Things To Consider About Your Vehicle’s Maintenance Even If Driving Less
Whether you’re anxiously awaiting some leisurely travel and activities or are thinking about a return to your daily commute, you will need to show your vehicle some extra love before you get back on the road. Routine maintenance is important to the health of your vehicle, but there are many factors that go into your maintenance intervals beyond hitting a mileage target recommended by the manufacturer. Before you go back to “normal” daily driving, consider these quick tips:
Schedule an Oil Change
Have you skipped an oil change because you are still waiting to hit the suggested mileage interval? Think again. Most automakers include a date suggestion as well. If you haven’t been driving your vehicle as much for the past year or so it’s important to know that the oil always has to have optimal viscosity. Oil protects all of the engine’s moving parts from excessive heat and wear and tear and is important for engine longevity. After sitting for a period of time, or being used rather infrequently, engine oil won’t be able to lubricate as easily as when it was new. So even if you changed your oil a few months ago or haven’t driven the required miles, it’s still a good idea to get an oil service.
Inspect Your Vehicle
Before you drive off, you should thoroughly inspect your vehicle or have it checked out by a professional. Look for leaks, which could have developed due to temperature changes. If you notice any puddles under your car that weren’t there before, it’s important to identify where the fluid is coming from. Check all of your fluid levels as well, as this could indicate a leak that might not be obvious by checking the ground. Closely inspect your tires. Look for dry rot, check for deflated tires, and bald spots. These are all common things that happen to the tires when you don’t drive often and may lead to unsafe handling conditions.
Check your Battery Life
If your vehicle doesn’t start immediately, don’t panic. You’re likely in need of a battery charge or perhaps a new battery. Over time, your vehicle’s battery will drain naturally, because it is constantly powering some things, like the clock and the anti-theft alarm. Left connected without starting your car for months, it could completely discharge the battery, leaving you unable to recharge it. So even if your car does start, it’s probably a good idea to get a battery check-up.
When was the Last Time You Filled Up?
Did you know it only takes three to six months for fuel to go bad? If your car has enough electrical power to operate all the features, but the engine won’t turn, older fuel could be the reason. Even if it starts, you might notice a poor or rough idle. If so, it’s best to take it to a certified technician to resolve the issue. Sometimes it’s as simple as removing the bad gas and replacing it with new fuel, but other times the fuel system may need to be fully cleaned.
The Herb Gordon Subaru team is dedicated to getting you back on the road safely and quickly. Schedule an appointment with our service team online. Our factory-trained technicians can help you look over these key points, as well as tons of others not included on this list, like brakes, transmission fluid, differential fluid, axles, belts, and more.