10 Car Maintenance Tips: Extend the Life of Your Car

Paying attention to your car can save you money. While most drivers in North Attleboro, MA, know that routine car maintenance is necessary for the safety of their vehicles, many of them neglect these regular checkups. As a result, cars are more likely to need work in the future because problems go undetected over time. Here are Nucar Nissan of North Attleboro's 10 car maintenance tips to get the most mileage out of your vehicle.

1.  Check Tire Pressure Once a Month
 

While many modern cars have in-dash gauges that read the tire pressure, it is easy to forget this simple task. Checking pressure once a month can help improve gas mileage and prevent the tires from going flat. Not only that, but it also helps prevent accidents. Inspecting your spare tire is also recommended. The recommended tire pressure ranges from 30 and 35 pounds per square inch (PSI).

2. Stick to a Regular Car Maintenance Schedule
 

According to 2017 research, more than 40% of vehicle maintenance customers need reactive rather than preventative care. In other words, they wait until the car breaks down to get repairs. Keeping on top of recommended services can help make a car last longer and prevent major issues down the road. Maintaining a car involves changing the oil every 3,000 to 7,500 miles and checking other fluid levels throughout the year.
 
 

3. Replace the Air Filter Every 12,000 Miles
 

Keeping the air filter clean can help improve gas mileage. A dirty filter causes the engine to work harder because it needs more power to pull in air. Not only that, but a clogged filter can also lead to problems with the car's ignition system. Replacing it once a year helps reduce emissions and improve the car's performance. 
 
 

4. Rotate Your Tires Every 5,000 Miles
 

It is important to rotate your car's tires every 5,000 miles. Not only can this help your tires last longer, but it also ensures that wear and tear is evenly distributed. To rotate and balance your tires, take your car into Nucar Nissan of North Attleboro in North Attleboro, MA, so you can get exactly what your car needs.

5. Wash Your Car Every Few Weeks
 

While you might think that washing the car is a hassle, it's the simplest way to keep up with regular car maintenance. Dirt and debris are abrasive, which can wear down the car's exterior over time. Washing your car every few weeks ensures the paint job will last. Additionally, it also makes scratches less visible, which can lead to higher resale value.

6. Keep the Interior Clean
 

Every time you drive in North Attleboro, MA, and anywhere else, dirt and debris accumulate in your car's interior. While most people clean it every few months, it is a good idea to do so more often. Not only can cleaning the inside of your car help you spot problems early on but doing so also helps extend the life of the upholstery.

7.  Test Your Battery Twice a Year
 

The battery is one of the most important parts of a car. Not only does it help make driving safer, but it also powers electrical components in the vehicle. 
 
 

It is a good idea to test it twice a year and replace it every three to four years:
 

Check the battery cables – The battery cables are an important part of the car's electrical system, so it is essential to check them regularly.
Look for corrosion – If the battery has corrosion on it, be sure to clean it off. Corrosion can cause your car's electrical system to short circuit, which puts the engine at risk of catching fire.

8. Replace the Brake Pads and Rotors
 

The brake pads and rotors can wear down over time. To ensure they keep working properly, replace them every 50,000 miles. Check the brake fluid as well, and keep an eye out for leaks. 
 
 

9. Use the Manufacturer's Oil
 

The oil your car needs depends on the manufacturer's specifications, so be sure to follow them to the letter. Using the right oil can help increase gas mileage and reduce emissions. It is also crucial to change the oil every 3,000 to 5,000 miles and check other fluid levels throughout the year.
 
 

10. Avoid Using the Reserve Fuel Tank
 

Using the reserve fuel tank when driving around North Attleboro, MA is dangerous for several reasons. For one, it doesn't hold very much gas and can run out in the middle of traffic. Not only is this dangerous for you, but it can also lead to serious accidents. Therefore, be sure to refill the tank whenever you can and stay fuel-conscious when on a long trip. 

Extend the Life of Your Vehicle With Regular Car Maintenance
 

By taking the proper steps to maintain your car, you can ensure it lasts as long as possible. Maintaining a car is not only crucial for safety, but it is also good for resale value. Visit our website for more information on all the great service deals available through Boch Nissan in North Attleboro, MA.
Source: blog