Preventative Maintenance Checklist

Our vehicles are made from a collection of various systems and components. They work very hard to keep your vehicle running. The constant use of our vehicles takes a toll on the various components such as the engine, tires, and brakes. Issues with any part of your vehicle can reduce your safety while driving and cause your vehicle to lose its fuel efficiency. The best thing that you can do is perform preventative maintenance tasks to keep everything running smoothly and prevent costly damage from happening. Here are some of the maintenance tasks you should include on your preventative maintenance checklist:

• Check Oil & Coolant Levels: You should check your oil and coolant levels monthly. Ensure that your vehicle has at least the minimum required amounts of each. If they are below the minimum level or are low, add as much as is needed.

• Replace the Air Filter: A clogged air filter will reduce airflow into the engine and cause it to work harder to keep your car moving. You should replace your car’s air filter according to your owner’s manual.

• Check Turn Signals, Headlights, Taillights, and Brake Lights: An important part of safely operating a vehicle is properly functioning signal lights. If any are malfunctioning or burned out, the safety of the driver and fellow motorists is threatened. Check all your lights to ensure none are malfunctioning.

• Change Your Oil & Oil Filter: Engine oil is what prevents your engine from grinding itself out. However, engine oil only lasts so long. It becomes dirty and its chemical additives break down. That’s why it needs to be changed every 3,000 – 10,000 miles depending on the oil type, driving habits, and your vehicle.

• Rotate Tires: Your tread wears down while you drive. Each tire’s tread will experience different wear patterns depending on where they are located. They should be rotated to keep treadwear even and prolong the life of your tires.

• Check Tire Tread & Pressure: Your tires need to have enough tread on them to properly grip the road and allow you to safely maneuver your vehicle. They also need to be properly inflated to be able to safely carry the load of the vehicle and any occupants.

• Check Spark Plugs: Spark plugs ignite the air and fuel mixture that power your engine and vehicle. If your spark plugs are not functioning properly, your car can’t run at peak levels. Check and replace any faulty spark plugs. We always recommend replacing all of them instead of just any faulty ones.

• Replace Windshield Wipers: When driving in adverse weather conditions, you need to be able to see. Windshield wipers help keep your windshield free and clear of things that can affect your vision while driving. Check your wipers and replace them if need be.

• Check Battery: Your battery powers many things in your vehicle such as the radio, lights, and the car starter. If it is at low levels, you need to recharge it or replace it. A dead battery will prevent your car from working and one that is at low levels will cause your vehicle’s power output to drop and lead to performance issues.

• Check Transmission Fluid: Transmission fluid lubricates the internal parts of your transmission. Over time, the fluid can break down or even get burned off. Check your transmission fluid levels and add or replace as needed.

At Wholesale Transmission, we provide vehicle repairsto the Alden, NY area. Our auto repair services include preventative maintenance such as tire rotations, oil changes, brake repairs, and transmission repairs. You should perform preventative maintenance tasks every few months to ensure that your vehicle is functioning at peak condition. It will also help keep you safe on the road and prevent costly damage to your vehicle. If you need help with your preventative maintenance, our auto mechanics can help. Contact us today to schedule your auto repair appointment!