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.

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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!