Unfortunately, some vehicle owners put off the recommended car maintenance listed in their owner’s manual and they end up compromising the safety of their vehicle. They may think their budget is too tight or their time is too limited to take their vehicle into an auto shop. Because they probably don’t understand what does vehicle maintenance consist of, they may save some money and time upfront, but in the long run, they may end up spending more on unexpected repairs than what the cost of routine car maintenance would have been.
So what does vehicle maintenance consist of? Here are some basic car maintenance guidelines for the various systems and parts that can wear out:
- Lights – Check all lights and replace any that are burned out or broken.
- Windshield – Check for cracks or chips, the condition of the wiper blades, and keep the washer reservoir filled.
- Car Battery – Check the fluid level in the terminals and clean away any corrosion built-up around the posts and cable connections. Make sure your battery can hold a strong charge.
- Oil changes – Change the oil, using the right viscosity for either hot or cold weather. Use a good quality filter and make sure there are no oil leaks.
- Air filter – Replace at the recommended intervals.
- Radiator – Check for leaks in connections and hoses, the level of coolant, and that the antifreeze mixture is correct
- Tune up – Your mechanic will inspect and replace wires, spark plugs, various belts, and gas caps as necessary.
- Brake Service – The condition of the brake components, including brake fluid, pads, rotors, and calipers, should be inspected at every oil change or tire rotation service. When necessary, worn-out parts should be replaced for braking performance and safety.
- Tire Service – Check the overall condition of the rubber and repair any cuts or holes. Rotate your tires about every 6,000 miles so the tread wears evenly. Also, keep the right air pressure in your tires, and keep them in proper alignment and balance.
- Suspension system – This includes checking the condition of the shocks or struts, wheel bearings, axles, and fluids.
- Exhaust system – Check for holes in the muffler and exhaust pipes to prevent a noisy car and leaking toxic fumes.
Remember: Because vehicle manufacturers know what their vehicles need to keep operating reliably and safely, they publish guidelines (the owner’s manual) for the recommended mileage or time interval for each service.
Have more questions about what does vehicle maintenance consist of? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Clausen Automotive, The Hybrid Shop, for more information about the car maintenance schedule and to set up an appointment. Since 1975, our family-owned auto shop has proudly served vehicle owners in Madison, WI, and the surrounding communities.
Do you know what does vehicle maintenance consist of? Following the car maintenance schedule helps prevent costly and unexpected automotive repairs.
Unfortunately, some vehicle owners put off the recommended car maintenance listed in their owner’s manual and they end up compromising the safety of their vehicle. They may think their budget is too tight or their time is too limited to take their vehicle into an auto shop. Because they probably don’t understand what does vehicle maintenance consist of, they may save some money and time upfront, but in the long run, they may end up spending more on unexpected repairs than what the cost of routine car maintenance would have been.
So what does vehicle maintenance consist of? Here are some basic car maintenance guidelines for the various systems and parts that can wear out:
- Lights – Check all lights and replace any that are burned out or broken.
- Windshield – Check for cracks or chips, the condition of the wiper blades, and keep the washer reservoir filled.
- Car Battery – Check the fluid level in the terminals and clean away any corrosion built-up around the posts and cable connections. Make sure your battery can hold a strong charge.
- Oil changes – Change the oil, using the right viscosity for either hot or cold weather. Use a good quality filter and make sure there are no oil leaks.
- Air filter – Replace at the recommended intervals.
- Radiator – Check for leaks in connections and hoses, the level of coolant, and that the antifreeze mixture is correct
- Tune up – Your mechanic will inspect and replace wires, spark plugs, various belts, and gas caps as necessary.
- Brake Service – The condition of the brake components, including brake fluid, pads, rotors, and calipers, should be inspected at every oil change or tire rotation service. When necessary, worn-out parts should be replaced for braking performance and safety.
- Tire Service – Check the overall condition of the rubber and repair any cuts or holes. Rotate your tires about every 6,000 miles so the tread wears evenly. Also, keep the right air pressure in your tires, and keep them in proper alignment and balance.
- Suspension system – This includes checking the condition of the shocks or struts, wheel bearings, axles, and fluids.
- Exhaust system – Check for holes in the muffler and exhaust pipes to prevent a noisy car and leaking toxic fumes.
Remember: Because vehicle manufacturers know what their vehicles need to keep operating reliably and safely, they publish guidelines (the owner’s manual) for the recommended mileage or time interval for each service.
Have more questions about what does vehicle maintenance consist of? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Clausen Automotive, The Hybrid Shop, for more information about the car maintenance schedule and to set up an appointment. Since 1975, our family-owned auto shop has proudly served vehicle owners in Madison, WI, and the surrounding communities.
