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The start of a new year is the perfect time for fresh resolutions, not just for yourself but for your vehicle, too. Proactive car care can save you from headaches later in the year and keep your vehicle running smoothly. That’s why McCullough NAPA Auto Care is here to help you tackle these essential maintenance tasks as part of your New Year’s resolutions. Let’s dive into the top four car maintenance tasks every car owner should prioritize this year.
1. Check Your Tire Pressure
Your tires are your car’s foundation, and maintaining the correct tire pressure is essential for increased safety, fuel efficiency, and even tire longevity. Once a week, grab a tire gauge and check the air pressure in all four tires. The recommended pressure is usually listed on a sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb.
Remember, temperature changes can affect tire pressure. Cold weather can cause readings to drop, so if your tires seem low, drive your car a short distance to warm them up before checking. If the pressure is uneven or low, inflate them to the recommended level. Properly inflated tires improve traction, create a smoother ride, and extend the lifespan of your tires.
By consistently checking your tire pressure, you can prevent uneven wear, enhance fuel efficiency, and reduce the risk of accidents caused by underinflated or overinflated tires. It’s a simple habit that significantly impacts your car’s performance.
2. Inspect Your Hoses
Your car’s hoses, which carry essential fluids under the hood, can dry out, crack, or even rupture over time due to the high temperatures they endure. A quick visual inspection can help you spot potential issues before they become costly repairs.
Look for signs of brittleness, cracking, or leaks. If you notice anything suspicious, it’s worth getting a professional inspection. At McCullough NAPA Auto Care, we can identify and replace worn hoses to keep your car running smoothly and prevent unexpected breakdowns.
Regular hose inspections prevent sudden failures that could leave you stranded or result in expensive engine damage. Addressing those issues early ensures your car operates efficiently and minimizes the risk of fluid leaks or overheating.
3. Top Off Washer Fluid and Coolant
Winter driving can leave your windshield coated in grime and slush, making windshield washer fluid essential for visibility. Keep a jug of washer fluid handy and top off your reservoir weekly. Choose a fluid with antifreeze properties to prevent it from freezing in colder weather.
While you’re under the hood, check your coolant reservoir. Coolant prevents your engine from overheating and freezing, so it’s critical to maintain the correct levels. You can use a mix of coolant and antifreeze or grab a premixed option. This simple step helps ensure your car runs efficiently, even in the coldest conditions.
Keeping your washer fluid and coolant levels in check ensures better visibility on the road and protects your engine from extreme temperatures. These small actions can prevent problems like engine overheating or a frozen windshield. If you’re unsure about performing this task yourself, we are more than happy to assist you at our shop in Sandy Springs.
4. Monitor Your Oil Levels
Checking your oil regularly is one of the easiest ways to keep your engine healthy. Once a week, take a moment to pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean, and check the oil level. The oil should cover the hash marks on the dipstick—if it doesn’t, add more oil until it reaches the proper level.
If the oil looks thick and dirty, it’s time for an oil change. Clean oil ensures your engine stays lubricated and runs efficiently. Not sure if it’s time for an oil change? McCullough NAPA Auto Care can handle it for you and keep your vehicle in peak condition.
Maintaining proper oil levels prevents engine wear and overheating, extending the life of your vehicle. Routine oil checks ensure that your car runs smoothly and reduce the likelihood of costly engine repairs.
Make Car Care Part of Your Resolutions
Taking care of these four maintenance tasks doesn’t take much time, but the benefits are huge. At McCullough NAPA Auto Care, we’re here to make car maintenance easy and stress-free. Whether you need help with tire pressure, hose inspections, or an oil change, consider our 30k/60k/90k mile maintenance programs to keep your car serviced on a regular, recommended schedule.
Start the new year off right—schedule your car maintenance appointment today. Here’s to a year of smart, reliable driving!
