We know we talk about it a lot here at J&S Auto Repair, but preventative maintenance really does give you the most out of your vehicle. Not only can you count on the safety and reliability of the vehicle all the time, but you can also save money. You’ll get a longer life out of your vehicle, and a properly maintained automobile gets better gas mileage consistently, saving you money at the gas station. Here are some maintenance solutions that just make sense.
Make Sure You Have Any Dash Lights Checked Out
It’s tempting to ignore those dashboard warning lights, especially if you just want to plan your day and get on the way. It’s worth having any dashboard warning lights checked out right away, however. If you don’t verify that it’s not something serious, you run the risk of getting stranded roadside.
Verify Your Brakes Are in Good Working Order
We cannot overstate how important your brakes are to your safety. If you hear any odd noises, such as squealing or grinding, or smell hot rubber or chemicals when you apply the brakes, it’s a good idea to get them checked out immediately. Seriously. If your brakes overheat, they will fail.
Get Your Battery Tested and Make Sure it’s Still Good
Another key component is your car’s battery, and depending on its age, it might be time to replace it or face a dead battery. It’s really easy for a mechanic to test your battery for you to verify that all is well. If you’ve got a battery light shining on in your dashboard, this is even more important.
Double Check Your Tires for Pressure and Tread
Once a week, check that all of your tires have the correct pressure, including your spare tire. Do the penny test with your tires, too. Hold a penny upside down in the groove of the tread. If you can see all of Abe’s head, the tread is too worn to be safe and it’s time for your car to get a new set.
Don’t Ignore Any Hints from Your Transmission
How about your transmission? Are you hearing noises or feeling your car lurch or jerk when you or it shifts gears? If so, there might be something going on with your transmission. Ignoring those signs could put you in a bad position later if your transmission goes out.
Contact J&S Auto Repair for all of your vehicle’s preventative maintenance needs. We are located in Warwick, RI, and we can make sure you’re ready to travel safely each and every day.
