Recommended Monthly Maintenance
A month can go by in a blink of an eye. There are, however, some key things to remind yourself to check on your car on a monthly basis to insure nothing has changed.
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Maintain These Monthly
1. Tire and Inflation Condition
Flat tires can happen at any time and you will be glad you spotted low tread or pressure in your monthly maintenance. Check the pressure of all tires, including the spare, monthly. Check the tread for uneven or irregular wear and cuts or bruises along the sidewalls. Inflate tires and maintain at recommended pressure. Replace tires if worn or damaged. Maintaining your tire inflation and condition helps with traction on the road and even gas mileage.
2. Engine Oil
Even newer cars can still consume oil as a normal operating process. Some engines worse than others. Every month, check your oil to ensure you are full. If you notice your vehicle uses a bit of oil every month, this process will continue, so plan accordingly for it by having extra oil on-hand, so you’re not scrambling for a 10.00 bottle of oil in a convenience store or gas station.
3. Windshield Washer Fluid
Check fluid level monthly. Some vehicles have two reservoirs. Do not use water. Use washer fluid only. Top off this fluid monthly to help preserve your windshield wipers as you regularly clean your windshield. If you are heading into the cold, winter months in the northern half of the U.S, be sure you have winter washer fluid going in, and bug wash, or summer washer fluid coming out. These fluids, like Bug Wash, are not rated for severe temps below 10 degrees, and will freeze. This is usually right when you need it most!
4. Lighting
Lights are an important part of your vehicle and safety. Not only does your lighting help you see in dark or rainy situations, but it helps other drivers around be aware of your vehicle on the road. What’s even more inconvenient is a burned out bulb, like a turn signal, brake light, or tail light leaves you suspect for a law enforcement pull-over. Even if a warning is issued instead of a citation, it costs you time. Replace bulb immediately if light is out. Check fuses first. Check out or guide if you need to adjust your headlights.
5. Vehicle Washes
There is no doubt, folks who wash and clean their vehicle regularly, especially in the northern states that see snow and salt on the roads for half the year have vehicles who’s appearance and finish lasts longer, which means a higher value when you go to sell your vehicle. Plus, it just looks better. Be sure to wash your vehicle at a minimum of once a month. In the northern states, it’s recommended to wash and get the salt off of your vehicle as much as you possibly can. Choose a car wash that can perform an undercarriage wash as well.
Is your check engine light on and you are not sure what might be causing it? Head over to your local AutoZone and ask an AutoZoner to use Fix Finder to figure out the problem.
Car Care Council’s Service Interval Schedule*
AutoZone is pleased to offer the Car Care Council’s Service Interval Schedule.
Right to Repair Act
Make sure you have access to the most affordable and convenient vehicle repair tools and information.
For more information on the Right To Repair Act, visit Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association website.
*The Car Care Council has developed a service interval schedule to provide general guidelines for the regular maintenance of passenger cars, mini vans, pickups and SUVs. Intervals are built around an oil change every 3,000 miles, an accepted recommendation for the majority of motorists who are severe service drivers. Always consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual for specific recommendations by the car maker.
