Maintenance 101

What You Need to Know About Regular Maintenance

Whether you’re ready to learn more about your favorite vehicle or you’re tired of sudden breakdowns, learn how to get started with your own car maintenance. Follow these simple tips to maintain your car, and discover how you can enjoy affordable auto repairs in Corvallis, Oregon.

Read Your Owner’s Manual

Just like any other instruction manual, you may have skipped over reading your vehicle owner’s manual. Don’t let this thick manual scare you, but take some time to familiarize yourself with it. A manual allows you to read up on routine maintenance schedules that are specific for your make and model of vehicle, and also points you to the correct fluids and other components.

Create an Oil Change Schedule

One of the first maintenance steps you need to take is to change your oil. Few car maintenance issues can cause more damage than running on bad oil. Check your owner’s manual for the exact weight of oil and whether to choose synthetic, blend, or conventional oil. Some vehicles require an oil change every 3,000 miles, while others can go up to 7,000 or even 10,000. Check with your local mechanic and owner’s manual to determine the right schedule based on your vehicle and driving habits.

Routinely Inspect Your Tires

Balding tires can reduce your traction, fuel economy and cause an unexpected flat tire. Every month, check your treads to spot any signs of wear. Look for a treadwear indicator that lets you know when your tires are too worn, and keep an eye out for any signs of unusual wear. Flat tires or overinflated tires can also cause wear, steering, and fuel economy issues. Check the side of your tires or your owner’s manual for the proper air pressure and routinely check your tire air pressure.

Stay on Top of Car Maintenance With a Tune-Up

Don’t let a slight car maintenance issue turn into a major repair project. If your car is having problems, or you need more information about a maintenance task, schedule a service at London’s Automotive. As your premier Corvallis automotive repair destination, we have the experienced mechanics and high-quality products you need to keep your vehicle driving safely and efficiently.