Annual Care Car Maintenance Tips

When each new year starts, most people think about diets and their goals for the next 365 days. But what about your car’s annual maintenance? Many of us use our car almost non-stop for work, errands, appointments and road trips. Don’t take your vehicle for granted, keep your car, truck, minivan or SUV running smoothly with a few car maintenance tips from Gardner Auto Parts.

Check & Change Your Car’s Oil Regularly

All engines require lubrication to keep them running smoothly. Make it a point to check your oil levels monthly. Oil does get dirty, so schedule a routine oil change or change it yourself. Check YouTube for How-To videos or make an appointment with your mechanic or quick lube location to get the oil and oil filter changed.

You should aim to change your oil every 5,000 miles but certain factors can affect that number. How often yours needs changing depends on the type of vehicle you own, how many miles you drive, type of driving and type of oil (regular vs synthetic).

Your Car’s Important Fluids

Oil isn’t the only important fluid that should be checked or changed on a schedule. Maintaining your coolant, brake and transmission fluid will protect the other important functions of your automotive. If you don’t work on your own car, always check with your dealer, mechanic or owner’s manual to find out how often these fluids should be changed.

DIY Tire Inspection

If you’re like most people, we barely even glance at our tires. Making it a point to check tire pressure and the tread for wear or damage may help your tires last longer. You can also avoid costly repairs if you get any wobbles or vibrations checked because it may mean your suspension is out of alignment or a part is failing. Don’t forget to check your brake pads and drums to see if they need to be replaced, too.

Schedule Routine Maintenance for Your Vehicle

If you are unable to maintain your car, truck, van or SUV yourself, it’s wise to bring it in for a good check-up. Just like going to the doctor, your car can benefit from having everything from the brakes to the transmission fluid checked. Most dealerships and automotive shops will make a list, or an estimate, of everything that needs your attention and its cost. It’s always a good idea to make necessary repairs to avoid breaking down or permanently damaging your engine. If finances are an issue, you can always buy quality recycled car parts for repairs, like the ones Gardner Auto Parts sells.

When in doubt, check your manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule for proper upkeep.

Change Your Wiper Blades

Bad wiper blades are easily overlooked until that surprise thunderstorm hits while you’re driving to work. They should be changed at least every 6 months or more, depending on how often you use them. This is an easy inspection you can do yourself. Most windshield wipers are easy to change on your own but some auto parts stores will swap them out for free. Don’t forget to refill the wiper fluid!

Make Sure Your Lights Work

Avoid a dangerous situation by making it a point to examine your exterior lights. At some point, headlights, blinkers and tail lights will fail. Before you cause an accident because of a lighting issue, get that burnt out or broken light replaced.

Clean Your Car

In this busy world, it can be difficult to make time for things that seem insignificant, like car washes. Keeping your car clean will help prevent premature paint damage. Regular baths, vacuuming and detailing your auto will also help maintain its value.

Find Quality Used Replacement Parts for Your Car at Our Trusted Salvage Yard

Gardner Auto Parts is committed to helping local and long-distance customers repair and maintain their European and Japanese vehicles by providing affordable parts. For over 50 years, they have offered quality used engines, suspensions, auto glass, light covers and so much more. They are also a great resource for discontinued and OEM parts.

If you are looking for a specific part for your foreign import car, truck, van or SUV or just need some friendly automotive advice, look no further than Gardner Auto Parts. Our friendly staff is available at 954-972-9407 or you can visit our shop located just off Powerline Road at 2090 NW 231st Street, Pompano Beach, FL

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