10 Maintenance Things Every Driver Should Know How To Do

checking air filter

If you want to keep your Dodge Challenger, Ram 2500, or any other vehicle running better and longer, you need to keep up with a routine automotive maintenance schedule. While many maintenance tasks on a vehicle should be done by professionals at a service center, there are a handful of things you should be able to look out for yourself. If you continue below, you’ll find Allen Samuels Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram’s list of 10 maintenance things every driver should know how to do to keep your vehicle running at full capacity on the streets of Nickerson. Be sure to contact our service center and stop by our Hutchinson dealership if you suspect your vehicle is having bigger problems.

10 Car Maintenance Tips You Should Know

  1. Keep Track of Maintenance: Be sure to track when you’ve had maintenance work done so that you know the appropriate time to check in again. Keeping your vehicle on a strict automotive maintenance schedule is extremely important.
  2. Know Your Manual: Every vehicle has its own specific owner’s manual which you should learn so that you know the intricacies of your car.
  3. Use the Right Fuel: Every vehicle comes with its own recommended octane rating, so take another look at your owner’s manual to make sure you’re filling up with the right type of gas.
  4. Inspect the Vehicle: Once you’ve at least reviewed your vehicle’s owner’s manual, you should likely know how to identify any glaring issues with your car. Inspect your vehicle with your newfound knowledge to spot any issues.
  5. Inspect the Engine Air Filter: Check up on your engine’s air filter on a consistent basis to make sure there’s no debris or dirt clogging it up. It’s time to replace it if there is. Read our guide to learn how to change your engine’s air filter.
  6. Check the Engine Oil Level: Use your owner’s manual to find where the oil dipstick is under your car’s hood then check the oil level, as well as the color. If it appears to be dark, or you don’t have enough, then it’s time to change your engine oil.
  7. Check the Engine Coolant: Once you’re done checking your oil level, be sure to take a peek at the engine coolant as well, making sure the coolant levels are right.
  8. Check Your Tires: You should often check your tires for air as well as tire tread wear-and-tear. Buy a tire pressure gauge so you can check your tires easily at home, and test the treads of your tires with a penny. With the penny trick, all you have to do is place a penny with Lincoln’s head facing down between your treads and, if you can see the entirety of his head, then it’s time to replace your tires.
  9. Inspect the Windshield Wipers: When driving in the rain, you want to be certain you have windshield wipers that will actually work correctly. If you notice streaking or skipping when using your wipers, then they should be replaced.
  10. Inspect Light Bulbs: Be sure to check up on your car’s lights every now and then to be certain they’re still in working order so you can safely drive at night.

wiping oil dip stick on paper towel

Learn More Automotive Maintenance Schedule Tips at Allen Samuels Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram

Be sure to keep these maintenance tips in mind so you can ensure your car is working in tip-top shape! If you believe there are further issues with your vehicle that you cannot take care of yourself, then be sure to contact our helpful representatives and schedule a service appointment at our Hutchinson service center. We are located just a short drive from Newton and Buhler, so do not hesitate to stop by if you need work done on your car!

Learn More at Allen Samuels Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram

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