A vehicle is a substantial investment, and to preserve its longevity and performance, preventative maintenance is required. The last thing you want is for your vehicle to give up on you or to be costing more than it should. Although there is some luck involved in that, the primary factor is taking care of it well.
In Alix, Alberta, residents have trusted Auto Trust for years, knowing that their vehicle is in expert hands. We provide all kinds of preventative maintenance services and do our best to keep our customers vehicles in good shape. Let’s delve into the world of vehicle preventative maintenance and discover its significance and services we offer.
At Auto Trust, we believe in a holistic approach to vehicle maintenance. We understand it’s importance and conduct these services for all kinds of vehicles. Some key components we focus on include:
Battery Testing and Maintenance: A car battery is the heart of the vehicle’s electrical system. We provide regular battery testing and ensure it’s in peak condition.
Motor Oil and Transmission Fluid Checks: We regularly inspecting and changing the motor oil and transmission fluid. This keeps the engine and transmission running smoothly and increases fuel efficiency.
Spark Plugs and Serpentine Belt: We will replace worn-out spark plugs and check your serpentine belt for wear and tear. These components are vital for optimal performance and should always be in good shape.
Tire Inspection and Pressure Checks: Regular checks ensure even tire wear, proper alignment, and optimal tire pressure. This ensures safety and fuel efficiency.
Tire Rotations and Changes: It is a good idea to rotate your tires into different positions every so often. This ensures even tire wear and can help in prolonging your tire’s lifespan. We also do tire changes for when the seasons change. In Alberta, it’s necessary to have a set of summer and winter tires.
Windshield Wipers and Cabin Air Filter: We replace windshield wipers and inspect the cabin air filter. This ensures clear vision during adverse conditions and clean air inside the vehicle.
AC Services: We will also conduct inspections on your vehicle’s AC system. In the case of malfunctioning, we will do a coolant recharge or whatever else may be necessary.
This car maintenance checklist is curated based on years of experience and understanding of diverse vehicle types and models.
Timely vehicle maintenance comes with a number of benefits. Some of these benefits include:
Cost Savings: By addressing minor issues promptly, you prevent costly major repairs down the line. This helps reduce the cost of keeping your vehicle.
Enhanced Safety: Regular check-ups ensure all safety components, from brakes to lights, work flawlessly. Safety is key, especially for drivers with family and passengers.
Extended Vehicle Lifespan: Timely maintenance extends the lifespan of your vehicle, ensuring you get the most out of your investment. Everyone wants their vehicle to last as long as it can, and preventative maintenance is the way to ensure that.
Optimal Fuel Efficiency: A well-maintained vehicle guarantees optimal fuel combustion and efficiency. You’ll find yourself going to the pump less thanks to better fuel efficiency and mileage.
Resale Value: A well-maintained car fetches a higher resale value, offering better returns when you decide to upgrade. We provide history reports of maintenance so that you can present it to any buyers. This shows them the great care that has been shown to your vehicle and can help fetch a higher price.
Every vehicle manufacturer provides an owner’s manual detailing the recommended maintenance schedule. After all, each vehicle is different and no one knows it better than the manufacturer. For that reason, we recommend checking your owner’s manual, however here’s a general guideline for most vehicles :
Motor Oil: Change every 5,000 to 12,000 kilometers, depending on the type of oil and the manufacturer’s recommendation.
Car Battery: It is a good practice to test it every year after the three-year mark. Typically, you will find yourself replacing every 4-5 years.
Spark Plugs: These should be replaced every 45,000 kilometers or as recommended in the owner’s manual.
Serpentine Belt: Inspect regularly and replace every 95,000 to 160,000 kilometers.
Wiper Blades: Replace every 6 to 12 months or when you notice a decrease in performance.
Cabin Air Filter: Change at least once a year or every 20,000 to 25,000 kilometers.
Regularly consulting your maintenance schedule in the owner’s manual is always a good idea to stay on track.
Neglecting vehicle maintenance can be very problematic. It can lead to:
Unexpected Breakdowns: Without regular inspections, you might find yourself stranded due to a dead car battery or a failed serpentine belt.
Increased Repair Costs: Small issues can escalate into substantial problems. For instance, a flickering check engine light might indicate a minor issue now but can lead to major engine damage if ignored.
Decreased Fuel Efficiency: Neglecting tasks like replacing spark plugs or not maintaining tire pressure can affect your vehicle’s fuel efficiency.
Safety Hazards: Worn-out brake pads or malfunctioning lights can jeopardize your safety on the road.
None of these issues are to be taken lightly as they may cause you increased costs, or possibly even worse, your life.
A well-maintained vehicle isn’t just beneficial for the owner; it’s a bonus for the environment. Proper maintenance ensures:
Reduced Emissions: Regularly changing motor oil, maintaining the catalytic converter, and ensuring optimal combustion significantly reduce harmful emissions.
Optimal Fuel Consumption: Ensuring tire pressure is maintained and the engine runs smoothly helps in achieving optimal fuel efficiency, leading to reduced fossil fuel consumption.
Less Waste: Timely replacements, like changing wiper blades or the cabin air filter, ensure components don’t degrade to a point where they become environmental hazards.
In Alix, Alberta, Auto Trust stands as a beacon of trustworthiness, efficiency, and excellence in vehicle maintenance. Our holistic approach, paired with an unwavering commitment to quality, ensures your vehicle remains in top-notch condition.
So, the next time your vehicle is due for a check-up, turn to Auto Trust. Our experts, armed with the latest tools and a comprehensive maintenance checklist, ensure every aspect of your vehicle receives the care it deserves. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.