Today’s cars and trucks are far more reliable than those of the past, but that doesn’t mean owners can afford to ignore routine maintenance and repairs. In addition to being more reliable, modern vehicles also cost more than ever. That means protecting your investment is crucial. Here are a few ways to keep a vehicle running properly for as long as possible.
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Schedule Routine Maintenance
While ignoring oil changes and other routine maintenance is easy, auto repair moreno valley experts recommend scheduling routine maintenance that the manufacturer recommends. Regular oil changes extend a vehicle’s life and improve performance. With the costs of repairs and fuel going up, proper maintenance saves money.
Proper Maintenance Protects Your Warranty
When recommended maintenance is ignored, manufacturers can decline related warranty repairs. For example, if an engine fails after 20,000 miles, and the oil was never checked or changed, the manufacturer may refuse to provide repairs even though the vehicle is technically still under warranty. Vehicle owners also have responsibilities, and one of their duties is to provide routine maintenance at regular intervals.
Repair shops everywhere encourage vehicle owners to read their vehicle owner’s manual to see what maintenance is required at specific mileage intervals. If you’re unsure when specific types of service are needed, ask for recommendations from your shop. Remember that some types of driving create more wear and tear on vehicles, meaning some servicing may be required before the intervals outlined in the owner’s manual.
Always Request Quality Parts
While dealers always recommend OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts, many after-market parts meet or exceed OEM quality levels. However, that doesn’t mean settling for low-quality parts some shops routinely use to increase their profits. Ask your shop to use high-quality parts during any service or repair visit. Don’t be afraid to ask a shop to verify the quality of the replacement parts they’re using.
Ask About the Technicians’ Qualifications
Modern cars and trucks are incredibly sophisticated, and anyone entrusted with their care should be properly trained to provide any type of service. Most shops proudly display their technicians’ qualifications, but don’t be afraid to ask about their training if you don’t see ASE certifications posted on the shop’s walls.
Choose a Shop that Warranties Their Work
Many repairs are expensive, and no one wants to pay for the same repair twice. When scheduling repair work, ask whether the shop stands behind its work. If they don’t provide a solid warranty, it’s time to look for a different shop. Also, insist the warranty is in writing, and keep any documents to ensure you’re protected in the event a related problem occurs in the future.
Start With an Inspection
If you’re unsure about a vehicle’s current condition, have the shop inspect it to determine if it’s roadworthy. If issues are detected, the technician or service personnel will explain the problem and offer solutions. Schedule immediate repairs of serious issues and plan for service that can wait. By working closely with a trusted shop, vehicle owners are less likely to experience breakdowns, and their vehicles last far longer when maintained correctly.
