Top 10 Automotive Maintenance Tips to Know

There is quite a lot of information available on car maintenance, so much so that it can quickly become overwhelming for those looking to expand their repertoire. Every Raleigh and Cary driver should have a basic understanding of the primary systems and components of their vehicle, but some things are best left to a professional service team. How do you weed out the knowledge that’s worth having in your back pocket? BMW of Southpoint is here to help! Read below for our top 10 automotive maintenance tips you should know.

Learn These Automotive Maintenance Tips

Whether you’re looking for BMW maintenance tips or you drive another type of vehicle, the following information will help you feel more confident every time you hit the road in Chapel Hill!

1. Learn the Manual: Your owner’s manual is like a golden ticket to understanding your car’s mechanics and service recommendations. You should know how to thumb through the manual to get the information you need if you run into trouble on the road or are asked about things like your oil type, tire size, etc.
2. Inspect the Vehicle: The occasional visual check can alert you to things like fluid leaks or low tire pressure before they turn into a bigger problem.
3. Monitor Your Tires: Pay attention to your Tire Pressure Monitoring System and keep a tire pressure gauge handy. If you get a low tire pressure alert, you can use the gauge to measure your tires and adjust the air at your local gas station. You should also monitor the tire tread depth, which shouldn’t go below 2/32”.
4. Check the Engine Oil Level: Use the oil dipstick to check your oil level routinely. If the level is below the line on the dipstick, you need to top it off or get an oil change. You should also note the appearance of the oil. Engine oil that is dark or has particles floating in it should be replaced.
5. Check the Engine Coolant: This is a great example of how learning your owner’s manual can be helpful! Use the manual to locate the coolant reservoir. Then, check that the coolant level hasn’t fallen below the minimum line.
6. Inspect the Engine Air Filter: Engine air filters are critical to a healthy, efficient engine. Check the engine air filter for clogging, as too much buildup will impact its performance. You should have the filter replaced if it’s clogged.
7. Use the Right Fuel: Every vehicle comes with a suggested octane rating that you should adhere to when you’re filling up the gas tank. One of the top BMW maintenance tips to remember is that BMW models recommend premium unleaded fuel. If you put regular fuel in a vehicle that takes premium, you may start to experience engine knocking.
8. Inspect Light Bulbs: You’ll want to grab a friend or family member to help with this tip! Every so often, you should test your exterior headlights, tail lights, fog lights, and high beams to ensure they’re all working properly. Also, test your turn signals, hazard lights, brake lights, and backup lights. Replace any bulbs as necessary.
9. Inspect the Windshield Wipers: Check your windshield wipers for damage like cracking or separation, and pay attention to how well they’re operating. Damaged wipers and/or wipers that skip across the windshield and leave streaks behind should be replaced.
10. Track Your BMW Maintenance Schedule: Whether you have a BMW maintenance schedule or you drive a different type of vehicle, you should not only follow the schedule diligently but also track your service visits. This will help ensure you never miss a crucial maintenance appointment.

Learn More BMW Maintenance Tips at BMW of Southpoint!

Whether you’re looking for additional automotive maintenance tips or you have some questions about your BMW maintenance schedule, our team is here to help. Contact us to start a conversation or book an appointment to continue with us in Durham!