Vehicle Maintenance: DIY or Service Center?
Your car is an expensive investment, and regular maintenance is the best way to minimize the need for costly repairs. Of course, that doesn’t mean that every bit of maintenance needs to be performed by a professional mechanic. Many auto owners do not realize that there is quite a bit of simple vehicle maintenance that can be done yourself. Yet others, who are more adept at car repair, can sometimes run the risk of missing important maintenance by not leaving certain tune-ups to the professionals.
So where is the line between vehicle maintenance that can be done at home and the service that should be performed by a certified mechanic? While that line will shift depending on your automotive repair skills, there are certain types of professional vehicle maintenance that you should never overlook.
Head to the Dealership for These:
Car manufacturers recommend service at various mileage points. For best results, Client recommends that you visit the dealership for these milestone service visits. The mechanics at your dealership have access to every vehicle's service schedule, so you never miss an important milestone. Their inside knowledge will ensure that nothing is overlooked during these vital service appointments.
If you ever notice a strange sound, your car begins to handle differently, or the check engine light comes on, it's best to take your vehicle straight to the service center. Diagnosing issues on your own can be expensive and lead to additional problems. The dealership parts department has access to the high-quality parts your vehicle will need to continue to be reliable for years to come.
Of course, if you have a warranty you'd like to keep valid, it's best to visit a dealership for all services. We can help you keep track of all the services performed on your vehicle, protecting your investment and preserving your warranty, should something go awry.
What Can Be Done at Home:
Quite a bit of your vehicle maintenance can be performed at home on your own time. This includes both regular maintenance and simple car repairs. How much you do at home depends on your automotive repair skills and your personal comfort level.
Some of the regular vehicle maintenance that every driver should perform themselves include simple things, such as changing windshield wipers, checking and regulating your tire pressure, and refilling fluids as necessary. With just a little training, at-home maintenance can be extended to items such as changing the oil, replacing the air filter and fuel filter, air vent cleaning, battery maintenance, and replacing a headlight. However, it can be costly to acquire the tools and knowledge to do these things safely and correctly.
In general, regular maintenance and simple repairs are often fine to perform at home, but they should not replace bringing your car to the professionals for diagnostics, more advanced repairs, or the recommended maintenance appointments at various mileage points. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to contact Client.