Under the Hood - Maintenance Tips

Preventative maintenance will prolong the life of your vehicle, as well as reduce the chances of an unexpected breakdown during a time of need. Following basic car maintenance tips can help you get the most out of your vehicle.


New Year’s Resolutions for Your Car

by Chris Garman, General Manager

With the current state of the economy, chances are you may not be shopping for a new car this year. So, now more than ever, it’s important that you take the steps to maintain your current vehicle. Sure, you may have a list already: loose a few pounds, give up a bad habit--but we’ve got a few car care resolutions for the new year that are easy to keep. By taking the steps to keep your car ‘healthy’ now, you’ll be ensuring a safer ride for you and your family, and hopefully avoiding a possible total breakdown in the future. Keep this list handy to check off throughout the year.

tire

#1 Check tire pressure often,

since tire pressures change with outdoor temperatures. Here in Arizona the temperature can fluctuate by up to 100 degrees in only a few short months. Adjust tires pressures as necessary, and make sure that your tires are rotated to extend tire life.

#2 Have your brakes checked when you get your tires rotated,

or sooner if you notice anything unusual while braking (noise, vibration, increased stopping distance). Worn brakes can be hazardous to your health and the health of other motorists – not to mention the health of your car.


#3 Visibility is important

– if there is anything preventing you from seeing clearly out of your vehicle, now is the time to do something about it. Replace worn or streaking wiper blades, replace cracked or damaged windshield, and get rid of faded or bubbled window tint. Since it is also important for you, make sure all lights (headlamps, turn signals, brake lamps, etc) are functioning correctly. And don’t forget to remove that old rear license plate frame if it covers up the word Arizona at the top of your plate.

#4 Check all fluids regularly

and have them changed if dirty, low, or otherwise contaminated. Actually, its best to change them BEFORE the damage occurs. The chemicals in the fluids your vehicle uses do break down over time, and although this breakdown may not be visible, it can still contribute to unnecessary wear and tear on your car. If you have any questions about the maintenance of your vehicle’s fluids, check your owner’s guide.

#5 Rubber hates heat, both heat from the engine and heat from the outside.

Check all rubber components (belts, hoses, wiper blades, etc.) at every oil change and have replaced immediate if they’re damaged or at the end of their useful life. 6) Have your vehicle’s charging and electrical systems checked at least once this year – no one likes having a dead battery, and often, a dead battery is an indication of a larger problem. Have it checked professionally and replaced if necessary.

#6 Follow Your Car's Maintenance Schedule

Check your owner's manual for your car's maintenance schedule. In most cases, scheduled maintenance is required at 30,000 miles, 45,000 miles, 60,000 miles and so on.

And remember, Wilhelm Automotive Service Centers offer free Vehicle Safety Checks because a properly maintained vehicle is a safer vehicle.