Why Vehicle Maintenance is Important for Fall?

With summer almost behind us and cooler days on the way, it’s time to start thinking about getting your car ready for fall. Here are several easy car maintenance tips that will help keep your vehicle in tip-top condition so that you are driving as safe and relaxed as possible:  

• Car Battery – Fall is a good time to check your car battery, making sure the cables and terminals are tight for good contact. If you are going to store your vehicle for an extended period of time, you may want to invest in a trickle charger. 
• Headlights – As cars age, the headlights can become cloudy, especially if you routinely park outside. Cloudy lenses compromise your night vision and reduce the effectiveness of your headlights by up to 80 percent.  Headlight restoration kits are available for very little cost.
• Tires – Proper maintenance and responsible driving can enhance the number of miles you will get out of a set of tires. Monthly tread inspections are important. If you notice that your tires have less than 1/8-inch of tread left, it’s time for new tires.  All-season tires provide well-rounded performance and may be enough for your climate.  If you live in a snowy climate, snow/winter tires may be what you want.  
• Wash and Wax – Wash your car to clean off summer’s dead bugs, bird droppings, and tree sap.  You can then wax it as it will help keep your car’s finish looking new, although waxing may want to be done about every 2 or 3 months.
• Windshield Wipers – If your wipers are leaving streaks of water on your windshield, then it’s time to replace them—or clean them. Wipers deteriorate quickly and usually want to be replaced every 6 to 12 months. 
• Potential issues – Pay attention to signs of potential issues, such as vibrations or uneven noise, or if your car starts to “drift” to the side of the road.  Inform your auto mechanic of your observations so that they can be checked out and fixed to prevent small issues from turning into big issues.   

Need to know more about why vehicle maintenance is important for fall?  Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive for more information about the recommended car maintenance schedule and to make an appointment.  Since 1997, our auto repair shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN, and in the surrounding areas of Milaca, MN, and Zimmerman, MN.  

Wondering How Often Should You Do Car Maintenance?

Do you want to know how often should you do car maintenance and why?  Many vehicle owners don’t understand why following a schedule for vehicle maintenance is so vital.  As long as their car gets them from point A to point B, they think all is fine.    

Adhering to the preventative vehicle maintenance schedule makes sure your vehicle keeps operating smoothly and efficiently!  Always refer to your owner's manual or your auto mechanic for the specific service intervals required for your vehicle.  

So how often should you do car maintenance?  Here is a common guideline provided by vehicle manufacturers:

• Every 3,000--7,000 Miles.  Change the oil and filter according to your service manual.  At each oil change, have the transmission fluid, coolant, power steering fluid, windshield washer fluid and wipers, tires and all exterior lights inspected.
• Every 15,000--30,000 Miles.  Replace the air filter every 15,000 miles. Every 20,000 miles check the battery and coolant. Replace the fuel filter every 25,000 miles. Every 30,000 miles, replace the power steering fluid and air filter. Check the coolant, radiator hoses, HVAC system, brake pads, and suspension components.
• Every 35,000--50,000 Miles.  Inspect the battery and replace it if it is not holding a charge or if it 3 to 4 years old. Every 40,000 miles replace the spark plugs and plug wires and check the ignition system and suspension.
• Every 60,000 Miles.  Replace brake pads and fluid, coolant, radiator hoses, power steering fluid, and timing belt. Check the HVAC, suspension components and tires.  Have the engine, transmission, cooling, brakes and suspension components thoroughly checked. 

Tip to Remember:  Keep a vehicle maintenance log.  Maintaining the maintenance schedule can optimize the resale value of your car, help prevent costly repairs, avert potential roadside breakdowns, and increase the driving safety of your vehicle. 

Need to how often should you do car maintenance?  Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive for more information about the suggested vehicle maintenance schedule and to make an appointment.  Since 1997, our auto repair shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN and in the surrounding areas of Milaca, MN, and Zimmerman, MN.