| Regular preventative maintenance and upkeep can | | | | level in your vehicle periodically, such as when you |
| prolong a vehicle's life, improve the resale value and | | | | check the oil, and have any leaks repaired right away. |
| keep routine problems from becoming significant | | | | It is also wise to ensure that the front of your |
| ones. The owner's manual for your vehicle includes a | | | | radiator is not obstructed by debris, which is one |
| maintenance schedule to guide you on the | | | | cause of overheating. Be attentive to the |
| recommended actions to take at specified mileage | | | | temperature gauge in your vehicle, and stop right |
| and mileage intervals. Any vehicle will eventually | | | | away if it ever rises uncharacteristically. Do not |
| encounter mechanical issues, but you can prevent | | | | attempt to open the reservoir until the engine has |
| major problems and optimize your car's performance | | | | cooled, and have your radiator checked before |
| by following the maintenance schedule and | | | | driving the vehicle any further. |
| performing basic upkeep that is recommended for all | | | | If you have an automatic transmission, you should |
| vehicles. | | | | also check the level and color of the transmission fluid |
| There is no substitute for having your oil changed | | | | regularly. If the level is low, there is likely a leak that |
| regularly. But it is also crucial to check the oil | | | | should be repaired. Again, keep an eye out for leaks |
| periodically between oil changes, particularly if your | | | | under your car. You should have the transmission fluid |
| vehicle has high mileage. The level and condition of | | | | changed on regular intervals as recommended by |
| the oil will signify whether you should have it changed | | | | your vehicle's manual, and if it appears dark or dirty |
| sooner than scheduled or have your engine serviced. | | | | (as opposed to a clear reddish or brownish tint). It is |
| If the oil level is in the low range, it is imperative that | | | | also important to consistently use the type of fluid |
| you have the oil changed right away, and it would be | | | | that is specified in your vehicle owner's manual. |
| a good idea to have the engine checked for leaks. If | | | | Preventative maintenance is necessary to keep your |
| the oil appears dark brown or black, as opposed to a | | | | car performing at its best and to prolong its life. |
| reddish color, it is time for an oil change. Other signals | | | | Keeping a detailed record of your vehicle's |
| that you should have your vehicle checked are oil | | | | maintenance history is helpful for trading or selling the |
| leaks under the car, or a change in the oil pressure | | | | vehicle in the future. While this guide serves as an |
| gauge. | | | | outline of helpful suggestions, it is recommended to |
| Your vehicle's cooling system regulates the engine's | | | | follow your vehicle's maintenance schedule from the |
| operating temperature, and overheating can cause | | | | manufacturer and have any problems checked by a |
| irreversible damage to an engine. Check the coolant | | | | professional before they have time to escalate. |