Good car maintenance is part and parcel of being a responsible vehicle owner. Hutch Ford can help you out with most of these, but there are a few that are all dependent on you. All of them combined, though, will keep your Ford in great shape for years to come.
Get Regular Oil Changes
A key aspect of maintaining your Ford is getting regular oil changes. Depending on your model and the type of oil used, this could range from every 3,000 to 10,000 miles. Always refer to your vehicle’s manual for the recommended interval and feel free to come talk to us about how your driving habits may be affecting your intervals.
Check and Replace Air Filters
Air filters prevent dust and debris from entering the engine. Over time, they can become clogged, and this can affect your engine performance and fuel efficiency. Check and replace your air filters at the intervals recommended in your owner’s manual.
Maintain Proper Tire Pressure and Tread
Regularly check your Ford’s tire pressure to ensure optimal performance and safety. Also, keep an eye on tire tread wear. Uneven wear can indicate alignment or suspension issues.
Do Fluid Level Checks
Make it a habit to check essential fluids, like transmission fluid, brake fluid, coolant, oil, and power steering fluid. Top them off regularly, as low fluid levels can lead to performance issues or damage. When you come in for routine maintenance or oil changes, we’ll check these and top them off, too.
Get Brake Inspections and Maintenance
Brakes are crucial for safety, so have them inspected regularly for wear and tear, and replace the brake pads, rotors, or fluid as needed.
Replace Windshield Wipers and Fluid
Windshield wipers should be replaced once they start to leave streaks or miss spots. Also, keep the windshield washer fluid reservoir full to ensure you always have good visibility.
Keep the Vehicle Clean
Regular washing and waxing can protect your Ford’s paint and undercarriage from rust and corrosion, especially in the winter or if you’ve been doing a lot of off-roading.
Use the Right Fuel Type
Always use the recommended type of fuel for your Ford. Using lower-octane fuel than recommended can affect engine performance and fuel efficiency.
Store Your Vehicle Properly
If at all possible, keep your vehicle in a garage. If that’s not possible, keep it covered. You’ll keep the paint in better shape and lessen the chances of a tree branch or a kid’s bike putting scratches and dings in your paint.
By following these maintenance tips, you can help ensure that your Ford remains in top condition, provides reliable performance, and keeps its value over time. For all things Ford, come see us at Hutch Ford right away.
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