Having a vehicle is both a privilege and a responsibility. Cars, trucks, vans and SUVs require consistent care. The best way to ensure your investment is running smoothly is to create and follow a regular car maintenance checklist.
From an insurance point of view, the importance of regular car maintenance is obvious. The healthier your car, the lower your chance of breaking down or having to purchase a new one prematurely. Why spend more than you have to or waste time shopping for vehicles every year or so?
Below are preventative car maintenance tips that will help you keep your automobile in tip-top shape.
Change the Oil
Whether you change your oil yourself, head to a quick-change place or take your car to your neighborhood mechanic, be sure to follow the 3,000-mile rule of thumb. You don’t have to wait until the “change oil” light goes on in your vehicle to take action.
Think of putting oil in your car as a cost of having a safe vehicle. Without oil, your engine will seize up and stop working. And that would mean bad things for your budget! The cost to do an oil change will pale in comparison.
Wash Your Vehicle
All that winter snow, ice and sleet may be gone in the spring, but the road salt’s still sticking to your car. Don’t let it begin to eat away at your car’s finish. Wash your car at a car wash or just use a big sponge filled with mild, soapy water.
Your aim is to keep your car looking great. Feel free to wax it if necessary, although just a quick wash-down will do wonders for the appearance and longevity of your car.
Stay up With Inspections
Not only are yearly inspections necessary from a legal perspective, but they also help you know about problems before they become catastrophic. While it can be tempting to find someone who will simply “pass” any vehicle at inspection time, resist the urge to save a few dollars and take the risk.
An inspection helps you monitor the well-being and performance of any car, truck or SUV. It’s also a requirement from an insurance perspective. Don’t forget that the reverse is true, too: You’ll need up-to-date auto insurance in order to pass your inspection.
Use the Correct Fuel Type
If you’ve invested in a vehicle that requires a higher octane fuel, make sure you’re reflecting its needs at the pump. Yes, you’ll pay a higher price per gallon for premium unleaded, but if your car needs it, you’re better off making a small financial sacrifice.
On the other hand, if you have a car that doesn’t necessitate premium fuel, don’t think that buying the more expensive gas will make your engine perform better. It won’t and will likely just be a waste.
Give your car the highest chance of staying on the road for the long haul. And if you have a young driver in your household, be sure to pass along the importance of regular car maintenance to the next generation!