Car Care Tips

What’s the key to keeping your car running for a long time? Following   the recommended maintenance intervals outlined in your owner’s manual   and checking for potential problems before they happen are essential to   overall vehicle maintenance. But when the time for necessary auto  repairs arrives, remember where to turn: Gilbert’s Maxi Muffler &  Service.

Follow the car care tips below to keep your vehicle running reliably:

• Change the oil within the suggested service intervals. Checking  and changing your oil and oil filter will help your engine and vehicle  run smoothly. While changing your oil as required is important, using  the manufacturer’s recommended oil for your vehicle can improve gas  mileage by 1-2%.
• Moving components require regular lubrication and should be  checked as often as the oil is changed. Driveline components, like CV  and u-joints, are flexible components that, if not properly lubricated,  can break down and cause other major components to go with them.
• Transmission and differential fluid are other important fluids  to check during service intervals. Unusual noises, sluggish shifting, or  abrupt gear changes are all signs that your transmission service  interval is quickly approaching or has passed. For fluid specifications,  be sure to consult your owner’s manual for your manufacturer’s  recommended transmission fluid type and viscosity.
• Pay attention to battery life. Battery connections should be  kept tight, clean, and free of corrosion. Batteries rarely provide  warnings before failing, so be sure to seek battery replacements as  necessary.
• Brake fluid can attract moisture, which will corrode components.  Brake fluid should be replaced once a year to keep calipers, hoses, and  other components in top operating condition. Other important fluids to  consider changing on a regular basis include power steering fluid and  coolant. Each fluid has its own service interval, so be sure to check  with the manufacturer.
• Fully functioning climate control systems are important to your  comfort and your overall safety. A complete flush and fill of the  coolant system is necessary for ridding the system of dirt and rust  collected from the engine, radiator, and various hoses. Refrigerant may  also be checked prior to the onset of warmer seasons.
• Wheel alignments can realign your wheels to your manufacturer’s  specifications. Wheel alignments improve straight-line tracking and  reduce tire wear. If you feel unusual pulling to one side, it is time  for a wheel alignment.
• Avoid stop-and-go driving. This wastes fuel and adds unnecessary wear and premature age to crucial components.

By following these tips and the service intervals listed inside your  owner’s manual, you can guard against major repairs and unexpected  failures. Proper vehicle maintenance can save you money in the long run,  and improve your safety and the safety of your passengers, while  neglecting suggested services at regular intervals will void vehicle and  parts warranties.

Stay on top of routine vehicle maintenance and visit us today or  contact us online when your vehicle needs to be serviced by our  professionals.