Today, owning a car and learning to drive it is pretty straightforward. Unfortunately, while most love its drive and feel, most dread and shy away from maintaining it. This is why it isn't unusual for a car to spend around 70% of its lifetime in the garage. That means that if you only have your vehicle serviced every 10,000 miles (16,000 km), it will theoretically last around seven years. Despite it, there are specific maintenance basics regarding the car that every car driver must be aware of. 

Here are ten essential things to consider when you give your vehicle complete maintenance.

1. Check all fluids, including engine oil, power steering, brake, transmission, windshield washer solvent, and antifreeze.  

2. Check the hoses and belts to ensure they are not cracked, brittle, frayed, loose, or showing signs of wear.

3. Check the battery and replace it if required. Make sure the cable connection is clean, tight, and corrosion free.

4. Check the brake system annually and inspect the brake linings, rotors, and drums at each oil change.

5. Examine the exhaust system for leaks, damaged supports, brackets, and hangers.

6. Schedule a tune-up to help the engine provide the perfect balance of power and fuel economy and produce the lowest level of emissions.

7. Check the heating, ventilating, and A/C systems, as proper heating and cooling performance are critical for interior comfort and safety reasons such as defrosting.

8. Inspect the steering and suspension system annually, including shock absorbers, struts, and front-end components.

9. Check the tires, including tire pressure and tread depth. Check for any signs of bulges and bald spots. Uneven wear indicates a need for wheel alignment.

10. Check the wipers and lighting to see and be seen. Replace worn wiper blades so you can see when driving during precipitation.

What are the Benefits of Getting Regular Maintenance for Your Car?

Preventive maintenance is a proactive approach while the vehicle is still performing well. It aims to avoid an unforeseen breakdown altogether, but there are some other benefits:

• Prolong the Life of the Vehicle: Constant use of a vehicle without the necessary maintenance of its integral parts will cause it to become unhealthy sooner than expected. Preventive care helps keep your car in prime running condition.
• Allow for Top Performance: Ensuring that you get the manufacturer-recommended maintenance for your vehicle will ensure that it operates at peak performance. It will take you to work and other destinations without concerns or delays, which is one less thing to worry about during your workday.
• Higher Resale Value: Most vehicle owners don't run their car into the ground and will put it up for sale at some point. Maintaining your vehicle regularly can allow it to command a higher selling price than when in disrepair. You can offer the buyer a copy of your maintenance records, ensuring peace of mind and making your car an attractive proposition. Spending time to ensure your vehicle is regularly maintained will pay off when you sell it.
• Save on Gas: Not correctly maintained cars often become gas guzzlers. Routine oil changes and tire rotations work wonders in appropriately maintaining your gas consumption and expenses.
• Avoid Troubles on the Road: When you drive your car, you expect it to take you to your destination without any issues, so you can imagine how upsetting it would be if it abruptly stopped in the middle of an outing. You may be delayed for your appointment, or, worst case scenario, you might not make it to your destination. Preventive maintenance can help you avoid these road problems entirely.
• Give Peace of Mind: Driving a clean, well-maintained car has one final fantastic benefit: it provides peace of mind. It's easier to be relaxed when driving if you know your vehicle will not fail you.

Getting Your Vehicle Ready for the Winter vs. the Summer

Mechanical failure is inconvenient anytime it occurs and can be deadly in the winter. The heat, dust, and stop-and-go traffic during summer will take their toll on your vehicle. This is why preventive maintenance is necessary to reduce mechanical failure odds through regular maintenance. In addition, a well-maintained vehicle is more enjoyable to drive, lasts longer, and could command a higher resale price.

As part of the 21st Century Tune-up on today's modern vehicles, these systems should be examined regularly: battery, charging and starting engine, mechanical powertrain control, fuel ignition, and emissions.

The Bottom Line

Regular maintenance can help your car run smoothly and cost-effectively. You can avoid costly breakdowns down the road by performing regular checks and repairs. However, many different types of maintenance services are available today, so it's essential to find one that meets the needs of both you and your vehicle. Choosing the right service is critical - make sure you research first and talk with friends who own similar vehicles about their experiences with particular services before making a decision. If you take care of everything up front, you'll be able to enjoy driving your beloved automobile for many years!