Your personal car is more than just a means of transport — it provides a level of reliability, comfort, convenience and flexibility that public transport cannot match.
Unfortunately, the vehicle can break down due to mechanical failures, preventing you from going where you want whenever you want. When this happens, you may need to undertake expensive repairs to get back on the road.
The best way to prevent car breakdowns that lead to costly repairs is to get your vehicle serviced regularly. While the list of items you should check at each service interval may vary depending on your car service schedule, here are some vital vehicle components you should check to increase the performance, efficiency and lifespan of your vehicle.
Engine oil and filter
The engine oil and filter combo are one of the most essential parts of your car. The engine oil helps lubricate, cool and clean the engine to keep it running smoothly and reliably. On the other hand, the oil filter removes contaminants from the oil, ensuring it continues to perform at its peak.
Regular engine oil and filter changes are imperative to avoid catastrophic damage to the engine, maximising the life and performance of your car.
Battery
Your car battery produces the power necessary to start your car. While it is designed to work reliably with minimal maintenance, it gradually loses its ability to hold a charge over time and will require a replacement when it reaches the end of its expected lifespan.
As part of preventative car maintenance, you should clean your battery to remove the corrosion that builds up on its terminals over time. You should also test it periodically to see if it needs replacement.
Tyres
Since they maintain constant contact with the road surface while you're driving, your car tyres often take the brunt of your daily commute. As a result, they wear and tear at a fast rate.
Getting your tyre pressure and tread depth checked regularly is essential for ensuring your safety on the road and maximising the life of your tyres. Quality tyres do not come cheap, so it is prudent to prolong the life of the ones you have.
Taking good care of your car will save you money by preventing expensive repairs but also keep you, your passengers and other road users safe on the road. It can also extend the life of the vehicle.
Contact a car service provider to learn more about maintenance.
