It’s no secret that routine maintenance helps to extend the life of your vehicle. While it is important to pay attention to your vehicle’s “maintenance required” indicator lights, you can also be proactive in servicing your vehicle. Here are answers to common maintenance questions. If you have any questions about vehicle maintenance and repair, feel free to contact us at Lancaster Motor Company!
How often do I need an oil change?
Typically, vehicles require an oil change after driving about 7,500 miles. However, you should consult your owner’s manual for the manufacturer’s specific recommendation for your vehicle.
When should my air filter be replaced?
The air filter should be replaced at approximately 22,500 miles. Again, your owner’s manual should provide you with a recommendation tailored to your model and model year.
Do I need to replace all 4 tires at the same time?
When the tread on your tires reaches 1/16th of an inch deep or less, it is time for new tires. If some of your tires are still in good condition, you may not need to replace all four. However, we highly recommend that you replace at least two tires at a time and put the newer ones on the rear.
Why is tire rotation important?
If you think of your tires like shoes, you’ll know that they can be worn down unevenly. Rotating your tires gives each one a chance for more even wear, increasing the life of your tires and their effectiveness in keeping you safe as your vehicle firmly grips the road. Your tires should be rotated every 7,500 miles, which is around the same time you should have the oil changed.
Why is tire pressure important?
Tire pressure is important for a multitude of reasons. First off, it allows for more even wear over the life of your tires. It will also extend the life of your tires for thousands of miles compared to tires that aren’t kept at the optimal pressure. Lastly, maintaining proper tire pressure can increase fuel efficiency and provide an overall smoother ride. Consult your owner’s manual or the sticker on the inside of the driver’s door for your vehicle’s optimal tire pressure.
When should I get new brake pads?
If you hear squealing when pressing on your brakes, this may be an indication that your brake pads need to be replaced. You can also take a look at the wheels of your vehicle. If you can see less than 1/4 of an inch of the brake pad through the spokes, you should make an appointment with our service experts to see if it is, in fact, time to replace your brake pads.
When do I need a new battery?
As a battery is the life force of your car, it’s important to get a new battery every three to five years. While you may want to put off the cost, a new battery is vital to keep your car up and running. When a battery is too old, it may fail to hold a charge and that leaves you in a bad spot. If you aren’t having problems starting your car, odds are your battery is fine. Keep in mind if you live in a hotter climate your battery’s life will be shorter. Once a year, be sure to examine the battery (wear gloves in case of acid leaks). Scrape off corrosion and look for bulges, bumps, cracks, leaks, and everything in between. If you find any of these signs, it’s time for a new battery.
When do I need new spark plugs?
How often you need new spark plugs depends on the age of your car. Older cars are likely to have standard spark plugs that need replacing every 15,000 miles. Newer but pre-2000 models likely have platinum-tipped spark plugs that last around 30,000 miles. Lastly, models from 2001 and up carry iridium-tipped spark plugs with a lifespan of around 90,000 miles.
Check the maintenance schedule in your owner’s manual to determine when you need new spark plugs.
Check the maintenance schedule in your owner’s manual to determine when you need new spark plugs.
If you are in need of any of the above services or have any other maintenance or repair questions, be sure to contact our Service Department. We would love to help! You can even schedule an appointment online using our convenient online scheduling system.