Some Key Signs Your Car Needs Automotive Service

Intellectually, everyone understands that their car needs a regular auto service. However, with all the distractions in your daily life, it can be difficult to keep up with the maintenance your car deserves. Here are some key things to watch out for to remind you that it may be time for maintenance.

Squeaky brakes

Every now and then, take a moment to turn off the radio and listen to the brakes as your car starts to move. Squeaky brakes are usually an indication that the brake pads are wearing out, but the sound can also mean that the tires are wearing out. Many auto service companies offer free brake inspections, allowing you to get an idea of ​​the exact location of the brakes. If you ask, they can usually even give you an idea of ​​how much time you have before you start damaging the vehicle.

Trouble getting started

If your can has started to need a little coaxing before it flips over, there is a chance that something serious needs to be replaced, like the starter or alternator. However, it can also be as simple as needing a new battery. An automotive service shop can read the power in your battery and determine if it needs to be replaced.

Dust accumulation

Have you ever noticed that your car suddenly seems to be retaining a layer of dust on the dash? You clean it up, you vacuum the car and the dust keeps coming back. Like your home air conditioner, your car has a built-in filter to absorb dust as it moves through the air conditioning system. The filters in your home need to be changed every few months, so it should come as no surprise that your car’s filter needs to be changed regularly. Usually a normal inspection service can give you an idea of ​​the condition of your filter and when it will need to be replaced.

While it may not sound like a big deal, a dirty filter can cause unforeseen complications. When it’s full, the air conditioning system has to work harder to send cool air into the car. This can cause problems not only with the air conditioning, but also with any other part of the vehicle that is involved in the conditioning process.

Ultimately, preventive maintenance is a key part of maximizing the life of your car. By taking your vehicle regularly for auto service, you are accomplishing a lot. First, you can fix small problems as they occur, preventing them from becoming bigger problems. This allows you to spend $ 100 today instead of thousands of dollars in the future. Second, regular auto service allows you to budget and plan for needed repairs. A free brake inspection will tell you not only how much an eventual brake pad replacement will cost, but also how long you have until that repair becomes a necessity. You can budget for regular maintenance and then budget each month so your major repairs are never a sudden and stressful surprise.