What kind of regular maintenance does my vehicle require?

Whether you’re a first-time car owner or not, knowing what kind of regular maintenance your vehicle requires is a must. Not everything needs service at the same time, but learning more about your vehicle will increase its performance and life. The best way to know how frequently you need which service is to either check your owner’s manual or consult a technician. From there, you’ll be able to determine how often to perform different types of maintenance.

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Oil, Filters, and Coolant

Your vehicle uses several different types of fluids to run properly. One of the most important is your motor oil since it needs to be changed most frequently. Depending on your car’s age, you’ll typically need to change the oil between 3,000 and 5,000 miles, or at least twice a year. This service includes changing your oil and air filters to keep dirt and debris out of your engine.

Tires

Old, bald, or low-pressure tires are dangerous and the cause of countless accidents on the road. Routinely check your tread depth and air pressure, replace tires when necessary, and have them rotated so they wear evenly. Don’t forget to check your spare while you’re at it.

Alignment

Alignment keeps your car running safely. Poor alignment makes your vehicle rough to handle and wears your tires unevenly, which could cost you more down the line. Have your alignment checked as often as you’d change your oil.

Transmission

Transmission fluid works like the oil in your engine to keep things lubricated and operating smoothly. Like motor oil, transmission fluid can get sludgy and full of debris, which affects your transmission’s efficiency. While it doesn’t need to be changed as often, keep record and have it changed every few years.

Spark Plugs

Spark plugs are what keep electrical power running throughout your vehicle. If you feel that your engine isn’t as powerful as usual, the solution could be as simple as replacing a spark plug.

Battery

If you’ve ever tried to start your car and nothing happens, it’s probably the battery. Frequently testing your battery’s performance can prevent that from happening and can help you ensure that your vehicle will start when you need it to.

Other

Since every car is different, yours might require different types of maintenance. For example, hybrid vehicles require the same type and frequency of maintenance as gas vehicles, but electric cars usually need it less frequently. Or maybe you have an older vehicle that burns through oil faster than a newer one would. When in doubt, read over your owner’s manual thoroughly and consult an expert with any questions.

Car Maintenance and Service at San Jose Mitsubishi

San Jose Mitsubishi provides regular vehicle maintenance and service for our customers in Sacramento, Roseville, San Jose, and all the surrounding areas. Contact us for your vehicle maintenance Monday-Friday at your convenience.

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