The Ultimate Guide to Proper Car Maintenance: Keep Your Vehicle Running Longer
1. Regular Oil Changes Are Essential
Oil is the lifeblood of your engine. It lubricates moving parts, prevents overheating, and keeps your engine clean.
Why it matters:
Dirty or old oil increases friction, leading to engine wear or failure.
Recommended:
Most vehicles require oil changes every 3,000–5,000 miles (or per your manufacturer’s recommendations). Synthetic oil often lasts longer.
2. Stay on Top of Tire Maintenance
Your tires are what connect you to the road — their condition affects safety, fuel economy, and ride quality.
Check tire pressure monthly
Inspect tread depth
Rotate tires every 5,000–7,500 miles
And don’t underestimate wheel alignments — they prevent uneven wear and improve steering response.
3. Pay Attention to Fluids
Besides engine oil, your vehicle relies on:
- Coolant
- Brake fluid
- Transmission fluid
- Power steering fluid
- Windshield washer fluid
Low or contaminated fluids can lead to overheating, poor braking performance, or major transmission damage. Make fluid checks part of your service routine.
4. Replace Air Filters Regularly
Clean air filters improve fuel efficiency and protect your engine.
- Engine air filter: Every 15,000–30,000 miles
- Cabin filter: Helps keep the air inside fresh — change annually or sooner if you notice odors or low airflow
5. Don’t Ignore Warning Lights
Modern vehicles are smart — when something’s wrong, they tell you.
Check engine light? ABS light? TPMS?
Ignoring warning signs may turn a minor problem into an expensive repair.
If a light comes on, schedule a diagnostic — it’s better to know early than get stuck on the roadside.
6. Brake Inspections Keep You Safe
Proper brakes aren’t optional — they are vital to your safety.
Look out for:
- Grinding
- Soft pedal feel
- Longer stopping distance
- Vibrations while braking
Have them inspected at least twice a year.
7. The Battery Still Matters
Today’s cars rely heavily on electronics. A weak battery affects starting, charging systems, and even transmission performance.
Most batteries last 3–5 years — test them yearly, especially in hotter climates like Florida.
8. Keep Up With Scheduled Maintenance
Your owner’s manual is your vehicle’s health chart. Manufacturers include maintenance milestones for a reason — spark plugs, timing belts, and fluid exchanges happen at intervals.
Skipping milestones can cost you an engine or transmission.
9. Listen, Look, and Feel Your Vehicle
Your senses are powerful tools:
- Strange noises
- Changes in handling
- Unusual smells
- Dashboard vibrations
These are indicators that something needs attention.
10. Build a Relationship With a Trusted Shop
Consistent maintenance from the same trusted shop means better record keeping, accurate diagnostics, and advisors who know your vehicle inside and out.
At Highway Tire & Auto, we pride ourselves on transparency, preventative care, and keeping your car safe for the road.
Final Thoughts
Proper maintenance isn’t an expense — it’s an investment in safety and peace of mind. With routine care, your vehicle can easily exceed 200,000 miles, stay reliable, and retain value.
If you’re due for service or just want a complimentary inspection, we’re here to help.
3584 sw Armellini Avenue, Palm City Fl 34990
Call us today to schedule your appointment
