Not taking good care of your car can cost a lot of money in the long run, as this writer has personally found out! Keeping your car in the best shape takes work, but it pays off. This article will explain 10 important steps for maintaining your car. The tips are based on advice from Vlad Samarin, who holds an ASE Master Certification, an automotive technician license, and a Bachelor’s degree in electronics engineering.

1. Take first signs of car trouble seriously.

These might include strange sounds, leaks, greasy wheels, sputtering, or a change in how the engine acts. Having these issues looked at early can save you from paying for emergency fixes later.

2. Be aware of the instrument panel.

Whenever a light such as “Check engine” or “Low oil pressure” turns on, have it checked out ASAP. Also take higher-than-average engine temperatures seriously. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

3. Find a trustworthy mechanic for yearly check-ups.

Bring your car to a mechanic every year, at the minimum. Some issues can only be evaluated when your vehicle is lifted on a hoist. Talk to your friends and family members about mechanics they’ve worked with. You can also read ratings for mechanics online.

4. Keep all hinges lubricated.

You should regularly lubricate all of the hinges and locks of your car doors. Van drivers should also clean up and lubricate the sliding rails of their doors.

5. Wash your car often.

Rust begins in wet, dirty areas. Clean vehicles dry off quicker. Waxing your car on occasion maintains a glossy finish and helps stop body panels from rusting.

6. Make sure your car is clean and dry inside.

If anyone spills a drink on the floor, towel it off right away. Likewise, if rainwater leaks in, have the problem fixed before the rust takes hold. Many wires and electronics are underneath your carpet. When water reaches them, they corrode. Clean the inside of your car with a slightly moistened towel.

7. Always buy high quality or original car parts.

Buying cheap, low quality parts can cost you more in the long run. You don’t have to max out your credit card to buy the priciest parts; just do your homework. Before you buy parts, research them well. Original parts are more reliable.

8. Clean the windshield wipers often and replace the rubber pieces yearly.

Always clean underneath the wipers. It’s common for little pieces of dirt to get stuck underneath the wipers. When you turn your wipers on, your windshield will get little scrapes. Replace the wipers right away if the rubber is coming apart at the edges. Once the rubber wears away, the wiper’s metal piece is going to scrape the windshield. Switch out the rubber parts of the wipers, known as refills, yearly. You can buy them from your dealer.

9. Change the spark plugs regularly.

Old spark plugs can cause a failure of the ignition coil.

10. Replace the air filter often.

Unfiltered air can damage many parts of your vehicle, including the airflow sensor, the pistons, or the cylinder walls. After you put in a new filter, double check that it is installed right.

These tips involve spending a little more time and money now to save a lot more time and money later. You’ll get more miles and memories out of your vehicle if you take good care of it.

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