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Caring For Your Vehicle Saves Money

Vehicle Maintenance in Dallas, TXYour car or truck is one of the largest investments you will make, and you want to keep the cost of operation manageable. Routine expenses, such as repairs, insurance, and gasoline, may be outside your control most times, but you can take some steps to keep your vehicle running efficiently. An engine that runs efficiently not only saves you in gasoline costs, but also experiences less “wear and tear” that may shorten the life of the engine. Following these recommendations ensures that you have a reliable mode of transportation for many years rather than needing to trade in your vehicle every few years.

Good Driving Habits

How you drive your vehicle affects how long the engine and other components will last. If you get on the gas a little too much, take the vehicle over terrain that it was not designed for or slam on the brakes at every stop light, you may see more repair bills and lower fuel efficiency than owners who drive more conservatively.

Self-Checks

Knowing your vehicle is a great way to find problems early. Every month or two take a few minutes to look under the hood and at the undercarriage. You do not need to know exactly what you are looking at, but with time you will be able to note any changes, such as leaks, undercarriage damage, rust, dirt build-up and other signs that your car may need some extra attention.

Reliable Mechanics

Having a reliable mechanic maintain your car is similar to having a physician that your trust with your healthcare. A good, reputable mechanic will identify potential problems before they get costly or cause permanent damage to the vehicle. If your vehicle is under warranty, you should have it serviced regularly to protect the coverage under the warranty.

Have a Schedule

Schedules are a part of modern life, and your vehicle maintenance should be added to your calendar. Your mechanic can help you keep track of the routine maintenance that is recommended in your owner’s manual. We also suggest that you put reminders in your phone or computer.

Tire Pressure

The pressure in your tires plays an important role in fuel efficiency and operation of your vehicle. Driving with tires that are over or underinflated makes your engine work harder to maintain speed. This results in lower fuel efficiency and “wear and tear” on the engine. Keeping the tires at the recommended pressure is also a safety consideration. If you are unsure about what pressure to have in the tires, check the outer sidewall of the tire. You will see an imprint of the recommended pressure.

Change the Fluids and Filters

Most vehicle owners know that the oil and oil filter in the vehicle need to be changed, but your car also relies on other types of fluid and filters to operate efficiently. The air filter is one of the most important filters in your automobile that should be checked as often as your check your oil. The air filter traps dirt and debris so that your engine has cleaner air for combustion. If the filter is clogged, your vehicle has to work harder to draw in air.

Cooling System

The combustion that occurs inside your engine produces a large amount of heat. The cooling system helps keep the engine within certain operating temperatures. You should check the coolant level and the cooling system hoses every few months. You also want to check for signs of leaks, such as radiator fluid in the engine compartment or on the ground under your vehicle after it is parked for a few hours or longer.

Gauges and Indicator Lights

Newer vehicles are equipped with advanced computer systems, gauges and indicator lights that tell you when there’s a problem with your vehicle. You should monitor your gauges for oil pressure, battery level, and other system checks. If your vehicle shows an indicator light, check the problem right away or take the vehicle to a qualified mechanic. If you are unsure what the indicator light means or what the normal ranges are for the gauges, check your owner’s manual or look it up online.

Take Care of the Inside and Outside

Washing and waxing your vehicle keeps the paint surface clean and can protect against damaged caused by the sun, rain and snow. The inside of your vehicle should be cleaned too so that the seats and carpet last for many years. If you live in a dusty area, we also recommend that you clean the vents and electronics inside the vehicle.

The heat of the southwest can ruin the interior and exterior of a car very quickly. We recommend that you park your vehicle in a garage or carport. You can also use a car cover. You can also have UV-filtering tint added to the windows. This helps keep you cool year-round and protects the interior from the damaging effects of the sun.

Having a well-maintained vehicle keeps the cost of ownership manageable and also makes you feel good about driving your car or truck. With some simple steps, you can enjoy years of driving and avoid costly repairs. Contact Dallas European Auto today to schedule your next maintenance appointment.