We all have New Year’s resolutions for ourselves, but what about your vehicle? Keeping your car or truck properly maintained will ensure it lasts a long time and helps you avoid expensive repairs. When the clock strikes midnight, make a toast to these New Year’s resolutions for your vehicle. 
- Keep It Clean
The first step to ensure your vehicle is healthy for the new year is keeping it clean. A dirty vehicle not only looks bad, but it can harm the paint, undercarriage, and engine bay. Dirt and contaminants can lead to scratches, which can lead to rust, which can lead to costly paint jobs. Dirt in the undercarriage can cause problems in the moving parts. By regularly washing your vehicle, you’ll ensure it not only looks good, but also keeps running properly. In addition to washing, you should also wax your vehicle periodically. This further helps protect the surface and eliminates the chance of corrosion.
- Change Your Oil Regularly
Changing your vehicle’s oil and filter on a regular basis is a very important step in keeping it on the road. Oil is a lubricant and ensures all the moving pieces in your car can function properly. If you drive with low or degraded oil, it can increase friction and cause major damage to the engine, which can lead to costly repairs. Check your owner’s manual to determine how often your oil needs to be changed and check it each time you fill up the fuel tank.
- Top Off the Transmission Fluid
It’s just as important to check your transmission fluid as it is to check the oil level. Check your owner’s manual for the type of transmission fluid your vehicle requires, as not all types of fluids are compatible with all cars and trucks. Take it to a shop to have the transmission and differentials flushed according to the service interval stated in your owner’s manual.
- Check Your Coolant
The coolant system in your vehicle pumps coolant through the engine and draws away heat that could damage it. If the coolant is contaminated, it can corrode your engine, which is a very costly repair. You owner’s manual will include recommendations for when to replace the coolant and flush the system. When it’s time, take it to an auto shop or use distilled water mixed with antifreeze to prevent buildup.
- Properly Inflate Your Tires
Your vehicle’s tires should be properly inflated, as under-inflation can negatively impact handling, reduce your braking capabilities, fuel efficiency, and the life of the tires. The proper tire pressure will be listed in your owner’s manual and is often inside the driver’s door jamb. As the outside temperature and atmospheric pressure changes, your tires may require extra air to be added. Additionally, even getting a small nail stuck in your tire can lead to a gradual loss of pressure. Keep a tire pressure gauge in your glove compartment and check the pressure before heading out on the road. If additional pressure is required, simply add it at home, an auto shop, or with the air system available at many gas stations.
Whether your vehicle is new or old, you can keep it healthy and on the road for the new year by following these important maintenance steps.
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