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If you own a car, auto repair is an unavoidable fact of life. Today’s automobile is highly complex, with thousands of mechanical and electronic components. Over time, even with normal use, parts wear out and systems fail. Whether you drive a brand-new luxury car or a classic with many miles on it, your vehicle depends on you to take care of it. Unfortunately, many drivers disregard their car manufacturer’s recommended service and maintenance routine. As a result, they experience unexpected failures and costly repair bills. Often, they must replace the vehicle years before they would if they had kept up with proper maintenance. The bottom line is that, if you drive and maintain your car properly, it will provide years of reliable service. Start with Good Driving Habits If you practice good habits behind the wheel, you stand to benefit in many ways. Most importantly, you will keep yourself and your family safe. You will minimize the cost and inconvenience of unexpected car repairs and keep your insurance rates low. Besides obeying the law and observing the rules of the road, good driving means you should keep your car well-maintained. Heed warning lights when they come on, rather than ignoring them until you find time to see your mechanic. Likewise, pay attention to unusual noises and changes in the way your car runs. Take your vehicle for oil changes on time, every time. This will ensure that your fluids are topped off, your tires are inflated properly and any potential problems are diagnosed before they become major. Maintain safe speeds and avoid hard stops. Short trips, excessive idling and jackrabbit starts put premature wear on your vehicle. Read Your Manual and Follow Manufacturer’s Recommendations Every car sold today comes with an owner’s manual. In your manual, you will find important information on maintaining your vehicle. This includes details such as correct tire pressure, which type of oil to use and recommended service intervals. Although you may be loath to spend money on auto service when nothing’s wrong, this is the most effective way to be sure nothing goes wrong. The time and cost of preventive service is insignificant, when compared to major or emergency repairs. Failure to comply with the manufacturer’s guidelines is not only bad for your budget, but it may even void your warranty. Enlist the Help of a Trusted Local Repair Shop Contrary to popular belief (or what your car dealer may try to tell you), you aren’t obligated to take your vehicle to the dealership for service and maintenance. In fact, the automotive experts at Edmunds.com say developing a personal relationship with a local, independent auto mechanic is the most important part of maintaining your car. Not only will you save money at a local garage, you won’t be just another number in the dealership’s database. Service advisors at the dealership are actually in a sales role rather than a technical one, and they are tasked with selling you services. Most sales advisors actually work on commission, something you don’t have to face with your neighborhood mechanic. When you take good care of your car, it will provide you with years of loyal service. Commit to practicing good habits behind the wheel and take your car in for the routine service and maintenance it needs. Finally, seek out the superior experience and cost savings you will find at your locally owned and operated auto repair shop.
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Auto Repair, Auto Maintenance, Brake Shop, Transmission Repair, Oil Change, Automobile Service,
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