Vehicles are the second most expensive investment for most families, and it is wise to have a regular maintenance schedule for it. They are not a disposable purchase and should be treated with care.
Tires:
Since the tires are what connect the vehicle to the road, they are at the top of this list. The maintenance for tires is not expensive but if it is neglected, it can cause some of the most expensive problems. Rotate and balance on a regular schedule. Have the tires aligned and check the tread depth. Be sure the lug nuts are tight on a weekly basis.
Filters:
The filters keep the air clean not only for the occupants in the cabin, but for the engine as well. If the air filter is not changed on a regular basis, air will not flow freely into the engine and a dirty fuel filter can cause the engine to slow down or begin to sputter.
Lubricants:
Change your oil. And also your transmission fluid also needs to be occasionally changed. When these fluids have been in the vehicle a while, they begin to fill with metal pieces and other debris from the road. They also break down and offer less protection for the engine and transmission.
Wipers:
Wipers are not thought of until a torrential rain comes down while on a long road trip. It is best to replace these as soon as wear is noticed (on a sunny day.)
Battery posts:
This may be the most neglected of all the simple maintenance jobs, but if this one is put off, it can literally shut down the whole car. Lift the hood and look at the battery. If a white residue can be seen around the posts, it must be scrubbed off with a wire brush, or one day you may find yourself stranded.
Major repair bills can be avoided most of the time if some regular maintenance is a priority. With a bit of care, your car can last for hundreds of thousands of miles.
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