Wheel Alignment
When you take your car in to be serviced, be sure to ask them to check its wheel alignment. Not only can it be dangerous to drive with a misaligned axis, but it also reduces efficiency, leading to increased fuel consumption. Additionally, it will cause more wear and tear and one set of tires.
Oil Changes
Most drivers only change or refill their oil when the 'check oil' light comes on. However, this definitely isn't the smartest course of action, any delay in a necessary oil change can lead to serious wear and tear on your engine. While a simple oil check will only cost you a few dollars, having your engine repaired or replaced can cost thousands.
Coolant Flushes
By having your coolant flushed when necessary, you can prevent overheating and blown head gaskets. It may be inconvenient and seem like a minor chore, but leaving it unattended can result in serious engine damage, which will cost a fortune to repair down the line.
Transmission Fluid Replacement
Replacing the fluid in your transmission is another chore than may seem minor, but makes a major difference in the overall functioning of your car. In fact, skipping this can result in full transmission failure, which costs upwards of $3000 to repair (depending on the make and model, of course).
Brake Fluid Replacement
Not only is it dangerous to drive with old brake fluid - for obvious reasons - but it can also cause some serious wear and tear on your vehicle components, leading to costly repairs down the line. Simply put, having your brake fluid checked every now and again is well worth the effort.
Power Steering Fluid Check
Another important chore that should never be overlooked is having your power steering fluid checked and replaced if necessary. While this one may be a bit more costly, it will also prevent pump damage and any steering issues.
Tire Rotation
Having your tire rotation checked is an important step in vehicle maintenance. While some people never get around to this chore, it can end up saving you a small fortune in the long run. Proper tire rotation will prevent uneven wear and tear, avoiding frequent and premature tire replacements.
Tire Pressure Checks
While many drivers may think that having low tire pressure isn't that big of a deal, it can actually cost you thousands every month. When your tires are even a little bit flat, you won't get as much mileage from a single tank of fuel. As a result, you will have to fill up more often and spend unnecessary money.
Balancing Tires
Balancing your tires is yet another important chore that many drivers overlook. When your tires are incorrectly balanced, your vehicle experience more vibration than usual, leading to wear and tear on components. Over time, it will also cause damage to the car's suspension.
Air Filter Replacement
While a dirty air filter may seem minor, it can actually place massive strain on your vehicle - specifically the engine. On top of this, it can actually reduce the fuel economy, leading to additional expenditure on your monthly fuel bill.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement
The cabin air filter also needs to be cleaned or replaced every once in a while. A dirty filter will place additional strain on the car's HVAC system and, in the long run, may cause unnecessary repairs. More so, nobody wants to breathe in dirty air!
Fuel Filter Replacement
Having your fuel filter checked and replaced if necessary is a vital part in vehicle maintenance that could end up saving you thousands in the long run. A well functioning filter will prevent clogged injectors and even improve the overall performance of your car. On the other hand, an issue with your fuel filter can cause serious damge to the engine.
Timing Belt Replacement
The timing belt in your vehicle cannot simply be used for years on end without ever receiving maintenance or being replaced. While it may be a mission to have it checked, it can end up saving you thousands in the long run. If it snaps, for example, chances are you will have install a whole new engine.
Serpentine Belt Inspection
Many people don't even know what the serpentine belt is, nevermind how often it should be inspected. This component powers critical systems and, if it ends up failing, will leave you stranded on the side of the road. To avoid this, it should be inspected at least once a year.
Brake Pad Inspection
Worn brake pads aren't only a safety concern, but they can also lead to serious component damage within your vehicle. If the problem is left untreated for long enough, the rotors will be damaged. In this scenario, you will end up paying thousands on repairs instead of the hundreds it would've costed to just replace the pads.
Windshield Wiper Replacement
Having your windscreen wipers replaced is a quick and affordable job. In fact, most people will be able to do it at home, cutting out any labour costs and the inconvenience of taking your car into a shop. It is well worth the effort, as poor visibility can risk accidents and fines.
Headlight/Taillight Checks
Not only is it unsafe to drive with dim or burned-out bulbs, but it can also lead to expensive tickets and fines. Having your bulbs replaced is a relatively straight-forward and affordable job, making it well-worth the effort.
Battery Terminal Cleaning
One very important maintenance chore that many drivers forget about is battery terminal cleaning. This prevents corrosion, which can be a major problem is your car breaks down and needs a jump start.
Regular Car Washes
Many drivers underestimate just how important keeping their car clean actually is. Over time, dirt and grime will start to accumulate in nooks and crannies, leading to rust. Not only does this lead to various issues that require costly repairs, but it will also lower the resale value of the car. In other words, you will lose money if you eventually decide to sell your car.
Checking Spark Plugs
Without well-functioning spark plugs, your vehicle simply won't start. On top of this, faulty plugs can reduce efficiency and lead to a wide range of additional issues - all of which cost a lot to repair. If the engine is strained enough, it may need to be replaced entirely, which can cost upwards of $3000.
