National Car Care Month: Maintenance to Get Done
It’s April, which means that not only is spring finally here, it’s also National Car Care Month! Giving your vehicle routine maintenance and the occasional check-up is a fantastic way to avoid very costly repairs later down the road. Research shows that a majority of car owners are behind on their car’s maintenance and neglect failing components. What better time to break that habit than this April? Keep reading for easy car care tips that help you avoid a future headache.
Check your fluids
This step is arguably the most important. A car that is low on essential fluids, like oil or coolant, frequently have issues with lubrication and overheating, eventually culminating in a broken part and costly repair. Check all of the fluids in your car—oil, coolant, brake fluid, even the windshield wiper fluid.
Do you remember the last time your oil was changed? Make sure that oil is swapped per the car manufacturer’s specifications. Remember that your car’s filters, from oil to ventilation, need to be checked and regularly replaced. Inspect the hoses in your car, as well. See any cracked, chipped, or swollen hoses? Time to swap those out.
Check your tires and driving systems
Underinflated tires lead to worse fuel economy, sluggish handling, and increase your chances of a blowout. Make sure to check your tires and add air as recommended by your car manufacturer. With most modern cars, this is easier than ever, thanks to real-time tire pressure sensors.
Also, check your tire thread and wear. If the wear is uneven, it is time to have your car realigned. If the thread is worn, get a new set of tires as soon as possible—worn tires are extremely dangerous! Finally, your steering, suspension, and brake systems should be inspected annually, replacing any worn struts, shocks, or pads.
Look for battery corrosion
Car batteries need to have clean, consistent connections to deliver the necessary power to start your car. Unfortunately, it is easy to let crust and corrosion build up on the battery and around its terminals. Luckily, batteries are very easy to clean with corrosion cleaner. Make sure that the connections are tight and that the battery is secure. Is your battery more than three years old? Get it tested at nearly any auto-parts store.
Touching up
As we approach the rainy spring season, it is very important to replace your windshield wipers and all interior and exterior light bulbs. Remember, the hot summer is right around the corner—get your car’s HVAC systems checked to keep you cool as the weather gets warmer. Also, give your car a deep spring cleaning. Spray any residue from the undercarriage, wipe down your interior, clean up your floor mats—you’ll thank yourself later!
Good news!
That is a lot of systems to check and tasks to complete, but don’t worry! Here at Smith Hammond, we are experts in car maintenance. Sit back, relax, and let us handle the hard work, keeping your car maintained with genuine Chevy parts. Finding us is easy, simply search for Smith Motors or Chevy dealers in northwest Indiana. We know how important car care is, and we are devoted to keeping your car up-to-date throughout National Car Care Month.
