Five Essential Maintenance Tasks

Owning a vehicle comes with the responsibility of regular maintenance to ensure its longevity and reliability. Neglecting essential maintenance tasks can lead to costly repairs and even safety hazards. In this month's blog post, we highlight the five most important regular maintenance items every vehicle owner should never overlook.

1. Oil Changes

Oil is the lifeblood of your vehicle's engine. It lubricates the moving parts, reduces friction, and helps keep the engine cool. Over time, oil breaks down and becomes contaminated with dirt and debris, which can cause engine wear and tear. Regular oil changes are crucial to maintain engine performance and longevity. Consult with your vehicle owner's manual to determine the frequency and type of oil to use with your specific year, make, and model.

2. Tire Maintenance

Tires are the only contact point between your vehicle and the road, making their maintenance vital for safety and performance. Regularly check your tire pressure to ensure they are properly inflated, as under-inflated tires can lead to blowouts and reduced fuel efficiency. A tire rotation is also helpful every 6,000 – 8,000 miles to avoid uneven wear on the tires. While getting the tires rotated, have the alignment and balance checked to avoid uneven wear and improve handling.

3. Brake System

Your vehicle's brake system is critical for safety. Worn-out brake pads can reduce braking efficiency and increase stopping distances, posing a significant risk. It's essential to have your brake pads inspected regularly and replaced when necessary. How often you change your brakes depends on many different conditions, such as your driving habits, and conditions.  Additionally, ensure that brake fluid levels are adequate and free from contamination.

4. Fluid Levels and Condition

Apart from engine oil, your vehicle relies on several other fluids to operate smoothly. These include coolant, transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and windshield washer fluid. Regularly check the levels and condition of these fluids, as low or dirty fluids can lead to mechanical issues and reduced performance. For instance, coolant helps regulate engine temperature, and low levels can cause overheating.

5. Battery Maintenance

A well-maintained battery is crucial for reliable vehicle operation. Over time, batteries can lose their charge or develop corrosion on the terminals, leading to starting problems. Regularly inspect your battery for signs of corrosion and clean the terminals if necessary. Ensure that the battery is securely mounted and check its charge level periodically. Batteries are typically good for three to five years, but it's a smart idea to have them checked annually.

Regular vehicle maintenance is not just about preventing breakdowns; it's about ensuring your safety and the longevity of your vehicle. By staying on top of these five essential maintenance tasks—oil changes, tire maintenance, brake system checks, fluid level inspections, and battery maintenance—you can keep your vehicle running smoothly and avoid costly repairs down the road. Remember, a well-maintained vehicle is a reliable and safe vehicle.  If you would like a maintenance check on any of these items, contact the service professionals at Bell Road Automotive to schedule an appointment.