Do you have a new year’s resolution to save more money this year? Well, start with your car. A vehicle is only as good as it is maintained. The best designed cars can falter without proper servicing and checkups. Simply waiting for something to go wrong on the vehicle is a recipe for expensive auto repairs. To avoid this, performing some general preventative car services not only extends the life of the vehicle but it helps cut down on expensive replacement parts. Here are a few preventative vehicle maintenance tips that will save any car owner both time and money:

Engine and Transmission 

The engine and transmission are essentially the heart and brain of the vehicle. If one fails, it not only causes significant damage to the vehicle, but these areas are some of the most expensive to repair and replace when either goes bad. Due to this, proper engine and transmission maintenance is a must. This starts with changing the oil when recommended. At this time, all other fluids can be checked and filled. Plus, serpentine and timing belts can be inspected and serviced as well. A coolant flush may be necessary to rid the engine of old and corroded coolant while filling up the power steering fluid keeps the vehicle turning properly. Should a driver feel their vehicle fighting them during snow speed turns, it likely means the steering fluid is low. A new spark plug can boost engine efficiency and safe on fuel economy as well. All of these areas of the vehicle can be looked over and inspected in one short visit to the auto shop, so having the car looked over during a standard oil change can help avoid more expensive repairs later on. 

Wheels and Brakes

Replacing brake pads is a must. Should the brake wear down to nothing, it may require additional repairs, including new tie rods. When new brakes are installed, having the tires rotated can help ensure universal wear on the tires, which in turn improves handling and driving performance (while also extending the life of the tires). Tires should be replaced on a regular basis as well. An easy way for any driver to know if it is time to replace their tires is to pull out a quarter and slide it into the tire tread. If the top of Washington's head can still be seen, the tread is too low and needs to be replaced.

Alignment problems should be addressed at this time as well. If the vehicle is turning to one side or the other instead of pointing strait (where the steering wheel is pulling to one side) it means the alignment is off and it needs to be straightened and corrected.

Let True Auto Help

If you would like to make sure that you are never stuck with an expensive vehicle repair bill, True Auto can provide you with an extended vehicle warranty. Call 877-397-1021 today to discuss your options with one of our representatives. Trust True Auto to take care of your vehicle!