As a car owner, there's a lot you can do to keep your vehicle in top shape. Regular maintenance and auto services mean your car will last longer and need fewer emergency repairs. Here are some basic maintenance tips to help you establish an effective routine.

How to Care for Your Vehicle

1. Clean It Thoroughly

Dirt and smudges do more than make your car look bad. Mud, dirt, and road salt clinging to the vehicle can encourage rust and create scratches, while dirty glass lowers visibility, making driving harder and less safe. Wash your car about every two weeks or whenever it's dirty, and detail it about every four to six months. Cleaning your car is also a convenient opportunity to inspect it up close.

2. Keep a Schedule

You should take your car in for an auto diagnostic and repair whenever your inspection turns up an issue you can't solve. However, you should also have scheduled visits, even when the car seems fine. You need an oil change every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, tire rotation and balancing about every 6,000 to 8,000 miles, and a general tune-up every 25,000 miles.

3. Inspect Your Car

Every week or two, you should check the parts of your car that are most likely to need maintenance or a visit to the auto repair shop. When the vehicle is cold, meaning it hasn't been driven for at least three hours, check the tire pressure on all four tires. Look at the fluids such as the oil and coolant and make sure each reservoir is topped up, and the fluid doesn't appear dirty. Look over the belts to see if they're cracked, worn, or loose. Hold the air filter up to the light; if you can't see daylight through it, it needs to be changed. Then, while driving the car, pay attention to any problems with the air conditioning, brakes, lights, and ignition.

If you need help with vehicle maintenance, schedule your auto service at Dirk's Auto Repair in Lincoln, NE. Serving Lancaster County since 1995, they have made the Better Business Bureau's honor roll year after year for their reliable and trustworthy service. If you're a student, a senior, or a member of the military, ask about their 5% discount. Call (402) 466-6010 or get in touch online to schedule auto service.