Some Car Repairs Can Be Avoided

Doesn’t it seem like car repairs happen at the worst times? Who has a few hundred dollars just lying around the house? Can you pull the cash out of your pocket and hand it over without a sweat? If you are like most of us, you can’t; that’s why knowing how to avoid car repairs is one of the biggest favors you can do for yourself. 

You rely on your car to get you to and from your destination without incident. No one wants to be running late to the office only to slide behind the wheel and see that battery light or a flat tire. It happens to all of us at some point.

How you care for your vehicle has a lot to do with whether or not it provides transportation when needed. It makes a difference when you know how to prevent as many issues as possible.

Your car is an intricate machine, and it will inevitably need repairs at some point. However, educating yourself on how to keep your car running smoothly is a step in the right direction.

Here are a few suggestions:

Change Your Oil And Filter Regularly

• Maintaining clean oil is vital for a properly functioning engine. When oil is not changed regularly, the engine can overheat, resulting in expensive repairs. Therefore, depending on the make and model of your vehicle, you should change your oil and filter every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. 
• Clean air filters make engines run more efficiently – so change your air filter. It’s easy to remember if you have it changed at the same time you get your oil changed.

Check Your Tires 

• Rotating your tires every 6,000 miles is a simple yet effective way to avoid some car repairs.
• Not only can rotating your tires save you money in the long run, but it can also help ensure your car runs safely.
• Getting even wear out of your tires will help them last longer. 
• Check your tire pressure regularly.
• Underinflated or overinflated tires can cause premature wear and tear on your tires and other problems, such as decreased fuel economy.

Keep Your Car Clean

• A clean car is a healthier car. Dirt and grime can cause problems with your vehicle’s engine, cooling system, and other components.
• Washing your car will help to prevent rust and corrosion, which can lead to more expensive repairs down the road.
• That goes for the inside as well! Your car is not a rolling garbage can; keep it clean to avoid dust that can clog the air filter and cause problems with the cooling system and other components.

Inspect Your Car Regularly 

• Inspecting your car regularly for signs of wear and tear is essential. 
• Check for any leaks, loose belts, or burned-out headlights, and have them repaired as soon as possible. By catching issues early, you can prevent costly repairs down the road. 

Be Aware of Your Driving 

• Avoiding sudden braking, acceleration, and turning helps your brakes last longer. For example, sudden braking can cause your brake pads to wear out faster, while sudden acceleration can strain your engine and transmission. 
• Traffic laws are in place for a reason. Accidents do happen, but avoiding speeding can help keep you safe and your car out of the shop.

Find a Reliable Repair Shop

If you need to have your car repaired, choosing a reputable mechanic is wise. Ask your friends and family for recommendations, or do some research online. Be sure to get multiple estimates before having the work done, and ensure the mechanic is licensed and insured.

Car repairs can be expensive, but by following these tips, you can help to avoid many of them. By choosing a reputable mechanic such as Complete Auto Service of Ann Arbor, you can ensure that your car is repaired professionally and safely.

Additional tips for avoiding auto repairs include:

• Drive carefully.
• Don’t ignore warning lights; they are there for a reason. You can’t always see what’s happening inside your vehicle, so if a warning light comes on, have it checked out by a mechanic as soon as possible.
• Don’t overload your car.
• A heavy load can strain your car’s engine and transmission.
• Park your car in a safe place; avoid parking in areas where your vehicle is at risk of being hit or vandalized.

Following these tips helps you do your part to keep your car in good condition. Even so, machines do occasionally break down, and as with all machines, there are times when you need the help of an expert to get your car running again. The trick is finding a skilled mechanic who fixes it right the first time.

At Complete Auto Service of Ann Arbor, we employ only top-notch certified mechanics who understand your need to get back on the road. That’s why there’s no waiting line, only fast service. Many repairs can be completed right away. 

Photo on Unsplash In collaboration with Wesley Tingey

Winter is knocking on the door, so please don’t take chances; bring your car in today, or call and make an appointment for car maintenance and make it part of your routine. It can make all the difference between arriving at your destination on time or waiting for a tow.