So you opted to replace your old vehicle with a new one. Who can blame you – new tires, new brakes, that new-car smell, and best of all … no repair headaches.
Whether you purchased a brand-new car or a used one, here are a few things you should be doing so you don’t encounter any major problems down the road.
Every Three Months
Every three months, be sure to check your fluids. You should also change your oil every 3,000 – 5,000 miles. Three-month fluid inspection should include:
- Oil
- Brake fluid
- Power steering fluid
- Window washer fluid
Also, be sure to check the coolant. Your coolant should be about 50 percent antifreeze and 50 percent water. If you’re not up to mixing a coolant cocktail, your auto-parts store should sell some pre-mixed coolant.
Every Six Months
At the six-month mark, you should check your battery as well as your tire depth. Without the proper tire depth, you may not be able to make a quick, sudden stop with your vehicle. Be sure to also check if it’s time for another oil change.
Every Year
At year end, you should flush your radiator, which prevents rust and corrosion in the radiator, which can lead to expensive repairs. You will also want to check your:
- Spark plugs
- Fuel filter
- Brake pads
- Windshield wipers
If confident enough, some of this you can do on your own, but always have a trusted mechanic on speed-dial should you run into any problems.
Follow these steps and you won’t need Tucson brake repair or Albuquerque brake repair for a long time. The only possible headaches, you’ll be having is from the new-car smell.
