Your vehicle is a huge investment. With that in mind, it’s critical to maintain and service your vehicle on a routine basis to take good care of it. When you do this, your vehicle will get you where you need to go and will also retain its value longer.

Essential Car Care Habits For Vehicle Owners

Let’s look at some car care habits that will keep your vehicle running smoothly and help it last longer.

1. Keep it Clean! A dirty car, inside or out, may not seem like a big deal, but an unclean car will eventually attract dirt and grime that can damage your interior and exterior. Keeping a clean car will also help it retain value. You’ll thank us down the road!
2. Get Acquainted With Your Owner’s Manual – Every vehicle has an owner’s manual. If you can’t find your copy, an electronic version is probably online or you can contact your dealer. Take note of the timeline recommendations for maintenance items like engine oil, tires, belts and hoses. Following manufacturer recommendations will keep your car running as smoothly as possible.
3. Check Tires – When was the last time you took a good look at your tires? They are pretty important! Make sure that they are rotated according to your owner’s manual recommendation. Also make sure that the tire pressure is correct. Incorrect tire pressure can cause poor braking, instability, less gas mileage, or a flat tire. The ideal tire pressure can be found on a placard located on the driver’s door jamb, or in the owner’s manual.
4. Learn to Change a Tire – While we are on the subject of tires, it is a great idea to know how to change a tire by yourself. Good car care habits include keeping a spare tire, jack, lug wrench and a flashlight in your trunk so you are ready!
5. Learn How to Jump-Start a Car – Along with learning how to change a tire, you should also know how to jump-start a car.  This is an essential car care skill to have should your battery die. Make sure you keep a pair of jumper cables in your trunk just in case!
6. Oil Change – Your car needs oil to cool and lubricate your engine. Most experts recommend an oil change every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. Your mechanic can help you choose a reliable brand and type of oil to use.
7. Ask an Expert – Not everyone is an expert when it comes to car care. Never force your way into fixing a problem if you don’t know exactly what is wrong. One of the best car care habits is to talk to a good mechanic and ask questions.

Expert Car Care Is Only a Phone Call Away

This is where we come in! Do you have any questions about your car or good car care habits? The Neighborhood Auto Repair Professionals (NARPRO) helps car owners find skilled and honest car repair shops. They will be happy to answer any questions or look your car over for any safety issues.

Schedule an appointment at one of our local auto repair shops today!