Car Care Tips

Your vehicle can last for well over a decade with proper maintenance and repairs. Compared with the cost of purchasing a new vehicle, it pays to take good care of your car. Preventative maintenance will help you retain your car's condition longer, and it also helps you prevent unexpected automotive repairs. Regularly scheduled maintenance and lubrication using the manufacturer’s recommended intervals is the best way to proactively take care of your vehicle. Replacing normal wear-and-tear parts before they break is also a good path to follow on the road to long vehicle life.

At South Lakes Sunoco, we want our customers in Reston, VA and surrounding areas to get the most out of their vehicles. Follow the car maintenance tips below to keep your vehicle around longer.

Keep an Eye on Fluids and Filters

• Your car’s engine is full of sensitive and delicate moving parts that rely on fluids like oil, transmission fluid, and coolant to function well. If you don’t keep an eye on these fluid levels or periodically change its filters, these delicate parts could face irreparable damage.
• Your car’s brakes also require brake fluid to transfers the force to the brakes to slow or stop your vehicle. It's possible for brake fluid to lose its effectiveness or for leaks to occur. If you experience abnormal brake performance, make sure to have your car checked.
• Coolant or antifreeze prevents overheating and freezing of the engine's cooling system. Like brake fluid, recommended service intervals vary by manufacturer and can range from roughly a few years to a recommended check during every scheduled maintenance service. Keep an eye on your coolant level to ensure there aren't any leaks. If you ever see the engine temperature warning light turn on, there might be something wrong with your coolant or the amount of coolant remaining.

Automotive Part Replacement

• Your vehicle’s brakes should be examined at least once a year to identify any wear and tear and need for repair. Brake pads and rotors typically last anywhere from 35,000 to 60, 000 miles depending on how often you stop while driving and how thin or thick the rotors and pads are initially
• Your car’s battery typically lasts 4-5 years, depending on outdoor temperature, driving frequency, and overall use among other influences. To maximize battery life, keep your battery clean; don't leave your car unused for an extended period, and don't forget to shut off the interior lights and headlights when your car isn't in use.
• Driving with bad headlights can be very dangerous. Restoring your headlights can have it looking like new and can shine up to 3.4x lighter when driving. You can slow oxidation caused by heat, sunlight, pollution, and harsh chemicals by parking in a garage when possible.

Tires and Wheels

• A car’s wheels and tires are essential to the safety and performance of your vehicle. Inspect your tires and wheels regularly for symptoms such as low inflation pressure, uneven wear patterns, or excessive wear. You should also take time to keep them at the proper pressure for better fuel economy.
• Tire services such as a tire rotation, wheel alignment, tire balancing, and tire repair can help maximize tire life and improve your safety. Your vehicle’s owner’s manual will provide a schedule for the recommended time to perform tire services.

By following these tips and the service intervals listed inside your owner’s manual, you can protect your vehicle from major repairs and unexpected failures. Proper vehicle maintenance can save you money in the long run and improve your safety and the safety of your passengers. Stay on top of routine vehicle maintenance and visit at South Lakes Sunoco in Reston, VA when your vehicle needs to be serviced by our experienced mechanics.

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