Why regular vehicle maintenance matters

Maintaining a consistent car service schedule brings advantages for both you and your vehicle. Here are a few examples:

Consistent car service can help you identify potential safety hazards such as faulty brakes, worn tires, and other mechanical issues. Furthermore, addressing fluid leaks, inefficient engines, and emissions issues not only helps protect your car, but also reduces harm to the environment by averting the leakage of toxic substances and reducing carbon emissions.

Proactively maintaining your car through regular check-ups helps reduce the risk of breakdowns, saving you from expensive emergency repairs and potential car rental costs. Additionally, it can help you avoid the stress and inconvenience of being stranded on the side of the road.

Did you know, on average, a regular tune-up can improve fuel economy by 4%? In today's volatile fuel market, these savings can really add up. Moreover, optimizing fuel efficiency not only cuts costs at the pump but can also reduce your carbon footprint by emitting fewer pollutants into the environment.

Thinking of selling your car or trading it in someday? A car with a complete service history and regular maintenance can yield a higher resale value than one with a spotty record of upkeep.

Addressing issues promptly and keeping your car in good condition can help lower the risk of accumulating hefty service fees when you eventually bring your car in after months or years of neglect. Running on low fuel, driving with worn-out tires, or operating without proper coolant are all factors can all contribute to increased long-term expenses for your car.

Regular maintenance helps ensure the consistent functionality of warning lights and indicators. While the Check Engine light may be bothersome, it's far better than not being alerted to a serious issue due to irregular functioning or frequent failures caused by a lack of maintenance.

Ignoring maintenance can lead to bigger problems that can leave your car out of commission for days or even weeks—especially as supply chain issues continue to contribute to delays in getting parts. We’re all busy, so don’t let your valuable time be wasted waiting for repairs.

Knowing your car is in optimal condition can bring you peace of mind while driving. You can confidently navigate the road, free from concerns about potential breakdowns or malfunctioning systems.

Your car's service requirements depend on factors like make, model, age, and mileage. Generally, manufacturers advise scheduled maintenance every 12,000 miles or 12 months. Consult your vehicle's manual for its specific schedule—this can help you comply with manufacturer warranties.

Regular checks typically include:

• Mechanic inspection: A thorough examination of the vehicle to identify any potential issues

• Engine checkup: Evaluating the engine's health and performance

• Oil change and filter replacement: Ensuring proper lubrication and engine protection

• Tire rotation and balancing: Promoting even wear and tear for optimal traction and longevity

• Fluid checks and top-offs: Maintaining proper levels of essential fluids like:

  • Engine oil

  • Brake fluid

  • Radiator coolant

  • Power steering fluid

  • Transmission fluid

  • Windshield wiper fluid 

• Brake inspection and service: Verifying proper braking function and addressing any wear or tear

• Battery check and potential replacement: Ensuring reliable starting power

• Suspension and steering check: Promoting smooth handling and control

• Emissions test (where applicable): Meeting environmental regulations and contributing to clean air

Consider this: The average U.S. driver spends approximately $1,186 per year on vehicle repairs and maintenance. Now, envision the potential cost of a single breakdown or unexpected issue, including expenses for towing, rental vehicles, missed work, auto shop labor, and parts. And these costs would hit suddenly, rather than being spread over the year.

And that's not all. Consider the possibility of an accident—with its associated claims costs and medical expenses—caused by parts failures such as worn brake pads, defective tires, or power steering issues.