CAR CARE TIPS BLOG

In order for your vehicle to keep running as intended, all of its components need to work together. This means that you will need to spend a little time and money to have a car inspection and the appropriate vehicle maintenance done. This inspection should include the exhaust system. A good exhaust system will keep your car running smoothly, divert harmful exhaust fumes from your engine, reduce toxic emissions, and improve your fuel economy. So when it comes to exhaust and muffler repair, don’t wait until you start to hear the rumbling sounds of trouble before you visit your auto shop.

Here are 6 warning signs that could mean you have issues with your exhaust system, muffler, catalytic converter or exhaust pipe.

The overall health of your tires affects your driving, so maintaining proper tire inflation is essential to vehicle handling, overall tire performance, good fuel efficiency, and load carrying capability. A properly inflated tire will reduce tread movement (giving your tire a longer life), reduce rolling resistance (increases fuel efficiency), and increases water dispersion (decreases the possibility of hydroplaning). Both over-inflation and under-inflation can cause premature tread wear and possible tire failure.

In this article, we discuss the five warning signs of low tire pressure:

• TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) -- The purpose of the TPMS is to alert you when tire pressure is too low, resulting in unsafe driving conditions, undue tire wear, and possible tire failure. Check the pressure of all of the tires with a gauge and determine the cause of pressure loss. You can try adding some air, but if the light stays on, schedule a tire service.

Possibly a more important question is, “How long do you want your vehicle to provide you with reliable transportation?” Following the recommended vehicle maintenance schedule as listed in your owner’s manual and also advised by your mechanic, helps to maintain your car and help prevent unforeseen car problems down the road.

The vehicle maintenance schedule listed in your owner’s manual is typically based on the miles driven and may look like this:

• Every 3,000 to 7,000 Miles – Changing the oil and filter is recommended by the automobile manufacturer, depending on the type of vehicle and the kind of oil used. Inspection of the transmission fluid level, coolant, power steering fluid, windshield washer fluid and wipers, tires and all exterior lights is done at the same time.
• Every 15,000 to 30,000 Miles – Most manufacturers recommend replacing the air filter every 15,000 miles. The car battery and coolant should be inspected every 20,000 miles. The fuel filter should be replaced around 25,000 miles. Every 30,000 miles, replace the air filter and power steering fluid and inspect the coolant, radiator hoses, HVAC system, brake pads and all suspension components.
• Every 35,000 to 50,000 Miles – The battery should be inspected every 35,000 miles, and replaced if necessary. Every 40,000 miles replace the spark plugs and spark plug wires, and inspect the ignition system and suspension. 
• Every 60,000 Miles -- Replace brake pads and brake fluid, radiator hoses, coolant, power steering fluid and timing belt. Inspect the HVAC, suspension components and tires.