When you think about car maintenance, you probably think about regular tune-ups and cleanliness, but that’s only a part of the story. Your car’s performance, fuel economy and best features will decline without some other basic car care. Before you purchase a new or pre-owned vehicle, you should consider important factors related to long-term maintenance and other car care issues.
Warranty
New car warranties provide a guarantee that your vehicle will run properly for a specific amount of time and mileage. If the car’s performance fails during the warranty period, the dealership will cover the repair costs. Used and certified pre-owned vehicles typically come with an extended warranty period that goes beyond the original factory warranty. Take time to read the fine print carefully regarding time and mileage coverage. Otherwise, you may be digging into your pockets to cover unexpected expenses.
DIY auto repair
Although warranties can protect you from unexpected repairs, regular car care can prevent additional problems. These DIY habits are the least expensive way to keep your car in shape and even to handle minor repairs. Keeping your gas tank full and washing your car consistently are great first steps. However, you can do even more DIY car maintenance and repairs. Consult your owner’s manual for best practices including checking your tire pressure, filling vital fluids, replacing windshield wipers and rotating the tires.
Professional care
When in doubt, have a professional check it out. Don’t ignore necessary car maintenance because you are unsure how to make it happen. Seek a local auto professional’s assistance for proper care to put your mind at ease.
The average car has approximately 30,000 parts, and understanding the ins and outs of each part requires specific training. Expert technicians also have more tools and specialized equipment at their fingertips. Mistakes and discrepancies from DIY gone wrong can lead to devastating costs, so make sure you take your car to a mechanic at least once every twelve months.
All of these minor steps comprise the big picture for maintaining a reliable car that runs properly and efficiently. Set yourself up for a long-term relationship with your car by giving it the proper maintenance. For further assistance or to view our online inventory, contact Auto Market of Florida.
