5 Point Checklist for Regular Car Maintenance in O’Fallon, IL
Owning a car comes with a lot of responsibility, especially the car maintenance needed to keep your vehicle on the road. Regular auto service can save you thousands of dollars in repairs later on, as well as sparing you the inconvenience of having a car that’s out of commission. Here are some things you can do to make sure your car is in good shape and ready for the road.
Inspect Car Tires
Tires are literally the place where the rubber meets the road, and yours need to be in good shape to stay safe on the street. Visually inspect the area around tires’ tread for signs of wear. If the rubber has been worn away or wires are showing from the steel belts, you should get the car into the shop for a professional inspection. To check the tread depth, slip a quarter between the treads and see how deep it goes. The tread should rise to touch the head on the coin.
Check Oil
If your car has been operating in the variable climate of O’Fallon, Illinois, you need to check oil levels more often than just the annual oil change. Pull out the dipstick and wipe it clean, then reinsert the stick and get a reading on your oil level. The oil should not only completely cover the measurement area, but the oil should also look light and thin enough to flow. If the oil looks black, or it seems thicker than it should be, then it is probably time for an oil change, even if it hasn’t been long since your last one.
Belts and Hoses
Pop open the hood of your car and have a look around in the engine compartment. Jiggle the wires, belts, and hoses, feeling for loose connections and other signs of trouble. Feel the tubes to make sure they’re soft and pliable, not stiff and crumbly. Look over the belts for signs of fraying and slippage. If you see any frayed wires, don’t touch them. Instead, have a professional take a look for you right away.
Battery Level
Check your lights on a regular basis. Switch on your headlights and blinkers, then walk around to make sure they’re all flashing. Listen for overly fast or irregular rhythms, which can indicate trouble with the fuses or timers.
Air Filter
Your air filter should be changed every time you get your oil changed. In addition, your AC should have fresh coolant and blow cold. Make sure the heater comes on and the defogger works well enough to keep your windows clear. Routine car maintenance is part of keeping your vehicle roadworthy. For help keeping things running well, call (618) 207-3247 for your next auto service appointment in O’Fallon, IL.
