Every driver understands the importance of routine maintenance and that it helps keep your car from having any unwanted ticking, brake pads wearing out, air filters clogging or your serpentine belts stretching as the miles add up. On most cars, there are warning signs that let you know when there is something off, or not working properly. Sometimes, there are things that you are doing or not doing that could cause your engine to stop working all together.
With that being said, you have two choices to make: either spend money on a new car every few years, or keep your current car running well and looking sharp. If you choose to keep your car running well, check out these 7 tips on how keep it riding well!
#1: Get to know your vehicle. Meaning, learn the ins and outs of your daily driver.
This allows you to do a bit of basic maintenance on your car when it is needed. Every now and again give your car a good once-over: check that your head lights and brake lights are working, that there are no dents or scratches that you were unaware of, that your tires are all wearing down evenly, and that nothing seems out of place.
#2: It is important to keep your tires in good condition.
How do you ask? Making sure you are rotating your tires every season change, helps make sure they are wearing evenly. Every 1,000 miles, it is important to check to make sure that the tire pressure is where it needs to be, if not, fill up your tires to the desired PSI. (Your PSI can be found on the rim of your tire.)
#3: Always make sure you bring your car for its regular checkups.
It is good to change your engine oil every 3,000 miles, as well as making sure that you have enough transmission fluid and coolant. To verify how often you need to change your transmission fluid and coolant, it is best to consult with the maintenance schedule in your owner’s manual.
#4: Drain and flush the antifreeze.
A flush helps to remove these deposits which get pushed out with the old anti-freeze. This is important since these build ups can cause overheating or even damage your radiator. Every car is different, so to find out when it is best to drain and flush your antifreeze check your owner’s manual.
#5: Change your timing belt and water pump.
I would give you a generalization of when it is best to change them, but as I have said earlier, every car is different. Depending on the type of car you drive, size of the engine and which needs to be replaced first makes a big difference. Around 80,000 – 100,000 would be a good time to consult with your mechanic on when these can be replaced.
#6: Be careful to not beat on your car.
Always treat your car with love, and drive it nicely, it isn’t just a 
toy. Accelerating too quickly, or slamming on your brakes hurts your engine, your tires and your breaks.
#7: Spoil your car monthly or even weekly by having it cleaned and waxed to protect the exterior finish.
Daily driving causes your car to have dirt, salt and grime stuck to it. A good washing and wax job protects your paint from becoming faded and getting unwanted scratches on it. It also, makes the car shinny and happy and you a happy owner!
