At Glockner Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Ashland, our factory-certified auto technicians are experts at addressing any issues that come up with your vehicle. But the key to preventing any problems and having your drive run smoothly is to keep your car well-maintained. Here are a few simple tips for doing just that.
Check the Tires.
Many of the latest vehicles have tire pressure monitoring systems that will automatically let you know when the air in your tires is below the recommended number. If you do not have this feature, you can manually check your tire pressure using an inexpensive gauge that you can buy at any auto parts store. You'll find the recommended pressure on the driver-side door jamb or in your owner's manual. It's important to keep your tires properly filled to maintain fuel efficiency, traction, and safety.
You should also check your tread depth by dropping a penny, head first, into one of the grooves. If you can see the top of Lincoln's head, then your treads are dangerously worn. You can get your tires replaced at our service center.
Check under the Hood
Your vehicle engine can only keep in perfect running condition when you have enough oil lubricating its components. At least once a month, allow the engine to cool down before popping open the hood and pulling out the dipstick. Wipe the tip and insert it again into its tube before pulling it out again. If the level is below the recommended minimum, you can add oil. Both the location of the dipstick and how to add oil are detailed in your owner's manual.
Other fluids that you can check while the hood is open are the coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, power steering fluid, and windshield wiper fluid. Their reservoirs will clearly show when they need refilling. Be sure your vehicle is on level ground before checking for fluids.
Test the Lights
You generally won't know if you have a problem with your external lights because you can't see them while you're driving. So get a friend to sit behind the driver's seat and switch on various lights, such as your turn signals and headlamps, while you walk outside your vehicle. If any of the bulbs are burned out, you can typically find an inexpensive substitute at an auto parts store and replace it yourself.
Keep It Clean
A dirty vehicle is not only unsightly but can damage the vehicle, such as when untended sap ferments into the paint. Washing your car regularly can prevent long-term damage. You can do this at home or take your car to a car wash. If you are washing at home, don't forget to clean the undercarriage. It may have accumulated road salt and other chemicals that can hurt sensitive components. Finish off with some wax to protect the finish.
As part of your routine, you should also clean the interior by removing anything that doesn't belong. You can then vacuum the upholstery, carpet, side panels, and dash unobstructed by toys and snacks. Consider cleaning the inside of the windshield and windows. These areas normally remain untouched.
Create an Emergency Kit
When you break down on the road and have to either fetch help or wait for it to arrive, an Emergency Kit can be a lifesaver. So prepare one before you'll need it. You can add the following items to a backup or box that you keep in your trunk.
·        Jumper cables
·        First-aid kit
·        Extra food and water
·        Tool kit
·        Flashlight with extra batteries.
·        Extra external batteries for your smartphone.
Take Advantage of Free Maintenance
You may not want to take your vehicle in to our service center because you find that the cost is too high. Fortunately, many manufacturers now include free maintenance for a specific period as part of their warranty and protection programs.
·        For example, enrolling in the Jeep Wave loyalty program gives you four oil changes and four tire rotations over four years.
·        Ram also gives you free oil changes and tire rotations for two years.
Taking advantage of this included benefit is an easy way to ensure that your vehicle remains in top condition.