Your vehicle is a complex machine that needs constant care to function optimally and maintain a long life span. And while some auto maintenance measures may cost you a bit of money in the short term, improved fuel efficiency and avoiding costly repair is well worth it in the long run. Here are some tips on how to take better care of your vehicle.

5 Auto Maintenance Tips For Keeping Your Car In Great Shape

1. Keep It Clean

Rust and corrosion not only make your car less beautiful, but they can also spread to other parts, requiring extensive repairs. The best way to keep your vehicle rust-free is by cleaning it thoroughly to get rid of dirt, road salts, and other substances that can damage your paint and promote rusting.

2. Have It Serviced Regularly

Skipping oil changes and other scheduled services such as tuneups or spark plug and filter replacement can hamper your engine’s performance and lead to severe issues down the line. Having your vehicle serviced is not optional, as the parts involved will inevitably get contaminated or wear down without it.

3. Check All The Fluids

The engine oil, transmission fluid, radiator coolant, and brake fluid are all essential to lubricating the parts and keeping them from overheating. Make sure to check them at least once a week to determine whether you need to replace or refill them. If you notice a pool of liquid underneath your vehicle while it is parked, bring your car to an auto maintenance shop to have it inspected for leaks.

4. Inspect Your Tires

Always inspect your tires for damages and have them inflated to the proper pressure as recommended by the car manufacturer. Properly inflated tires can improve fuel economy, road traction, riding comfort, and steering. They also put less stress on the vehicle’s suspension, which prevents the system from wearing down prematurely.

5. Pay Attention To Symptoms

If you’ve been driving your car for a while, you should be able to recognize if something is different with the way it handles, shifts gears, or accelerates. Do not disregard any changes to the way it drives, as these might be symptoms of an impending or already existing problem. Be sure to also listen for unusual noises from the engine or chassis.

Following these auto maintenance tips will help you keep your car in top shape. If you’re looking for an auto repair shop you can trust, drop by Mullanphy Tire & Automotive in Florissant, MO. They offer efficient and affordable tire rotation, oil change, engine repair, brake service, and more. Call them at (314) 921-4961 or visit their website to learn more about what they offer.