Five Hidden Car Maintenance Tips You`ll Wish You Knew Sooner
By: Luke Shaff ~
11/14/2024
Welcome to Luke's Automotive blog!
Sure, we all know the basics of car maintenance—change your oil, check your tires, and get those brakes inspected. But what about the little things that can save you money and keep your car running smoother for longer? We’re here to share some hidden car maintenance tips that don’t get nearly enough attention but can make a big difference for your ride!
- Freshen Up Your Engine With an Air Filter Check-Up
Your engine’s air filter isn’t just a minor part; it’s the gatekeeper that stops dirt and debris from entering your engine. A clogged air filter can lower your gas mileage, decrease your horsepower, and put more strain on the engine. Replacing it is cheap and easy, and doing it regularly can improve your car’s overall performance.
Pro Tip: Check your air filter every 12,000-15,000 miles or sooner if you drive on dusty roads. It’s a quick job, but one you’ll feel on every drive.
- Say Goodbye to Sticky Windows
Do your windows sometimes feel slow or sticky when you roll them up or down? This often happens when dirt builds up in the window tracks. The solution is simple: clean the tracks and use a little silicone spray to lubricate them. This small maintenance trick can keep your windows moving smoothly and prevent wear on the window motor.
Pro Tip: Avoid WD-40 for this—it’s better suited for metal components, while silicone spray is perfect for rubber and plastic.
- Keep Your Car’s Interior as Cool as the Exterior
We all know to check under the hood, but don’t forget the interior! UV rays can fade and damage the interior, especially the dashboard and seats. Protecting your interior keeps your car looking new and can even prevent issues like dashboard cracking.
Pro Tip: Use a sunshade on your windshield, and consider UV-protective products for your seats. Not only will this save your interior, but it’ll also help keep the cabin cooler on hot days!
- Clean Those Headlights for Brighter Night Drives
Foggy headlights can limit visibility and make night driving dangerous. A quick cleaning trick? Use a little toothpaste (yes, really!) on a cloth to polish them up. Just rub it in, then rinse off, and watch the foggy haze disappear. Regular headlight cleaning is inexpensive and can make your nighttime drives safer.
Pro Tip: There are also headlight restoration kits available for more thorough jobs, but toothpaste is a great trick in a pinch.
- Don’t Ignore the Little Leaks
Sometimes, it’s easy to overlook small leaks, thinking they’re not a big deal. But even tiny leaks can lead to bigger, pricier problems down the line. Whether it’s oil, transmission fluid, or coolant, finding and fixing leaks early on is essential for keeping your car’s parts running smoothly.
Pro Tip: Look for any wet spots under your parked car. If you notice any, stop by [Your Shop’s Name] to get it checked out before it leads to a costly repair.
There you have it—five underrated maintenance tips that can help your car run better, look better, and even save you some cash! If you need help with any of these, feel free to swing by our shop in Redmond. Our team is here to keep your car running smoothly so you can enjoy every mile.
And don’t forget to share this blog with friends and family who might benefit from these tips—they might just thank you for it!
15145 NE 90th Street Redmond
Luke Shaff
