You may be surprised to know that even a few minor adjustments, as part of your routine service schedule, can dramatically improve the performance of your car.
Routine maintenance is one of the best things you can do to improve the performance of your car.
From improved handling and braking, through to improved fuel-efficiency and a smoother, more comfortable ride – even just a few minor enhancements can make a big difference to your driving experience.
Best of all? While a routine service schedule does come with costs in the short term, you’ll save a fortune in expensive repairs later on and have peace of mind knowing that your vehicle is safe and reliable.
Here are just some of the many ways a routine service can improve the performance of your car.
Improved handling and brake performance
Regularly serviced vehicles are easier to control and better-equipped to perform emergency manoeuvres like sudden braking and sharp cornering.
This is because professional mechanics perform a number of safety checks during your routine inspection. They assess your tyre pressure and tread depth, wheel alignment, and suspension. They also check your power steering and brake fluid levels to make sure they are topped up and free of leaks.
By performing these checks, they can confirm your tyres are able to maintain a steady grip on the road, and your fluids are properly lubricating the moving parts in your engine – making your car easier to control.
Regular servicing is one of the best ways to maintain and even improve the performance of your car. Book a routine service at least one every six months or every 10,000km, whichever comes first.
Improved fuel efficiency
Taking care of your car can improve its fuel efficiency in a number of ways.
These range from cleaning out and replacing clogged air filters to improve airflow and acceleration, adjusting the tyre pressure to reduce rolling resistance, upgrading your manufacturers’ recommended motor oil, and replacing damaged spark plugs to prevent misfiring.
In fact, research shows that fuel efficiency is reduced by one percent for every 20 kPa of tyre under-inflation. So you see, even the smallest changes can help you save on fuel consumption!
Improved safety
During a routine service inspection, your mechanic will make sure that your vehicle is keeping you safe on the road.
Some of the most essential safety checks your mechanic will perform include:
- Making sure the light bulbs for each light are working – i.e. headlights, taillights, high beams, fog lights, and reverse light.
- Checking your vehicle for any fluid leaks – This means inspecting the hoses for any holes or other signs of damage, taking note of any abnormal smells (often caused by burning oil), and any puddles sitting under the car while parked.
- Inspecting the timing or serpentine belt – For any cracks, splits, and other signs of damage. Most manufacturers recommend a service life for all belts in either years of use or kilometres travelled. Your mechanic will recommend the best course of action based on your individual circumstances.
- Replacing thin or worn out brake pads
Improved comfort
A functional heating and cooling system is essential to staying comfortable in your car all-year-round. The heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system (HVAC) also helps remove humidity from the car interior. This prevents your windscreen from fogging up and enables you to see clearly.
For this reason, you should have your air conditioning system serviced at least once every two years.
During the service, your mechanic will regas the air conditioning system. This involves removing old refrigerant gas from your air conditioning system and replacing it with new refrigerant.
Your mechanic will also inspect the air conditioning system for any potential gas leaks, blockages, and other issue that may impact the HVAC system’s ability to produce hot and cold air.
At Car Servicing & You we give you honest, reliable advice about what your car needs, and what it doesn’t. We have locations in Carnegie, Ormond and Keilor Park for your convenience. Book online today and we’ll take care of the rest.
