Capital GMC Buick
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10 Automotive Maintenance Tips Every Driver Should Know

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Keeping up on your scheduled vehicle maintenance is the best way to enjoy a safe and smooth ride on the roads in and around Edmonton. While the auto service team at Capital GMC Buick is here to handle the auto maintenance needs of drivers from Millwoods to Ellerslie, there are a number of at-home car maintenance tasks you can do to make sure your car, truck, or SUV is always running in top condition. Check out our list of the 10 automotive maintenance tips every driver should know how to do, and if it’s time for your next scheduled maintenance service, book an appointment at our Service Centre today!

At-Home Car Maintenance: What You Need To Know

  1. Your Owner’s Manual: The owner’s manual to your vehicle will have all of the information you need, from the type of oil required and recommended tire pressure, to your automotive maintenance schedule, and more.
  2. Inspect the Vehicle: Routine inspections of your vehicle will help you catch any issues before they become more serious and more costly to correct. Your owner’s manual can help you identify areas that you should keep an eye on.
  3. Check Your Tires: Check your tires to ensure they are carrying the correct amount of air. A tire pressure gauge, which can be purchased in local hardware or auto parts stores, is a useful tool to have and makes monitoring your vehicle’s tire pressure a breeze. You should also check the tire tread depth. If the tread is wearing unevenly, you should bring your vehicle in for a tire rotation or wheel alignment.
  4. Check the Engine Oil Level: Motor oil helps reduce friction, overheating, and excessive wear in the engine. Use the owner’s manual to locate the dipstick so you can check the oil level. Note that you should also check the color of the oil. A darker color indicates that an oil change is needed.
  5. Check the Engine Coolant: Your owner’s manual can show you where the coolant reservoir is located if you are having trouble finding it. Then simply make sure the coolant levels are where they need to be. If you notice that your car is leaking fluid, bring the vehicle into our Service Centre as soon as possible.
  6. Inspect the Engine Air Filter: The engine air filter should be checked regularly to make sure there’s no debris clogging the filter. If it’s clogged or dirty, be sure to replace it
  7. Use the Right Fuel: Each vehicle has a recommended fuel octane rating. Make sure to pay attention to this rating when filling up at the pump. Using a lower level octane fuel than what’s recommended for your car can cause a ‘knocking’ sound and reduce performance and efficiency.
  8. Inspect Light Bulbs: Routinely check the headlights, taillights, and brake lights, and replace any that aren’t properly working.
  9. Inspect the Windshield Wipers: Check the condition of your windshield wipers and ensure that they are working properly. If you require new wiper blades, visit our Parts Centre in Edmonton.
  10. Keep Track of Maintenance: It’s important to keep a record of when you or our service team have completed scheduled maintenance tasks or replaced any parts. This will help you manage future routine maintenance checks and services.
  11. Wash Your Car: It may seem trivial, but a clean car is a healthy car. Whether you choose to hand wash your vehicle or go to an automated car wash facility, knowing how to effectively keep your car, truck, or SUV sparkling clean will not only add to its curb appeal, but can help extend the life of your vehicle.

Rely on the Service Professionals at Capital GMC Buick

Whether you live in Ellerslie, Millwoods, or right here in Edmonton, the GM certified service experts in the Capital GMC Buick Service Centre are standing by to help keep you up to date on your recommended automotive maintenance schedule. Make sure to browse our current service specials and coupons, and please feel free to contact our Service Centre if you have any questions. You can also explore our online auto care tips where we provide advice on everything from car bumper repair to how to unlock a steering wheel.

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Edmonton, AB, T6E 5X9
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