Buying a car is a major investment. Whether looking for a high-end sports car to show off in nice weather or something just to get from point A to point B, prospective buyers can expect to spend a considerable amount on a new vehicle. Primarily due to inflation, the average new car cost in the United States was more than $48,000 in September 2023, up around $10,000 from three years prior, according to Kelley Blue Book.
Proper care and maintenance is paramount when spending that much money on a new vehicle, otherwise potential repair costs can set you back even further financially. Average repair costs usually range from $300 to $500, but can amount to much higher depending on the issue. Replacing a standard engine, for example, can cost up to $7,000.
Here are eight crucial car maintenance tasks you should perform to keep your vehicle running smoothly and avoid larger, more expensive repair jobs.
Change the Oil
Motor oil is essential to keeping your vehicle running as it serves as a lubricant for all of the engine’s moving parts. Thus, going too long without changing the oil and the oil filter can lead to major issues, including total engine failure. Over time, clean oil becomes a dirty sludge, which forces engine parts to work harder and consume more gas. The engine is more likely to seize up or overheat as this sludge doesn’t draw away heat as effectively as clean motor oil. A clean oil filter, moreover, is better able to catch dirt and debris from detergents and other additives.
You can help avoid poor fuel economy and potential blown gaskets, among other issues, by getting an oil change every 3,000 miles or as recommended by the vehicle manufacturer. This service usually costs less than $75.
Replace Brake Pads
Replacing the brake pads when necessary isn’t so much of a preventative measure against larger, more costly repairs, but doing so can keep you safe on the road. When checking oil levels, make sure to also check the brake fluid. If the oil is darker than usual, it may be time to get new brake pads. Also, a squeaking sound when braking likely means the brake pads are deteriorating and need changing as soon as possible.
Replace All Filters
The oil filter isn’t the only filter you need to replace regularly. Although they don’t need to be swapped out as frequently, it’s just as important to monitor and change the cabin air, fuel, and transmission filters. Usually easily accessible, cabin air filters perform better at keeping pollutants out of the car when clean. Older and dirty air filters, in contrast, can lead to air conditioning (AC) issues, including a total unit replacement. This can cost more than $2,000.
You should aim to change the fuel filter once each year to ensure peak performance. Clogged filters can lead to corrosion in the gas tank. As for the transmission fluid filter, consider installing a new one once every two years or 25,000 miles.
Run AC in the Winter
Another tip for protecting your car’s AC system is to run it sporadically during the winter. Compressor parts may seize up and even require repairs if the system isn’t used for several months. In addition, circulating the refrigerant keeps seals soft and flexible.
Clean the Battery
Replacing a car’s battery can cost over $200. One way to help keep the battery in good working condition is to regularly clean its ports, known as terminals. This helps prevent cracks and malfunctions.
Check Wheel Alignment
Driving with misaligned wheels can lead to costly tire replacement costs, lower fuel economy, and even create safety risks for yourself and other motorists. Your car likely has improper wheel alignment if it is pulling to one side or if steering is stiffer than usual. You can prevent this by having a mechanic check your wheel alignment every 6,000 miles or so.
When driving with misaligned wheels, tires are prone to wearing unevenly, which causes degradation and ultimately shortens their lifespan. Given that auto mechanics typically charge per set instead of per tire for wheel alignment services, you’re likely better off paying a mechanic to perform an alignment service.
Check Tread and Rotate Tires
Checking the tread of each of the vehicle’s tires and rotating the tires regularly is another way to extend their lifespan. This ensures that they’ll wear evenly and helps enhance fuel efficiency, as well as handling and stability.
Only Get Gas at Reputable Service Stations
Gas at one service station isn’t necessarily the same as at another. Some stations don’t mix fuel and alcohol properly, while others may water down their product or not change the pump filters often enough. Impurities in the gas can cause the engine to sputter or misfire. If the gas station’s employees or manager can’t answer simple questions about the quality of their gas, shop elsewhere.