scheduled maintenance
Repair. Maintenance. Service. Since 2001
You’ve heard it a million times. Routine auto maintenance is key to keeping your vehicle in top-notch condition for many years. But just what is “routine auto maintenance?” It’s easy for mechanics to assume you know, but the surprised look on many customer faces tells us they had no idea!
Here are the maintenance and servicing basics you need to stay on top of.
Auto Maintenance Checklist
To maximize the performance and life of your car, bring it in regularly to the mechanic to have these items checked. Some you can take a look at yourself and then bring your car in for service if needed.
- Oil and coolant levels should be checked at least every month and before any long road trips. Low levels may lead to engine problems.
- The engine’s air filter not only regulates air flow, it helps keep out particulate and debris. A properly operating air filter decreases emissions and protects the life of the engine.
- Well-maintained tires are a must for a safe, fuel-efficient ride. Make it a habit to check the tire pressure and tread depth every month or before a long trip or carrying a heavier than normal load. And don’t forget to check the spare! The owner’s manual tells you how much air pressure your tires need.
- There are a lot of important lights on your car. The turn signals, headlights, parking, and brake lights should all be working properly and well-positioned.
- Motor oil is the lifeblood of a smooth ride. It lubricates moving parts, acts as a sealant against particulate, cools the engine, prevents corrosion, and reduces wear and tear. Depending on your car’s age, you should change the oil and filter either every three months or 3000 miles for older cars, or every 5,000-10,000 miles for newer ones.
- Tire rotation extends the life of your tires by more evenly balancing the tread wear that can be affected by things like alignment and usage.
- Waxing your car twice a year keeps it shiny and keeps the paint in good shape. Though the Windsor area doesn’t get the snow other parts of the country does, waxing helps minimize damage from other issues like dust, sand, and ultraviolet light.
In the long-term, make sure to have your transmission, transfer case, and front and/or rear differential fluids checked, the shocks, struts, and spark plugs inspected, and the coolant system flushed. When you bring your car in for routine auto maintenance, your mechanic may also see if the windshield wipers need replacement, do a battery performance check, and recommend new tires.
Routine Auto Maintenance for the Win
Routine auto maintenance takes a little bit of effort, but you don’t have to be a mechanical whiz to keep your car running well. Knowing what needs to be done, and how often, will keep your car in good running condition and make it more valuable when it’s time to resell or trade it in. And the costs associated with routine auto maintenance are typically far less hefty than if you put it off and had expensive repairs down the road.
All Around Auto Repair is conveniently located in Windsor and is Sonoma’s County most trusted source for routine auto maintenance and car repair. We provide all the vehicle-related services you need to keep your car running well any time of the year. Contact us online today to learn more, or call us at 707.837.0646 to schedule an appointment.
Scheduled Maintenance
We have a lot to say about the importance of Scheduled Maintenance for your vehicle. See our articles below to learn more about how to keep your vehicle in it’s best condition:
The Importance of Automobile Wheel Alignment at All Around Auto Repair
Automobile wheel alignment is a critical aspect of vehicle maintenance that every car owner should take seriously. It involves adjusting the angles of the wheels to ensure they are perpendicular to the ground and parallel to each other. Proper alignment not only...
Clutch Care: How to Ensure Your Clutch Lasts
The clutch is a vital component of your vehicle's transmission system, allowing for the smooth engagement and disengagement of the engine's power to the wheels. Proper clutch care is essential for ensuring optimal performance and longevity, preventing costly repairs,...
The Importance of fluid checks as temperatures drop: keeping your car running smoothly in cold weather
As temperatures start to drop and the cold weather sets in, your vehicle faces a new set of challenges. While many people are aware of the need to prepare their cars for winter by checking tires and ensuring the battery is in good condition, fewer realize the critical...
Debunking auto repair myths: separating fact from fiction
In the world of auto repair, myths and misconceptions are widespread. Whether passed down from previous generations or based on outdated information, these myths can lead to poor vehicle maintenance habits, unnecessary repairs, or worse—costly damage to your car. At...
The Impact of Seasonal Changes on Vehicle Maintenance
As the seasons change, so do the demands placed on your vehicle. Different weather conditions can affect how your car performs and its overall condition. Being proactive about seasonal maintenance can save you from unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs. In this...
Understanding Your Car’s Warning Lights: What They Mean and What to Do
Driving a vehicle comes with the responsibility of understanding its needs and signals. One of the most critical aspects of vehicle ownership is recognizing the dashboard warning lights that illuminate when there's a potential issue. These warning lights serve as an...
Why regular maintenance extends the life of your vehicle
In the world of automotive care, the adage "an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure" could not be more relevant. Regular maintenance is crucial, not only for keeping your vehicle running at its best but also for extending its lifespan and preventing costly...
The crucial role of clutch maintenance in manual transmission vehicles
Driving a vehicle with a manual transmission brings a unique sense of control and engagement with your car that many enthusiasts cherish. However, this experience heavily relies on the proper functioning of the clutch. The clutch is a fundamental component that plays...
Why following your owner’s manual and routine maintenance saves you money
Every vehicle owner knows the importance of routine maintenance, but it’s easy to fall behind or think that you can skip some steps. While your owner’s manual outlines the basic guidelines for how often to replace fluids, filters, timing belts, and tires, staying on...
The importance of regular oil changes: keep your engine running smoothly
Routine oil changes are one of the most essential and cost-effective maintenance tasks you can perform to keep your vehicle in top condition. While it may seem like a small and routine task, the benefits of regular oil changes are far-reaching, offering both immediate...
Automotive Services
All Around Auto Repair provides maintenance for cars of all makes and models. Our mechanics also service most types of recreational vehicles, boats, and motor homes. We use sophisticated diagnostic computers to find out why your check engine light went on and identify any other problems with your vehicle.
Oil Changes
A regular oil change lubricates your engine in the short term and provides long-term protection by actually cleaning your engine’s parts as it goes about its business of taking you from point A to point B.
Brake Repairs and Replacements
Too many people think that brake problems either mean you need new brake pads or all new brakes. A smart auto mechanic can find other solutions. We love solving problems and educating our customers.
Inspections, Car Care & Tune Ups
Slight vibrations in your steering wheel or brakes that grind and become less effective are surefire, though sometimes subtle, signs that you're overdue for a tune up. Don't wait for the check engine light.
Scheduled Maintenance (30k/60k/90k)
Getting your vehicle serviced is critical to keeping your vehicle running smoothly and on the road for longer. You're probably already pretty familiar with the importance of getting your oil changed, but did you know that this is only one kind of car service that you can get?
Engine Work and Overhauls
Whether you car needs some minor engine work, or a complete disassembly for an overhaul, All Around Auto Repair can help.
Diagnostic Tests
Without a doubt, diagnostics tools make life easier for all of us. Computers and sensors inside your car can alert you to trouble before something bad happens or significantly speed up the search for a solution.
Air Conditioning Service and Repair
Auto experts say that the benefits of maintaining a comfortable temperature far outweigh the marginal increase in fuel economy that you'll get from being sweaty and uncomfortable by going a few degrees warmer.
Transmission Service and Repair
Good transmission service and repair is essential for your vehicle because it will promote optimal performance and prevent the failure of the component.
Clutch Repair and Replacement
Though the quality and lifespan of the typical clutch has improved over the years, it will not last forever. If you have driven your vehicle in excess of 20,000 miles, you should have its clutch inspected at least once a year.
Wheel Alignment
Automobile wheel alignment is an essential aspect of car maintenance that every car owner should prioritize.