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With the start of a new year comes the start of a new lifestyle for many. People make New Year’s resolutions in order and commit to changing their lifestyle, improving their diet, or quitting a bad habit. An often-overlooked change could be the way you care and maintain for your vehicle. Well, there’s no better time than the present to make a change. Resolve to do better.

Get your vehicle’s body in shape

While most people resolve to get their body into better shape, other things around you also need attention. Just as a diet and exercise plan can keep a person on track to a better lifestyle, a regular maintenance regime will keep your vehicle in shape and prevent major problems. For instance, by measuring tire pressure, checking for leaks, changing oil and filters as needed, and by taking your vehicle in for regular tune-ups can help keep the vehicle in shape and your wallet intact.

Check tire pressure

Living in and around Farmington, NM where winter can be brutal, tires need more attention than they do in warmer months. Cold temperatures decrease the air pressure in tires, and snow and slush can affect the rolling resistance. Always measure tire pressure regularly, especially after a significant drop in temperature, when many problems can occur. Operating a vehicle with just one tire under-inflated can lessen the life of the tire, and increase the vehicle’s fuel consumption, costing you more at the pump. For improved fuel efficiency and better safety, give tires the attention they so desperately deserve.

Build a great relationship

As you start out the year with a new slate of resolutions, habits, and fulfillments, it’s important to keep up with the maintenance on your vehicle so that you can safely get from one place to the next. Using the same mechanic or auto repair shop is a great idea in order to build a lasting relationship and keep the lines of communication open. As with any other relationship, whether personal or professional, having the same person performing the same types of service again and again is wise because this person will be familiar with the situation and any previous related work. Find a mechanic that is open and upfront with costs, terms or service, and any other technical issues. Ask questions as you would when soliciting a doctor’s service or babysitter for your child.

Less repairs means more money

No one likes to pay for a car to be fixed, especially when there are bigger and better things that could be done with your hard-earned money. Pay attention to the warnings your car gives you. Ignoring signals that your car needs attention can put you at risk for spending more in the long run on major, expensive repairs or damage control. So if your check-engine light comes on, get it looked at within a few days. Hearing an odd sound? Take the car in. If it’s a simple fix, you’ll get it taken care of before something bigger and worse will happen.

Read more of our Car Care Tips and schedule a check-up today.