Proper and Routine Vehicle Care

Regardless of the type of vehicle, it is important to maintain proper care. This will help to ensure the car is reliable for many years to come. With regular maintenance, one of the key aspects would be the engine fluid and regular oil changes.

Every vehicle is different in regards to the exact timing of fluid changes, but there are certain guidelines that should be followed for all cars. In most cases, it is always best to follow the recommended information that is provided in the owner's manual. For example, the usual interval for an oil change is every 3,000 miles. Certain vehicles have a recommended interval of every 5,000 miles. Knowing the specifics for the make and model of the vehicle is essential.
The recommended schedule is one that applies to normal driving conditions. If the vehicle is driven under extreme or taxing conditions, the interval for changing fluids should be decreased. There are several examples of conditions that would warrant a shorter time frame. Short car trips or ones that involve an excessive amount of idling are examples. If the vehicle is used in extremely dusty or dry conditions or is used for towing, a shorter schedule is advised as well.
Transmission fluid is one important engine fluid that gets changed approximately every 100,000 miles. Again, if the vehicle is not driven under normal conditions, consider changing this more frequently. The transmission fluid is extremely important as it protects many moving parts in the engine itself. Over time, this lubricant will degrade and not provide the same protection as it once did. 

Engine coolant is circulated throughout the radiator and engine and helps to keep the engine itself cool. This fluid is recommended to be replaced every two years or every 24,000 miles. If the coolant is not replaced in a timely manner, it can degrade. This can cause problems with the water pump and can even cause freezing in the winter. 
With any vehicle, it is important to keep on top of the service intervals for vehicle fluids. Most reputable service stations will be helpful when it comes to alerting the driver of recommended service. If this is not the case, it is up to the driver to keep record of needed service or seek out a better mechanic. Having the proper maintenance done at the right time will help to keep the vehicle on the road and will help in keeping repair bills to a minimum.

San Jose Auto Repair