Are you concerned about the accuracy of your car maintenance? After all, every time you take your car in for a service or repair, you’re spending hard-earned money.
So why not do the best you can to avoid errors? Believe it or not, errors in auto care happen more often than you might think. You can protect yourself from these with a bit of knowledge.
Keep reading for our guide to common errors in car maintenance and how to avoid them!
1. Skipping Oil Changes
One often overlooked mistake is skipping timely oil changes. Although car manufacturers often suggest changing the oil every 3,000 miles, certain modern cars can actually go significantly longer before a change is necessary.
Missing oil changes due to either negligence or ignorance can lead to major engine problems. Taking the time to understand what needs to be done and then following through on maintenance can keep your car running smoothly and safely.
2. Not Inspecting the Brakes
One of the most common mistakes when it comes to vehicle maintenance is not regularly inspecting the brakes. Without regular car inspections, it can be hard to detect any wear and tear which can lead to squealing, jerking, or shuddering when braking.
If the brakes are left unchecked, it can lead to a potential accident or more serious damage to the car. It is important to inspect your brakes and brake pads every six months or after any long trips.
When inspecting the brakes, be sure to check for uneven wear, listen for any grinding noises, and look for any fluid leaks. You should also replace your brake pads every 25,000 to 30,000 miles.
Regular maintenance and inspection is the key to making sure your brakes last longer and perform properly, keeping you and your passengers safe on the road.
3. Not Checking Fluids Other Than Oil
Regularly checking all vehicle fluids, such as transmission, brake, and coolant in addition to oil, is essential for ensuring your car is running safely and efficiently. Not checking these fluids can lead to overheating, transmission failure, and brake problems.
To avoid this mistake, you need to understand how often these other fluids should be checked. Consult your owner’s manual, which explains the schedule for all car fluids, or ask a mechanic for guidance.
4. Neglecting to Replace the Oil Filter
An oil filter is responsible for trapping contaminants and particles within the oil. A clogged or dirty filter will do the opposite, leading to fouled spark plugs, buildup of contaminants in the engine, and decreased fuel efficiency.
To avoid these problems, make sure to replace your oil filter in accordance with the maintenance schedule and when your car has been drained of oil. Invest in a good quality filter, seek professional help if needed, and thoroughly clean the area around the filter after installation.
Checking the filter regularly can help you spot any potential issues early on. Remember that a clean oil filter can help your car run smoothly and save you money in the long run.
5. Failing to Check the Tire Pressure Levels
Too often drivers neglect to check the air pressure in their tires, leaving their vehicles at risk for compromised fuel efficiency, increased wear and tear, and decreased safety. Tires have a minimum and maximum safe level of inflation, which should be checked every month with an accurate tire pressure gauge. This can be done at home, for free, with no special tools.
Additionally, the specified pressure levels for each vehicle are printed on a placard located on the door frame, glove box, fuel door, or inside of the owner’s manual. Avoiding common tire maintenance errors can be as simple as checking the tire pressure once a month.
6. Forgetting to Check the Belts for Signs of Wear
Belts play a critical role in many vehicle systems, including the electrical system, engine performance, air conditioning, and the power steering system. If left unchecked, worn belts can cause stress on the vehicle’s driving system, meaning it will require more money for repairs.
To avoid this common error, ensure that all vehicle belts are examined and replaced regularly as recommended by the manufacturer. Look for signs of cracks, glazing, fraying, or hardening of any of the belts.
When in doubt, it is better to replace the belt than risk the more costly repairs that can result when the belts fail. Having an experienced and certified Subaru repair specialist regularly work on your vehicle can help keep you safe on the road and mitigate any errors that can come with attempting repairs on your own
7. Driving on Balding Tires
Driving on bald tires reduces traction and braking power, which can lead to dangerous driving conditions especially during wet or icy weather. To avoid this mistake, check your tires monthly for signs of wear, including visible balding and cracking on the sidewalls.
You should also check for any damage such as bulges on the side of the tire which can indicate an underlying issue. Have your tires rotated and balanced according to your vehicle’s specifications and stay up to date on any potential recalls from the manufacturer.
8. Ignoring Dashboard Warning Lights
One of the most common mistakes concerning car maintenance is ignoring dashboard warning lights. If one of these lights comes on in your car, it is your car’s way of telling you that something is wrong and requires attention.
It is important to address what the light is telling you as soon as possible in order to prevent any further damage. The longer you wait to attend to the issue, the more expensive it can get.
If your warning light turns on, chances are there’s a problem with your vehicle and an appropriate measure needs to be taken. The best way to avoid this issue entirely is to make sure you get your car regular checkups with a qualified mechanic to make sure everything is running properly from the start.
Learn and Avoid Errors in Car Maintenance Starting Today
Maintaining your car is an important part of safe driving and owning a vehicle. Common errors in car maintenance can be avoided with regular maintenance and repair.
By staying up to date with your car care needs, you’ll be able to extend its life and avoid unnecessary car maintenance costs. Make sure to check your car’s maintenance schedule and tackle any issues as they occur.
