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Auto Maintenance: Choosing One Repair Shop



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Auto Maintenance: Choosing One Repair Shop

3 Yearly Maintenance Requirements for Older Cars

by Noelle Snyder

If you own an older vehicle, then it is vital that you perform basic maintenance tasks each year. There are three simple things that will take very little time and cost, but together can keep your car safe and on the road for years to come. 

Tire Rotation and Balance

Once per year, or every 10,000 miles that you drive, you must have your car's tires rotated and balanced. When you purchase tires you should make sure that the tire company you choose offers free tire rotation and balancing. By choosing a tire company that offers this service, you can save yourself a lot of money over the lifetime of your tires.

Rotating and balancing your car's tires will help the tires wear in a consistent manner. This will prevent the tires from having sidewall issues. It will also stop you from having to purchase new tires due to uneven wear.

If you feel vibration when you drive, then your tires are out of balance. Having the tires professionally re-balanced will ensure that your car will maintain a smooth ride. Your local tire company will use their specialized machinery to re-balance your car's tires.

Oil Change

New cars tend to require an oil change every 5,000 miles. However, older vehicles were not designed to require that their engine's oil be replaced so often.

The best way to determine how often to change you car's oil to to consult your owner's manual. The average is once per year or every 10,000 miles, whichever is sooner.

You can easily change your own oil or go to a local auto shop and have it changed for you. With the recent explosion of quick oil change businesses sprouting up around the country, you can very likely have your oil changed for about the same cost of buying all of the supplies necessary to change your car's oil yourself.

Note: If you decide to change your own oil, please properly dispose of your dirty oil. You can take the oil to a local:

  • recycling center
  • oil change business
  • auto parts store

Recycling used oil helps to save the environment because oil is harmful to the water table.

Replace Windshield Wiper Blades

Since windshield wiper blades are made of rubber, they tend to become damaged as the summer sun beats on them. To ensure your safety while driving in inclement weather, you should change your older car's windshield wiper blades at the end of each summer season. 

By taking the time to maintain your car's tires, engine, and windshield wiper blades, you can help to extend the life of your older car. Additionally, you will help to ensure the safety of your car for your family. Visit locations such as Brach's Auto Center Inc. for any or all of these car maintenance checks.