Key Takeaways
Your car needs care to perform optimally and avoid putting you in danger: In this post, we are highlighting the six things you should fix in your vehicle before they get worse as follows:
- Regular oil changes
- Tire pressure checks
- Air conditioning and heating units repairs
- Windshield wipers replacements
- Addressing lighting issues
- Making brakes fully functional at all times
Some car fixings are more critical than others, and repairing them sooner rather than later can save you a lot of money down the road. Others may not be as critical but still require maintenance before they become a bigger problem. So, while you should your car for a full car yearly service, there are these six fixings you should take care of as soon as you notice them:
1. Oil Changes
Oil is the lifeblood of your engine and needs to be changed every 3,000-10,000 miles. It’s oil that lubricates the engine parts and keeps them running smoothly, so if you skip oil changes, friction increases and can cause the engine to overheat and damage over time. Something that would have cost you anywhere between $35 to $75 for an oil change can potentially cost you thousands in repairs or a replacement engine if you don’t keep up with it.
Oil changes are not limited to the engine. Differentials, transfer cases, and manual transmissions also require oil changes at certain intervals. You should consult your owner’s manual to find out how often these components need oil changes. If you don’t, you could end up needing costly repairs and replacements for these parts as well.
2. Tire Pressure Checks
Low tire pressure is both dangerous and costly. If your tires are underinflated, you have to work the engine harder to move the vehicle, resulting in decreased fuel economy and possibly more frequent repair bills due to increased wear and tear on other parts of the vehicle. It’s also unsafe to drive with low tire pressure as it decreases traction and increases the risk of an accident. So anytime you notice the tire pressure is low, make sure to bring it back up to the vehicle’s recommended levels.
Worn-out tires are another problem you’ll want to address. They significantly decrease the traction of your vehicle and can make it difficult to control in wet weather or on rough roads. It’s also more likely that these worn-out tires may develop a flat, which can be fatal if it happens while you’re driving fast. So make sure to check your tires for tread wear and, if needed, replace them with new ones as soon as possible.
3. Broken Air Conditioning and Heating Units
A broken air conditioning and heating unit can be incredibly inconvenient, especially during those hot summer days or cold winter nights. Not only will the cabin become uncomfortable, but your windows may also fog up making it difficult to have a clear view of what’s ahead. And you know what that means; a greater risk of getting into an accident. If you’ve noticed that your air conditioning or heating unit isn’t working properly, it’s important to get it fixed as soon as possible.
The common issues with air conditioning and heating units are usually a low level of refrigerant, a damaged compressor, or an issue with the blower motor. You will notice a decrease in airflow and an unpleasant smell coming from the vents if there is an issue. If you have any suspicions that your air conditioner is not working correctly, take your car to a trusted mechanic who can inspect the unit and determine what needs to be done.
4. Lousy Windshield Wipers
Having poor visibility due to bad weather can make driving extremely hazardous, but having faulty windshield wipers only adds fuel to the fire. If your windshield wipers are leaving streaks, squeaking or skipping, they need to be replaced as soon as possible. All you need to do is replace the wiper blades with new ones and make sure they are properly working by testing them out during a light shower or in a car wash.
5. Faulty or Weak Headlights
Your headlights provide the most important source of illumination while driving at night, so it’s absolutely essential that they are in good working order. If your headlights are dim or not functioning at all, take the time to inspect them, clean the lenses, and check for any damage. Often, it’s a problem with the electrical connection that needs to be fixed, but if your lights are really old and weak, you may need to replace them. Replace the bulbs if they are burnt out and also check the fuses and replace them if necessary. Strong headlights will not only give you better visibility at night but can also help reduce the risk of accidents.
6. Grinding Brake:
The brake system is one of the most important components of your vehicle, so it’s important to have a fully functioning brake system. If your brakes vibrate and make strange noises when applied, this could mean that they need to be replaced or adjusted. A grinding sound indicates that the brake pads are worn out, which can lead to further damage to the system if not corrected. It is recommended to take your vehicle to an auto mechanic and have them check the brakes for any damage.
Work With Lake Elsinore Honda to Maintain and Service Your Car
At Lake Elsinore Honda, we are your trusted source for vehicle maintenance and repair. Our experienced technicians use the latest diagnostic equipment to inspect your car and identify any issues that may cause problems. We offer a wide range of services to keep your car running smoothly, from routine service checkups to major repairs and replacements. Contact us today for all your auto needs.
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