Auto maintenance mistakes pose a significant risk not only to you but also to your passengers and other drivers on the road. When your car seems to be running well, it’s easy to forget critical maintenance tasks or overlook warning signs. If you turn the car radio’s volume up each time you think you hear a strange noise, take a look below at some of the most common maintenance mistakes drivers make.

Mistakes with Oil, Fluids and Filters

Without oil, transmission fluid and brake fluid, your car simply can’t function. Neglecting these items can result in costly mechanical failures and even car accidents. At the risk of sounding like your dad, you really do need to have your vehicle’s oil changed every 3,000 miles or so. In between oil changes, it’s important to check fluid levels regularly and top them off if they get low. Other common mistakes include using the wrong type of motor oil and not changing oil and air filters regularly.

Tire and Wheel Mistakes

Worn tires are exceptionally dangerous, as a blow-out at high speed can cause your car to roll or crash. Tires wear more quickly if they aren’t inflated properly and rotated regularly. Purchasing bargain or used tires is also risky, as you never know exactly what you’re getting. Avoid tire mistakes by purchasing only from reputable dealers offering brand names you recognize and comprehensive warranties. Have your tires rotated and balanced every 5,000 miles. Carry a tire gauge with you and check tire pressure (including the spare) each time you put gas in the car. If your wheels or rims become damaged, seek a repair or replacement immediately as this can quickly damage tires.

Warning Lights and Gauges

Everyone has busy lives, with little time to devote to car repair visits. Nevertheless, ignoring warning lights or unusual gauge readings on your car can cause expensive and catastrophic damage. Using your owner’s manual, familiarize yourself with the expected gauge readings and monitor them for anomalies as your drive. If warning lights click on, take your vehicle in as quickly as possible for analysis. Sometimes a “check engine†light can mean nothing more than it’s time for a tune-up, however it can also mean that something is seriously wrong. Even if your car seems fine, have it checked out. The longer you wait, the more expensive the repairs are likely to be.

If you’re in the Salt Lake City or Sandy, Utah areas, drop by Emission Time for a quick but thorough oil change and maintenance inspection. They will handle all the details to ensure that your vehicle is in good running order and safe for the road. The experienced professionals at Emission Time will answer your questions and make sure you avoid auto maintenance mistakes in the future.