If your car has a specific problem and you bring it into a repair shop, make sure the technicians are qualified to perform a full inspection—if they simply fix the problem and send you on your way, you risk leaving other issues undiagnosed, which can lead to costly repairs in the future. “A quality auto repair shop should be able to inspect your car, thoroughly explain any problem areas, and provide a prioritized list of what needs to be repaired or serviced,” confirms Kris Cesena, co-owner of Auto Medics - Honda and Acura Specialists in San Mateo. “Some things can be put off if you don’t have the time or money at the moment, but you should definitely know the details so you can plan to take care of problem areas as soon as possible.”
According to Mrs. Cesena, the most overlooked maintenance issue on most cars is the suspension system. Manufacturers like KWB and Monroe recommend replacing shocks and struts every 50,000 to 60,000 miles, but Mrs. Cesena estimates that 90 percent of cars that have more than 100,000 miles have never had their shocks or struts replaced. “It’s an expensive repair, and people don’t notice the difference when they’re driving so they don’t invest in it,” she explains. “But a worn-out suspension causes brakes and tires to wear faster and unevenly, which can create very costly repairs in the long run.”
Maintaining your car’s fluids is also important for extending its life—keeping them at their full-level marks helps lubricate your car’s moving parts, which reduces fiction, heat and general wear. Every three months (more often if specified by the owner’s manual) and prior to a road trip, check your car’s transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid, radiator coolant (check the clear plastic bottle) and windshield washer fluid. Also, make sure to inflate your tires to the proper levels. Underinflated tires wear down more quickly and can also lower your car’s gas mileage.
