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Dec 13, 2019

Jordan Ford - 2020 F-150One of the most important investments you can make is the purchase of a new vehicle. You rely on your car to get you to work, get the kids to school, and to get the whole family to that special vacation destination. Your car takes care of you, so you should take care of it. Here are some common car repairs and how to tell when your vehicle needs them.

Oil Change

Your car’s engine needs fresh, clean oil to function correctly. It’s essential to have your car’s oil changed according to the mileage listed in your owner’s manual. However, you may need to change the oil more frequently if you’re driving more often than usual, or it’s the middle of summer. Frequent driving and high temperatures can cause motor oil to deteriorate rapidly.

If your car’s oil change light comes on, this means the oil level is too low. You should check the dipstick once a month to prevent this from happening. A monthly dipstick check will also allow you to make sure the oil in your car is clean. If your engine is making a knocking noise, this is another indication that the engine is not adequately lubricated. If you can smell oil or notice exhaust smoke, your vehicle may have an oil leak. All of these issues should be addressed immediately to prevent even costlier damage.

Tire Rotation

When you perform a monthly dipstick check, you should also check your car’s tires for wear and tear. If you notice any irregular and/or uneven wearing, have your tires rotated. While your owner’s manual may recommend a rotation every 6,000 miles, your tires can wear out sooner if you’re frequently driving or it’s hot outside. Tire rotation will ensure that your tires wear evenly. They’ll last longer and function correctly.

Wheel Alignment

You can also make sure your tires last longer by having your wheels aligned. Your owner’s manual probably recommends an alignment every 4,350 miles. However, you shouldn’t wait for this mile marker if you’ve driven over any large objects or potholes. If you notice your car drifting or it seems harder to make a turn, a wheel alignment could solve these issues. Regular wheel alignment can lessen the effects of driving on your tires and improve your car’s handling.

Air Conditioner Repair

Because the air conditioner is such a frequently used part of your car, it’s also likely to wear out pretty quickly. If your air conditioner stops blowing air, makes a rattling noise, or puts out an odd smell when it’s running, then it needs some repair work. You should also watch out for puddles of water on the car floor. These warning signs can signal a variety of malfunctions. The problem could be something minor, like a loose hose or a blocked drain. More serious issues are mold buildup or fried ventilation fan.

Hopefully, you’ve found this information to be helpful. By paying attention to your car and keeping it maintained, you can enjoy it for years to come.