If you’re a new car owner, you’re probably asking, “How often should I take my car to the shop?” While there is no one-size-fits-all answer, these guidelines can help you:
How Often Do I Take My Car To Get Maintenance Repair?
Manufacturers provide guidelines in their manuals for all vehicle owners on when to get the most crucial maintenance work done. Those guidelines are designed to help vehicle owners preserve their car’s life for as long as possible. Failure to follow the maintenance protocol can cause your vehicle’s performance to suffer greatly if you miss the appointments.
For example, oil changes are vital to the engine. Most manufacturers recommend that vehicle owners change their oil every 3,000 to 12,000 miles. The manufacturers also express these increments in terms of months or years. Getting regular oil changes will prevent friction and caking issues, and it will ensure that your motor receives its essential lubrication.
You’ll also need to have your car’s filters changed. Tune-ups and spark plug changes also have guidelines for maintenance. Furthermore, you’ll have to keep an eye on your tires. Your tires will need to be rotated, balanced, and aligned at certain times to prevent uneven wearing.
Generally, vehicle owners should rotate their tires every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. Wheel alignments have more extended requirements, so you may only have to do that once every two or three years. However, you should take your car to a mechanic if you notice that your vehicle pulls to the right or left while driving.
Know When To Take Your Car for a Checkup
It’s wise to take your car in for a checkup to ensure everything is running smoothly. You may choose to have someone look at it every few months, or you can take it once a year. Think of your car as an extension of yourself. You visit the doctor at least once a year for a checkup. Why not give your vehicle the same care? The mechanic may spot a minor problem that he or she can fix immediately. That observation may save you thousands of dollars.
Respond to Issues Immediately
Most vehicle owners make the mistake of waiting to take their cars to the repair shop because of time restraints and financial problems. However, it’s always best to let someone look at your vehicle when you notice something wrong. Some shops offer discounts and promotions to their newest members. Other shops provide credit services from third-party providers. You can even go to a friend or family member to see if you can get assistance with your vehicle. Getting help right away is paramount if you want to maintain your vehicle’s health appropriately.
Now you know more about how frequently you should take your vehicle to an auto repair shop. The truth is that you should see your local repair shop regularly. Don’t be shy with your car. Allow experts to care for your vehicle so that you can get the most out of it daily.