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Avoid These Three Common Car Maintenance Mistakes This Spring

Car Maintenance in DallasEven the most careful car owner sometimes makes mistakes that can negatively affect the well being of their vehicle for years to come. As the weather warms up and you find a little extra energy, consider taking the time to make sure you are not making these three common car maintenance mistakes.

Not Checking Your Tire Pressure

Did you know that tires can be improperly inflated even when they look perfectly fine? Some changes in tire pressure are imperceptible to the human eye. Although tires with low pressure may not always blow out, by forgetting to check your tire pressure, you are taking an unnecessary risk and negatively affecting your fuel economy. This is especially important to consider as the weather warms up. Tires lose pressure in cold weather, so you may find that your tires need air after a few months of cold nights, even in sunny Plano, Texas.

Skipping Oil Changes

Many first time car owners are surprised with how often they need to bring their car to the mechanic. Most car owners go to the mechanic three or four times a year just for oil changes. Although it may seem like a drain on your time and money, oil changes are a simple way to make sure your car runs in top condition for as long as possible. Motor oil helps cool the engine and keep it from overheating. Without motor oil, your engine could seize up and die. When oil sits in the engine for too long, the oil will break down and leave deposits of sludge in the engine, damaging the engine permanently. Routine oil changes ensure that you can avoid costly engine repairs and the stress of a dead engine in the busy streets of Dallas, Texas.

Not Rotating Tires or Adjusting Wheel Alignment

Unlike oil changes, tire rotations and wheel alignment occur less frequently and can be easy to overlook. Tires need to be rotated every 5,000-10,000 miles, depending on the make of the car, while wheel alignments occur when routine checks show the tires are misaligned. Keeping track of your tire rotations will ensure your tires last for as long as possible, as front tires wear faster than rear tires. Additionally, a wheel alignment will guarantee your tires tread evenly. Wheels naturally become misaligned over time through natural wear and tear, uneven road conditions, and car accidents. Keep up with your scheduled maintenance and your wallet will thank you in the end.