Preventative Maintenance Checklist

February 21, 2024 · 2 min read

Spring is right around the corner, which means picnics, road trips, and spring cleaning. Part of your spring cleaning checklist should include vehicle maintenance, and we’ve created the ultimate car maintenance list to check off as the seasons turn.

Oil and Filter

Different vehicles may require more or less frequent oil changes. For example, most older vehicles recommend an oil change every 3 months or 3,000 miles. On the other hand, a newer model might call for an oil change at the 10,000-mile mark. Check your owner’s manual for oil change recommendations, and don’t forget to give the oil levels a quick check when you hit the fuel station.

Fluids

Oil isn’t the only important fluid in your vehicle. Transmission fluid, coolant, brake and power steering fluid, and even windshield wiper fluid all require frequent checks to keep your vehicle running smoothly and prevent repairs. Although we don’t experience too many extreme temperature fluctuations in the Bay Area, it’s still a good idea to check your fluids as seasons change.

Tires

Properly maintained tires increase your fuel economy and keep you safe on the road. Check the pressure and tread on each tire, including the spare. It may also be time to rotate your tires to increase their longevity and keep your vehicle well-balanced. Rotating your tires helps the tread wear evenly to help them last longer and perform better. Read here to learn more about how to tell when it's time for new tires.

Lights

Your vehicle’s lights perform an essential function, but it’s one that’s often overlooked. The headlights, brake lights, turn signals, and cabin lights should all be checked frequently.

Battery

Nobody expects to head out for a trip only to find their car won’t start. A dead battery is a major inconvenience, so inspect the battery and cables to ensure there’s no corrosion and perform a battery test often.

Exterior

When was the last time you waxed your car or applied other protection products? Sun, weather, and regular driving can cause chips and cracks in your paint. To keep your car looking its best, regularly wash it off and wax at regular intervals.

Man standing in front of car with headlights on in the dark

Maintain Your Vehicle at Carnamic

Whether you need the full checklist worth of maintenance or just one task, the Carnamic team is here to help. Visit one of our Bay Area service centers for specialized service tailored to your vehicle or contact us to schedule an appointment.

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Jul 16, 2024 in Carnamic Service

Your Guide to Summer Vehicle Maintenance in the Bay Area

It’s officially summer in the Bay Area, and although we’re all out enjoying the sun and everything the city has to offer, it’s important to remember that the sun can take a toll on your vehicle. If you're looking for ways to beat the heat and avoid costly repairs, just follow these tips for keeping your vehicle in top shape during the summer months in the Bay Area. more Lights and Windshield Wipers Summer months bring more hours of sunlight, which means you might not remember the last time you had to turn on your lights. However, a broken brake light or dim headlight could result in a ticket or even an accident. Additionally, your windshield wipers might be due for a change after the rainy season. Checking on smaller maintenance tasks as the seasons change is a good way to stay on top of them, too. Tires Did you know that your tire pressure can change right along with the weather? Higher temperatures can change the tire’s air pressure, leading to bulges, cracks, and blowouts. Since we’re right in the middle of the summer months, now is a good time to have your tire pressure checked. It might also be a good idea to rotate your tires if they’re due to help them last longer. Oil and Filter Keeping your engine oil fresh is essential when temps start to rise. Be sure to keep the engine working properly by changing the oil and filter as recommended; if you aren’t sure, check your user manual or ask a Carnamic technician for advice. Air Conditioning Maintenance Of course, you can’t forget about your AC in summer. Long commutes or road trips are that much more bearable - and even enjoyable - when you’ve taken the proper steps to keep your car cool. But if the vents are blowing nothing but hot air, you’re in for a tough drive. Be sure to have the refrigerant topped up before you hit the road. Inspections It’s not a bad idea to have your entire vehicle looked over before the winter months hit. A full inspection including brakes, steering, and other important parts can get you ready for the cooler weather to come. Year-Round Vehicle Maintenance in the Bay Area If you’re due for any of the items on our summer maintenance checklist, be sure to have them taken care of right away by auto technicians you can trust. At Carnamic, we not only offer great service, but also a variety of convenient locations for all your car maintenance needs. Contact us now to schedule maintenance and drive home with peace of mind.

Jul 08, 2024 in Carnamic Service

Sell or Fix? What to Do When Your Car Needs Major Repairs

Owning a car can be expensive, especially when it comes to unexpected repairs. Sometimes, you’re faced with a high repair bill, which leaves you with the question: should I sell or fix my car? It’s a big decision, but Carnamic is here to help you decide between keeping your car and paying for it or selling and letting someone else fix it. more Before jumping to a decision on whether to sell or fix your vehicle that needs major repairs, there are a few more questions to ask yourself. First, start with the state of your current vehicle. How old is it? How many miles? Are there any other repairs you’ve been putting off? If you have a high-mileage vehicle that’s starting to show its age, it might be better to get rid of the burden. The repair bill could be more than the car is worth, and it will only need more repairs as time passes. On the other hand, a newer vehicle that’s low on miles could be worth paying the cost of the repair. You’ll still have years of driving left, giving you the benefit of a one-time cost instead of a new monthly payment on a new vehicle. Budget is one of the most important factors to consider when deciding to sell or repair. Sure, the repair cost could be lower initially, but will it be worth it in the long run? Even before you make your decision, you should consider pre-qualifying for a car loan so you can understand your options if you need to sell and buy a new one. Other questions to ask yourself include: Is my car otherwise reliable or does it frequently break down? Is the repair a one-time fix or does it indicate a bigger issue? How does a car loan or lease payment fit into my budget? Does the repair extend the life of my car? Will it be safe to drive after the repair? Sell or Fix It at Carnamic Your decision on whether to fix or sell a broken-down car is entirely up to you, so carefully consider all the points above to choose what’s best for you. If you decide to sell and start searching for your next vehicle, you can find the right car, truck, or SUV for you at your nearest Bay Area Carnamic! We can help you through the entire process, from trading in your ride to helping you test drive the next one. Check out our available models online or stop in at your nearest Carnamic to get started.

Jun 26, 2024 in Carnamic Service

Where can I get my transmission checked in the Bay Area?

Your transmission works hard, but like all parts of a vehicle, it will eventually require maintenance. No matter the age or type of vehicle you drive, if you're looking for excellent service in the Bay Area, you can find it at Carnamic. Keep reading to learn more about what a transmission service involves and how to schedule a service appointment today. more What is a Transmission? What Does It Do? A vehicle’s transmission is a mechanical component that transfers the power generated by the engine to the wheels. It changes the vehicle’s gears as you push down on the pedal, regulating the speed and the engine’s revolutions per minute (RPM) while preserving fuel consumption. The transmission is one of the most important systems in your vehicle - and among the most expensive. Regular service is essential to helping your vehicle run its best and avoiding expensive repairs to your transmission system. It will remove contaminants and buildup, allowing your vehicle to shift smoothly and run as it should. During Transmission Service Typically, a transmission service involves a few steps that are necessary to keep your vehicle’s transmission healthy and running smoothly. Each vehicle may require different actions, but most transmission services involve: Draining old transmission fluid Removing and replacing the filter Cleaning the transmission pan Inspecting and cleaning the sump Inspecting for metal shavings or particle (signs of significant damage) So, how often does your vehicle need transmission service? The answer is dependent on the age, make, and model of your vehicle. Most will need service every two years or 30,000 miles, but other factors could impact your need for transmission service. You can look at your vehicle manual or discuss your needs with a skilled technician. Schedule Transmission Service in the Bay Area Is your vehicle due for transmission service? Do you need an expert to inspect your vehicle and get to the bottom of your transmission problems? You can schedule transmission service at your nearest Carnamic! Our convenient locations throughout the Bay Area provide specialized services as well as regular maintenance. Contact us today to schedule.