General Auto Maintenance Procedures

Auto Maintenance Tips for Glen Carbon, IL Drivers

You trust your car to get you from point A to point B, so why would you skimp on maintenance? Properly maintaining your vehicle can keep it on the road for longer, improve its performance, and improve its fuel economy.

The frequency of auto maintenance depends on the particular task at hand. Some maintenance should be performed frequently, while some you can wait up to a year for other tasks.

Here are some of the general auto maintenance procedures you should have done on your car, as well as how often you need them.

Frequent Maintenance

There are a number of quick and easy maintenance steps you can take to keep your car running optimally. These should be done on a regular basis and include:

  • Resolving any dashboard warning lights that come on
  • Replacing headlights, taillights, brake lights, and turn signals
  • Checking and filling windshield washer fluid
  • Checking tire pressure and inflating tires

3-Month/3,000-Mile Maintenance

Every three months or 3,000 miles, you should also perform the following maintenance tasks:

  • Check automatic transmission fluid
  • Inspect battery and cables
  • Check belts for wear or cracks
  • Change engine oil and oil filter
  • Check power steering fluid
  • Make sure tires are in good condition
  • Inspect and change the engine air filter if necessary
auto maintenance and checking oil in Glen Carbon Illinois
professional auto maintenance in Glen Carbon Illinois

12-month/12,000-mile maintenance

Every 12 months or 12,000 miles, you should take care of some of the more intensive maintenance procedures your car needs. Some of these tasks include:

  • Checking transmission fluid
  • Testing your battery
  • Inspecting and changing your brakes if needed
  • Changing your cabin air filter for passenger comfort
  • Lubricating your car’s chassis
  • Checking and filling antifreeze
  • Checking power steering fluid levels
  • Making sure your steering and suspension are working properly
  • Checking the condition of your tires
  • Aligning your wheels
  • Replacing your wiper blades (should be checked once every six months)

Your Next Step

Now that you know about all the maintenance procedures your car needs on a regular basis, it’s time to take action. While plenty of these tasks are best left to professionals, there are many which you can perform on your own, such as refilling washer fluid, changing your oil, and checking and inflating your tires.

However, we understand that not everyone is comfortable undertaking such tasks. That’s why Marshall’s Transmission in Glen Carbon, IL provides general maintenance services to keep your vehicle on the road. Contact us today to learn more.