Most of us use our car on a regular basis. Whether you drive to work, take kids to school, or meet up with friends and family on the weekend, you depend on your vehicle to get you safely from point A to point B.

Westwood helps protect what matters to you, and we know that includes your vehicle. Keeping up with car care can save you time and money down the road. Here are some tips to ensure you get the most out of your ride.

1. Stay on Top of Oil Changes

Engine oil is a car’s lifeblood. Oil protects your engine from wear and tear and keeps it running smoothly.

AAA gives these recommendations for keeping up with oil changes:

• Take your car in for an oil change regularly. Every 3,000 miles used to be the standard, but with modern oils and engines it is recommended to change your oil every 5,000 to 7,500 miles depending on car age, oil type, and driving conditions. If your engine takes full-synthetic oil it may be possible to go 15,000 miles between oil changes.
• Make sure your technician resets your car’s oil-life monitoring system.
• Check your oil level monthly and top it off as needed.

Regardless of the type of oil your specific car requires (conventional, semi-synthetic, or full synthetic), oil maintenance is imperative to prolonging the life of your car.

2. Don’t Forget the Coolant

Engine coolant is often overlooked, but it is extremely important because it keeps your engine from overheating which could result in engine failure.

Kelly Blue Book recommends changing coolant or “flushing” coolant every 2 years or 30,000 miles.

3. Take Care of Your Tires

Replacing your tires can set you back an average of $600. Here are some tips to get them most out of car’s tires:

• Make sure you are using the correct tires for your specific car.
• Get your tires rotated regularly. Tirebuyer.com recommends getting a rotation every 5,000-8,000 miles.
• Check your tire pressure monthly and make sure they are inflated to your car’s owner’s manual or tire information placard standards.

4. Be Aware of Your Brakes

AAA considers brakes to be your car’s most important safety feature. Consider these tips for extending the life of your brakes:

• Pay attention to your car’s warning lights: These warnings are more than just pretty lights; they are crucial indicators of worn brake pads, low brake fluid, and more.
• Turn down your radio and give your brakes a listen: If you hear squeaking or grinding it is likely time to replace your brake pads.
• Don’t forget the brake fluid: In between brake services make sure to replace brake fluid every 2-3 years.

5. Insure Your Car

Auto insurance is required in most states, but the act of having it can protect your financial well-being. Most auto insurance covers:

• Vehicle repair or replacement due to damage or theft
• Liability protection for people or property damaged by your car
• Medical expenses for drivers and passengers

You depend on your vehicle for so much! Westwood Insurance Agency works with leading auto insurance companies to get you the right coverage for a great price. Contact a Westwood agent to learn more or get an online quote now..

Please Note: This article is for general informational and educational purposes only. It does not represent any specific insurance policy and does not modify any provisions, limitations, or exclusions of any current policy.