CAR CARE & MAINTENANCE

Burbank Auto Doctor knows car care and maintenance.

As a driver, you know it’s important to keep up with your vehicles maintenance. However, between the kids, work and so many other things we’d rather be doing, your car’s maintenance seems to be one of those things that never seems to get much of that needed attention.

Did you know that taking care of your vehicle not only helps it perform better, it also could mean money in the bank for you?

From retaining your car’s value, to better fuel economy, these simple car maintenance tips will have you saving money in no time:

1) Don’t skip scheduled service.

Use your vehicle’s owner manual and familiarize yourself with your car’s maintenance schedule. You’ll find your maintenance should be done about every 30,000 miles, and requires checking or replacing parts like timing belts, spark plugs and wires. Over time you’ll find there are other major parts that may need replacing to keep your automobile running efficiently and safely.

Did you know you could save money by scheduling your preventative maintenance with Burbank Auto Doctor?

Can a dealer refuse to honor the warranty that came with your new car if someone else does the routine maintenance or repairs?

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the nation’s consumer protection agency, says no. In fact, it’s illegal for a dealer to deny your warranty coverage simply because you had routine maintenance or repairs performed by someone else. Routine maintenance often includes oil changes, tire rotations, belt replacement, fluid checks and flushes, new brake pads, and inspections. Maintenance schedules vary by vehicle make, model and year; the best source of information about routine scheduled maintenance is your owner’s manual.

2) Replace the air filter.

Think of replacing your car’s air filter, as replacing your car’s lungs. Fuel economy, performance and emissions begin to deteriorate and get progressively worse until the dirty filter is replaced. Removing the filter and holding it up to a light will show you how dirty it is. If it’s really caked with dirt, it obviously needs to be replaced. Trying to shake or blow the dirt out is a waste of time because too much of it will be embedded in the filter fibers. A clogged air filter can reduce gas mileage in older cars with carbureted engines by as much as 14 percent. Replacing clogged air filters on newer cars can help improve acceleration time.

3) Get an oil change.

This is one of the most simple and basic car maintenance services that you can do to keep your vehicle in good running condition. Besides, not following the manufacturers suggested oil change schedule can actually void your warranty and even cause an engine failure, which can cost thousands in repairs. So check your owner’s manual to find out when you’re due for service.

4) Cooling-system fluids

Keeping your cooling system in working order is also another basic and easy maintenance task. So, once a year, or every 30,000 miles is a good time to have a system flush. Getting the pump, hoses, fluids and belts checked is also part of proper cooling-system maintenance.

5) Check your tire pressure.

Purchase a tire gauge and check your tire pressure regularly, and don’t forget to have and maintain a spare tire! Believe it or not this helps save on fuel, and cut down on tire wear and tear. Plus, if you take a few minutes and inspect your tires you’ll be able to see if your vehicle’s tires are correctly aligned.

6) Wash it.

Washing your vehicle regularly not only keeps your vehicle looking good, it’s also a good way to maintain that new-car finish. Allowing a layer of dead bugs, bird droppings, dirt and chemicals to accumulate on your vehicle can strip away wax and eventually your vehicle’s clear coat and paint. If you decide to wash your car yourself, don’t use household cleaning agents like hand soap, dishwashing detergent, or glass cleaner, which can also strip off the protective wax. Use a product designed specifically for cars.

Trying to remember which scheduled maintenance is approaching and when it needs to be done can be a daunting task. Consider registering with Burbank Auto Doctor. We’ll help you keep track of your service records, schedule service for Quality Parts and Expertise, send service reminders and more.