Keeping your car in top shape: a guide

These days, car ownership permits us to the freedom to live where we wish, and to vacation in far off places out of the reach of public transport. As a result, they grant us the independence to live our lives the way we choose.

However, this privilege is often abused by those who take the task of maintenance too lightly. Many breakdowns triggered by damaged engines, failed transmissions, and flat tires, all of which could be stopped if their owner took the time to perform routine repairs when they were needed.

Many sign up for Omega Autocare to defend their investment, but drivers also need to be vigilant about whether their vehicle is in good working order in the present moment.

Below, we’ll show you a few ways to keep your ride in tip-top shape.

1) Replace your air filters

Fortunately for cheapskates, this part is cheap to maintain, as its average cost is often below $50. Considering what it does for your engine, you wouldn’t be out of line to think that it should cost more.

Air filters stop fine particulate matter from entering the crankcase of your engine. Left unchecked, this detritus would wreak havoc with the delicate parts contained within.

It also ensures the purity of the oxygen your engine needs to fire on all cylinders. When it is clean, your car will be able to perform to its maximum potential.

If you don’t change it on a regular basis, the blocked pores in the filter will limit the amount of O2 that can get through.

This will force your engine to work harder, reducing its life expectancy and the fuel efficiency of your vehicle.

When you change your air filter or clean it regularly, you won’t just ensure that your car will operate at its peak, but you’ll be doing your part to reduce carbon emissions.

2) Be vigilant about tire pressure

Does one of your tires look saggy? Take this opportunity to check the pressure in each radial, and repeat the process regularly from this point onward.

Tires that are under-inflated wear out faster, costing you thousands of dollars extra over the life of your car. Don’t care? You are also at risk for a blowout that could risk the lives of you and your loved ones.

Air is free at many gas stations, so fill up your tires to the pressure stated on the inside of the driver’s side door so you can be safe.

3) Replace worn out belts

When a squeaking or squealing noise begins to become audible from under the hood, you have an important repair to make.

Costing around $150 to replace (and for much less if you can do it yourself), buying a new serpentine belt will take a bite out of your household budget, but waiting too long may come back to haunt you.

If it breaks in transit, it won’t be long before the engine gets too hot to run. Failing this, the alternator will fail instead, leaving your car without power and you stranded by the side of the road.