If you want to maintain your vehicle's performance, a well-planned car maintenance schedule is critical. Not only will routine car maintenance help preserve your vehicle's performance, but it will also help you avoid catastrophic breakdowns and other costly issues. While the initial cost of maintenance may sound unappealing, the long-term savings are undeniable.
By remaining disciplined and consulting experts, car owners can spot problems before they arise. To reduce the chances of a large repair bill down the line, it's essential to understand the best practices for routine car maintenance.
What is Routine Maintenance on a Car?
Routine car maintenance refers to regularly servicing your vehicle. Most drivers and mechanics will form a car maintenance schedule to ensure that a vehicle is assessed and fine-tuned at regular intervals. It's the best way to protect your car from the consequences of natural wear-and-tear.
In some cases, mechanics will schedule your car maintenance at mile intervals (30k, 60k, and 90k intervals are often recommended). Another option is to service your vehicle in time intervals (for example, once a year).
Routine vehicle maintenance reduces your chances of expensive repairs down the line. The more organized you are, the more you'll be able to avoid an inconvenient breakdown.
Car Maintenance Schedule: What the Pros Recommend
If you're hoping to keep your vehicle in top condition, it's essential to follow the advice of automotive experts. Even if you're not a mechanic, there are some maintenance tasks you can do to avoid auto issues:
Check Your Tires
It's critical to check your tires monthly. Assess the tires’ air pressure using a PSI tool, making sure it’s always within the range that your tire manufacturer suggests.
If you don't check your tires regularly, you might not detect a major leak until it’s too late.
Check Your Manual
When you first purchase your vehicle, it's essential to read the manual and identify any maintenance requirements or suggestions. Most manufacturers will suggest when you need to service various components of your vehicle.
Check Your Oil (And Other Fluids)
If you don't check your oil, a shortage may cause significant engine damage. It's essential to check your oil levels every week and replace it with the type of oil that's suggested in your owner's manual.
It's also smart to check your oil before any long road trips. And don’t forget to check your coolant and other fluids in your vehicle!
Check Hoses and Belts
If your hoses or belts display cracking or any other structural issues, it's critical to speak to a mechanic. Checking them monthly can help you spot problems before they turn serious.
When to Service Your Vehicle
In addition to an annual check-up, you should also request a full service at regular intervals throughout the lifespan of your vehicle. While you can check basic things yourself, you need the expertise of a mechanic to fully assess the condition of your engine and other important vehicle components.
As mentioned above, experts recommend taking your car to a mechanic at 30k, 60k, and 90k mile intervals. This way, you can be certain that the major components in your vehicle are assessed before they undergo too much strain.
Sierra Blanca Motors is Here to Help
Sierra Blanca Motors is more than your average car dealership. Our team of mechanics offers extensive maintenance services to clients in New Mexico, helping you form a comprehensive plan to service your vehicle at regular intervals.
We’ll remind you when it's time to bring your car in for a service. By ensuring you're always up to date with your vehicle maintenance, our team at Sierra Blanca Motors helps you avoid unexpected repair bills.
Contact our dealership to set up a car maintenance schedule that works for you. We also publish several blogs that offer in-depth information on car terms, car maintenance, and a host of other relevant topics.
