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The best way to limit breakdowns is by scheduling regular car maintenance at an auto repair shop. Although skipping this routine is tempting, it’s more cost-effective because small issues could lead to expensive repairs. To ensure your vehicle runs as smoothly as possible, below are a few tips to help.

Do:

Check the air pressure in your tires.

Maintaining proper tire inflation will provide a quicker steering response, longer life of the tires, a smoother ride, and better fuel efficiency. Over or underinflated tires cause similar problems, mainly premature treadwear and increasing the risk of a blowout. 

To properly check the pressure, use a pressure gauge on each of the four tires and fill them to the pounds per square inch (PSI) that your owner’s manual recommends.

Replace the air filter once per year.

An air filter connects to the engine’s intake manifold. Its primary function is to filter outside debris from the air, so the engine can create a safe and clean explosion when mixing the gas in your tank. A dirty air filter will cause your engine to run inefficiently, reduce its life, and produce more emissions.

You should change your filter once every 12 months or 12,000 miles, whichever comes first. To change the air filter, locate the black box sitting on the top or side of the engine, and open it. Remove the dirty filter and replace it with a new one.

Don’t:

Neglect to change the oil.

auto repairIf you don’t change your oil regularly, the engine will become too hot and run less efficiently. Since clean oil is necessary to lubricate the engine, it could shut down if thickening oil and sediment accumulate. 

Replacing your engine can cost thousands of dollars, while an oil change is cost-effective, and auto repair shops can quickly perform it. Generally, you should change your oil every 3,000 miles—unless otherwise specified by your owner’s manual—to ensure your engine works efficiently. 

Use certain cleaning agents.

Only use car-specific cleaning agents on your vehicle at all times. Typical household cleaners contain chemicals that could strip paint off the exterior. For example, ammonia causes yellowing and cracking on windshields because most car windows are plastic, not glass.

 

If your car requires regular auto repair or maintenance from a trustworthy source, make an appointment with Mullanphy Tire & Automotive in Florissant, MO, today. For over 30 years, their certified auto mechanics have provided customers with multiple auto repair solutions, including oil and air filter changes. View their services on the website, or schedule an appointment by calling (314) 921-4961.

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