Car Maintenance Routine: Why It's Important | Action Auto Utah

January 06, 2023
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Happy new year! And when it's a new year, everyone should have their resolutions. So if doing your car maintenance routine is on your list of resolutions for 2023, this post is perfect for you!


Many people don't take care of their cars and ignore regular car maintenance routine because they don't recognize their importance of it. Without proper car maintenance, your vehicle can suffer from unexpected breakdowns, expensive repairs, and decreased fuel efficiency - all of which can add up to a significant amount of time and money. Regularly taking care of your car helps keep it running smoothly and extends its life. This means you won't have to buy a new vehicle as often and can save money in the long run. Taking care of your car is essential to being a responsible driver, so follow through with regular maintenance and repairs.

So, don't let car maintenance be the last thing on your to-do list this year! It's essential to stay ahead of car maintenance by performing it regularly. Car maintenance is critical for keeping you and your car safe on the road, from checking fluid levels to ensuring all car components are working correctly. So make sure to include car maintenance in your routine and start the year right!


Why Car Maintenance Routine Is Important


Having a car maintenance routine is as essential for your car as brushing your teeth is for good dental hygiene. Regular car servicing and inspections can help you save time and money and even prevent accidents from happening. In addition, with routine car maintenance, you can reduce the risk of getting unexpected breakdowns or costly repairs down the line. Not only that, but a well-maintained car will also run more efficiently on fuel and emit fewer pollutants into the environment. Below are some reasons car maintenance should be a regular routine.


Preserves Road Safety


A car maintenance routine is key to driving safely on the road. Regular inspections and tune-ups can help you identify issues before they become major problems. Maintaining essential maintenance such as oil changes, tire rotations, and brake checks is critical for safe driving. These small steps can make a big difference in your car's performance and ensure that your vehicle runs smoothly. In addition, regularly checking your headlights, taillights, and turn signals will increase visibility at night or during inclement weather conditions.


Car Maintenance Routine Is A Money-Saver


Owning a car can be expensive, but regularly maintaining it can save you money in the long run. Regular maintenance helps keep your vehicle running smoothly and efficiently, reducing the need for costly repairs. Plus, routine services like oil and filter changes help ensure that your engine always operates optimally. By taking care of your car now, you'll avoid larger repair bills and unsafe driving conditions in the future. Investing in routine maintenance will help keep you safe on the roads and increase the longevity of your vehicle.


Keeps Your Car's Best Performance


Regular car maintenance is essential for keeping your vehicle in top condition. Not only does it help keep your car running smoothly and safely, but it can save you money in the long run by avoiding costly repairs. For example, regularly checking the engine oil and topping up coolant levels should be routinely done. Still, it is also important to have larger maintenance jobs such as a vehicle inspection, brake check or wheel alignment carried out by an experienced mechanic. During these inspections, worn parts can be replaced with new ones to ensure proper performance and minimize the chance of more severe damage.


Keeps Your Car's Resale Value


Whether you're planning on selling your car or keeping it for a long time, maintaining its condition makes sure that it retains its resale value. Regularly scheduled oil changes, for example, ensure that the engine runs smoothly and efficiently. Keeping up with other routine checks, like inspecting brakes and headlights, can help identify potential issues before they become significant problems. Taking good care of your car helps keep it in working order and preserves its worth when it comes time to sell or trade in for something new.


Car Maintenance Saves Time


Having a reliable vehicle means more than just good looks – it also makes life easier and more convenient. So aside from money, a regular car maintenance routine can help you save time in the long run. Taking your car for a tune-up, oil change, tire rotation, or another routine service will ensure it's running smoothly and efficiently – meaning fewer trips to the mechanic down the road. Plus, staying on top of your car's maintenance schedule helps maintain its resale value (see above).


How To Do Car Maintenance Routine


There are two types of car maintenance routines: short-term and long-term. Short-term car maintenance is a must for any car owner. This routine includes regular checks and maintenance such as oil changes, tire rotations, fluid levels, and other minor repairs. These tasks are designed to keep your car running safely and efficiently. Long-term car maintenance involves more extensive repairs that are needed less often but should still be done regularly. These may include brake system inspections, tune-ups, engine work, suspension work, and more.


Short-Term Maintenance


Oil And Coolant Levels


It's effortless to check your oil and coolant levels. First, open your car's hood and locate the oil dipstick (it should be labeled "Oil"). Pull it out, wipe it off with a rag if needed, then re-insert it into the tube. Pull it out again and look at the level on the dipstick. You should be able to see where the oil level is concerning the "Full" and "Low" marks on the stick. Next, locate the coolant reservoir (it should also be labeled). Remove the lid and top it off with a 50/50 mix of coolant and water if needed. Make sure to fill it out appropriately.


Air Filter


After lifting the hood, locate the air filter. It looks like a rectangular box with a large rubber hose attached to it. There should be clamps that hold the top of the pack in place. Unscrew these clamps, then take off the lid of the air filter box and pull out the old air filter inside. Inspect your air filter for any signs of dirt, damage or wear and tear. If there is too much dirt, you must replace your air filter before continuing. Otherwise, you can put your old air filter back in and close up your car's hood.


Tire Pressure And Tread Depth


To start, ensure the vehicle is parked on level ground and the tires cool. This will provide an accurate reading. Next, check your owner's manual for the recommended tire pressure or look for a sticker inside your door frame, glove box, or gas cap. If you don't have the manual or sticker, look up the correct pressure rating at one of the many online resources available, like your car manufacturer's website. Once you know what to set it to, use a reliable tire gauge to measure each tire's air pressure and inflate them if needed.

Then check tread depth using a tread depth gauge or inserting a quarter into several tread grooves. If you can see George Washington's head, your tread depth is too shallow, and you should consider replacing your tires. These steps will help you ensure your tires are properly inflated, wear evenly, and give a better overall performance.


Signal Lights


Once your headlights, turn signals, brake lights, and parking lights are on, it's time to inspect them. To check the headlights, standing in front of your car at a distance and ensure that the light is directed straight ahead. Check both sides to make sure they match in intensity. For turn signals, turn them on and walk around the car to make sure each side is illuminated correctly.

When checking brake lights, press the brakes when someone else stands behind the vehicle so you can observe all three. Finally, for parking lights, switch them on and take note of their illumination strength. Make sure there are no dead spots or anything that looks off. If these components fail inspection, replace them immediately for added safety.


Rotate Tires


Once you have gathered all the tools and supplies needed to rotate your tires, find a flat surface and place your vehicle in park. Make sure to apply the handbrake for extra security. Then carefully loosen the lug nuts using a lug wrench before lifting your car with a jack. Lift it high enough to remove one tire at a time. Place the tire you removed in the new position and replace it with a corresponding lug nut. Repeat this process for all four tires. Once finished, make sure to tighten all of the lug nuts using your lug wrench and lower the car from the jack.


Vehicle Wax


Waxing your vehicle helps create a protective layer that shields it from the sun, dirt, and other contaminants. Without this protection, your car's paint will lose its shine over time, becoming dull and faded. Wax also makes washing your vehicle easier as wax helps the water bead off the surface more quickly. Aside from protection against the elements, regular waxing of your car can also help maintain its appearance and performance. Even if you keep your vehicle in a garage, it is still essential to check for wax build-up regularly.

Depending on where you live and how often you use your car, checking your vehicle's wax every 3-4 months is a good rule of thumb. Also, it's crucial to invest in quality car wax that meets your vehicle's needs and climate. Taking proper precautions and regular waxing will help ensure your car stays looking great and performs at its best!


Long-Term Car Maintenance Routine


Transmission Fluid


Transmission fluid is a critical component of your car's transmission system that you should check regularly. It helps lubricate moving parts within the system, ensuring they don't grind against each other. If the fluid level is low, then it could lead to costly repairs down the line. To check for any issues, pop your car's hood to locate the dipstick, remove it and wipe off any residue with a clean cloth.

Then dip the stick in again and check its level; if it reads low on your dipstick, you will need to top up the fluid. Finally, ensure you use the correct type of transmission fluid for your car, which could affect how well it performs. If you need help with the type, read your car's manual or ask a certified mechanic for advice. Once you have topped up the fluid, remember to check it regularly as per your car's maintenance schedule to keep your transmission system running smoothly.

When checking your car's transmission fluid, it is best to do so at regular intervals. This could be every 3-5 months or after you travel 5000 miles, depending on the make and model of your vehicle. It is imperative to check the transmission fluid if you have an automatic transmission - as this type of transmission depends on a constant fluid supply to keep the gears working smoothly.


Transfer Case Fluid


It is crucial to keep an eye on the transfer case fluid of your car. If it is low or leaking, it may be time for a replacement. A good rule of thumb is to check the fluid every 12,000 miles. You can perform this task yourself by locating the fill plug and adding more fluid if necessary. Or, you can take your car to an automotive shop and have them check the fluid level for you. Be sure to use the correct type of fluid for your make and model, as it may be different from other cars. Keeping on top of the transfer case fluid will help ensure that your vehicle runs safely and smoothly for years to come.


Shocks And Struts


Inspecting your shocks and struts helps you identify signs of wear or damage before they become major problems. Check them at least once a year or when you significantly change tire size or weight load. It's recommended to check for any visible signs of rust, oil leakage, torn bushings, bent components, or unusual noises. Additionally, checking the suspension system regularly helps keep your car stable and performing at its best. Look for any signs of wear or damage during regular service intervals to ensure safe and reliable handling.

To extend the life of your shocks and struts, don't ignore any unusual sounds or behavior that might be related to them. For example, suppose you are experiencing difficulty handling your vehicle due to a worn suspension system. In that case, it's time to get it checked out by a professional. Taking the time to inspect and replace your shocks and struts can help keep you safe on the road, save you money on repairs, and extend the life of your car.


Coolant Fluid Exchange


Regular coolant exchange is essential for the optimal performance of your vehicle's engine. It helps to avoid costly repairs, keeps you safe on the road, and ensures that your car runs reliably and efficiently. Coolant fluid should be checked at least once a year or every 10,000 miles (whichever comes first) to keep your vehicle running smoothly. Checking the coolant fluid levels is a relatively simple and quick process that can be done at home or a service station. Suppose your engine's temperature rises too quickly. In that case, that means something is wrong with the coolant system, and you should have it checked by an experienced mechanic immediately.


In Conclusion


Car maintenance routine is essential for keeping your vehicle running in tip-top shape. When it comes to used cars in Utah, you want to make sure that you are working with a reputable dealer who provides an accurate Vehicle Condition Report. This way, you can be sure that the used car you purchase is in good condition and will last you a long time. Car maintenance is the best way to ensure that your vehicle will run smoothly for a long time, and you can save money by avoiding costly repairs in the future.


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