Why car maintenance is important?

While owning and maintaining a vehicle can get expensive, it can be even more costly to delay repairs or to try and cut corners. Keeping your car maintained keeps you and other drivers safe on the road. A well-maintained, reliable car can protect you and others from unexpected accidents. 

Your car dealership will have information about what maintenance is required for your vehicle, usually found on their website; it’s best to follow their maintenance schedules as closely as you can to get the most out of your vehicle and to keep you safe on the road. 

Maintenance vs. Repairs

Car parts can get worn down and may need to be replaced periodically. Regular maintenance can help you keep track of what needs to be changed or adjusted on your vehicle. Some people opt to take cars to a dealership for scheduled maintenance and go to a trusted mechanic for other repairs. 

Generally, it is most important to stay on top of oil changes and tire maintenance. Newer cars need oil changes every 5,000 miles, while older ones need it every 3,000. Replacing air filters is also important to allow the engine to breathe. Other items that may need to be replaced less regularly include spark plugs, brake pads, and transmission fluid. 

Regular maintenance can save you from some larger repairs down the road. Some indications that you may need some kind of service repair include:

Braking – Brakes are top priority for safety. If the pedal feels “soft” when you brake or you hear squeaking noises, it is time to take your car in.

No pick up– If it feels like your car is not accelerating like it normally does, it may be time for an engine tuneup.

Vibration – If you feel shaking when the car is starting, turning, or stopping, you should have a mechanic check it out.

Difficulty starting – This could have something to do with the starter or battery and should be looked at by a mechanic.

Fuel efficiency – Bad sensors or leaky fuel injectors might be the reason for changes in your gas mileage.

Shifting – If your gears do not shift smoothly (even automatic cars have gears), it could be a transmission issue.

Know your car, and you’ll know what to look for. If it seems to be running “differently,” then there may be a problem that should be taken to a mechanic to check out the issue. 

Choosing a mechanic

Good mechanics are sometimes hard to find; so once you find one, you don’t want to change! Sometimes you may have a tricky issue, especially with an older vehicle or when looking to repair certain complicated damages, and your mechanic may not be able to immediately repair it. Don’t be afraid to look around your area and get quotes from several different mechanics, even if you feel pressure to be loyal to your favorite one. Sometimes a specialized part may be more expensive in a small shop, but cheaper at a dealership; it can help to shop around. 

In conclusion, good car maintenance makes you safer on the road and less likely to get in an accident. While some recommended maintenance can seem expensive at the moment, it is important to keep to your dealership’s recommended schedule for your safety. Shop around when necessary, but keep your trusted mechanic informed in case you have issues other than regular maintenance.

While maintenance is important and can prevent accidents, remember it is also important to always drive safely!