What Are the Most Typical Auto Repairs Needed to Keep Your Car In Top Shape?

Keep in mind that owning a car comes with the need for repairs and maintenance. These are inevitable aspects that require both financial and mental preparation. In this article, we will explore some of the most common repair and maintenance issues that may arise in the future.

Oil and/or Oil Filter Change

One of the most common auto repairs is changing the oil filter. This is because oil changes are a regular part of car maintenance. It is generally recommended to replace your oil and oil filter every 7,500 miles.

Regular oil changes ensure that all the mechanisms in your vehicle function properly and smoothly. Additionally, changing the oil and oil filter can improve fuel efficiency, keep engine components cool, and enhance your car’s durability.

The cost of an oil and oil filter change can vary depending on factors such as the repair shop, location, as well as the make, model, and year of your vehicle. On average, you can expect to pay between $27 and $63 for this service.

Wiper Blades Replacement

It is recommended to replace your wiper blades every six months to ensure your safety. Over time, the rubber compound in the blades can deteriorate and become damaged from exposure to rain, snow, and sunlight.

This can affect the visibility of your windshield. By replacing the blades more frequently, you can ensure a cleaner and more effective clearing of snow, rain, and debris while driving, improving your windshield’s visibility and your overall safety.

The cost of replacing wiper blades typically ranges from $20 to $53. However, the exact cost may vary depending on factors such as the repair shop, location, as well as the make, model, or year of your vehicle.

Spark Plug Replacement

Spark plugs, despite their small size, can cause significant issues. They play a crucial role in igniting the fuel in your vehicle’s engine, enabling it to start up.

While spark plugs themselves are not expensive and can be replaced by the vehicle owner, it is important to do so in a timely and correct manner to avoid potential damage to your vehicle. If you are unsure or inexperienced in replacing spark plugs, it is recommended to have a professional handle the task for you.

Oxygen Sensor Replacement

Oxygen sensors are responsible for measuring the oxygen levels in the exhaust system, which plays a crucial role in improving engine performance and emissions control.

While in the past, replacing oxygen sensors could be done by the vehicle owner, modern vehicles often have special covers or mechanisms that require the expertise of a mechanic. This is especially true for older model vehicles.

It’s important to note that the oxygen sensor is a critical component of your car’s exhaust system, as it helps detect unburned oxygen in the exhaust. A damaged oxygen sensor can negatively impact your car’s efficiency and lead to issues with idling.

Your vehicle may experience hesitation and shaking during steady throttle, which can ultimately affect fuel consumption. To ensure proper functioning and avoid potential complications, it is recommended to have a mechanic handle the replacement of oxygen sensors.

Air Filter Replacement

To ensure the health and durability of your vehicle, regular air filter replacement is crucial. The air filter plays a vital role in cleaning outdoor air before it enters the engine and combines with fuel for combustion.

Over time, the air filter can become clogged with dirt, dust, debris, and even bugs, hindering its effectiveness. When the air filter is clogged, the engine may struggle to receive sufficient air for the proper air-fuel mixture required for combustion, resulting in reduced vehicle performance.

To avoid this issue, it is recommended to replace your air filter every 15,000 to 30,000 miles. The cost of an air filter replacement typically ranges between $35 and $85.

How Often Should Brake Pads Be Replaced?

Brake pads are a vital component of your car’s braking system, located between the brake drum and the brake shoe. They play a crucial role in ensuring the proper functioning of other brake systems components such as calipers, rotors, and discs.

Maintaining well-functioning brake pads is essential to avoid costly repairs and ensure your safety while driving. It is important to be aware of when it is necessary to replace your vehicle’s brake pads.

When it comes to car maintenance, certain components are important, while others are absolutely crucial. Brake pads fall into the latter category as they experience normal wear over time.

Brake pads generate friction, which is necessary for stopping your vehicle when pressed against the brake disk (also known as the brake rotor) or the brake drum in some cars. It is essential for drivers and passengers alike to have properly functioning brake pads that are replaced in a timely manner before they wear down and become less efficient.

When Should Brake Pads Be Replaced?

When it comes to car maintenance, certain components are important, while others are absolutely crucial. Brake pads fall into the latter category as they experience normal wear over time.

Why Do Brake Pads Wear Out?

Regardless of whether your brake pads are made of organic, composite, metallic, or ceramic materials, a small portion of these materials is gradually lost with each use.

Over time, this leads to thinning of the brake pads, reducing their ability to generate sufficient friction and heat. As a result, they become less effective at stopping the vehicle quickly, resulting in longer stopping distances. Eventually, the brake pads may wear out completely, causing significant problems.

If you notice that your brakes are not as responsive as they used to be, the brake pedal feels unusual after driving down a mountain or being in heavy traffic, or if the brakes fade quickly, it is likely time to have your brake pads replaced. However, under normal driving conditions, the brakes should function properly until you feel the need for replacement.

Treasure Valley Auto Care offers a range of automotive services. With our extensive experience in the auto repair industry, our certified technicians can promptly address any issues with your vehicle. For more information, please contact us at 208-385-0339.