Your car is an investment that requires regular care and maintenance to stay in good shape. Routine maintenance not only helps prevent mechanical breakdowns but also improves your vehicle's performance. Maintaining your car will also help extend its life. Here are some general car maintenance tips that can help ensure that it runs smoothly for years to come.

Keeping Your Car Clean

Keeping your car clean is not just about maintaining its visual appeal, but it also helps prevent damage to the outside and inside of your vehicle. Dirt, oil, tar, grime, and other substances can wear away the paint causing it to erode, fade, and peel. In addition, prolonged exposure to bird droppings can also damage your car's paint job if not removed quickly.

To help maintain the beauty of your car, wash it with a gentle car shampoo and then dry it with a soft, lint-free cloth such as a microfiber towel. Avoid washing your car with laundry or dish soap because these products can remove the wax finish and predispose the exterior of your car to damage. Wiping the inside of your car with a damp cloth and vacuuming the rugs and the soft upholstery can also help keep the interior clean. If your seats are leather, use a high-quality leather cleaner that is safe for cars. 

Routine Maintenance Checks

Routine maintenance checks are essential for making sure your car runs smoothly. Regular maintenance also helps prevent costly repairs. Routinely checking the tire pressure, motor oil, transmission fluid, and brake fluid should be part of your maintenance checklist. Further, changing the motor oil according to the manufacturer's recommendations for the make and model of the car can help prevent engine damage and help your car run smoothly.

Your air filter should also be changed as needed and the steering fluid and coolant should also be checked and refilled if needed. If you are unable to perform routine maintenance on your car, take it to a professional mechanic. It is important to note that if your car is new and you incorrectly perform your own maintenance, the manufacturer may void your warranty. Because of this, always take your new car to a professional mechanic for general care maintenance services.

To keep your car looking and running great, keep it clean and perform regular general car maintenance checks. By following the above tips, you can help ensure that your vehicle remains a reliable and safe mode of transportation. 

For more info about general car maintenance, contact a local company.