The Three Important Car Maintenance Tasks Every New Driver Should Know
Owning a car is a big responsibility. Not only do you have to keep up with regular maintenance and repairs, but you also have to ensure you’re following all the required guidelines set forth by your state or province.
If you’re a new driver, the whole process can seem daunting. To help take some of the guesswork out of car ownership, we’ve put together a list of three essential car maintenance tasks every new driver should know.
1. Check Your Tire Pressure Regularly
One of the most important things you can do for your car is to check your tire pressure regularly. A good rule of thumb is to check your tires once a month or before any long road trip. You can find your vehicle’s recommended tire pressure in the owner’s manual or on a sticker inside the driver’s door.
Underinflated tires not only decrease your gas mileage and cost you money at the pump but can also be dangerous. When tire pressure is low, tires can overheat and blow out—which is especially dangerous at high speeds. If you’re not sure how to check your tire pressure, most gas stations have machines that will do it for you for free.
2. Change Your Oil Regularly
Another important maintenance task that all drivers need to be aware of is changing their oil regularly. Depending on what kind of vehicle you have and what oil it uses, you may need to change your oil as frequently as every 3,000 miles or as infrequently as every 6,000 miles. Again, refer to your owner’s manual to see what the manufacturer recommends.
If you wait too long to change your oil, it will eventually become so dirty that it will damage your engine. To avoid this costly repair, keep up with your regular oil changes. Many auto shops offer package deals on oil changes, so it’s always worth checking around for the best price before scheduling an appointment.
3. Keep Your Gas Tank Above Half-Full
There are two reasons why keeping your gas tank above half-full is important:
First, if your tank runs dry, debris from the bottom of the tank can get into your fuel line and clog it—which could lead to repairs that cost hundreds of dollars.
Second, if you get stranded somewhere without any gas, it will be much harder for someone to come and help you if your tank is empty.
So even if it means making an extra stop at the gas station once in a while, always try to keep your tank at least half-full—your wallet (and peace of mind) will thank you later!
Owning a car comes with a lot of responsibility—but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By staying on top of key maintenance tasks like checking tire pressure, changing the oil regularly, and keeping your gas tank above half-full, you can help prolong the life of your car and avoid costly repairs down the road.
Come to High Road Automotive in Seattle, WA., and we’ll help you with all your essential vehicle maintenance! Please schedule an appointment today and see what makes us so popular in Ballard & beyond!
