Your car is one of your biggest investments, and taking care of it properly can mean the difference between years of reliable driving and costly, unexpected repairs. While most drivers know the importance of regular oil changes and tire rotations, there are plenty of other simple maintenance habits that can significantly improve performance and longevity. The good news? A little extra care goes a long way in preventing breakdowns and saving you money on repairs. So, what are the best ways to keep your car in top shape?
Oil Changes
Most drivers know they need to change their oil, but the real secret is understanding that how often you change it depends on how you drive. Many cars today can go longer between oil changes, especially with synthetic oil, but stop-and-go traffic, extreme temperatures, and frequent short trips can break down oil faster than normal.
Instead of relying on generic mileage recommendations, check your owner’s manual for the best schedule based on your driving conditions. Regular oil changes help protect your engine, improve fuel efficiency, and reduce long-term wear.
Tire Pressure
One of the simplest things you can do to improve gas mileage and extend tire life is to keep your tires properly inflated. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, forcing your engine to work harder and burn more fuel. They also wear out faster and unevenly, leading to more frequent replacements.
The recommended tire pressure for your vehicle is usually listed on a sticker inside the driver’s door. Check it at least once a month, especially before long trips. A small adjustment in tire pressure can make a noticeable difference in performance, safety, and fuel efficiency.
Brake Maintenance
Your brakes are designed to give you warning signs before they fail—but too many drivers ignore them until it’s too late. If you hear squeaking, grinding, or feel a soft brake pedal, don’t wait to get them checked.
Regular brake inspections can catch problems like worn pads or low brake fluid before they turn into expensive repairs or, worse, safety hazards. If your car has a brake warning light, never ignore it. Getting your brakes checked at the first sign of trouble can save you from costly repairs and keep you safe on the road.
Battery Life
Most car batteries last about three to five years, but factors like extreme temperatures and frequent short trips can shorten their lifespan. If your battery is three years old or more, it’s a good idea to have it tested regularly—especially before winter or summer, when extreme temperatures can drain battery power.
A weak battery doesn’t always show obvious signs before failing, so getting it checked during routine maintenance can prevent unexpected breakdowns. Keeping the terminals clean and free of corrosion also helps ensure strong starts every time you turn the key.
More Than Just Oil
Oil changes get most of the attention, but your car relies on several other fluids to run properly. Brake fluid, coolant, power steering fluid, and transmission fluid all need to be checked and changed at the right intervals. Neglecting them can lead to overheating, steering issues, and transmission failure.
If you’re not sure how to check your fluids, ask your repair shop to inspect them during routine maintenance. Keeping them topped off and in good condition helps prevent major repairs and keeps your car running at peak performance.
Extend Your Car’s Life with Regular Maintenance at Nerger’s Auto Express
Taking care of your car doesn’t have to be complicated, but knowing these simple maintenance secrets can make a big difference in performance, safety, and longevity. Whether it’s checking your tire pressure, keeping up with oil changes, or listening to warning signs from your brakes, small habits can prevent big repairs.
Don’t ignore the small things—proper car care can extend your vehicle’s life. Visit Nerger’s Auto Express for trusted service and expert advice today!