A car is one of the largest purchases that most people make. The best way to get the most out of your purchase, and not need to replace it as often, is to keep your car properly maintained. While you should certainly follow the user manual and manufacturer recommendations, theses general tips can help get a few more years out of any vehicle.
Change your oil every 5,000 kms or 3 months, unless your owner’s manual says otherwise. The manual will also say what grade of oil your car needs. The oil filter should also be replaced at the same time.
Check your air filter every 3 months as well. Replace the filter if it’s clogged with dirt and dust. If you plan to own your vehicle for 3 years or more, you might be better off with a reusable air filter from companies like K&N. Not only do these filters increase airflow, when they get dirty you can simply wash it out and put it back in.
Make sure your vehicle’s coolant/antifreeze is filled up to the level. Check hoses for signs of leaks or any wear. Having your cooling system properly maintained is essential to prevent overheating which can destroy your engine.
To help your tires last longer and increase your fuel efficiency, have them rotated every 15,000 kms. If you have a set of winter tires, you could just simply rotate your tires when changing them. Also, check the tire pressure once a month and fill them with air as needed.
While you may not be comfortable doing all of this maintenance yourself, certainly make sure you take your car in for it’s regular scheduled maintenance. Stick with a mechanic that you trust and and they will make sure that your vehicle stays in top condition.
My car just died and I didn’t take good care of it cause it was old and used when bought. These are good tips and with my new car will be using them to make sure it lasts as long as possible.
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Remember winter tires are directional. You can rotate the right front with the right back and the left front with the left back. However you cannot cross the tires. Doing so will change the direction of the tires. There are arrows marked on the tires. The tires should always roll in the direction of the arrows.
All season tires can be rotated left back to right front and right back to left front. This will ensure equal wear on all tires.
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