Preventive Auto Maintenance Tips

Over time, we have gathered useful tips to share with customers about taking care of their vehicle. Here is some information that can help you save time on repair visits.

DIY Maintenance

You can probably manage the following preventive measures on your own. However, always keep in mind to refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual for specific service advice that pertains to your vehicle.

• Read your owner’s manual to determine the type of fuel you should be using.
• Look over the automobile’s brake lights, headlights, turn signals and emergency lights.
• Check the following fluid levels: transmission/transaxle fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid, antifreeze and windshield washer solvent.
• Measure tire inflation each month. Remember that poorly inflated tires waste gas.
• Routinely inspect the engine belts. Watch for cracks or missing pieces. Worn belts stress engine performance.
• Check to see if there is corrosion on battery cables and posts and then it off if there is. Unless you have a maintenance free battery, add fluid if you see that the level is low.
• Inspect the air filter with every other oil change. Filters allow your vehicle to perform in optimal condition.
• Look over the windshield wiper blades for tears and cracks. Make sure they are making contact with the windshield. Usually blades need to be replace once a year.

Car Care Completed by Our Professionals

• Have the oil changed every 3,000 – 4,000 or as recommended by the manufacturer.
• Get routine engine tune-ups. Soiled spark plugs or a clogged fuel injector can decrease fuel efficiency up to 30%.
• Change the transmission fluid and filter every 15,000-20,000 miles. This will safeguard the precisely crafted transmission or transaxle parts. The filter eliminates debris and other foreign particles from the transmission fluid.
• Keep the chassis lubricated to prolong the life of the moving parts of the suspension system.
• Change the fuel filter approximately every 10,000 miles to stop rust, dirt, and other debris from building up and getting into the fuel system.
• Change the filter of the crankcase every 20,000-25,000 miles. This will ensure that exposed air to the crankcase and your engine’s working mechanisms are free of impurities.
• Inspect manual transmission and differential fluid levels.
• Inspect the suspension system regularly. This will allow you to get more miles on your vehicle’s tires.
• Change the vapor canister every 25,000 miles. This component gathers gas fumes that are burned from the fuel tank to eliminate air pollution.

We’ll perform these services and can complete a full inspection of your car, truck or SUV at CTR Automotive Service Center. Call us to today at 608-373-9750 to get your vehicle running in peak condition.