It is always important to note when your next car service is due, whether it being according to the mileage or annual date.
Fortunately, new model cars have a service light that will alert the driver when the next service is due. However, older models may not have this function, and so it is up to you to make note of the next service.
Let’s have a look at why servicing your car is so important, and why you should not ignore the required service intervals.
Why it is important to service your car?
When you keep your car well-maintained and in good condition, it will save you from having any unnecessary breakdowns. Regularly servicing your car on time will prevent small problems from becoming large and expensive problems later.
Regular servicing will give you peace of mind when travelling. No one wants to breakdown at night on a very quiet road. A well-serviced car will run smoothly, and will provide good fuel economy. Additionally, maintaining your car appropriately may help protect its resale value.
How to service and maintain your car 1
- Follow your car’s manual and maintenance plan: always keep up with the car’s recommended maintenance and service plan. This will prevent small problems from becoming large and expensive ones. Always make sure good quality car parts, oils and fluids are used.
- Check your battery: car batteries usually last up to 3 years. If your car is struggling to start, make sure to have the battery checked – it may have to be replaced.
- Check your windscreen wipers: ideally, windscreen wipers should be replaced annually. The rubber wears and becomes brittle, reducing visibility during rain.
- Check fluids and oil: make sure to often check oil levels, brake fluid, antifreeze/water levels and power steering fluid. If you are not sure how to do this, ask a professional mechanic. Replacing oil at the required time will protect your car’s engine and keep it running smoothly for a long time.
- Brake pads: regularly check the car’s brake pads as well as the thickness of the brake discs themselves. This is done to avoid metal touching metal when braking, as this will damage the brakes. But, most importantly, brakes need to be effective at all times to avoid any accidents.
- Rotate tyres: regular rotation of tyres will cause even wear and will also alert you to replace tyres if necessary. Check tyre pressures regularly, seeing correctly inflated tyres will ensure good fuel economy.
- Do not ignore warning lights or signs: Ignoring warning lights, noises or cosmetic problems may cause large and expensive problems at a later stage.
- Remember to give your car some TLC: keeping your car clean by often washing, polishing and vacuuming will prevent your car from ageing and depreciating faster.
So, remember, what you put into your car is what you get out. Your car won’t let you down if you look after it carefully.
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This article was prepared by Eric Sandmann in his personal capacity. The views and opinions expressed in this article are the author’s own and do not reflect the views and opinions of Prime Meridian Direct (Pty) Ltd, FSP41040 (car insurance and life cover products). The views and opinions in the article should not be attributed to anyone but the author unless expressly stated. Nothing in this article should be relied upon as advice, this publication is presented for informational purposes only. No person should act or refrain from acting in reliance on any information found in this article, without first obtaining proper financial advice from the appropriate professional. The author makes no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, or completeness, of any information linked from, referred to, or contained in this article. The author reserves the right, to edit and change the content of this article.
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Vehicle Maintenance and Repair – Essential to Road Safety! https://t.co/iBqL4fp7GE #ArriveAlive pic.twitter.com/BDW5x3jvJI
— Arrive Alive (@_ArriveAlive) September 1, 2018