For most consumers, a car is their second biggest investment, yet many treat their vehicle about the same as their washing machine, electric range or other major appliance: They don't worry about it until something goes wrong. Here at Clarke Automotive, your trusted Brandon FL auto repair, we see this all the time unfortunately. While not following the maintenance schedule in the owner's manual is very common, it doesn't mean it's okay. We've compiled a list of 5 things you're doing that's killing your vehicle faster than you realize.
1. You're not checking or changing the car's oil. Although today's vehicles don't burn oil the way they did 25 years ago, troubles can arise that reduce the engine's oil level -- sometimes to dangerously low levels. Checking the level every couple of weeks will alert you to a problem if your car is consistently burning or losing oil.
2. You aren't changing the oil filter. Just like you, your car's engine must breathe. The air filter is the engine's airflow gateway. If the filter is dirty, the airflow is restricted. This can cause your engine to overheat, which is going to cost a lot more than an air filter
3. You're braking with worn brake pads. If applying the brakes is rewarded with a squealing noise, it's your car telling you that you're overdue to replace your disc-brake pads.
4. Riding on worn shock absorbers. Shocks perform a number of essential duties critical to the well-being of your car's suspension, as well as to how your car handles and rides.
5. Exposing your car to extreme temperatures. Exposing your car to extreme temperatures like the 90's, 100's, or below freezing can be a car killer, making regular car maintenance even more important!