man checking air filter 

Keeping your car on an automotive maintenance schedule will provide you with a vehicle that not only performs better but performs longer. While some automotive maintenance should be done in a service center, some basic maintenance things can be done by you, right at home! Below you will find the list of 10 car maintenance tips every driver should know so you can keep your vehicle running the best it can. Take a look at our list, inspect your car, and, if you think you need further help, bring your vehicle into the service center here at Elgin CDJR!

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10 Maintenance Tips You Need To Know

  1. Keep Track of Maintenance: It's important that you make sure you keep track of when you last got an oil change or replaced your windshield wipers. Doing this will allow you to get on a routine automotive maintenance schedule so you can keep your car in great shape!
  2. Know the Manual: Be sure to read your owner's manual, as it will teach you everything you need to know about your specific vehicle, including tips on your very own automotive maintenance schedule.
  3. Use the Right Fuel: Every vehicle has a recommended octane rating, so be sure that you're using the right fuel when you're pumping your gas.
  4. Inspect the Vehicle: Reading your manual should make you comfortable with identifying things that are wrong with your car like leaks, flat tires, etc. Inspect your vehicle on a regular basis to spot faulty mechanics and equipment before things get worse!
  5. Inspect the Engine Air Filter: Check out your air filter on a regular basis. If the filter is dirty or clogged with debris, then it should be replaced.
  6. Check the Engine Coolant: Find out where your vehicle's coolant reservoir is located by checking your owner's manual, and then inspect the levels to make sure they are where they should be.
  7. Check the Engine Oil Level: Used to keep your car from overheating, as well as reduce excessive wear and friction in your engine, engine oil is extremely important to the health of your vehicle. Be sure to check your oil on a consistent basis, and watch out for the color of your oil -- if it appears dark, then it's probably time for a change.
  8. Check Your Tires: It's also smart to buy a tire pressure gauge, as it will allow you to easily check the pressure of your tires with ease. On a regular basis, inspect your tires, make sure they are at the recommended air levels, and perform the penny test to check your treads for any bad wear. 
  9. Inspect the Windshield Wipers: If your windshield wipers are leaving streaks or bumping on your windshield, then it's time to replace them. Inspect your wipers and get them replaced before you find yourself driving in rain or snow without good wipers.
  10. Inspect Light Bulbs: You wouldn't want to drive around at night without headlights that work! Check up on your lights every once in a while to make sure they're still burning bright. If not, replace them as soon as possible!

Learn More Maintenance Tips at Elgin CDJR

Learning and performing these maintenance tips is extremely important in keeping your car healthy and performing well. If you believe you need further assistance and maybe even need something to be replaced on your vehicle, then be sure to bring it in as soon as possible to the service center at Elgin CDJR. Our service department is just a short drive from Streamwood and Schaumburg, so don't hesitate to contact us and schedule a service appointment today!