Your car is a mechanical beast that needs regular attention to perform at its best. This not only keeps your car running better, but it also increases the life expectancy of your vehicle. People often mistake waiting until something goes wrong with their car before they visit a mechanic.

This shouldn’t be the case, as the expenses down the road could be more expensive than making a quick service call when necessary. Here are seven tips to keep when maintaining your car that will make you an expert mechanic.

1. Change the Oil Regularly

Oil is one of the essential fluids in your car, as it helps lubricate all the mechanical parts and keep them running smoothly. It’s recommended that you change your oil every 3,000 miles or so, which can help extend the life of your engine. If you frequently drive in stop-and-go traffic or extreme weather, it’s recommended that you change your oil more often to keep your engine running as efficiently as possible.

Many use an oil indicator sticker or gauge outside their vehicle to measure when to change their oil. These gauges are usually attached to the windshield and will notify you when it’s time for an oil change.

2. Inspect Your Tires

This reduces the risk of accidents and can help you save on gas by driving more efficiently. To inspect your tires, look at the tread and ensure no cracks or flat spots.

If you see any issues with your tread or sidewalls, it’s recommended that you visit a mechanic to get them replaced as soon as possible. In addition to inspecting your tires, keeping them properly inflated and rotating them every few months is a good idea.

3. Dent Repairs

A car’s body can sometimes be damaged due to collisions or unfortunate circumstances. If this is the case, you may need some help from a professional auto body repair shop.

The good news is that dent repairs are more affordable and accessible nowadays- thanks mainly to technological advancement. Modern ways to remove the dent without interfering with the body include paint. Do some research online to learn how paintless dent repair can save your body shop time and money. Some sites have rich information on the procedure and what to expect. These details help determine the best dealer to target as a car owner.

4. Keep the Batteries Clean

Over time, the batteries in your car can accumulate dirt and grime that can affect their performance. This is especially true if you own an older vehicle with a manual choke on the engine. Luckily, there are many cleaning products out there that can help to keep your battery clean without having to purchase a new one anytime soon.

It would be best if you cleaned the batteries in your car every few months or so. Use a toothbrush and some cleaning solution, and scrub the surface of each battery until you see any dirt and grime start to come off. This will help your car run more efficiently, saving you money in the long run.

5. Replace Your Wipers

Many people don’t realize that their Windshield Wipers are one of the most critical components of their car, as they help to keep you safe on the road by ensuring that you can see clearly. If your windshield wipers are old, worn out, or damaged, it’s recommended that you replace them immediately for your safety.

To replace your windshield wipers, visit your local auto parts store and pick a new set that fits your make and model. You mustn’t skip this step, as old windshield wipers can cause major visibility issues and even accidents on the road.

6. Replace the Brake Pads

Over time, these pads can become worn out or damaged, so it’s crucial to replace them as soon as possible for safety reasons. Indicators outside your car usually tell you when to change your brake pads.

If you notice that the pad is significantly worn down, there will be a metal indicator on the disc or drum of your car. However, if your car doesn’t have these indicators, it’s usually recommended that you replace them at least every 25,000 miles.

7. Replace Air Filters

Your air filters are responsible for keeping the engine clean and running more efficiently. This is especially true if you drive in dusty environments, as a dirty filter can cause your car to use more fuel to get around than it usually would. To keep your car running smoothly, be sure to replace your air filter every year or so.

Locate the filter in your car and pull it out when replacing your air filter. There will be a few arrows and text on it that let you know which direction to install it back in. Once you’ve put it back in, close everything up and test out your brakes for any unusual noises or vibrations before continuing your drive.

Several different things can be done to keep your car in top shape and run smoothly for years. Try some of these tips today to help improve your automobile’s overall health without spending a fortune.

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