How Inspections Can Save You Money

Can I afford to flush this fluid or replace this part?  The real question is can you afford not to?  Expenses on a vehicle add up quickly.  If you procrastinate on performing routine maintenance, the costs can increase exponentially.  For example, failing to flush the power steering fluid will cause the lines or even the pump to fail much sooner than it normally would have.

To keep yourself aware of any potential problems that could be lurking around the corner, have an inspection of your car performed twice per year by an experienced, ASE certified technician: once right at the onset of winter and once as summer begins

The advantage of doing this is that you are constantly on top of any minor problems that arise that could potentially turn into something more major.  This also means that when something comes up and you catch it early, you have more ability to see what needs to be done in the future and therefore budget out the money ahead of time.

Here are the SOLUTIONS for cutting repair costs on:

Engine performance – A poorly maintained engine can sometimes be hard to start in cold weather. It may also run rough and lose power. Have fuel, ignition and emission control systems checked, necessary components replaced and adjustments made.  This will benefit both your gas mileage and also the environment.

Battery and electrical system – How old is your battery?  If it is three or more years old, it should be tested and replaced if necessary. Even a strong battery that can deliver full power at 80 degrees Fahrenheit will have dropped to 65 percent of its output at freezing temperature–and only 40 percent at zero degrees.  Clean and tighten battery terminals, as loose or corroded connections can cause the same symptoms as a weak or dead battery.

Oil and filter – Both of these should be changed every 3,000 miles to avoid sludge build-up and decreased flow of oil, which leads to internal engine damage.

Visibility – Replace old wiper blades and be sure your washers are working. Carry spare washer solvent in your vehicle so that you always have it when you need it.

Cooling system – A vehicle’s antifreeze should be flushed annually, or at the interval recommended in your owner’s manual.  Have the system pressure-tested for leaks, and check hoses and drive belt(s) for tension and condition as well.

Tires – Inspect, balance, check inflation and rotate tires. Check inflation on the spare and make sure the jack is in place.

Lights – Check all lights and replace burned out bulbs

Exhaust System – Have the vehicle put on a lift for an inspection of the exhaust system. Leaking exhaust fumes can be deadly and can rob your engine of power.