Car Care - Money Saving Tips

Maintaining our cars is more than just cleaning them and filling them up with gas.  However, some of us are not the do it yourself type and are a bit daunted by basic car maintenance.  Many of these items can be done by most oil and lube shops as part of the oil change service.

1.   Car Care and Motor Oil Changes

It used to be that the recommended mileage for oil changes were at 3,000 miles.  However, with the advent of better-formulated oils that has changed to 5,000 miles between replacements.  The modern oil formulas are more resistant to thermal (heat) breakdowns than what was produced 10 years ago.  Make sure that your oil filter is replaced at the same time as your oil change.  Oil filters will retain the contaminates that can harm your engine over time. 

2.   Car Care and Windshield Washer Fluid

Even if you are not the casual do it yourselfer, this is the easiest fluid change in your car.  It can also be the most important fluid change.  If there is dirt build up and you cannot see through your windshield, you become a safety hazard.  Most cars will have a small container inside of the hood for windshield washer fluid.  Many times, there will be a graphic on the cap depicting a windshield and a wiper.  Fill the container to just below the top and check the level frequently.  Use wiper fluid and not water whenever possible, as it is more effective in cleaning your windshield.

3.   Car Care and Power Steering Fluid

Every car in the last couple of decades has been equipped with power steering.  The power steering fluid is the cheapest and yet most important part of the system.  Steering a car without it is nearly impossible.  Under the hood is a reservoir labeled power steering.  Make sure the fluid is up to the fill line. 

4.   Car Care and Brake Fluid

Your oil and lube service provider can check this level for you.  Have them top it off if your levels are low and then have a mechanic check your brakes to make sure you don’t have a leak in the system.  Brake fluid can be changed every 30,000 miles if the car manufacturer recommends it.

5.   Car Care and Transmission Fluid

This is another 30,000-mile fluid change as well.  Most transmission mechanics can assist you in recommending the right time to change your transmission fluid. 

6.   Car Care and Coolant

Coolant is a fluid that you should have flushed and replaced about every other year depending on the harshness of weather you live in.  Coolant fluid will breakdown over time and the protective additives that fight rust and corrosion will not work well.  There are new extended life antifreezes that claim a five-year or 150,000-mile protection.