Your vehicle is essential to daily life, and breakdowns, flat tires, and other problems can throw off your entire schedule. Fortunately, many car issues are entirely avoidable. Following a few maintenance steps will prevent problems that could leave your car out of commission for a few days or longer. So you can avoid headaches in the future, below are a few tips mechanics want you to follow now. 

How to Keep Your Car in Top Condition

1. Don’t Throw Away the Owner’s Manual

From troubleshooting common vehicle issues to determining proper tire pressure, your owner’s manual is a wealth of knowledge. If the car malfunctions or needs regular upkeep, it might be difficult to navigate the intricate network of parts if you’ve thrown out the reference guide. To take the stress out of car care, keep the owner’s manual somewhere you can find it easily, such as the glove box. When you take the vehicle to a mechanic, bring the manual along. Technicians can use it as a resource for servicing your particular make and model. 

2. Check Fluid Levels Once a Month

From engine coolant to oil, several fluids run through your car and keep mechanical components lubricated, prevent engine overheating, and serve additional functions to ensure your car remains healthy. Dirt, rust, and additional contaminants can render the fluids ineffective. Check the brake, transmission, and engine fluids monthly to ensure they’re at the proper levels. 

3. Change Oil Regularly

Changing the oil on a routine schedule will improve gas mileage, as it ensures the engine remains lubricated so less fuel is consumed. In the past, many mechanics recommended changing oil every three months or 3,000 miles. However, newer vehicles are more efficient, which means the oil can often be changed between 5,000 and 10,000 miles. 

4. Conduct a Battery Test

Temperature and age have a major impact on battery performance. With proper installation, equipment is expected to last between three and five years. Driving in excessive heat can lower the life expectancy, however. To reduce the likelihood of roadside breakdowns, have a mechanic test the battery at the three-year point and annually after that. 

5. Examine Windshield Wiper Blades

From seasonal rainstorms to heavy snowfall, certain weather conditions make it difficult to see the road. If the windshield wipers don’t work, it will be even harder to view anything in your path. To improve driver safety, examine the wipers for signs of damage and replace the blades if needed. 

If you experience car troubles on the road, the professionals at Ron's Service & Towing in Fairbanks, AK, are standing by to help in a jam. The towing specialists will take your vehicle to their in-house mechanics for the necessary auto repairs. They’ll also provide tips for driving safely on Alaska’s roads. To learn more about towing and roadside assistance services available in the Fairbanks area, call (907) 456-4224, or visit the company online for details.