Owning a vehicle is extremely important and, honestly, it shouldn’t be for everybody. If you can’t properly take care of your vehicle at all times, you shouldn’t be behind the wheel. Obviously, that’s not the case, but you can at least educate yourself on what to do and how to become a better car owner. Even if you don’t know how to perform various repairs or maintenance tasks, you can always take your vehicle to a reputable auto shop for assistance. The key is knowing when to get your car fixed.
Researchers have estimated that approximately 77% of vehicles on the road today are actually in need of maintenance and repairs. Here are some frequently asked questions pertaining to vehicle ownership and proper auto maintenance:
- When should I rotate and balance my tires? — The majority of auto manufacturers recommend having all four of your tires rotated and balanced at least once every 7,000 miles.
- When should I change my oil? — Whether you’re doing it yourself or taking it to a car service shop, it’s best to have your oil changed at least once every 5,000 to 7,000 miles. For older vehicles, you should have your oil inspected every three months or after driving 3,000 miles. Keep in mind, you need to have your oil filter inspected and potentially replaced as well. Even if you’re changing your oil when it’s necessary, if your oil filter is damaged, your car is in serious jeopardy.
- When should I replace my power steering fluid? — It’s recommended that you replace your power steering fluid every five years or when it reaches 50,000 miles. Doing this will prolong the life of your vehicle’s power steering and reduce the risk of expensive repair jobs. Again, if you’re unsure of how to successfully replace your power steering fluid yourself, you can always head to a skilled auto shop for professional assistance.
If you want to learn more about how to better care for your vehicle; or are in need of professional glass repair, your oil filter changed, or power steering assistance, contact Grease Monkey Idaho today!