A new month is a great time to refocus on keeping your vehicle in peak condition. Regular maintenance not only keeps your car running smoothly but also saves you money and prevents inconvenient breakdowns. Here’s our guide to essential maintenance tasks that will set your car up for success this February - and beyond.
1. Replace Your Air Filters
Your car’s air filter keeps dirt, dust, and debris out of the engine and cabin air. Over time, it can become clogged and affect performance.
-
Engine Air Filter
A dirty filter can reduce fuel efficiency and horsepower. Replace it every 12,000 to 15,000 miles or as recommended by your manufacturer.
-
Cabin Air Filter
This filter ensures clean air inside the car. Replace it to improve air quality, especially if you’ve noticed a musty smell or reduced airflow.
2. Check Belts and Hoses
Worn or damaged belts and hoses can lead to engine problems if not addressed.
-
Look for Cracks or Fraying: Check the drive belts and radiator hoses for visible signs of wear.
-
Feel for Soft Spots: Press gently on hoses - soft spots or bulges indicate a need for replacement.
-
Listen for Squealing: A squealing noise could mean a belt is loose or needs replacement.
3. Test Your Car’s Battery
While your battery works harder in winter, it’s a year-round essential that can fail without warning.
-
Check Connections: Ensure the terminals are clean and securely fastened.
-
Test Performance: Use a multimeter or visit MotorAbility to have your battery tested for optimal voltage.
-
Plan Ahead: If your battery is more than three years old, consider replacing it before it fails unexpectedly.
4. Keep Your Fluids in Check
Healthy fluid levels are crucial to your car’s overall performance.
-
Transmission Fluid: A low or dirty fluid can lead to shifting problems or transmission damage.
-
Power Steering Fluid: Ensure this is topped off to maintain smooth handling.
-
Brake Fluid: Proper levels are vital for safe braking performance.
5. Rotate and Balance Your Tires
Tire rotation helps distribute wear evenly across all four tires, extending their lifespan and improving performance.
-
Schedule Rotations: Aim to rotate your tires every 5,000 to 7,500 miles.
-
Check Alignment: Misaligned wheels can cause uneven wear and reduce fuel efficiency.
6. Test Your Safety Features
Your car’s safety systems play a critical role and now is a great time to ensure they’re working correctly.
-
Lights and Indicators: Test your headlights, brake lights, and turn signals to ensure full visibility on the road.
-
Brakes: Listen for unusual noises or reduced responsiveness when braking.
-
Emergency Kit: Check that your emergency supplies (like jumper cables, a flashlight, and a first aid kit) are stocked and in working condition.
7. Keep It Clean
A clean car isn’t just about aesthetics - it’s about preserving its value and functionality.
-
Wash and Wax: Regular washing prevents buildup of dirt and grime, while waxing protects your car’s paint from wear.
-
Interior Care: Vacuum the floors, clean upholstery, and wipe down the dashboard to maintain a fresh interior.
-
Inspect for Damage: Look for small dings or scratches that could turn into rust if left untreated.
Let MotorAbility Help You Keep Moving.
Your car deserves the best care, and MotorAbility is here to help. Whether you need a routine oil change, tire rotation, full inspection, or expert diagnostics, our team of experts is ready to keep your vehicle in top condition.
Start the month off right by scheduling your maintenance check today. Together, we’ll make sure your car is ready for all of February’s adventures!
Add comment
Comments