The joy of getting your first car is hard to beat, whether it’s inherited, refurbished, or brand new. After the initial excitement, however, many first-time car owners may be unsure of how to best take care of their new vehicle. If you recently got a new car, here are a few basic do’s and don’ts of auto maintenance. 

Do:

Change wiper blades every 6 to 12 months.

In most cases, windshield wiper blades need to be replaced every 6-12 months to maintain clear visibility during rain and snow. You may need to replace them sooner if you notice visible cracks or tears, or if there is squeaking, smearing, or streaking during use. If you don’t do this simple auto maintenance step, it will be hard to see ice, large puddles, even people and other cars during inclement weather, which can result in an accident.

Rotate your tires every 5,000 to 10,000 miles.

Your front and rear tires will wear down differently depending on the type of drive (front-wheel, rear-wheel, or all-wheel drive) you have. To ensure your ride is both smooth and safe, you should have your tires rotated by the professionals at an auto maintenance company. Regular rotations will also extend the life of your tires, so you won’t have to replace them as often.

Don’t:

Forget to change your oil twice a year.

Getting an oil change is an essential part of keeping your car running smoothly. Oil helps lubricate your engine and prevents your engine from overheating and breaking down. In the past, it was recommended to get an oil change every 3 months (or 3,000 miles), but most newer engines are more efficient and don’t need the oil changed as often. Check your owner’s manual for the recommendation for your specific make and model. When you go to have the oil changed, the mechanic should leave a sticker on the inside windshield with the suggested date of your next oil change. If not, ask for one to stay on top of schedule.

Forget to change the air filter every 12,000 miles.

As you drive, your car takes in air, dust, smog, and debris. Your car’s air filters protect your car’s interior from harmful pollutants that could damage your engine and negatively impact your driving. Have a professional change the filters so you can prolong your engine’s life and increase your fuel efficiency.

These tips will help your car run more smoothly and efficiently, but if you are having issues and need engine diagnostics, turn to the experts at Precision Import Auto Service in Saint Louis, MO. Their auto repair team has over 30 years of experience helping new and experienced drivers alike take the best care of their vehicles. Call (314) 842-1970 to schedule an appointment or visit their website to learn more about their auto maintenance services.