Many people do not realize the consequences of putting off needed vehicle maintenance. Not only can neglecting vehicle service cause safety issues if ignored, but it can lead to costly repairs down the road.
The nonprofit Car Care Council suggests drivers follow a vehicle service schedule, keep a free copy of the council's Car Care Guide in the glovebox, and perform common routine maintenance procedures to keep a vehicle running at its best.
Routine maintenance procedures include:
- Check all fluids, including engine oil, power steering, brake, and transmission as well as windshield washer solvent and antifreeze/coolant.
- Check the brake system annually and have the brake linings, rotors, and drums inspected at each oil change.
- Check the tires, including tire pressure and tread. Uneven wear indicates a need for wheel alignment. Tires should also be checked for bulges and bald spots.
- Check the hoses and belts to make sure they are not cracked, brittle, frayed, loose, or showing signs of excessive wear.
- Check the heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) system as proper heating and cooling performance is critical for interior comfort and safety reasons, such as defrosting.
- Check the wipers and lighting so that the driver can see and be seen. Check that all interior and exterior lighting is working properly and replace worn wiper blades so the driver can see clearly when driving during precipitation.
Drivers should be sure to fully inspect their vehicle annually, including performing a tune-up and wheel alignment. If a problem is suspected, drivers should address it quickly before minor repairs become more complicated, expensive repairs.
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