Your car is an important investment that maintains the rhythm of your daily life. In order to extend its longevity and keep your vehicle running smoothly, preventative auto maintenance is a priority. While tasks like oil changes and tire rotations might seem like expenses you can put off, they also help drivers avoid inconvenient (and pricey) auto repairs down the road. Here are some aspects of car care that all drivers should and shouldn’t do to their vehicles. 

Do:

Change the oil regularly.

Motor oil is the lifeblood of your engine and is essential for your car’s smooth operation. Most cars will need an oil change done every 5,000 to 7,000 miles. When this crucial part of auto maintenance is skipped and your oil begins to age, your car will begin to run sluggishly. Your engine is also at risk for overheating, since oil helps dissipate the heat of your engine. 

Change the air filters.

Just like your HVAC unit, your car also has an air filter that needs to be changed regularly. The filter catches contaminants and debris before they make their way into your engine and impact your vehicle’s performance. In newer cars, drivers should also change their cabin air filters, which catch contaminants before they make their way into the air that you breathe while driving.

Don’t:

Ignore your check engine light.

When something goes amiss with your car’s engine, a warning light will become illuminated on your dashboard. Many drivers ignore this “check engine” light because they believe it’s either become triggered for no reason or because they don’t want to deal with a costly repair. However, ignoring this warning light can be dangerous for your vehicle. If you allow the issue to go unaddressed for a long period of time, it can quickly become worse. 

Attempt a DIY fix.

Certain types of auto maintenance and repairs, such as changing your air filters or topping off your fluids, can be easy to tackle by any industrious driver. Other tasks, such as changing your car’s brakes or spark plugs when you’re not sure how, can be dangerous to handle on your own. If you’re even a little hesitant about performing one of these tasks, leave it to an expert.

Keep your car running in tip-top condition by bringing it to the auto repair experts at GSBP Automotive in Gulf Shores, AL. For nearly 30 years, they’ve provided quality auto maintenance and repairs for residents throughout the region. They’re proud to offer affordable rates that enable you to get your vehicle fixed quickly. Learn more about their auto services online or by calling (251) 968-7456 today.