As a car owner, your ability to drive and get to work, pick up the kids and get away on the weekend is dependent on having access to a vehicle that functions smoothly and is safe for you and your passengers to travel in. Whether your car is new and still under warranty, passed the five-year mark or a classic or vintage car, regular vehicle maintenance enables you to enjoy the advantages of car ownership while keeping your expenses to a minimum.
At Complete Exhaust Specialists in Brahma Lodge, our qualified and insured mechanics service all vehicles, including cars under a logbook warranty, and can help you keep your car running optimally and safely. We work on all cars, both new and old, with classic cars a speciality. Here are a few of the many reasons why it’s so important to have your car regularly serviced.
It keeps your engine oil and other essentials topped up
Cars, both old and new, rely on a variety of fluids to keep them running smoothly. When essential fluids like engine oil run low, the components in your car are at greater risk of wear and tear, which can result in the need for costly repairs. When you bring your car in for a service, your mechanic will check, replace and/or top up the following fluids and oils:
- Engine oil lubricates the metal components in the engine to eliminate friction which could cause overheating and unnecessary wear and tear. Generally, it’s best to drain and replace all engine oil to ensure no contaminants remain.
- Coolant plays an important role by absorbing heat from the engine and removing it through the radiator. Replacing the coolant regularly prevents corrosion which could block cooling paths and cause the engine to overheat.
- Transmission fluid lubricates the components in the transmission system and needs to be changed regularly to prevent contaminants forming. It plays a similar role to engine oil.
- Steering fluid keeps the steering column and other components lubricated. When steering fluid runs low, it can make the steering wheel difficult to turn.
- Brake fluid keeps your brakes functioning smoothly. As it absorbs moisture from the air, tiny air bubbles can form in the brake lines, so it needs to be checked and replaced if needed.
Along with having your car serviced regularly, you should also check essential oils and fluids, especially the engine oil, on a regular basis to keep them topped up.
Check your car’s safety system
When your car is brought in for a scheduled or logbook service, the mechanic will check your car’s safety system, most importantly, your brakes, wheels and tyres.
If you drive regularly around Adelaide, chances are all those stop lights and signs are causing you to stop regularly, placing pressure on your braking system, especially the brake pads and brake fluid. Your brakes will be thoroughly checked when serviced, but you should also bring your car in whenever your brakes aren’t functioning correctly or if you hear screeching, squealing or grinding sounds. You should also have your car inspected if the service light is on or if you notice fluids leaking.
Your wheels will be checked to ensure they’re aligned and your tyres inspected for uneven tread wear and pressure. Keeping your wheels aligned and your tyres inflated to the correct pressure keeps your suspension system performing properly which is important for safety.
The importance of regular vehicle maintenance is something you can’t overlook. To keep your car in good working condition and stay safe on the road, service your car regularly.