3 Things to Add to Your Car Maintenance Agenda This Season

Posted January 12, 2024

If you want to get the most out of the investment you made into your vehicle, maintenance will be key. Your preventive maintenance on your car should be a top priority. Although car care is never convenient, you really can’t afford to ignore it. If you do ignore it, it will wind up costing you more money and worry in the future. Let’s look at three things you need on your car care list this year.

Filters

Filters are often overlooked because they are truly the unsung hero of your vehicle. There are several different types of filters working in your vehicle, and all of them require regular changes. The engine air filter should be inspected and changed during each oil change. It also needs to be replaced once a year if it’s contaminated. Cabin filters are another type of filter that often gets ignored. This should be replaced when it’s clogged or dirty. Fuel filters should also be replaced every 24,000 miles or every two years.

Fluids

Fluids are also a crucial part of your car’s operation and yet fluids don’t get the attention they deserve. There are several different fluids at work in your vehicle, so it’s important to get on a car maintenance plan that will effectively keep all of them in check. The essential fluids you should be concerned with are automatic transmission fluid, differential fluid and manual transmission, power steering fluid, coolant, and windshield wiper fluid. During regularly scheduled maintenance appointments, these fluids will be checked and refilled or replaced if necessary. Your engine oil is also considered a fluid, but because engine oil is so important, it usually gets its maintenance appointment during an oil change. New car experts suggest vehicle owners have their oil changed every 5,000 to 7,000 miles.

Hoses and Belts

You should also keep hoses and belts high on your maintenance priority list as well. Hoses and belts can be inspected during an oil change. When hoses are leaking, worn, rusted, or cracked, they need to be replaced quickly to avoid a sudden interruption in function. Other belts that need maintenance are serpentine belts and V-belts.

These are three areas of car maintenance you need to stay on top of this year. If you’re looking for reliable car maintenance or oil change services, please contact AM-PM Automotive Repair. If you have any questions, call us or fill out a form, we are here for your automotive needs.