You know experts say failing to maintain your car costs more in the long run, but is it really that big a deal? Sometimes, when money gets tight, it’s easy to put off an oil change. The holidays are quickly approaching, and you’d like to keep car maintenance funds in your pocket. Poorly maintained vehicles can create a safety hazard, costing an estimated $2 billion every year in accidents that could have been avoided. Even if you don’t have a wreck, here’s the impact of avoiding the most common types of routine maintenance.
OIL CHANGES
Regular oil changes lubricate your engine. Failing to change your oil submits your engine to unnecessary friction and wears away moving parts. Experts recommend getting your oil changed between 3,000 and 5,000 miles. Consult your owner’s manual to see what’s best for your make and model.
Regular oil changes cost an average of $120 a year. The cost of replacing your engine starts around $4,000.
TIRE MAINTENANCE
Rotating tires helps them wear evenly and should be done every 6,000 miles. Regular air pressure checks make tires last longer and help you get better gas mileage. Have your wheel alignment checked annually to prevent uneven wear.
The average tire rotation costs around $50. Angie’s List members report paying an average of $637 to replace four tires, with some sets costing much more than that.
BRAKES
Brake discs and shoes wear over time. If you have them checked annually, you can budget for pad replacement. Neglected brakes gouge rotors and make it necessary to replace them. Inspections are inexpensive, costing an average of $150. A complete brake job can cost between $300 and $600; for many vehicles, it’s significantly higher.
TIMING BELT REPLACEMENT
Sometimes, a routine oil change inspection reveals your timing belt needs to be replaced. Listen to your mechanic’s recommendations, as replacement can save you from costly repairs. If the timing belt fails, severe engine damage could result. It costs around $600 for timing belt replacement. Engine repair starts around $2,500.
Follow your vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations for routine maintenance. With winter weather ahead, now is the time to make sure your vehicle is in top shape. Ken Scales Automotive has been providing the highest quality repair, maintenance, and service for over 30 years. Contact us for your automotive maintenance needs in Medford, OR.
Sources:
http://www.bankrate.com/auto/true-cost-of-not-maintaining-your-car/
https://www.kenscalesauto.com/automotive-services/
