It Is Important to Be Car Care Aware

No one can function without a vehicle these days, so follow these simple guidelines to see how easy car maintenance can be.

1. Change the oil every 3,000 miles. Sure, the manufacturers and oil companies say you can go much longer intervals, but they don’t have to pay for the repairs. You do. Changing your oil and filter every 3,000 miles will keep the engine cleaner, and also will avoid sludge and containment build-up inside your engine. It also is recommended to have the oil system flushed every 12,000 miles to further extend the life of your engine.
2. Change the other fluids on your car at or before the recommended service schedule found in your owner’s manual. Just like the engine oil, these fluids only will protect your car’s other systems if maintained properly. Many power steering and transmission repairs can be avoided if the fluid is changed at the proper interval.
3. Do not ignore warning lights. There are multiple warnings, which can appear on the instrument cluster. They can be as simple as a low tire pressure indicator, or as crucial as an engine operating temperature indicator. Never continue to drive a car while the engine is overheating. In any case, always find out why the light is on every time. Just because you see the same light, it doesn’t mean it is on for the same reason as the last time.
4. Have your car repaired in a timely manner. Putting off a known needed repair easily can turn into a much larger one if not dealt with proactively. A brake squeal, which indicates pads need to be replaced, turns into a brake grind, and now there is damage to rotors and calipers. A cooling hose leak can turn into an overheated engine and cause expensive damage. When faced with multiple repairs at once, prioritize them so you do not feel overwhelmed.
5. Always use the same facility, if possible, for all your car service needs. Once you find a place with which you are comfortable, keep going there. It is easier to keep track of your service records when they are in one place, even when all you need is an oil change. A full service facility will give you a report on the condition of your entire vehicle. This will help avoid future surprise repairs.

At H and I Automotive, we would like to help keep your vehicle reliable and safe. When you maintain your vehicle and stay on top of repairs, it will lower the cost of ownership. Please see our ad in this Up Close publication, or visit our website at www.handiautomotive.com for more car care tips.

H and I Automotive is located at 5338 E. Main St , Suite 4, at Higley Road and Main Street. Please feel free to call us any time at (480) 985-9279.