Automotive Tips

5 Vehicle Maintenance Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)

Your vehicle is one of the most important things you own.  The mobility it provides allows you to get work every day, run errands, take road trips, and go just about anywhere; more often than not, drivers take their vehicles for granted– until something breaks or goes haywire. Fortunately, you can prevent many mishaps by following simple guidelines. Your neighborhood Jiffy Lube has identified some of the most common vehicle maintenance mistakes, and we have a few tips to help you avoid them.

Having a Loose Gas Cap

If your check engine light is lit up, the solution could be as simple as tightening your gas cap. A loose gas cap causes the venting arrangement in the fuel system to signal something is amiss. Before taking your car to be inspected for this issue, give the gas cap a solid right turn.

Disregarding Warning Lights

Ignoring those pesky lights on your dashboard has become commonplace for many drivers. You know you’re due for an oil change, and last time your check engine light came on, it was a loose gas cap. But when it comes to your vehicle, something you rely on every day, it’s better to be safe than sorry. The next time a dashboard light pops on, have it checked out.

Forgetting to Get Your Oil Changed

For decades, 3,000 miles signaled it was time for an oil change, and if you own an older vehicle, you might want to stick to that regiment. But with automotive advancements, newer vehicles can go 5,000 to 15,000 miles without needing oil change services. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines to keep up with oil changes.

Neglecting Your Tires

Your tires require more maintenance than most other auto parts. Rough roads, prolonged driving, and extreme conditions cause tires to deteriorate over time. Drivers must constantly monitor the air pressure, tread, and wear, while remembering to schedule routine tire rotations to stay on the road.

Ignoring Safety Recalls

Though unfortunate and inconvenient, manufacturers recall certain makes and models, often because your safety is at risk. Jiffy Lube tracks these occurrences, so be sure to check out our blogs on vehicle recalls.

Get on board with drivers already keeping their vehicles in tiptop shape by putting forth a little bit of extra effort. Follow Jiffy Lube in Southern California on Facebook and Twitter for more #vehiclemaintenance tips.