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Originally Posted On: https://www.aamcoblog.com/Article/What-Are-Essential-Car-Maintenance-Tips

Back-to-School: What Are Essential Car Maintenance Tips?

Learn how to prepare your vehicle for the hustle of getting back to school. Read our article for essential car maintenance tips!

We all know that back-to-school season means a change in routine. But, while you’re tackling your kids’ school supply lists and figuring out carpool schedules, don’t forget about one crucial thing: your car. Follow our car maintenance tips for a smooth transition back to the bustle of school life.

Whether your teen is heading off to college or you are handling a busy school-day schedule, making sure your vehicle is in tip-top shape is important for a smooth ride this school year. Following a few simple car maintenance tips can save you time, money, and stress in the long run.

Essential Car Maintenance Tips Before School Starts

Before the school year kicks into high gear, we recommend taking some time to give your car a little TLC. From routine check-ups to prepping for those chilly mornings, a bit of car maintenance goes a long way.

We’ve put together this guide full of essential car maintenance tips. Think of this as your car maintenance checklist to make those school runs stress-free.

Routine Checkups for Peak Performance

Think of these routine checks as your car’s way of staying in shape. These might sound like small things, but addressing them early can prevent bigger issues later on.

Oil Changes

Oil changes are non-negotiable. Regular oil changes are crucial for smooth engine operation, yet so many people neglect this one. Depending on your vehicle and the type of oil used, aim for an oil change every 3,000-5,000 miles.

Check your owner’s manual for specific recommendations. Trust me, regular oil changes make your car happy, and a happy car means less expensive trips to the mechanic. Find a local service center and schedule your regular appointments!

Fluid Check

Next up: fluids. Imagine trying to run a marathon without enough water. It’s important to check fluid levels and top off all essential fluids, including engine coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, transmission fluid, and windshield washer fluid.

This step can prevent serious engine damage and ensure your safety on the road. Don’t forget to get your transmission fluid checked, especially if you plan on doing a lot of driving. You don’t want to see that dreaded check engine light.

Air Filters

A clogged air filter can choke your engine, leading to reduced performance. Just like we need clean air to breathe, your engine needs a steady flow of clean air to perform its best.

It’s like giving your car a breath of fresh air, leading to better fuel efficiency and overall performance. Most mechanics recommend changing your air filter every 12,000 miles, but check what’s recommended for your car.

Taking Care of Your Tires: The Unsung Heroes

Now, let’s talk about your tires. Properly maintained tires provide better gas mileage and keep you safe on the road. They’re your car’s only point of contact with the road, so they carry a lot of responsibility.

First up: check tire pressure regularly. Under-inflated tires can decrease fuel efficiency and affect your car’s handling. You can use a reliable tire pressure gauge to ensure they’re inflated to the proper PSI (pounds per square inch), which you can find listed in your car’s owner’s manual.

Next, get those tires rotated. Tire rotation is another simple but crucial aspect of car maintenance, make sure to add it to your maintenance schedule.

Regular tire rotations help ensure that your tires wear evenly, prolonging their lifespan. Aim to rotate tires every 5,000-7,500 miles to keep them in top shape.

Last, keep an eye on tire treads. Good tread depth ensures optimal grip on the road, especially in wet or icy conditions.

Use a tread depth gauge or the penny test to make sure your tires have enough tread. If the tread is worn down, consider investing in a new set, especially before facing any harsh weather conditions.

Don’t Forget the Brakes.

Brakes are obviously essential. Any unusual noises like squealing, grinding, or a spongy feel when you hit the brakes, get it checked out by a trusted mechanic as soon as possible.

A thorough brake inspection is vital, as worn brake pads can significantly compromise your ability to stop quickly. Don’t wait until it’s too late to get your brakes regularly checked.

Battery Check

A dead battery can put a screeching halt to your busy morning routine. Get your battery tested to make sure it’s in good condition.

This simple step will help you avoid unexpected breakdowns and ensure a smooth school year start. Trust us, dealing with a dead battery in a crowded school parking lot is not how you want to start your day.

Lights and Windshield Wipers

Visibility is a crucial part of car care, especially as we head into those shorter days. Make sure your headlights, taillights, brake lights, and turn signals are all in working order.

And let’s not forget about the all-important wiper blades. Rain or shine, clear visibility is key for a safe drive. Worn windshield wiper blades can reduce visibility, especially during rainy weather. Replace windshield wipers every 6-12 months.

Essential Car Maintenance Tips for Students

Whether your student is heading off to college or just got their driver’s license, talking to them about car maintenance is crucial.

Talk about regular maintenance: Sit down with them and go through the importance of the essential car maintenance tips. Even better if you involve them in a few easy maintenance tasks like checking the oil and tire pressure together.

They likely haven’t even considered things like motor oil, brake pads, spark plugs, fuel filters, and all the many warning lights our cars give us. Teach them the importance of finding a trusted mechanic.

Safety first: It’s a good idea to remind your student driver about safe driving practices to prevent major problems far from home: no texting and driving, always wear their seatbelt, obey the rules of the road. These seemingly small habits can truly make a world of difference when it comes to their safety.

Conclusion

With school about to be back in session, following these simple, proactive car maintenance tips ensures your vehicle will be ready to take on whatever the year throws its way. Make sure you are scheduling regular maintenance and per year check-ups to keep your vehicle in good working shape, running smoothly.

By prioritizing your car’s maintenance you’re not just investing in your vehicle—you’re investing in smooth school runs, stress-free commutes, and peace of mind knowing you’re prepared for whatever the road brings. Contact AAMCO, your local repair shop, to schedule your maintenance checks today!