Having a car is probably the second most expensive investment among American households, second only to their homes. Hence, it is vital to keep them reliable for a long time to minimize the costs of unexpected repairs.
As such, our automotive experts in San Rafael, CA, share seven quick maintenance tips that will help keep your car running smoothly for many years to come. Here they are:
1. Check your tires often and keep the correct inflation pressure
To ensure the best fuel economy and your tires last as long as possible, it's essential to regularly check tire pressure against the manufacturer's information. If the air pressure in your tires is too low, it can put excess wear and tear on your car's engine and shorten its lifespan. Our automotive techs in San Rafael, CA, recommend a pressure of 32-35 PSI. However, this may vary depending on your vehicle model.
This is among the best ways you can prolong the life of your car's engine and prevent overheating. Make sure the oil in your vehicle is changed at least once every six months or 3,000 miles. Just note that the interval may be longer if your automotive engine uses synthetic oil.
3. Follow your maintenance schedule with automotive technicians in San Rafael, CA
Spending a little money on routine maintenance will save you a lot of money in the long run. Your car's engine needs servicing to ensure it runs efficiently and doesn't overheat. For example, a clogged air filter can reduce gas mileage, and worn brake pads could compromise your safety.
4. Keep your car clean, presentable, and free from foul odors.
It may not be the top priority on your list, but keeping the inside and outside of your car clean helps maintain its resale value. It's also easier to spot problems when your car is clean, such as a broken taillight or a clogged gas filter. You should also avoid parking it in a hot and damp place to prevent mold growth and foul odors from your air conditioner.
5. Check your automotive battery regularly.
You should check the battery and cable connections, even if you use a trickle charger. It's not enough to simply connect it and forget it. If the battery looks all dirty, clean it with a mixture of baking soda and warm water. If it fails to charge, just call or visit R&I Automotive in San Rafael, CA, for a repair or replacement service.
6. Make sure your car is secure from theft.
Theft prevention devices, such as alarms and tracking devices, are beneficial to the overall security of your car. Once you purchase these devices, make sure you activate them and set up regular updates.
7. Avoid towing or carrying heavy loads to reduce stress on your automotive engine.
If you drive with a lot of excess weight in your car, it puts additional strain on your automotive components. For example, carrying items on roof racks can potentially overwork the engine, especially if you do not own a heavy-duty vehicle.
Automotive Service in San Rafael, CA
Ultimately, good car care habits can prevent critical problems from occurring and lengthen the life of your car. R&I Automotive Repair in San Rafael, CA, is always available if you run into car troubles.
For all your automotive repair and upkeep needs, just schedule an appointment with our friendly mechanics. You can also visit our automotive center conveniently located at 625 Del Ganado Rd, San Rafael, CA 94903.