We all know that preventative maintenance will help your car last longer. Things like checking your oil and getting regular oil changes are good, but did you know that there’s more that you can and should be doing? Here are some tips from our ASE Certified Mechanics that can help your car last and help you avoid frequent auto repair.
Avoid Bumps
Sounds logical but potholes, train tracks and other road hazards wear out your car. Your tires, wheels, and suspension all take an impact especially when you go over a bump or into a pothole at a high rate of speed. If you can’t avoid the road hazard, go over it slowly.
Don’t Follow Closely
This is a good rule for so many reasons but especially behind large trucks. Trucks often throw debris and rocks up which can damage your paint and crack or break your windshield and headlights. Beyond the frustration, there is an expense associated with the repairs to a windshield or headlight, which should not be ignored for your safety.
Stop Completely Before Shifting into Reverse
We’ve all done it before when we’re in a rush, but we shouldn’t. Shifting into reverse while the car is still moving forward is asking for transmission troubles which leads to expensive auto repair bills. The same goes for shifting into park whether the car is moving forward or backward, it’s best to come to a complete stop.
Start and Stop Smoothly
It may be fun to hit the gas and accelerate quickly but it’s not good for your automatic transmission car. Starting from a stop smoothly allows your engine to shift gears as intended. When you slam on your breaks regularly, you put more wear on them and will need replacement pads more frequently. You’ll also find that accelerating more slowly saves you gas!
Turn the Steering While Moving
The steering column exerts a great deal of force to turn the wheels and even more so when the car is stopped. If you can always try to turn the wheel when the car is moving, even slightly, your steering rack and components will last longer. Not to mention, your tires too!
When you find you need repair because of mistakes you’ve been making while driving, let Oldsmar Automotive help. We offer complete auto repair and tire replacement on all makes and models. Of course we also perform regular maintenance including oil changes and fluid flushes. Call (727) 784-3501 or come by our facility at 3166 Tampa Road in Oldsmar.
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