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Tips for DIY Maintenance & When To Leave It to Professionals

Maintenance is crucial to the longevity and performance of your vehicle. Although there are some tasks that car owners can complete on their own, others are best left to a professional. Review these tips for DIY maintenance and learn when to leave it to the professionals.

What You Can Do Yourself

Although you may think your knowledge of cars is very limited, you don’t need extensive expertise to perform these simple tasks.

Check the Oil on Your Vehicle

One good tip for DIY maintenance is to check the oil in your vehicle regularly. To do this, park your car on a level surface and shut the engine off.

After waiting at least 10 minutes, pull out the dipstick and wipe it clean. Then, put it back in and pull it out again to see how much oil your vehicle has. If the oil level is below the “Min” level on your dipstick, it’s time to add some oil.

Monitor Your Tire Pressure

You should also check the pressure of your tires to prevent uneven wear and enhance your safety when driving. Use a tire pressure gauge to check the pressure against the recommended levels in your vehicle’s manual or the driver’s side door jamb.

Detail Your Car

It’s also a good idea to detail your vehicle regularly. You can wash and wax the exterior to protect the paint from the elements.

Clean the interior, including vacuuming the carpets and wiping down surfaces, to maintain a pleasant driving environment. Attention to these details will improve your car's appearance and longevity.

Tasks the Professionals Should Handle

Now it’s time to learn what to leave to professionals. If you don’t have the right expertise for these tasks, you may put your car or your welfare at risk.

Changing Your Oil

Changing oil involves more complexity than checking it. Professional mechanics use specialized equipment to safely lift the vehicle, drain the old oil, replace the oil filter, and add the new oil. Trusting professionals with this task ensures it's done correctly and safely.

Repairing Your Tires

While you may want to patch or plug a tire yourself, improper repairs can lead to further issues. Professional tire repair services have the tools and expertise to fix or replace your tire correctly, ensuring your well-being.

Fixing Your Brakes

Instead of attempting to repair brakes yourself, let the pros handle this task. If you notice any signs of issues, have them inspected immediately. Brake systems are complex and require precise adjustments and repairs, which only trained mechanics should handle.

It is vital to know your limitations when it comes to car maintenance. Those in need of auto repair in Buffalo Grove, IL., can turn to Advanced Vehicle Technology Services. We employ many experienced mechanics who will have your vehicle running in top form again and give you peace of mind behind the wheel.

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Choosing the Right Suspension for Your Driving Needs

By Tony Mers • 29 Oct, 2024

The suspension system impacts many aspects of your vehicle, from ride comfort to vehicle handling. Whether you want to enhance your vehicle’s performance or enjoy a smoother drive, review these tips for choosing the right suspension for your driving needs. Learn About the Different Types of Suspensions Start your search by familiarizing yourself with the different types of automotive suspensions. Independent suspensions, such as MacPherson strut and double wishbone setups, can improve ride quality. Alternatively, solid axle suspensions provide durability and load-bearing capabilities. Understanding these options will help you match the suspension type to your driving needs. Consider the Way You Drive Another tip is to find a match for your driving habits. For example, a performance-oriented suspension with stiff springs and shocks may be best if you enjoy spirited driving and frequently take corners at high speeds. Conversely, a standard suspension is better if you primarily use your car for daily commuting and long highway drives. Evaluating your driving style will guide you toward a suspension that enhances your experience behind the wheel. Determine Your Car’s Weight You must also find a suspension system that supports your vehicle’s weight. Every suspension has a weight rating, and ignoring it can damage your vehicle and put you in danger. Check the manufacturer’s specifications to confirm that the suspension you’re considering will tolerate your vehicle and additional cargo or modifications. Think About Where You Travel When looking at suspensions, you should consider where you drive your vehicle. If you frequently take rough trails or uneven surfaces, an off-road suspension with increased ground clearance and durable components will serve you well. On the other hand, you should turn to a standard suspension if you mainly drive on city streets and highways. Tailoring your suspension to your driving environment enhances safety and driving pleasure. Make It Work With Your Budget While you may feel tempted to splurge on top-tier suspension systems, keep your budget in mind. High-end suspensions offer superior performance and durability but come at a premium price. Conversely, you may be able to find more affordable options that provide substantial improvements over stock suspensions. Assess your financial situation and set a realistic budget to get the best value without compromising on quality. Considering these factors will help you choose a suspension that makes your driving experience more comfortable and enjoyable. If you need to repair or replace your current system, Advanced Vehicle Technology Services can help. With our suspension service , you’ll enjoy smooth rides in your car once again and have more control while steering.