We all know how hard it is to keep up with every car maintenance check, especially with a busy work and school schedule! But if you want to keep your car in the best possible condition all year long, it will take time and diligence to maintain the life and quality of your vehicle. Here are seven car maintenance mistakes that people make that you don’t want to overlook in 2019! Make sure that an auto tune-up is part of your monthly car routine.
1.Driving without checking tire pressure
Driving with bad tire pressure can damage your tires! Avoid this and keep your fuel economy up by regularly checking the air pressure of your tires. It may be impossible to accurately know when they are low or high, so we suggest that you get them professionally checked with a tire pressure gauge. If you find your tires’ pressure is low consistently even after filling, visit your local automotive repair shop to find out why.
2. Driving with an overheating engine
You will most likely know right away if your car engine begins to overheat. There may be a burning smell, smoke, or your car temperature gauge goes all the way toward hot! Whatever you do, don’t keep driving, but pull over as soon as possible. This will avoid further ruining your engine. Call roadside assistance or someone you know for help, and do not run your car until it is properly repaired.
3. Ignoring your engine light
Try not to ignore when your engine light comes on! Most likely, something significant is wrong with your engine. Things like your oxygen sensor or catalytic convertor may need replaced. Find out from a professional mechanic how to properly diagnose your specific vehicle.
4. Not getting a regular oil change
The regular oil change time is around every 3,000-4,000 miles or so. Try not to go way over this limit, or it can cause your vehicle’s life-span to be shorter than it could have been. A good oil change will cool your engine components, improve your gas mileage, maintain engine lubrication, and so much more. If you are in the Central Ohio area, come and visit us at Harris Automotive in Westerville or Blacklick for your regular oil change.
5. Skipping fluid checks
A car fluid check should be done consistently, as your car runs on multiple types of fluid. These oils include the engine oil, brake fluid, coolant, and even your windshield wiper fluid. If any of them are low, it is a very easy and inexpensive fix!
6. Ignoring brake issues
ANY car brake issue should be addressed right away as it’s a key factor to you and your passenger’s safety! It is what keeps your car on the road. Find a local mechanic to diagnose and repair or replace your brakes if necessary.
7. Driving with bad tires
Lastly, driving with torn or damaged tires is a big mistake. This will not only cause safety issues but also lower your fuel economy. Stay safe on the road by getting new tires right away if needed.
We hope these seven car maintenance mistakes help you stay on top of your regular car maintenance routine. If you haven’t done so already, create a monthly auto tune-up list that works well for your car schedule. It is better to be realistic with your schedule and complete what you can rather than do nothing at all!
We at Harris Automotive are here for all your auto tune-up needs and repairs! Find us here in Central Ohio at one of our locations in Westerville or Blacklick, Ohio. Our team of mechanics is ready to help you and your vehicle stay safe on the road.