Learn how to complete routine maintenance tasks on your vehicle

It’s no secret that regular maintenance helps prolong the life and performance of your vehicle, but you may be surprised by how many routine maintenance tasks you can complete by yourself at home. Get in the garage this fall and take care of these DIY car care projects that can be done all at once. It not only saves money by helping prevent repair costs in the long run, but also help you save big on service fees.

1. Air filters

Not only do you want fresh air while you drive, so does your engine. If your air filter gets too dirty or clogged, your engine won’t be able to suck enough air into the combustion chambers. Engine performance will be reduced, especially when you are passing or merging onto a freeway. If an air filter becomes sufficiently dirty and damaged, it could also allow harmful, abrasive contaminants into the combustion chamber, accelerating engine wear.

Changing your air filter every 12,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first, will provide better engine protection, but give careful attention to seasonal concerns such as fall leaves or debris hidden in dirty water which can clog air filters.

Designed and constructed with advanced features to capture and hold more dirt to keep engines cleaner in extreme driving conditions, some air filters are ideal for strenuous events such as idling in heavy traffic, driving on dirty, dusty roads and towing heavy loads, all of which can put heavy strain on the engine.

Refer to the vehicle owner’s manual for air filter location and specific instructions.

2. Oil

Oil is one of the most vital components of your engine’s overall health. It allows the engine parts to operate smoothly together, removes heat and prevents accumulation of things like...