A Beginner’s Guide to Understanding Car Maintenance

Mechanic using a laptop to perform maintenance on a vehicle

For many people, trying to understand your car and the issues it might be dealing with can be like trying to understand a foreign language. Since there are thousands of parts that make up a car, we don’t blame you. It can be difficult to fathom, and if you have no background in automobiles, it only makes it that much harder to repair or know how to do at-home maintenance checks.

That’s why KC Auto is here to help! We will try our best to explain a few simple methods to keep your car maintained. If an issue like low tire pressure arises, you will be equipped to deal with it or temporarily fix it before you schedule a tire pressure appointment at KC Auto. When you realize your car has mechanical problems, proper tools and experience are necessary. With over 40 years of experience, KC Auto is here to help keep your vehicle running efficiently while offering affordable service.

Contact us today to get your car repaired or tuned up!

The Importance of Car Maintenance

It is essential to make regular tune-up appointments for your automobile to maintain optimal performance and longevity and to keep future costs down. If you do not take care of your automobile, the odds of needing another vehicle will be at the top of your list, especially if it is something that you use often.

Performance

Regular car maintenance will improve your vehicle’s performance. We can identify things that might be on the verge of breaking down and eventually stop working, such as your car battery or brakes. With about 40 years of experience, we will be able to make sure that your car runs smoothly without the risk of issues occurring.

Longevity

For your automobile to last longer, you need to try your best to ensure that all car parts are maintained and in working condition. Once one key component in your car stops functioning, you will inevitably face other parts breaking down as well. Receiving regular car maintenance appointments such as oil changes, car washes, tire rotations, and brake inspections will help you keep your car running for a few extra years.

Costs

Scheduling regular car maintenance appointments helps prevent long-term costs and replacements. You will pay fees and parts during these appointments, but compared to if you need a new engine ($5,000-$10,000), radiator ($700-$1,000), or transmission ($2,000-$3,500), there is almost no comparison. Maintenance appointments seem like they are not worth it, but if they help you save thousands of dollars or even prevent the need to purchase a new car, they can be worth the money and time.

Basic Car Maintenance Checks

  • Car Wash: When you wash your car, you are not only improving the appearance, but you are also prolonging the life of the protective paint. Your car’s paint is a shield to help prevent chips and rust. Something as common as bird droppings can eat away at the paint of your car, which will then cause it to rust if left untreated. 
  • Oil Changes: Oil changes are essential for keeping your car running smoothly. They help clean the oil and grime that inevitably collects in your engine, so we recommend you get your oil changed every 3,000 to 7,000 miles. The miles and type of oil used will all depend on your car type. 
  • Tires: Checking your tire pressure, getting them rotated, and replacing them when they are worn out helps with your safety when driving. Making sure that your tire pressure is where it should be can help with your tire’s grip on the road. It can also increase fuel efficiency, because when your tires have the correct pressure, there is reduced rolling resistance to the road. Regular tire rotations will help keep your tires from balding quickly. All the benefits of getting your tire pressure checked and rotated can be applied when you purchase new tires.
  • Brakes: The brakes are an essential part of your car. Getting your brakes checked or repaired can not only save you thousands of dollars, but it can also save lives. Getting them checked will help you realize how bad or good they are, which can impact how soon you need to press them. Getting your brakes checked will also help you understand the timeline of when you would need new ones to prevent any issues on the road. 

Maintenance Tips for You

Earlier, we mentioned that maintaining your car can be like understanding a foreign language. But like the beginning of anything you do, all you must do is try and start to understand the simple things. You can start with getting your air filtered changed, replacing your windshield wipers to help with the visibility, or something as simple as getting your car washed. Many of these things may be simple, but can make a difference in saving you time and money. If there are any issues that you are unable to DIY or if you feel like it is time to schedule a maintenance check, all of us at KC Auto welcome you with open arms and are here to help you stay safe and any of your automobile needs.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment for any of your car needs!