10 Tips for Saving Money on Factory Scheduled Car Maintenance

Everyone wants to save money, and car maintenance is no exception. Keeping up with factory scheduled car maintenance can help extend the life of your vehicle, but it doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are 10 tips for saving money on factory scheduled car maintenance that will keep your vehicle running smoothly without breaking the bank.  From finding an affordable mechanic to buying quality parts and supplies, these tips will help you get the most out of your car care budget. So, read on and start saving today!

Call 317-475-1846 For Affordable Car Maintenance in Indianapolis Indiana
Call 317-475-1846 For Affordable Car Maintenance in Indianapolis Indiana

How to Stay Cost-Savvy with Your Car Maintenance Schedule

Owning a car can be expensive! The good news is that there are ways to reduce your car maintenance expenses. Savvy drivers know that creating a plan for vehicle upkeep and proactive choices like finding good deals on auto parts and oil changes can add up to big savings in the long run. Taking preventative measures, such as replacing worn tires or keeping up with regular check-ups, might seem daunting at first, but these important steps will prevent more costly repairs down the road and less money leaving your wallet.

Here are some money-saving tips that can help:

1. Get Informed: Educate yourself about the recommended factory scheduled maintenance for your car make and model. Knowing when services are due can help you save money by scheduling them together, and understanding what services are being performed will allow you to budget better.

2. Look for Discounts: Many auto shops offer seasonal or loyalty-based discounts that can help you save on factory scheduled maintenance. Ask around to see if any good deals are available in your area or online before settling on a price.

3. Buy Quality Parts: Although it may be tempting to buy cheaper parts in order to save money, buying quality parts is essential for proper vehicle maintenance. Low-quality parts may end up costing more in the long run due to having to be replaced more often.

4. Do Your Own Research: Take the time to research which auto shops offer the best prices for factory scheduled maintenance services in your area and read customer reviews so you know what kind of service to expect.

5. Compare Prices: Don’t settle for the first quote you get – use comparison shopping tools like Consumer Reports or Angie’s List to compare different auto shops’ pricing and services so that you can make an informed decision about where to take your car for factory scheduled maintenance.

6. Ask for Help: If you don’t feel confident doing a task yourself, ask a friend or family member who is knowledgeable about cars if they can help. This is a great way to save money on labor costs while still ensuring that the job gets done right.

7. Use Coupons: Many auto shops offer online coupons and discounts that you can use to get discounts on factory scheduled maintenance services. Sign up for newsletters and check coupon sites regularly so that you’re always aware of any deals available in your area.

8. Keep Track of Receipts: Make sure to keep all receipts related to car care, as this will make it easier for you to budget for future services and repairs. You may also be able to write off certain expenses at tax time if they are car-related, so it pays to be organized!

9. Ask About Warranties: Many auto shops offer warranties on certain services, so make sure to ask about them. It is also important to read the fine print and understand what the warranty covers before agreeing to it.

10. Shop Around for Car Insurance: Car insurance plays an important role in protecting your vehicle, so shop around for the best deal possible. The money you save on car insurance could be used towards factory scheduled maintenance costs, which will help keep your car running smoothly at a fraction of the cost!

Stick to Your Car Care Budget With These Tips

Following these 10 tips can help you save money on factory scheduled car maintenance without compromising quality or safety. Taking care of your vehicle doesn’t have to break the bank – with a little research and preparation, you can find ways to get the most out of your car care budget. 

Ready to appoint a trusted Indianapolis mechanic for your car care needs? Book your scheduled automotive service today! Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for ASE licensed and trained factory scheduled maintenance and car inspections in Indianapolis, Indiana. We work on all make and model vehicles!

Related Posts:

How to Make Your Car Last Longer For Cheaper
Northeast Auto Service Guarantees the Lowest Auto Repair Prices in Indy
Where to Get Free Coupons for Auto Repair and Service in Indianapolis

How to Make Your Car Last Longer For Cheaper

Everyone needs their car. Your car plays a vital role in maintaining your livelihood. Whether you use your car to get to and from work, go back and forth from school, or shuttle around your family to all of their schooling obligations and activities, your vehicle is very important. In the best interest of your financial future, it would be wisest to do all that you can to make your vehicle last as long as possible. Fortunately, there is a very budget-friendly way to do this.

Continue reading to learn how to make your car less longer for cheaper, plus where you can get dependable and affordable automotive service and repair in Indianapolis.

Auto Maintenance Indianapolis Indiana 317-475-1846
Auto Maintenance Indianapolis Indiana 317-475-1846

The Cheapest Way to Increase the Life of Your Car or Truck

Stay Current on Factory Scheduled Maintenance

When you want to make your vehicle last as long as it possibly can, your first step is to read the owner’s manual. Your particular make and model vehicle will have a specific factory maintenance plan recommended within its manual. Follow the instructions for factory scheduled maintenance for your vehicle, ensuring that you stay on top of it throughout the year, every year. When you keep up with car maintenance, you will experience fewer breakdowns and mechanical issues, which also saves you money on expensive automotive repairs and parts replacements.

Regularly Check Fluid Levels

Your vehicle requires certain automotive fluids at all times for optimal performance, safety, and you guessed it, longevity. This includes motor oil, radiator fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid, transmission fluid, battery fluid, and windshield wiper fluid. To make a vehicle last as long as it is designed to last, it is important to ensure that your fluid levels are adequate at all times by regularly checking them. Refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual for instructions on how to inspect and refill each fluid. In most cars, dashboard lights will appear if a fluid is low or empty.

Be Consistent With Oil Changes

As mentioned, it is important to regularly check your automotive fluid levels. Your motor oil is one of the most important automotive fluids because it lubricates the grinding, heat-generating internal mechanical components within your engine. Above all other vital automotive fluids, it is important to be consistent with the oil changes the most. Ask your mechanic how often you should get an oil change for your car.

Stay Alert to Strange Sounds or Movements

It is always important to be on the lookout for strange sounds, vibrations, shaking, or movements when starting or driving your vehicle. Such changes in your vehicle’s performance are indicators of an underlying problem. Your Indianapolis mechanic will be able to diagnose your vehicles issues through your description of its irregular performance. It is also good idea to stay alert to strange car smells, like burning rubber, gasoline, or a sweet syrupy scent.

Are you looking for a dependable automotive mechanic for help with your car or truck issues? Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for professional automotive service and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Request a free estimate, or schedule service, today.

Related Posts:

3 Auto Care Services to Ensure Brake Performance and Longevity
Car Care Tips for New Car Owners
4 Things You are Doing That is Damaging Your Car

How to Be Eco-Friendly With Your Car

If we could get everyone on board to work toward a cleaner, more efficient means of living, the world would be a much better place, and for a lot longer too. With the new movement in Eco-friendly practices, we now have access to green cleaning products, Eco-friendly appliances, homes, vehicles, and more. So, there are several facets of life and living that can easily be improved in terms of leading a greener lifestyle! And one fantastic and very necessary place to start is your car.

Continue reading to learn some helpful automotive tips for an Eco-friendlier way of life.

Indianapolis Car Maintenance and Repair 317-475-1846
Indianapolis Car Maintenance and Repair 317-475-1846

Environmentally Friendly Driving Habits and Practices

Drive Less

Vehicles are imperative assets in our lives. They get us to work, school, and more when the time calls. But there are several opportunities to forgo driving and choose to walk or ride a bike instead. You can even choose to carpool with coworkers or friends to drive less. If you do this at least once per week, you are making a positive impact on the environment.

Keep Your Car as Long as Possible

It’s tempting to trade in your vehicle for a newer model or buy a new ride after a great job promotion but keeping your current vehicle for as long as you can is actually the Eco-friendlier practice. Having less cars means fewer toxic emissions and so forth. Keep your inventory of vehicles as low as possible, for as long as you can.

Properly Dispose Old Auto Parts

Car batteries that can be recycled must be recycled properly, and those that are not must be safely disposed of. Proper disposal for other car parts is important too, including old tires, motor oil, car fluids, and more. Metal auto parts can be recycled for cash at your local scrap metal yard or junkyard. All of these practices will instantly help the environment.

Don’t Skip Scheduled Car Maintenance

Factory scheduled car maintenance is vital to the overall performance, safety, and longevity of every vehicle. And it also helps with the budget since it prevents costly breakdowns and repairs. Scheduled car maintenance includes routine fluid changes, filter replacements, brake service, tire service, battery service, alignments, and more.

Proper auto care reduces toxic emissions and fuel consumption, and supports a safer, more efficient operation. All this is Eco-friendly and better for the environment. Check your owners’ manual for your vehicle’s suggested service schedule and talk to your Indianapolis mechanic about your car’s individual needs.

Does your car or truck need some routine auto service or a repair? Contact us at 317-475-1846 for the most affordable and reliable auto repair services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Request a free estimate, or schedule service, today.

You Should Also Read:

Recommended Car Maintenance Schedule
Top 3 Signs You Need Catalytic Converter Repair
4 Ways to Get Better Gas Mileage

Indianapolis Auto Repair and Service
Indianapolis Auto Repair and Service 317-475-1846

Where to Get Free Coupons for Auto Repair and Service in Indianapolis

Gas prices are rising, and to top it all off, auto repair and service is not usually cheap. But if you look hard enough, you can actually find some amazing auto repair service deals in Indianapolis. What’s the secret? Well, you have to choose the right Indianapolis auto shop!

Continue below to learn how to get free coupons for auto repair and car maintenance in Indianapolis at Northeast Auto Service!

Get ALL the
Auto Repair Deals
Near You!

Why Choose Northeast Auto Service in Indianapolis

Northeast Auto Service is an automotive repair shop located in Indianapolis, Indiana.  Our licensed and insured car repair shop has more than 25 years of professional experience in the automotive service industry. As ASE certified auto mechanic technicians, we can repair and service any make or model vehicle. We are a family owned and operated business that takes pride in offering courteous and reliable automotive services to Hoosiers all across Indianapolis.

Take Advantage of Our Seasonal Coupons for Auto Service and Repair

Starting now, North East Auto is offering spring and summer specials on car maintenance, service, and even repair!  We proudly provide coupons on everything from fuel injection service to ignition tune ups!  Whether you need an oil change, or routine brake service, we have the discounts and coupons that make it all affordable! Right now, any customer can get $50 OFF any service or repair that exceeds $250! This is an amazing value that no other automotive repair shop can beat!

Northeast Auto Service Deals:

🤑 BUY 4 OIL CHANGES AND GET 1 FREE
🤑 $50 OFF IGNITION TUNE UPS & FUEL INJECTION SERVICE
🤑 $25 OFF EACH BRAKE AXEL REPAIR
🤑 $50 OFF COMPLETE BRAKE REPAIR
🤑 FREE SAFETY INSPECTION

Ready to put these amazing auto service coupons to good use and put your savings to even better use? Contact us at 317-475-1846 for the most affordable and reliable auto repair and scheduled car maintenance in Indianapolis, Indiana. Request a free estimate, or schedule service, today.

You Might Also Like:

Recommended Car Maintenance Schedule
How Much Does Alternator Repair Cost?
Collective Car Care Tips and Tricks You Need to Know

Indianapolis Auto Repair and Service 317-475-1846
Indianapolis Auto Repair and Service 317-475-1846

How to Make Your Own Windshield Wiper Deicer

Here in Indiana, you just can be too sure about the weather. The Groundhog saw his shadow on February 2nd, yet the snow still came soon after anyway. And just because the snow is almost melted away doesn’t mean that it wont soon be back. For this reason, we must all be prepared. One thing you can do to be ready for the next snowstorm is make your own windshield wiper deicing solution. So, next time your car’s windshield is taking too long to defrost, just whip out your trusty, homemade deicer, and watch in fascination just how fast it works. You will be asking yourself why you haven’t used this method all your life!

Continue reading to learn how to make your own, fast-acting windshield wiper deicer.

Indianapolis Auto Repair and Service 317-475-1846
Indianapolis Auto Repair and Service 317-475-1846317-475-1846

What You Will Need

There really isn’t an easier and more effective solution to make than this homemade windshield deicer. That’s because you only need two ingredients and a plastic spray bottle. Which ingredients? Well, only readily available ones that you likely already have on hand: rubbing alcohol and water! You can also use Isopropyl alcohol if you do not have rubbing alcohol. Be sure to get a plastic bottle that is large enough to hold the total volume of liquid this recipe calls for, which is 24 ounces, or 3 cups.

☑ Rubbing Alcohol – 2 Cups (16 oz)
☑ Room Temperature Water – 1 Cup (8 oz)
☑ 32 Ounce Plastic Spray Bottle

How to Make Your Deicing Solutions

Combine 1 part water with 2 parts rubbing alcohol (or Isopropyl alcohol) into your plastic bottle. You can use the measurements listed above to make a 24 ounce solution, or you can simply use the 1:2 ratio to make your own amount of solution.

To use your solution, simply spray your windshield generously while your car’s defrost is on. Then watch as the frost melts away!

Store your solution in your car. Rubbing alcohol won’t freeze until the climate reaches 28 degrees below zero! So, it will always be ready for use, no matter how cold it is outside.

Looking for Quality Car Maintenance Service in Indianapolis?

Call Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for professional auto repair and car maintenance in Indianapolis, Indiana. We’re ASE certified car mechanics who provide a wide range of auto repairs and maintenance for both foreign and domestic vehicles, including comprehensive inspections following a car accident. Best of all, we offer customer conveniences like free written estimates, flexible drop off and pickup hours, automotive repair coupons and discounts, and competitive pricing. See our coupon, below!

FAQS About Auto Service and Maintenance

Do you want to know the secret to making your vehicle last a really long time? It’s proper auto maintenance and care, and it’s not really a secret at all. In order to get your vehicle to last you for years, and run in good condition, you must be serious about routine auto maintenance and proper auto care. Not only can you increase your vehicle’s lifespan, you can protect yourself from costly breakdowns and huge repair bills.

Continue reading to review some frequently asked questions about auto care, and perhaps learn a little more about what it takes to protect and preserve your vehicle.

ASE Certified Automotive Mechanics
ASE Certified Automotive Mechanics 317-475-1846

When Do I Change the Oil in My Car?

Several factors will influence the length of intervals between oil changes and other factory scheduled maintenance. These factors can include the region you live in, the type of car you drive, the type of fuel it uses, your driving habits, its total number of miles, its overall condition, and more. It is best to consult your owners’ manual or a licensed mechanic for specific recommendations. However, the standard “rule of thumb” is to change your oil every 3,000 or every 6 months, whichever comes first.

What Fluids Do I Put in My Car?

There are seven vital fluids that every vehicle requires for safe and optimal performance. These include windshield wiper fluid, coolant, motor oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, battery fluid, and power steering fluid. They all require periodic flushes and refills, and most need to be done by a trained mechanic. You should be able to add your own coolant and windshield wiper fluid, hassle-free.

How Do I Check Car Tire Inflation?

In vehicles equipped with TPMS, a light will illuminate on the dashboard to indicate unsafe tire pressure detection. This light will remain on until the air pressure imbalance is resolved. Those without a modern tire pressure monitoring system in their vehicle are left to use manual tire gauges to measure tire pressure. You can choose between a digital gauge or a “pop-out” style gauge. In order to use a tire pressure gauge properly, be sure to begin on a “cold” car that has not been driven in the past few hours. Then just refer to the manufacturer instructions for a step-by-step guide on how to use your tire pressure gauge.

How Do I Check Tire Tread on My Car?

Use the penny test to measure your car’s tire tread. What is commonly referred to as the “penny test” in the automotive service industry, is a simple and effective method of assessing a tire’s tread. And you really only need a penny to do it. Once you have your penny in hand, insert it into the groove of your tire. If you can see Lincoln’s head, it means the tread is low and it is time to replace your vehicle’s tires. It’s that easy!

Which Side is My Gas Tank On?

If you want to prevent the onset panic of pulling up to a gas pump and being unsure of which side your fuel tank is on, simply look at the gas pump icon on your dashboard. Near the fuel gauge or icon, you will see a small arrow, usually without a handle, like these “ƒ„.” Whichever side the point is facing is the side your fuel tank door is on.

Where is My Car’s Maintenance Schedule?

the first place to look for your vehicle service maintenance schedule is the owner’s manual. Generally, this comes with the paperwork when you purchase your car. In most of the time it’s located in the glove compartment, but it can also be located in the trunk, under a seat, or in a pouch behind a seat. If you didn’t purchase a car brand-new, the manual is usually in the glove compartment. If it’s not there, and it’s not anywhere else, download a generic vehicular maintenance schedule online or visit a bookstore or library’s automotive section. You may also be able to visit your local auto repair shop and get free information regarding your vehicles service maintenance schedule.

Do I Need to Use a Certified Car Mechanic?

You never want to use an unlicensed or unofficial car mechanic when you need work on your car. Additionally, you do not want to blindly choose a mechanic either. The best decision you can make to ensure accuracy, effectiveness, and warranty-standards is to take your car to a skilled, ASE-certified automotive mechanic. See our blog, “Why is it Important to Use an ASE Certified Car Mechanic?” to learn more about the importance of finding skilled car repair work.

Where Can I Get Trusted Indianapolis Auto Repair Service?

Call Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for professional Indianapolis auto repair and service you can trust. We have been helping Hoosiers repair and maintenance their vehicles for over 20 years, while offering affordable prices and reliable work. You can schedule a free inspection and estimate, anytime! We can even assist with tows! Don’t forget to mention one of our auto repair coupons or discounts to get the best deal in town.

Check Out the Current Auto Repair and Service Specials at Northeast Auto!

Here at Northeast Auto Service, we offer comprehensive automotive repair for all make and model vehicles, both foreign and domestic, specializing in major engine work. As ASE certified factory trained mechanics with decades of experience, you can rest assure that your vehicle is in the hands of true industry professionals who care about quality.

ASE Certified Automotive Mechanics 317-475-1846

Get the Best Deals This Summer!

Our ASE certified factory trained mechanics provide a wide selection of professional auto repair services for all make and model vehicles, including both foreign and domestic. In addition to the latest technologies and premium auto parts, we retain the skills and knowledge necessary to deliver outstanding workmanship that stands the test of time, all while keeping your passengers and you safe.

Bet of all, when it comes to a budget, we understand the value of a dollar, which is why competitive pricing has always been a priority for us. So you will certainly be satisfied with our economy-based prices, as well as our automotive repair coupons and discounts!

Auto Repair Coupons and Discounts

Any customer, first or repeat, can get 50 dollars off any service or repair that exceeds 250 dollars! This is an amazing value that no other automotive repair shop can beat! More deals include: Buy 4 oil changes and get one free, 50 dollars off ignition tune ups and fuel injection service, 25 dollars off each brake axel repair or 50 dollars off complete brake repair, and a fee safety inspection any time!

Schedule a Free Estimate TODAY!

Call Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for professional Indianapolis auto repair and service you can afford. We have been helping Hoosiers repair and maintenance their vehicles for over 20 years, while offering affordable prices and reliable work. You can schedule a free inspection and estimate, anytime! We can even assist with tows! Don’t forget to mention one of our auto repair coupons or discounts to get the best deal in town.

ASE Certified Mechanics 317-475-1846
Indianapolis Auto Repair and Service 317-475-1846

Recommended Spring Cleaning for Your Car

Spring is here, which means everyone is scrambling to get all their post-seasonal and pre-seasonal responsibilities done in time to enjoy the several months of nice weather ahead. Most often, people tend to focus solely on duties like house cleaning, yard work, organizational projects, and similar tasks; but what many people tend to overlook are their cars! Vehicles need a spring cleaning too, from routine fluid changes and engine tune-ups, to wheel brightening, car washes, interior shampoos, and more!

Continue reading to learn what you should have done for your vehicle in terms of routine maintenance, this spring.

Indianapolis Auto Repair and Service 317-475-1846
Indianapolis Auto Repair and Service 317-475-1846

Seasonal Auto Service and Repair

As for springtime automotive car, you can handle most of the cosmetic work on your own. This includes car washes, clear coats, waxing, tire shining, upholstery shampooing, and detailing. Of course, you can always have these tasks done by a professional automotive detailing business too.

But when it comes to mechanical maintenance for your vehicles, it is important to enlist there services of an ASE licensed and trained automotive mechanic. They have the knowledge, equipment, resources, and experience to accurately diagnose issues and efficiently resolve them at the fairest price.

Suggested Automotive Services for Spring:

☑ 30/60/90/120K Mile Services

☑ Brake Pad and Rotor Service

☑ Fluid Flushes and Refills

☑ Transmission Services

☑ Computer Diagnostics

☑ Wiper Blade Replacement

☑ Filter Replacements

☑ Tire Rotation & Balancing

☑ Battery Service

☑ Bulbs, Hoses & Belts

☑ Minor Repairs

The Importance of Car Maintenance

You need to care for your car in the same way you care for your body; well, not the exact same way. Just like us, your car needs certain things to remain healthy and last a long time. For vehicles, this means brake service, filter changes, inspections, tire rotations, alignments, fluid changes, and more. Without these regular scheduled services, car’s quickly decline in performance, quality, and value. If you want to save the most on fuel and repair, stick with routine car care.

Trusted Car Maintenance in Indianapolis

ASE Certified Automotive Mechanics 317-475-1846

Call Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for professional automotive service and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. We’re ASE certified car mechanics who provide a wide range of auto repairs and maintenance for both foreign and domestic vehicles. We also provide several amenities, such as free written estimates, flexible drop off and pickup hours, and more.

The Basics of Automotive Factory Scheduled Maintenance

All vehicles require a certain degree of care and upkeep to ensure proper vehicle performance and longevity.  In order to achieve optimal car and truck driving conditions, a person should take their vehicle to a licensed mechanic for regular scheduled maintenance services, as suggested by the manufacturer.  There are several different options when it comes to routine maintenance for cars and trucks; from oil changes to upholstery conditioning, the services are endless.  Among all vehicle care and maintenance services, there are some that are mandatory, rather than cosmetic. 

Continue reading to learn the basics surrounding the common factory scheduled maintenance services recommended for cars and trucks.

Indianapolis Auto Repair and Service 317-475-1846
Indianapolis Auto Repair and Service 317-475-1846

Oil Changes

All vehicles that run on gasoline require oil changes.  If a car or truck owner fails to change the oil, the oil burns up and several problems can occur.  Overheating engines, engine sludge, and loss of horsepower performance are all consequences of poor oil maintenance.  The oil is what keeps all the metallic parts running smoothly in the engine. Without this lubrication, friction and heat can cause a significant amount of damage in a short amount of time. It is recommended to get your car or truck’s oil changed every 3,000 to 5,000 miles.  Different oils and engines involve slightly different requirements.  Always refer to the manufacturer’s manual for an exact mileage. 

Car Battery Replacement

A car or truck will not run on a dead or dying battery.  Automotive battery replacement is mandatory maintenance unless you drive an electric car.  Fortunately, car batteries tend to last for a while; only requiring a change every few years.  It all depends on how a person drives, where they live, the condition of the charging system, and much more.  When a battery finally dies, the vehicle simply stops running.  There is rarely any sign that a battery is close to giving out.

In other circumstances, a car or truck battery can be wasted away, requiring the battery to be re-charged; rather than replaced.  Accidentally leaving the headlights on overnight, running the engine in a stationary position for too long, and overall poor vehicle maintenance are all capable of burning out a car battery.  Fortunately, replacement is affordable because car batteries are generally less than fifty dollars and you can even install it on your own.

Fluid Flushes and Re-Fills

There are various fluids and liquids in a car or truck that need to be flushed and replaced on a regular basis.  For example, motor oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid, coolant, and windshield wiper fluid all need changed and replaced every so often.  An owner’s manual will contain information and recommendations on when to change each fluid.  These recommendations are usually just the bare minimum the keep a vehicle’s warranty in effect.  In other circumstances, a person may need to change a certain fluid more often than another, depending on driving habits and other variables.

Tire Rotation and Balancing

Tires and wheels are important components on cars and trucks for obvious reasons, which is why their maintenance is absolutely mandatory.  Regular tire rotating and balancing ensure a safer drive, as well as, a better performing vehicle.  A good way to determine when to have your tires and wheels serviced is to have it done every two or three oil changes.  Think about the amount of driving you do and the age of your vehicle.  This and more will define when to rotate and balance your tires.

Indianapolis Automotive Service

Factory Scheduled Maintenance Indianapolis IN
Auto Repair Coupons 317-475-1846

Call Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for ASE certified auto repair service in Indianapolis, Indiana. We provide comprehensive automotive service and repair for all make and model vehicles, as well as, free estimates, free advice, and auto repair coupons! Schedule an appointment for a free estimate, today!

How to Check Your Car Tires for Wear and Tear

Without tires, our vehicles go nowhere. So we need to make sure we check them often. There are many reasons why you should periodically check the condition of your vehicle’s tires. But the most important ones have to do with safety, performance, and gas mileage. By ensuring your vehicle’s tires are in good condition, you are better ensuring your safety while out on the road, as well as, improving your vehicle’s gas mileage and performance. And all you really need is a penny and a few minutes to get this done! Continue reading to for a helpful guide to car tire inspection and care.

What to Look For

It is recommended to inspect the state of your vehicle’s tires at least every month, and always after driving through rugged terrain (i.e. off roads, gravel, construction zones, river rock, etc.). When doing so, you should be checking for three things:

1. Physical Wear and Tear
2. Tire Alignment
3. Tire Pressure

The Penny Test

What is commonly referred to as the “penny test” in the automotive service industry, is a simple and effective method of assessing a tire’s tread. And you really only need a penny to do it. Once you have your penny in hand, insert it into the groove of your tire. If you can see Lincoln’s head, it means the tread is low and it is time to replace your vehicle’s tires. It’s that easy!

Tire Inflation

If you check your tire tread and it’s in good shape, you are ready to examine the tire pressure. Proper tire pressure is important for a variety of reasons, mostly in terms of safety, but also for handling, traction, and fuel consumption. Low tire pressure will also cause tires to wear unevenly, needing them to be replaced sooner. So it is vital to catch low tire pressure early on and correct it as soon as possible. Use a tire pressure gauge to measure the pressure in your vehicle’s tires. You can purchase this tool for a few dollars at any automotive or hardware store. Check your vehicle’s owners’ manual for instructions on how to check tire pressure, or call your local auto repair shop for free advice. And don’t forget to check your spare tire too!

Tire Alignment

Once you have checked your tire pressure, you need to check the alignment. Test drive your car, and look for signs of shaking or pulling to one side. These are signs of alignment issues, in which case, you’ll need to visit your local mechanic for auto alignment services. While you are there, they will also balance and rotate your tires, which is a critical part of tire care.

Northeast Auto Service

Indianapolis Car Maintenance

Indianapolis Car Maintenance 317-475-1846

Call Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 when you need fast and affordable car maintenance in Indianapolis, Indiana. We service all make and model cars, trucks, vans, and SUVs, foreign and domestic. And as a family owned and operated auto repair shop, we are committed to offering the most competitive prices in town! You can choose from our selection of auto repair coupons for additional savings too! Call 317-475-1846 for a free estimate, or for information about our Indianapolis
auto repair services
today.