Not Driving Much? Don't Forget These Critical Car Maintenance Tips
One of Girlington Garage technicians working on tire of gray sedan that is lifted in the air in shop bay area.
Years ago, vehicles were simpler, so you'd see so many people working on their cars in their driveways and garages.
Today's cars, however, are entirely different beasts. They are now equipped with highly complex computer systems and technology. These advanced systems require regular maintenance, even though the pandemic has prompted you to drive less.
Let's look at some critical vehicle maintenance tips you should do even when you're driving less.
1. Oil Changes Aren't Optional
Some drivers believe their car's oil doesn't need to be changed unless they've driven a certain number of miles since their last oil change. Sadly, that's not true.If you look at your vehicle's owner's manual, you'll notice that it specifies an oil change interval in miles or months, whichever comes first. This is because the oil will naturally degrade whether the vehicle is driven.One of our top, most important car maintenance tips is to stick to the manufacturer's suggested oil change interval based on time or mileage, whichever comes first.
2. Check Your Tires Periodically
Even if your car spends most of its time sitting still, your tires still take a beating. The average vehicle in Vermont weighs over 4,000 pounds, and that's no easy lift. All this weight resting on rubber will take its toll, even though you're not driving. At the same time, if your vehicle is left sitting for too long, your tires can experience rubber rot.Another top maintenance tip is to check your tires periodically. It would be best if you continued having regular tire rotations and tire services with each oil change to maximize the life of your tires.And if your car is often parked in the sun, make sure to move your wheels at least one turn forward or backward every day. The sun will degrade the rubber in a single spot and destroy your tires if you don't
3. Test Your Battery Often
Although not having to drive may be a blessing, you deserve the comfort of knowing your car's ready to go at a moment's notice. However, this may not be the case if your battery is less than stellar. As a result, our car maintenance tips include having your battery tested. Believe it or not, your car's battery could go dead in as little as two weeks of sitting idle. So, make it a practice to take a spin around the block now and then. Or bring your car to the shop for a quick battery diagnostic.
4. Maintain Proper Fluid Levels
Although you might not realize it, your car has several major fluid types. It depends on such fluids to function properly. It's got engine oil, of course, but also brake fluid, transmission fluid, coolant, and others, depending on the age of your vehicle. Although designed to stay in your vehicle, such fluids can leak, deplete, or evaporate over time. And trust us, you don't want to drive a car that's low on any critical fluids. As a regular part of your car maintenance, you should have your fluids inspected and exchanged based on the manufacturer's suggested intervals.
Contact Girlington Garage in Burlington, VT for Your Auto Maintenance Needs
The takeaway here is that your car needs regular maintenance, even though you're not using it very much. And if you're in South Burlington, VT area, the expert mechanics at Girlington Garage can help.
Contact Girlington Garage today by completing our online contact form or calling us at 802-247-7917. Or you can stop by at 2 Harbor View Rd., South Burlington, VT 05403.
