One basic factor to focus on when it comes to these tune-ups and service appointments is determining what you will be paying out of pocket. Warranty terms on your vehicle may allow you to have routine checks and problems repaired free of charge. However, basic wear-and-tear issues may be an out-of-pocket expense for you. You will want to know the exact details of the automobile's warranty and exactly how many miles the car is covered for specific types of repair before you go to the dealership with any issues.
Checking the tires periodically to maintain proper inflation not only can save gas and provide for better mileage, but also can help prolong the quality of the tires. It also can be a good idea to monitor the tire treads, particularly if you do a lot of commuting. Uneven tread wear can be the sign of something out of alignment with the automobile's suspension. A mechanic can determine the cause upon closer inspection. This type of inspection also may reveal the condition of the shocks and be able to determine whether any are leaking and need replacement.
A check of fluids by a trained professional is another way to preserve the life of a vehicle. You do not want to be on the road, for example, when you discover the windshield wiper fluid has run dry. These types of check-ins also can be a good time to get the oil changed. The manufacturer's guide can give you specifics on miles traveled that require an oil change. The mileage can vary between makes and models of automobiles, so it is important to know the specific timing for a vehicle. A fluid review also can add life to the engine, as maintaining proper levels in this area also is beneficial in how the transmission and coolant system perform so that everything runs smoothly.
Other routine service calls can include checking and tightening of the vehicle's belts. Loose belts can cause problems for how the automobile runs. After a certain amount of miles, different belts may need to be changed. You may get more life out of some belts than others despite what the manufacturer states is the typical life span for certain belts, but other ones may give way sooner. These variables make it important to include a belt check along with the periodic servicing.
Many dealerships offer email reminders of what is next in terms of scheduled service for an automobile based on mileage and/or time of year. These reminders also are moving into the mobile era, as more vendors also may send brief text messages delivered to a smartphone for timely updates. This can help you avoid missing a scheduled oil change, for example, or a session for winterizing the car as needed, such as checking or refilling antifreeze. This type of service, usually before the first snowfall, can be critical in northern climates when a vehicle may face days of subzero temperatures driving in deep snow and perhaps sitting overnight in a frozen landscape.
It may be best to consult with a dealership or expert mechanic to keep a proper maintenance schedule for your car. Staying on track with these repairs can add life to your car and offer a much more enjoyable driving experience. Knowing that the car is well maintained can give you peace of mind when you hit the road for that next journey.
