All Your Preventative Auto Maintenance Questions Answered

Regular tune-ups, along with repairs, are a necessary part of life if you own a vehicle. However, while it might not be necessary, preventative maintenance should be another necessary step in your car care plan.

For a lot of people, walking into an automotive repair shop is intimidating. This is especially the case when your car knowledge is limited. So, many car owners don't spend more time than the bare minimum in the auto shop.

While it might be scary, it's something you can't avoid. And, if you want to improve the longevity and safety of your vehicle, going in for more than just regular maintenance is called for.

So, if you want to learn the basics of preventative measures and become a well-informed car owner, here is everything you need to know about the benefits and rewards of preventative car care.

What Is Preventative Maintenance?

So, what exactly is preventative maintenance, you ask? It's simple, really. Preventative measures go above and beyond your regular auto maintenance. Preventative upkeep is a plan to prevent costly auto repair bills. When used together with your regular auto service, you'll reap many rewards.

Benefits of Preventative Maintenance

While it might seem like a hassle or an expensive care strategy, preventative maintenance has many benefits for both you and your vehicle.

• You save money in the long run.

While you might complain of more money upfront, the fact is, when you take preventative measure on your vehicle, you're actually saving money. When you take the right steps to maintain your vehicle, you won't have to worry about costly repairs to your transmission and engine, and other costly repairs.

But the monetary rewards don't end there. Additionally, when it comes time to trade in your vehicle, it'll be worth much more. This is because your preventative maintenance reduces the decline of your vehicle.

• The car drives safer.

Everyone wants to feel safe and secure in his or her vehicle. When you take these preventative measures, you reduce the chance of a mechanical malfunction. Plus, the car performs at its absolute best. If you want to do everything you possibly can to keep your family and you safe, then preventative maintenance is the way to go.

• Your vehicle lasts longer.

While some people may want to trade in their vehicle after several years, others want to drive it until they no longer can. Well, if you're one of those people, we have good news for you!

When you perform preventative upkeep on your vehicle, along with regular maintenance, you not only save money and drive a safer car, but you will have a reliable car that lasts. You won't have to worry about reaching the 100,000 or even 200,000-mile mark.

What Preventative Maintenance Should You Do?

Lastly, let's get into the basics of preventative maintenance.

• Regular oil changes

Passenger cars and light trucks should receive an oil change every 3,000 miles, while other vehicles (especially if they use synthetic motor oil) will need one every 6 months or 5,000 miles. It's also good to replace the oil filter every time the oil is changed.

• Brake system

Your brakes should be inspected annually. If you drive a lot, be sure to have them inspected every 12,000 miles.

• Tires

You should have your tires rotated twice a year to extend their life. Also, be sure to inspect them for bulges and ensure they are properly inflated at all times.

• Fluids

Your fluids always need attention and should be topped off regularly, as well as inspected for leaks and issues. This includes battery water, transmission fluid, coolant, and power steering and brake fluid.

• Filters

Go above and beyond the owner's manual when it comes to inspecting your filters. Dirty air filters increase fuel consumption and exhaust emissions. When you live in especially dusty areas they will need to be replaced more often. In order to keep your car in the best condition, be sure to check the air filters monthly and fuel filters annually.

 

When you take care of your vehicle with preventative measures, you will see the difference in how well the car performs for years to come. In order to have the safest, highly functioning vehicle as possible, and one that will last as long as you want it to, you must perform preventative maintenance.

Whether your vehicle is in need of preventative maintenance, a regular tune-up, or a repair, turn to the professional, honest, and quality service of Mavis Tires & Brakes. With over 26 convenient locations found throughout Central Florida, your vehicle will receive all the necessary maintenance to keep it in tiptop shape!