Proper mechanical maintenance will save costly repairs and extend the life of your vehicle. Here are a few mechanical tips:

* Always consult your owner's manual for recommended vehicle maintenance

* Have all fluids checked, including brake, power steering, transmission, windshield washer solvent and antifreeze annually.

* Rotate and balance tires every 6000 miles.

* Check alignment every 15,000 miles or once a year, especially after the 2nd year.

* Check tire inflation. Under-inflated tires can result in a loss of fuel efficiency. At least weekly.

* Keep your engine tuned. A fouled spark plug or plugged/restricted fuel injector can reduce fuel efficiency as much as 30 percent.

* Have the chassis lubricated frequently. The step extends the life of the moving components of the vehicle's suspension system.

* Check battery cables and posts for corrosion and clean them as needed.

* Have the lighting system checked frequently, including headlights, turn signals, and brake and tail lights.

* Check windshield washer blades for cracks, tears, and windshield contact. Replace them approximately once a year or sooner if streaking begins.

* Inspect engine belts regularly. Look for cracks and missing sections or segments.

* Have the air filtration system checked frequently. The air filter should be checked approximately every other oil change for clogging or damage.

* Have your oil changed per the manufacturer's recommendation. Oil is the life blood of your engine!

* Recommended regular oil change is every 3,000 miles.

* Recommended synthetic oil change is every 5,000 miles.

* Change your antifreeze every 2 years.

* Change your brake fluid every 2 years.

* Change your transmission fluid every 30,000 miles.

* Do scheduled 15, 30, 60 and 90,000 mile maintenance.

* Check for potential problems before they happen.

 

Some car manufacturers have increased their oil change intervals to as high as 30,000 miles. Do they have some secret in their engines that all other companies don’t have? No. But it sure sounds good when you’re trying to sell a $50,000 car. Some oil companies are offering lifetime guarantees on your engine, but only if you change your oil every 3,000 miles for regular oil or 5,000 miles for synthetic. So who’s right? Engineers, oil companies and top auto service technicians (who aren’t trying to sell you a car) all agree. The 3,000/5,000 rule is still the best and safest policy for your car, no matter what make or model you have. That’s what they do on their own cars and that’s what you should do too.