M A I N T E N A N C E   T I P S

SCHEDULE PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE | Refer to our Maintenance Schedule (or download the PDF print version) to help you keep track of regular maintenance. Reasons to perform routine Preventive Maintenance on your vehicle are numerous, but the top reasons:

  • prolong the life of your vehicle
  • ensure optimal performance
  • increase fuel efficiency
  • prevent more costly repairs, and
  • gain a worry-free driving experience

MAINTAIN PROPERLY INFLATED TIRES | Using an air pressure gauge, be sure that your tire pressure meets the manufacturer's specifications, as listed in the owner's manual. Even a 5-psi decrease in correct pressure can mean a 10% decrease in fuel mileage.
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CHECK & CHANGE YOUR OIL OFTEN | It's a good habit to check your motor oil regularly and especially before every trip. If the level is low, or due for a change, your engine is in danger of overheating and other damage.
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MONITOR YOUR COOLANT LEVELS | Overheating can occur if your engine's coolant or water level is too low, so both should be regularly checked.
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TEST YOUR BATTERY | Summer temperatures can shorten the life of your car's battery. Before taking a trip, weak or old batteries should be tested and replaced if necessary.
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TEST YOUR VEHICLE LIGHTS & TURN SIGNALS | Check your vehicle's lights, including all headlights, brake lights and turn signals, to make sure they work properly.
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CLEAN YOUR VEHICLE LIGHTS | It is important to see and be seen. Built-up residue, such as pollen or dirt, may cause your headlights to become dim.
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CHECK YOUR WIPER BLADES | The weather does not always cooperate while you're travelling. Remember to check your wiper blades on both sides to ensure tight attachment and a clean blade surface.
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CLEAN YOUR WINDSHIELD & WINDOWS | Regularly clean your windshield and windows on both the inside and outside to reduce glare and improve visibility.
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DON'T OVERLOAD YOUR CAR | When packing your car for a trip, overloading can create excessive tire heat, which can lead to blowouts. In addition, overloading your backseat or storage area can limit visibility and decrease fuel efficiency.
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HAVE EMERGENCY EQUIPMENT ACCESSIBLE | Make sure you leave room in your trunk for the following safety items: a tire gauge; flashlight with extra batteries; flares or reflectors; fire extinguisher and first-aid kit.
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MAINTAIN CORRECT WHEEL ALIGNMENT | Imbalanced wheel alignment causes drag (rather than roll), premature wear, and substantially decreases fuel efficiency.
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MODERATE YOUR DRIVING HABITS | Driving over the speed limit, and rapid accelerating and breaking all significantly decrease fuel economy.
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