Getting Back to the Basics of Car Care

Ongoing care and maintenance of your vehicle does not have to be complicated. Just like we keep ourselves fit with regular exercise, there are things you can do to keep your vehicle running smoothly and safely. In this article, we cover some basic steps you can implement in your routine to proactively maintain your vehicle. There’s a simple way to remember the important things that you need to keep in shape with your vehicle – (1) Oil, (2) Water, (3) Air, and (4) Light.  If you focus on those four aspects, you will address the majority of maintenance items. Read on for more information.

Maintenance Tip 1:  Oil

Your engine’s oil is such an important component of your vehicle’s operation.  Oil is what lubricates your engine parts and keeps them from seizing up.  Oil also provides a barrier for temperature control to hot engine parts.

Today’s options for oil vary from conventional motor oil to synthetics.  It is best to consult with your vehicle’s owner’s manual to determine the best type of oil to use.  Keep in mind that conventional oil needs to be replaced more often while synthetics are designed to stay cleaner and last longer, but cost a little more than conventional.

Add these tips to your maintenance schedule:

• Check your oil level every few weeks and add any necessary oil.
• Watch for signs of oil leaks underneath the front of your vehicle.
• Depending on your vehicle and the type of oil you use, it is advisable to check your oil every 5,000 to 7,000 miles.

Maintenance Tip 2:  Water

Your vehicle has other fluids besides oil.  We are using the term “water” generically for other fluids.

Add these tips to your maintenance schedule:

• Check and replenish your windshield washer fluid once a month.
• Check and replenish your anti-freeze/coolant every few months.
• If you experience any possible brake or transmission issues, consider having your brake and transmission fluid checked by a professional. 

Maintenance Tip 3:  Air

Your tires are an important component that keep your vehicle safely on the road.  Tires can easily lose air as a result of temperature changes, or slow leaks due to damage.

Add these tips to your maintenance schedule:

• Check your tire pressure once a month, especially during seasonal changes. Make sure that the tire pressure is properly inflated to match the vehicle and tire specifications.
• When checking tire pressure, check your treads for wear and tear. Regular tire rotations can help keep your tread wear even.

Maintenance Tip 4:  Light

Your vehicle’s interior and exterior lights are important for driver safety.  Sometimes these lights may burn out or be shorted by a bad fuse.

Add these tips to your maintenance schedule:

• Check your head and tail lamps every few months to ensure that they are working properly, including your “brights”. Test brake and reverse lights as well.
• Interior light issues can be the result of a bad fuse. If you have interior lights that are out, check and replace any fuses.
• Pay attention to any dashboard lights that are warning you about vehicle systems. Learn about the different warning indicators for your vehicle. Ignoring early signs of a problem usually only leads to bigger expenses in the end.

Keeping your vehicle running safety and smoothly does not require you to be a professional mechanic.  Stay alert to signs and symptoms that your vehicle may be telling you about potential problems.  Keep an ongoing schedule of the four simple maintenance items – Oil, Water, Air, and Light and you will not only save money but have peace of mind that your vehicle is in good working condition.

One last note – Feel free to call us when those service reminder displays come up on the dash.  Sometimes the displays show “Due for Service B” or “Inspection II” (or even worse A5 due). We can help take the confusion out of what may be required.

Contact Shade Tree Garage in Morristown, NJ, to schedule your next vehicle maintenance appointment.