Expert maintenance from Apex Automotive keeps your car safe, efficient and ready for the road ahead
Expert maintenance from Apex Automotive keeps your car safe, efficient and ready for the road ahead
The frequency of your car’s maintenance depends on factors like manufacturer recommendations and your driving conditions. For best driving performance, consider these factors:
City vs. Highway Driving
As surprising as it may sound, highway driving puts less stress on your vehicle than city driving. The constant stop-and-go traffic of city driving tends to wear down your engine, brakes and other important components of your vehicle.
City Driving Tips
City driving can be tough on your car’s brakes, engine and transmission. Frequent starts and stops cause wear over time. For example, your brake pads wear out more quickly with constant use, and your engine works harder during stop-and-go traffic. To reduce this impact:
Highway Driving Tips
While highway driving tends to be easier on your brakes, the prolonged high speeds can cause strain on your engine, transmission and tires. Over time, tires may wear unevenly, and the suspension can weaken. To keep your vehicle safe, consider these tips:
Taking care of these essential services can prevent future headaches and keep your vehicle in top shape:
Brake System Maintenance
Regular inspections of brake pads, rotors and calipers are essential to ensure everything is functioning properly. Over time, brake pads wear down, reducing their ability to provide stopping power. Replacing worn brake pads not only improves your vehicle’s safety but also helps your brakes work more smoothly and reliably.
Filter Replacements
Your air filters’ main responsibility is keeping harmful contaminants out of your engine and cabin. Though this may seem like a small task, failing to replace them regularly can lead to dirty filters that can restrict airflow. This forces your engine to work harder, reducing fuel and causing performance issues. Neglected air filter replacements can also lead to poor air quality in the cabin by blowing dust and allergens into your vehicle.
Tire Maintenance
Regular tire maintenance is essential for both safety and performance. Rotating your tires regularly helps ensure even wear, which can extend their lifespan and improve overall handling. Checking your tire pressure frequently is also crucial — properly inflated tires not only enhance fuel efficiency but also provide better control, especially in challenging driving conditions.
When it comes to replacing your tires, pay attention to tread depth. If the tread is worn down to 2/32 of an inch, it’s time for new tires. You should also consider the driving conditions you face — wet, icy or uneven surfaces may require tire replacement sooner for optimal safety and traction.
Fluid Changes
For most vehicles made in the past decade, oil changes are recommended every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, especially when using synthetic or full synthetic oil. Some newer models even have longer intervals, which can be found in the owner’s manual. However, older vehicles or certain engines may still benefit from the traditional 3,000-mile oil change, particularly if you’re using conventional oil.
It’s also important to replace other vital fluids like transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid and coolant. If these fluids aren’t replaced regularly, you could face major issues. For example, old transmission fluid can lead to shifting problems or even transmission failure, while worn brake fluid reduces braking power, putting your safety at risk. Neglecting power steering fluid can result in steering difficulties, and failing to change your coolant could cause your engine to overheat.
Battery Health
Most car batteries last about three to five years, so it’s a good idea to get yours tested once it reaches the three-year mark to make sure it’s still in good shape. Signs like a decline in vehicle performance, dimming lights or a rotten egg odor can indicate that you need your battery replaced.
To help keep your battery in optimal condition, clean off any noticeable corrosion from the terminal. If your car isn’t driven regularly, make sure to take it out for a spin occasionally to keep the battery charged and avoid any surprises down the road.
At Apex, we’ll guide you through these intervals, ensuring your vehicle stays in top condition based on your driving habits and vehicle needs.
At 5,000 Miles:
At 15,000 Miles:
At 30,000 Miles:
At 60,000 Miles:
At 90,000 Miles and Beyond:
These intervals are general guidelines and may vary depending on your vehicle’s make and model. Always refer to your owner’s manual for manufacturer-specific recommendations.
Your vehicle is a lot like your body — it gives you warning signs when something isn’t right. Paying attention to these signs can help you avoid bigger issues. Here’s what to look out for:
Unusual Sounds or Smells:
Grinding or squeaking noises often signal brake pad or rotor issues, while burning smells could indicate fluid leaks or parts of the vehicle overheating.
Dashboard Warning Lights:
Please don’t ignore these lights! They’re your vehicle’s way of telling you something needs attention. Issues like low oil pressure, battery problems or overheating can quickly escalate if not addressed. If a light comes on, it’s best to have it checked out as soon as possible.
Visible Wear and Tear:
Take a moment to inspect the parts of your car you can easily see. Worn windshield wipers can reduce visibility in bad weather, while cracked or frayed belts and hoses could lead to bigger issues if they go unnoticed. By keeping an eye on these components, you can catch potential problems early and prevent more costly repairs.
Ignoring simple and inexpensive services, like oil changes or brake inspections, can cause serious damage that could have been easily avoided. While routine maintenance comes with an upfront cost, it helps your vehicle run more efficiently, reduces emissions and keeps it in good health for the long term.
Skipping these services may seem like a way to save money, but it often leads to bigger, more expensive headaches. By sticking to a maintenance schedule, you’re not only prolonging the life of your vehicle but also saving yourself from the hassle and frustration of dealing with major repairs.
At Apex Automotive, we understand that every car and driver has unique needs, so our maintenance services are always tailored to you. From routine maintenance to more complex repairs, our experienced technicians deliver professional, reliable service.
If you’re searching for car maintenance near you, our local expertise makes us the perfect choice. We’re dedicated to providing top-notch care, ensuring your vehicle stays in great shape no matter where you’re headed.
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Get a free brake inspection on your next trip to Apex Automotive.
Cannot be combined with any other offer. Must present at time of service.
Expiration Date: 12/31/2024
Get a free alignment check on your next trip to Apex Automotive.
Cannot be combined with any other offer. Must present at time of service.
Expiration Date: 12/31/2024
Get $20 off your first visit to Apex Automotive.
Cannot be combined with any other offer. Must present at time of service.
Expiration Date: 12/31/2024
Don’t wait until something goes wrong — schedule your maintenance with Apex Automotive. Our expert technicians are here to keep your car running smoothly, helping you get to all your destinations safely.
