Car Maintenance Tips that will prevent major repair cost

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Car Maintenance Tips that will prevent major repair cost

Posted on July 17, 2023

 

No one enjoys shelling out cash for unforeseen car repair in Nanaimo. Here at Laird Wheaton, we are known for our high level of service in car maintenance in Nanaimo. Read on to discover our helpful tips and suggestions to keep cash in your pocket and your car on the road.

 

Tires

 

All five tires should have their air pressure monitored monthly. Regular tire rotation every 5,000 - 8,000 km will help to prevent unnecessary tire damage and costly replacements. Depending on your make of car, you could be parting with close to $200 a tire!

 

Oil

 

Don’t be lazy and ignore your oil. Oil and filter changes can range from $35 to $75! Typically, your oil should be changed every 8,000 km.

 

Battery

 

Use a wire brush to keep your battery’s exterior clean. Your battery should be tested bi-annually to ensure corrosion isn’t present. If you detect powdery white or blue residue on the battery terminals, this is a sign of corrosion. This problem will make your battery susceptible to cracking. A poor-quality battery can cease a vehicle’s functioning, resulting in costly replacements of up to $250.

 

Brakes

 

Dark brake fluid and strange sounds indicate a deteriorating brake system. A squeaky brake is usually your brake pads crying out for replacement! This can be expensive, with each axel costing up to $300 - in addition to the labour costs!

 

Air

 

A deteriorating air filter can lead to issues with your air conditioning system. Air filters should be changed once a year or every 19,000 km. 

 

Wipers

 

With each season, give your windshield wipers a quick once-over. You can replace your wipers for $50 to $61, ensuring better visibility when you’re behind the wheel.  

 

Suspension

 

Your suspension system isn’t a visible feature and is often overlooked. This system prevents you from feeling every bump in the road. Checking your suspension system every 24,000 to 48,000 km should help to prevent huge expenses in the long run.

 

Coolant

 

Check if your coolant needs changing in the summer and winter months. If this is neglected, the corrosion of the radiator, heater, water pump, and air conditioner can occur.

 

Spark Plugs

 

Spark plugs need to be checked and replaced every 48,000 km. They are quite cheap (under $10) - compared to an estimated $4,000 price tag to rebuild your engine.

 

Belts and Hoses

 

Timing and serpentine belts should be checked regularly. New hoses should be purchased every four years. 

 

Lights

 

To ensure safe driving and avoid tickets, your headlights, brake, parking, and signal lights should be tested monthly.

 

For your car repair services in Nanaimo, come and visit us at Laird Wheaton or book your service appointment today!

 

*All pricing is based on Ontario MSRP and does not include taxes and fees. Dealer

pricing may differ. Prices may change without notice.