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Top 10 Car Maintenance Mistakes You Should Avoid

Nov 22, 2024

Maintaining your car isn’t just about fixing problems when they arise—it’s about preventing issues before they start. At Schicker Ford Union, we’ve seen how small mistakes can lead to big repairs. To help you protect your vehicle and your wallet, here are the top 10 car maintenance mistakes you should avoid.

1. Skipping Oil Changes

  • Why It’s a Mistake: Oil lubricates and protects your engine from wear and tear. Delaying oil changes can lead to engine damage, overheating, and costly repairs.
  • How to Avoid It: Follow your car’s recommended oil change intervals, typically every 5,000–7,500 miles.
  • Schedule Your Oil Change Service with Schicker Ford Union today!

2. Ignoring Warning Lights

  • Why It’s a Mistake: Dashboard warning lights alert you to potential issues like low oil pressure or engine problems. Ignoring them can escalate minor issues into major breakdowns.
  • How to Avoid It: Have your vehicle inspected promptly when a warning light comes on. Our experts at Schicker Ford can diagnose and address the problem through our comprehensive Vehicle Diagnostics Service.

3. Neglecting Tire Maintenance

  • Why It’s a Mistake: Driving on underinflated or worn tires can reduce fuel efficiency, compromise safety, and lead to blowouts.
  • How to Avoid It: Check tire pressure monthly, rotate tires every 5,000–7,500 miles, and replace them when the tread wears down.
  • Get a Tire Rotation or Replacement to keep your car rolling safely.

4. Using Low-Quality Parts

  • Why It’s a Mistake: Cheap, aftermarket parts often don’t meet your vehicle’s specifications and can wear out quickly or fail prematurely.
  • How to Avoid It: Always use OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts, which are specifically designed for your vehicle.
  • Trust Our Certified Parts Service to ensure quality and performance.

5. Ignoring Fluid Levels and Leaks

  • Why It’s a Mistake: Fluids like coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid are vital for your car’s operation. Low levels or leaks can cause overheating, brake failure, and transmission problems.
  • How to Avoid It: Check fluid levels regularly and have leaks repaired immediately.
  • Visit Us for Fluid Checks and Replacement to prevent damage.

6. Not Replacing Filters on Time

  • Why It’s a Mistake: Clogged engine or cabin air filters can reduce fuel efficiency, strain your engine, and lower air quality inside your car.
  • How to Avoid It: Replace filters according to your vehicle’s maintenance schedule or sooner if you drive in dusty conditions.
  • Book a Filter Replacement Service to keep your engine and cabin clean.

7. Delaying Brake Inspections

  • Why It’s a Mistake: Worn brake pads or low brake fluid can reduce stopping power, endangering you and others on the road.
  • How to Avoid It: Have your brakes inspected every 10,000 miles and replace pads and fluid as needed.
  • Stay Safe with Our Brake Inspection and Service.

8. Overlooking Battery Care

  • Why It’s a Mistake: A dead battery can leave you stranded. Corrosion on terminals or an old battery can also cause electrical issues.
  • How to Avoid It: Test your battery annually, clean terminals, and replace it every 3–5 years.
  • Check Out Our Battery Testing and Replacement for peace of mind.

9. Skipping Alignment and Suspension Checks

  • Why It’s a Mistake: Misaligned wheels and worn suspension parts can cause uneven tire wear, poor handling, and decreased fuel efficiency.
  • How to Avoid It: Schedule an alignment check annually or if you notice uneven tire wear or your car pulling to one side.
  • Ensure Smooth Handling with Our Alignment and Suspension Service.

10. Postponing Regular Maintenance

  • Why It’s a Mistake: Procrastination can turn simple maintenance tasks into expensive repairs.
  • How to Avoid It: Stick to your vehicle’s recommended maintenance schedule and visit a trusted service center like Schicker Ford Union for routine inspections.
  • View Our Full Range of Maintenance Services to keep your car in top shape.

The Benefits of Proper Car Care

Avoiding these common mistakes can save you money, extend your car’s lifespan, and keep you safe on the road. Regular maintenance ensures your vehicle runs efficiently, retains its value, and reduces the likelihood of unexpected breakdowns.

Why Choose Schicker Ford Union?

At Schicker Ford Union, our certified technicians are here to provide expert care for your vehicle. Whether you need an oil change, tire service, or a complete inspection, we use quality Ford parts and the latest tools to keep your car in peak condition.

Ready to Schedule Service?
Don’t wait for a small mistake to become a big problem. Visit Schicker Ford Union or book your appointment online now to keep your vehicle running smoothly!

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