If you own a car, timely maintenance is your best friend. It will help prevent unexpected breakdowns. A car is a big investment. Maintaining it keeps your vehicle reliable and running well for years. Neglecting your car could cause costly breakdowns. You’d feel unsafe in a compromised vehicle.
Regular general maintenance might sound like a bit of a task, but trust us, it makes all the difference. Here are some tips to ensure your car operates safely and without issues:
1. Regular Oil Checks
One of the simplest yet most crucial steps in your car’s general maintenance is checking your engine oil. The engine oil is responsible for lubricating the various components of your engine, preventing wear and tear. Your car’s engine could overheat in case the oil isn’t enough or dirty. So schedule your oil check every 3.000 to 5,000 miles depending on your car’s make and model.
You could also DIY your oil check, here’s how: Firstly, wait until your car is parked on level ground and the engine is cool. Pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean, and reinsert it. Pull it out again and check where the oil level sits between the two marks on the dipstick. Low levels mean your car needs more oil! If you’re unsure about the process, visit Jimmy’s Auto Service in Downey, CA for assistance.
2. Check Your Tires
Just like your engine, tires are important! Properly inflated tires lead to good fuel efficiency, under-inflated or over-inflated tires can lead to uneven wear, increasing the risk of a blowout.
You can check your tire pressure using a tire gauge, which you can find at most gas stations or auto parts stores. It’s also a good practice to inspect your tires for any cracks, cuts, or embedded objects that could lead to a flat tire. And don’t forget about tire rotation!
3. Change Your Air Filter
Your car’s air filter ensures that dirt, debris, and other contaminants don’t enter your engine. A dirty air filter can decrease your car’s fuel efficiency and performance. Replacing it is a simple task and can usually be done at home, but if you’re unsure, a visit to Jimmy’s Auto can take care of it for you.
Changing the air filter every 12,000 to 15,000 miles is a good idea, but check your car’s manual for specifics. Keeping a clean air filter ensures your engine runs smoothly and helps improve gas mileage.
4. Inspect Your Brakes
Brakes are critical! Over time, brake pads wear down and will need to be replaced. If you hear a squealing or grinding sound when you brake, it’s a sign that your brake pads may be worn out. Don’t wait until it’s too late – replacing worn brake pads is far cheaper than having to replace your entire brake system.
Generally, when the brake light comes on or it takes more effort to stop your car than usual, it’s time for a quick brake check.
5. Inspect Your Battery And Electricals
The battery is your car’s power station that powers all the electrical systems, including the engine. Batteries can wear out over time, so it’s important to inspect them regularly, especially as they approach the three to five-year mark. Look for any corrosion on the battery terminals and ensure the connections are tight. If your car is struggling to start, it might be time for a new battery.
Lastly, check your car’s electrical systems! Burnt-out lightbulbs are a safety hazard and can lead to traffic tickets. To avoid such inconvenience check your car’s high and low beams and fog lights.
6. Check Your Coolant Levels
Coolants are known to regulate the engine temperature level. If your car doesn’t have enough coolant, the engine could overheat, leading to severe damage. It’s easy to check the coolant levels. Just find the small tank under your hood. The fluid should be between the low and high marks.
If you’re unsure where to find the reservoir or how to top off the coolant, you can always bring your car to Jimmy’s Auto for assistance. Check the coolant levels 2-3 times a year. This keeps your engine running well, especially before long trips or in extreme weather.
7. Replace Windshield Wipers
It might not seem like a big deal, but maintaining clear visibility while driving is crucial, especially for those rainy days. Worn or damaged windshield wipers can make it difficult to see during rain, snow, or foggy conditions. Inspect your wipers for any signs of wear such as streaking, skipping, or splitting, and replace them as soon as they start to fail.
As a rule, replace windshield wipers every six months to a year. It depends on your usage and local weather.
Stay on Top of General Maintenance with Jimmy’s Auto Service
Having a car maintenance schedule and following it diligently is one of the best ways to keep your car running without any trouble. This includes but is not limited to, all the tips mentioned above. These services are designed to catch potential issues before they become major problems. If you’re ever unsure or don’t have the time to perform these tasks, bring your car to Jimmy’s Auto Service and Smog in Downey, CA. We’re here to help with all your car repair and general maintenance needs.
At Jimmy’s Auto Service, a family-owned shop, we offer comprehensive maintenance services to help keep your car in excellent condition. Since our humble beginnings in 1992, we’ve serviced over 20,000 vehicles and built a reputation for honest work and fair pricing. From routine fluid checks to tire rotations, our skilled team ensures your car stays in excellent condition. You can count on us to keep your vehicle safe, efficient, and ready for the road ahead!
Visit us today or schedule an appointment and learn more about our services.