When it comes to our vehicles, it’s easy to get caught up in the image. Who doesn’t love cruising around town in a clean car that turns heads? But let’s not forget that a car isn’t just a pretty face — it’s a complex piece of machinery that requires care and attention.
Regular maintenance is essential to keeping your clean car running smoothly and preventing any costly breakdowns. Think of it like taking care of yourself — you wouldn’t just focus on your appearance without giving any thought to your health, right? The same goes for your car.
In addition to keeping your vehicle shiny, regular car-washing will help on the maintenance end. Harsh weather conditions, tree sap, bird droppings and other environmental factors can wreak havoc on your car’s exterior. Failing to wash it off in a timely manner can lead to paint damage, water retention and even rust, which, if left unchecked, can damage the structure of your vehicle. Not to mention, it will affect the resale value.
In addition to consistently cleaning your vehicle, here are five maintenance tasks that will keep your car running smoothly.
- Changing Oil: Your car’s engine needs oil to function properly, so it’s important to check your oil levels regularly and change it periodically. To check your oil, locate the dipstick, pull it out, and wipe it clean. Then, reinsert it and pull it out again to see the oil level. If it’s low, you’ll need to add more oil. To change the oil, you’ll need to drain the old oil, replace the oil filter, and add new oil.
- Replacing Air Filters: Air filters keep dust, dirt, and other debris from entering your car’s engine. Over time, they become clogged and must be replaced. To replace a filter, locate the air filter housing, remove the old filter, and replace it with a new one.
- Filling Tires: Properly inflated tires can improve your car’s fuel efficiency and handling. To check your tire pressure, use a tire pressure gauge to measure the pressure in each tire. If it’s low, add air until it’s at the recommended pressure level, which is typically listed on a sticker inside the driver’s door or in the owner’s manual.
- Changing Windshield Wiper Blades: Worn out wiper blades can affect your visibility while driving in the rain or snow. To change them, lift the wiper arm away from the windshield and press the release tab to remove the old blade. Then, attach the new blade by aligning the hook with the wiper arm and pushing it in until it clicks.
- Looking Under the Hood: While most car owners don’t usually look under the hood of their car unless there’s a problem, it’s always a good idea to perform a routine check every few months or so. By doing so, you can ensure that everything is working as it should be. Look for any signs of damage, such as cracks, dents, rust, or cuts, and check for any leaks. Additionally, look for smoke, excessive noise, or other signs that something may be amiss with your engine.
You can keep your car in top condition by performing these basic maintenance tasks. These easy steps will not only ensure a safe and reliable ride but also maintain the beauty of your clean car.
To take it one step further, visit a Sgt. Clean Car Wash location near you for that extra boost of aesthetic appeal or learn more about our services.