If you want your vehicle to give you years of dependable service then preventative maintenance is the way to go. Extended tire life, better fuel economy, and lower emissions are just some of the benefits to properly looking after your vehicle. You also will be able to find problems as they start before they become big expensive problems. Remember the importance of keeping up with your vehicles maintenance.

What is important in taking proper care of your car? Keep these items in mind.

Keep it simple. A quick look into your owners manual or maintenance book will tell you the proper intervals for oil changes, tune ups, and other things.

Oil and oil filters should be changed as needed, or about every 3000 miles, for most cars. Some cars do allow more mileage between changes, so check your owner’s manual.

Check all your fluid levels weekly. Check oil, brake fluid, trans fluid, power steering, and coolant as often as every week. Washer fluid levels should also be checked often to as it is important to clean off your windshield. Take some time and top off any low fluids.

Check the proper inflation of tires weekly. Under inflated tires will cause more drag and lower your fuel economy. Over inflated tires can cause a blow out.

The tread wear pattern of your tires is also very important. If you notice the tire is worn, cracked, or has the steel belt exposed it is time to replace the tire. Take the time to fasten the lug nuts as well.

Schedule and take your car in for regular tuneups. If your spark plugs or fuel injection are causing problems, your fuel mileage could be reduced by as much as 35%. It may be tempting to postpone tuneups, and a lot of people do especially if their cars appear to be running fine, but don’t. Take your car to a professional mechanic so that your engine is thoroughly inspected for any problems that are small now, but that could be bigger later.

A well lubed chassis is very important. A good shop like Riverview Service center in Elmwood Park NJ will lube your suspension as part of the oil change service.

Your cars battery is the heart of the electrical system. Make sure you check it regularly and pay special attention to the cables and terminals. Corrosion that has built up can be cleaned off with a wire brush. Make sure you have a good tight connection to prevent what may seem like a dead battery.

A torn wiper blade does not help you at all. Take the time to inspect your wiper blades as well. If they are torn or cracked replace them. At a minimum replace them once a year anyway. You should also consider a protective coating like rainx to increase visibility in really bad weather.

Check your headlights, too, as well as tail lights and turn signals, once a week. Replace any burned-out bulbs, because this can cause you to have an accident or other problems.

Once you get the hang of checking on your vehicle you will realize that a little goes a long way in keeping your car looking good and staying on the road.

Looking for North Jersey Auto Repair? Visit Riverview Service Center for the best Auto Repair In Elmwood Park NJ.