If you are like most of America, you have a list of New Year’s Resolutions you want to incorporate into 2025. Healthy eating, going to the gym, and reading more books are common goals. But have you considered adding automotive tasks to your list? Taking better care of yourself is good for you, and taking better care of your car is also. So for 2025, add some auto maintenance tasks, like car battery care, headlights inspection, and oil change to your resolutions.
6 Auto Maintenance Resolutions
Auto maintenance is one of the best auto investments you can make. Buying a new vehicle is expensive. So, getting the most bang for your buck sometimes involves getting your hands a little dirty. The following six auto maintenance tasks can help prolong your vehicle’s longevity and prevent expensive car repairs in the future. Let’s look at them one at a time.
Battery Care
Every vehicle’s performance relies on a healthy battery. Check your car battery terminals for corrosion and clean them if necessary. Tighten loose connections and make sure the battery is secured within its bracket or compartment. Test the battery’s charge or schedule a service with a professional to ensure the charging capacity, especially for batteries older than three years. FYI – These days, most batteries last about three to five years in modern vehicles.
Braking System
An effective braking system is essential for vehicle safety. Schedule a brake service if your automobile squeals while braking, or if you notice that it takes longer to slow down and stop. Worn brake pads, stuck calipers, or warped rotors require service or replacement periodically. Going beyond the factory-recommended service interval for brake components can lead to brake failure and more expensive repairs.
Fluid Levels
Your vehicle depends on various fluids to operate efficiently. Low fluids can create unnecessary stress on components and premature wear and tear. Here’s a quick guide to help you check fluid levels. Regularly inspect the following automotive fluids:
- Brake Fluid
- Coolant
- Engine Oil
- Transmission Fluid
- Windshield Wiper Fluid
Headlights
The days are getting a tiny bit longer with the arrival of the new year. Still, poor weather with limited visibility can last well into spring. Working headlights, fog lights, turn indicators, and brake lights are important safety features that require occasional service. Burnt bulbs, blown fuses, or faulty wiring can cause lights to stop working. Your owner’s manual usually has a troubleshooting guide for inoperable lights that can help you fix the issue. Your service technician can also locate and correct the headlight problem for you.
Tire & Wheel Inspection
Tires are in constant contact with the road and require regular inspections. Be sure to check the tread depth and look for uneven tread wear. Ensure all the tires contain the proper PSI, according to the door sticker recommendation. Carefully inspect the wheels (or rims) for damage, excessive wear, and loose lug nuts.
Windshield & Wipers
Check your windshield for tiny chips, cracks, or other damage. Repairing these minor imperfections can extend the life of your car’s windshield and may help prevent more severe damage or replacement. Inspect the wipers for damage and wear. Replace them if necessary.
Schedule Necessary Auto Maintenance
While some people are entirely comfortable doing auto maintenance themselves, others prefer to leave it to the professionals. Either way, set aside the time required to complete all your necessary car maintenance. Sticking to a schedule for auto maintenance helps reduce overlooked tasks and promotes safe driving. Ignoring minor issues can quickly turn into costly repairs. Below are just a few car services that require routine appointments:
- Air Filter Replacements
- Battery Care
- Oil Change & Oil Filter Replacement
- Tire Rotation
- Wheel Alignment
Auto Maintenance Service in Ann Arbor, MI
Visit Ron’s Garage in Ann Arbor, MI, for all your auto maintenance and car repair needs. Our team can help you with battery care and oil changes and discover why your headlights don’t work. We have served Ann Arbor and the surrounding areas of Saline, Dexter, and Pittsfield Township since 1982.
Make An Auto Maintenance Appointment
Ron’s Garage also performs major and minor auto repairs on all makes and models, imported or domestic, up to one ton. Visit our website or call us today to schedule an appointment with any of our friendly service agents at (734) 961-4701.
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