At some point, we posted an article about the best and worst states for working on a car and how hard it may be to find a mechanic you can trust.
The reality is, most people don’t know how to fix their cars. Often they are not even aware their vehicle needs attention. As a result, many Americans defer car repairs for as long as possible.
Also, fixing your car can cost a pretty penny. Especially if you rush to a mechanic’s every time you feel that your ride is not running right. It’s understandable. Cars require a lot of care and attention.
Finally, some of us are too busy with our lives, and, let’s be honest, often find ourselves lazy when it comes to doing car maintenance and repairs at the right time. Add the fact that auto repairs can drain your bank account fast, and you will get the idea.
What do the numbers say?
According to the American Automobile Association (AAA) report, 35 percent of Americans “skipped or delayed service or repairs that were recommended by a mechanic or specified by the factory maintenance schedule,” consequently raising the number of roadside breakdowns that would have been easily prevented if everyone adhered to a vehicle maintenance guide and listened to their mechanic’s advice.
What many of us don’t realize is that avoiding car maintenance and repairs can cost a hefty amount of money in the long run.
What are the basic things every car owner should know about car maintenance?
AutoMD has generously shared some car maintenance “must-dos” to help you avoid paying the price of skipping:
As you can see, regular oil changes, tire rotation, timing belt replacement, brake inspection, PCV valve replacement, changing plugs, filters along with other routine repairs are some of the must-dos every car owner should follow to save money in the long run and extend vehicles’ lifespan.
“According to a survey of AAA’s certified Approved Auto Repair shops, consumers that forget or ignore recommended maintenance ultimately pay higher repair costs,” says John Nielsen, AAA’s managing director of Automotive Engineering and Repair. “These repair facilities estimate drivers can save an average of one hundred dollars per visit simply by properly maintaining their vehicle,” Nielsen adds.
Car maintenance cost can amount to $1,000+ per year if you do it regularly. Instead, putting off routine service and repairs can cost $8,000+. What a difference!
You see that skipping maintenance simply does not make sense. Eventually, you will have to get your car fixed; therefore, to avoid getting stuck with a hefty auto repair bill, keep an eye on your four-wheeler, do the regular check-ups, change the oil, and replace the PCV valve when needed.
How do car maintenance habits differ among Europeans and Americans?
Compared to their European counterparts, Americans are guilty of not following the car maintenance “must-dos”. Naturally, people take care of their vehicle during the first few months following its purchase. And as the novelty wears off, drivers start to skip routine maintenance.
This is not true for car guys or gals, though. They are always vigilant with their cars and are guilty of religiously checking their rides up even when there is no need for it. Sometimes, it’s because a car guy hears a weird engine noise or a car gal has a dream her car broke down in the middle of a highway. Car guys and gals always find a reason to pop the hood open. Are you a true car guy or gal?
Automotive repair is a huge industry not only in the United States but all over the world, and the number of auto-mechanics, whose noble intentions are little to none, is getting “too damn high” as Jimmy McMillan would say.
What are the recommendations of the AAA to help prevent roadside problems?
Batteries
Automotive batteries typically last between three and five years, with reduced battery life in hotter climates. To avoid unexpected battery failure, AAA recommends drivers to have their vehicle’s battery tested when it reaches three years of age and on an annual basis thereafter.
According to a recent survey, two-thirds of Americans have never had their car battery tested prior to their vehicle failing to start. AAA’s Mobile Battery Service offers free battery testing to AAA members.
Tires
Keeping tires properly inflated and routinely checking tread depth is critical to safety. Yet, AAA found that 60 percent of Americans do not check tire pressures regularly. Tire pressures, including the spare tire, should be checked at least once a month, and when the tread depth reaches 4/32”, AAA recommends replacing tires.
Additionally, while locking lug nuts are helpful in preventing tire theft, missing keys prevented roadside assistance technicians from changing 21,000 tires in 2014. AAA recommends storing the locking lug nut key with the spare tire or in the glove box.
Keys
Despite the rising popularity of Passive Keyless Entry systems, AAA has not seen a significant reduction in the number of calls related to drivers being locked out of their vehicle in the last decade. This proves that it is difficult to prevent this common mistake.
Americans hold on to their cars longer these days. The average time of cars on the road has climbed to 11 1/2 years. Therefore, skipping routine maintenance and repairs will eventually take a toll on a car and its irresponsible owner’s wallet. It can become a real nightmare. Drivers who have been slacking off on a regular car service will have a hard time selling their vehicles. The truth is, no one wants to get stuck with a vehicle that will be spending more time in a mechanic’s garage than on the road.
You see, taking good care of your four-wheeler is always a good idea. Even if you are not planning on keeping your car for a long time. Maintaining your vehicle “in good health” will also prove you a responsible car owner. It will set you apart from everyone else.
How to find a great mechanic?
If finding a great mechanic you trust is the main problem, then do something about it. Not all mechanics are going to try to take advantage of you. There are great and trustworthy auto mechanics out there that will take good care of your car. They will not overcharge or upsell you. Start looking for them now. Do your research, ask around, take advice from the people you trust. Congratulations if you have already found your repair shop. Now, remember to stick to the plan and don’t skip car maintenance. It always pays off.
“While today’s vehicle technology incorporates maintenance reminders and dashboard alerts designed to prevent roadside trouble, drivers still must take action,” according to Josh VanWynsberghe, AAA’s automotive technical engineer. “Finding a mechanic you trust and allowing that shop to perform all of your vehicle’s maintenance will result in improved reliability, higher resale values, and increased safety.”
Do you maintain your car regularly? When was the last time you got it fixed and for what reason? In case you will ship your car, we always recommend you prepare your cars before pick up and check after delivery. This is important, in order to see if there is some repair needed before hand, and to confirm a safe and sound car delivery. However, in case you have any questions on it, do not hesitate to drop us a line via our online chat, or give us a call. We will be happy to assist you and also give you your free quote.
