Keeping track of when your car requires maintenance or when to call an auto shop for repair is important to keep you and others on the road safe. Maintaining your car on a regular basis also keeps it in good condition and can prevent emergency stops. At MAIF, we want drivers to know the parts to keep track of when maintaining their cars in Maryland.
Car Parts to Maintain in Maryland
There are several common car parts that require regular maintenance and upkeep:
Tires
Especially with weather changes, it is important to keep track of air in the tires and notice signs of excessive wear in the tire’s tread. If the depth of your tire’s tread is under 4/32 of an inch, your tire needs to be replaced. Additionally, if you seem to be losing air in a tire but have already filled it with air multiple times, an auto shop can find and patch the tire or provide a replacement.
Engine
If it takes longer than usual to start your engine, if your engine overheats, or if your engine does not fully start, it needs to be checked. There are multiple problems that can be the cause of a faulty engine. Broken valves, overused piston rings, and not enough lubrication on the engine parts can cause problems.
Regular oil changes can help lubricate the engine and keep all of the parts working. Your auto shop should provide you with a sticker that notes when you should schedule your next oil change, typically every 3,000 miles or every six months.
Brakes and Battery
If your car pulls to one side, you feel vibrations when you brake, you hear a grinding or screeching sound when braking, or if your brakes don’t respond well, you most likely need a brake pad replacement. Your car battery supplies a large amount of electricity to keep the car moving. Regular battery testing can keep your battery working, especially with weather changes.
Dashboard Instruments and Lights
If a dashboard light comes on, don’t ignore it. Know which icons mean “check engine,” ABS (anti-lock braking), or coolant. When these lights come on, you need to address that part of the car at home or in an auto shop. Headlights, brake lights, and turn signals are other safety components of your car that you need to check regularly. At night, you can park and keep your lights on to check that all of your lights are on.
Keep on top of your car maintenance and get coverage for your car. Contact MAIF Insurance for auto insurance today at 301.842.6002. You can also request a free quote on our website.