We all make mistakes. I certainly have made plenty.
There was that time in High School when I gave that dirty look to my Algebra teacher. But come on, she was pretty mean. I swear!
But there is another kind of mistake, and it is hard to see it coming because it results from a lack of long term planning. And this is exactly what leads to the "uh-oh" moments of auto repair.
Here are a few tips for avoiding the "uh-ohs":
· Prepare your car. Clean your car regularly. Check all fluids. Upgrade to a high performance oil. Check your tire pressure weekly and keep your tires inflated to the recommended pressure. Listen for unusual noises and consult your owner's manual to see if there is cause for a visit to the shop. These steps will make a world of difference!
· Prepare yourself. Give yourself the gift of time by getting an early start. Don't rush. Follow the 10 second rule and allow plenty of space in front of you on the road. Make sure your windshields are clear. Keep two hands on the wheel.
· Maintain your car. Of course, this is the big one. Maintenance is king when it comes to saving money and extending the life of your vehicle. You can avoid all of the following very costly repairs with proper maintenance: engine replacement ($2,800 to $6,000 or more), automatic transmission rebuild ($2,000 to $5,000) cylinder head or head gasket replacement ($250 to $4,000), or brake problems ($250 to $1,500).
But if you are like me, you are a little bit forgetful. For anyone in this category, I find it helps to think about auto maintenance in terms of the calendar rather than the odometer. For some folks, it is just a little too easy to forget when 5000 miles have elapsed on the odometer since the last oil change. But it is simplicity itself to mark a date on your calendar!
The Calendar Lover's 3-6-9-12 Auto Maintenance Schedule
I have compiled a comprehensive list of checks and procedures, laid out in a neat yearly schedule. If you follow this schedule you will absolutely save money in the long run, and keep your car in great shape for years to come! Click here for your printable Schedule.
Call us today at Steve's Auto Service, 973-829-1618 and we'll get you on the schedule!
