6 Useful Ford Maintenance Tips That Will Save Your Car

Repair costs are an aspect of car ownership that can easily catch any driver unawares. Proper, consistent maintenance is the most effective method to prevent these costs from building up. Here are 6 useful Ford maintenance tips that will save your car:

1. Regularly Change Engine Oil

Wear and tear is an unavoidable consequence of long-term driving, but regular oil changes are a simple way to ensure this degradation is kept to a minimum. With Ford’s Intelligent Oil-Life monitor, all you have to do is input your driving habits for an automated reminder when your next oil change is due.

2. Change Transmission Fluid

Similar to engine oil, your car’s transmission fluid should be changed periodically to avoid future issues, especially if you often drive under high-stress conditions and put your gears to hard use. You can assess if your car is in need of a transmission fluid change by checking your transmission fluid dipstick, or by heading to a mechanic for more specialized service if your car does not come with a dipstick.

3. Rotate Tires

A tip that is often neglected by drivers, despite being on Ford’s own basic maintenance checklist, is to rotate your tires approximately every 5,000 to 8,000 miles. This provides both greater fuel economy and smoother handling for your vehicle, while also extending the lifespan of your tires.

4. Washing and Waxing

Every car owner wants their vehicle to not only perform well but to look good at the same time. An easy way to keep your car looking brand new is with frequent car washes to remove accumulated dirt and grime, which can often cause minor scratches and damages that add up over time. An annual or biannual wax job will also provide your car with additional protection from the elements

5. Using Genuine Ford Parts

Another essential guideline when engaging in vehicle maintenance is to always use genuine OEM Ford parts. This means that the quality and performance of these parts are guaranteed by Ford, often contractually through warranties, and that they will fit perfectly with your vehicle. Settling for cheaper aftermarket parts will only sacrifice your peace of mind and possibly lead to more expensive repair jobs in the future.

6. Consistent Maintenance

A common thread in the above tips is regularity in carrying out car maintenance, which is the most essential advice we can give. While it can be tempting to hold off on maintenance jobs when you are preoccupied with work or family, the costs of doing so can often be astronomical. Putting aside some time to frequently maintain the condition of your vehicle is undoubtedly the most effective way to save your car for years or even decades to come.
Feeling overwhelmed by the number of car maintenance steps we’ve discussed? Not to worry! Schedule an appointment at Palm Coast Ford today, and our highly qualified mechanics will handle any maintenance or repair jobs your vehicle requires, using only genuine Ford parts and accessories for every step of the process.

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