A vehicle is one of the most valuable assets one can own. Many people keep their vehicles in tip-top shape through regular maintenance. These people are shining examples of why having your car routinely inspected is so vital. After all, regular examinations from a professional mechanic can unearth issues that could affect a vehicle’s functionality or shorten its life span.
However, many other people tend to get it wrong when it comes to maintenance. Below are the various maintenance mistakes people make with their cars.
Overlooking the Small Stuff
Keep in mind that even the most trivial things deserve prompt attention when it comes to vehicle maintenance. Pertinent issues such as performing proper engine tune-ups or replacing defective wipers are worth handling right away. But many people tend to forget that paying attention to ordinary details such as oil levels and tire pressure can extend a vehicle’s life span. So putting these off is typically not the best course of action.
This might seem like a no-brainer. But many vehicle-owners tend to neglect the minor issues, hoping they won’t develop into serious problems. Later, they’re stunned when their vehicle breaks down or functions improperly.
Not Taking Care of the Air Filter
Many drivers assume that cleaning alone is sufficient to keep their air filters in good shape. But this is incorrect. As with everything else in your vehicle, you need to replace the air filters from time to time. This is especially true if your notice that excessive dirt is building up. Instead of waiting until a dirty filter ruins your vehicle’s performance, visit a nearby auto parts store to get it replaced. It’s typically a quick and cost effective, so there’s no excuse to leave it for another day.
Not Washing the Car Regularly
Failing to wash your car regularly can lead to dirt buildup, which can expedite rusting. In fact, you might be surprised by how much wear your vehicle takes on when you don’t wash it regularly. That’s why it’s wise to wash your vehicle at least once every week, regardless of the season. You can do it yourself or take your vehicle to the nearest car wash. Either way, keeping things clean will prevent unnecessary weathering and rust.
Not Keeping Drain Plugs Clear
People usually neglect the drain plugs in the process of vehicle maintenance. But the truth is, examining them can aid in rust prevention. Debris can clog drain plugs, resulting in water buildup and accelerating rusting. So when you’re washing your vehicle, remember to inspect the drain plugs to ensure there are no blockages. And if you do find any, flush them out right away.
Neglecting the Brake Pads
A fully functional braking system is a necessity for every vehicle. More often than not, weary brake pads can result in severe problems due to:
- The steering system’s lack of sturdiness
- Inability to stop
- Irreparable damage to internal parts
Failure to replace your brake pads makes your vehicle vulnerable to drastic risks, the most consequential being a deadly collision. Hence, you should acquire a new pair of brake pads as soon as they start to exhibit unsustainable wear and tear.
Ignoring Tire Conditions
A handful of things can transpire when you overlook your wheels, the most typical being tire bursts and subsequent loss of vehicular control. Failure to get your tires rotated or inflated at the recommended pressure can increase the chances of hazardous situations arising. Thus, you should always pay attention to your vehicle’s tires to determine whether they’re in good shape. Doing so will ensure that you and the people you share the road with are safe.
DIYing Without the Necessary Knowledge
Contrary to popular belief, vehicle maintenance is not always a DIY undertaking. In fact, if you don’t have the requisite knowledge, you shouldn’t perform certain tasks on your own. If you’re uncertain about a particular aspect of vehicle maintenance, always ask for professional assistance.
In addition, it’s helpful to have contact information for professional technicians on hand. That way, you can call them to inspect your vehicle or assist you in resolving the issues bedeviling it. So take your vehicle in when you feel that it needs work performed, and avoid these various maintenance mistakes people make with their cars.
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