A car is one of the most expensive assets a household will ever own. Because of their price and utility, it is essential to maintain them properly. Otherwise, you are risking its exposure to premature wear and higher automotive repair costs in the long run.
As such, our experts at R&I Automotive share seven common car care mistakes that drivers in San Rafael, CA, commit. Be sure to avoid them to keep your automobile in tip-top shape for a long time.
1) Not getting an oil change regularly
Getting an oil change service lubricates your automotive engine and reduces the risks of overheating. You should never skip this service since overheating is the leading cause of damage to your engine. The appointment interval is based on time and mileage - but most automotive technicians recommend changing the oil every three months or 3,000 miles.
2) Using cheap gas
Gas is an expensive commodity these days, so it can be tempting to get the cheapest type. Instead of buying the cheapest gas on the market, pay attention to the badge on the gas pump. Using premium or super-premium gas helps keep your engine clean and reduces emissions. Of course, you should follow your owner's manual regarding the correct fuel type for your car.
3) Ignoring the check engine light and other automotive error codes
If you notice that your check engine light has turned on, consider taking your vehicle to an automotive near you in San Rafael, CA. The light might indicate that your automotive engine is overheating or that you have other problems like misfiring cylinders. Even if it seems to run well, forcing your car to operate in this condition can result in expensive damages in the future.
4) Skipping your maintenance appointment - Automotive Near Me
Skipping your maintenance appointment will cost you more money. It's a good idea to book a regular maintenance appointment with an automotive technician to ensure that your car is in good condition.
5) Over-inflating your tires
Over-inflated tires do not provide enough friction, while under-inflated tires increase your risk of getting a flat tire. Check the appropriate air pressure and refill when necessary. This will improve handling and reduce fuel consumption by 5-10%.
6) Ignoring the wear and tear on your brakes
Your brake pads are doing their jobs when they make contact with your rotors. When the wear indicator on your brake pads hits the wear line, you need to replace those worn-out brake pads. Make sure that you go to our automotive shop in San Rafael, CA, as soon as possible to avoid more critical problems down the road.
7) Driving with a dirty air filter
Having a clean air filter is important because it increases your gas mileage and keeps your engine running smoothly. A dirty air filter can also cause damage to the fuel injection system. Don't forget to have the air filter replaced every year or two!
Automotive Near Me in San Rafael, CA
There are countless mistakes that drivers often commit beyond this list, resulting in more frequent breakdowns and unnecessary wear on their cars. However, beginning to avoid these seven pitfalls can go a long way for the longevity and resale value of your prized vehicle.
For all your car repair and maintenance needs, just call R&I Automotive or schedule an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 625 Del Ganado Rd, San Rafael, CA 94903.