Are you that person who puts off the routine car services? I will raise my hand slowly with you. I put it off because I’m busy. I put it off because I don’t think my car “needs” it. I put it off because I have too many excuses. But if you do a little research, you’ll find that some routine services are more important than others. Here’s a list of the most important routine car services that will explain the procedures and why you need them.
Change the oil.
When: Regular basis (every 3-4 months or every 6,000 miles)
Why: Your engine’s oil is the life of your engine. The oil wears with use, and when it does, your engine can suffer. While the base oil doesn’t wear out, it’s the additives in the oil that clean and provide the lubrication that do. This happens with mineral and synthetic oil, and there’s really no way to prevent it.
Replace the coolant.
When: Once a year.
Why: Anti-freeze’s main function is to prevent the coolant from freezing and/or boiling. It also protects against the corrosion of engine components, which aluminum engines are prone to. Make sure you are replacing the coolant at least once a year. Too little anti-freeze won’t protect your engine as it should, and too much can have adverse effects, too.
Rotate tires and maintain tire pressure.
When: Twice a year, or as recommended by the tire manufacturer.
Why: Rotating your tires and maintaining the correct tire pressure is the best way to extend the life of your tires. By making all the tires bear the load equally, you can add about 10% of life to the set of tires. Most service stations offer this free, when you purchase the tires at that station.
Replace brake fluid.
When: Once every two years.
Why: Brake fluid helps your brakes work properly. Water in the brake fluid spreads through the entire brake system, with the potential to cause corrosion in the metal parts it comes into contact with.
If you are in the Charleroi, PA area, make sure you stop by Rotolo’s Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram for your new and used car needs. (*Thank you for sponsoring this article.)