pitched squealing as you drive, to a little chirping at idle,” says Lavacot. “With the engine off, lift the hood of your car and inspect the belt with a flashlight. If the belt has cracks or is glazed, it needs replacement. Also inspect the belt tensioner spring and replace it if needed.”
Brakes. Inspect brake pads, linings, drums and rotors with each oil change and replace these components when worn. Squeaking can indicate worn brake pads.
Tune-ups. An out-of-tune engine will waste gas and may eventually stall or have starting problems. Tune-up intervals range from 30,000 to 100,000 miles, depending on your car. Ask your auto technician or check your owner’s manual for recommendations. Tune-ups should also include checking ignition and emissions systems, as well as the onboard computer.
Don’t Get Stranded
If you do experience mechanical problems on the road, GEICO’s Emergency Road Service (ERS) can help. For as little as $19 a year per vehicle, you’ll have access to roadside assistance 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Just call our toll-free number, and we’ll dispatch assistance from one of our more than 6,500 pre-screened providers. For more information, visit geico.com or give us a call at 1-800-424-3426.
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