Whether you have been driving for many years, or just starting out, the vehicle maintenance schedule for today’s vehicle may be confusing. You may be wondering just how often should you have car maintenance done? The first place to look for the answer is your owner’s manual for the manufacturer’s service guidelines. If you still have questions, ask your mechanic to explain the recommended vehicle maintenance schedule for your specific vehicle—what should be done, when it needs to be done, and how much it will cost.
What are the benefits of following the vehicle maintenance schedule?
- You can depend on your vehicle to get you where you want to go comfortably and safely.
- You won’t have to expend hours at an auto shop waiting for repair work to be done.
- You will save money by avoiding major auto repairs.
- The resale value of your car will be higher than if you neglected maintenance.
There are some other items that you can inspect yourself. Give your vehicle a little extra attention by paying attention to the following:
Daily...
Take a few minutes to walk around your vehicle before heading out each day. Look for damage to the bodywork, low or flat tires, cuts in the sidewalls, cracks in the windows, or puddles under the car. Although these problems don’t seem very big, they could cause serious issues while driving down the road.
Weekly, or as needed...
- Inspect tire pressure, tread depth, and condition of all four tires AND the spare.
- Inspect the level and condition of all fluids, including oil, coolant/antifreeze, brakes, windshield washer, power steering, etc.
- Broken or burned-out bulbs should be changed and lenses cleaned.
- Check your windshield wiper blades and replace them if more than 6 months old.
- Wash your vehicle often and give it a wax job sometimes to protect the finish and repel water and dirt.
Taking a little extra time checking your vehicle will provide you with confidence that you have a reliable vehicle.
How often should you have car maintenance done? Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Clausen Automotive for more information about vehicle maintenance and to request an appointment. Since 1975, our family-owned auto shop has proudly served vehicle owners in Madison, WI, and the surrounding communities.
