True Costs of Not Maintaining Your Vehicle

Following your car manufacturer's recommendations for oil changes, tire rotations, and routine checkups requires relatively little initial cost. However, the benefits can pay off in the long run with better fuel economy, and engine that runs well, and a longer car life.

Poor car maintenance can lead to hefty repair bills. It can also be the cause of much more expensive repairs down the road. Car maintenance musts:

Consistent oil changes:
Regular oil changes help keep your engine clean and lubricated.
    * Cost of skipping: potential engine failure. $4,000 estimated

Tire rotations, air pressure checks, and tire alignment:
Properly inflating and rotating tires promotes consistent tire wear and helps extend tire life.
    * Cost of skipping: excessive tire wear and poor gas mileage. $350-$600 estimated

Replace timing belt at recommended intervals:
If the timing belt fails, a car could suffer severe engine damage.
    * Cost of skipping: damaged valves and pistons. $2,000 estimated

Brake inspection:
Check your brakes and drums annually
    * Cost of skipping: expensive rotor or drum replacement. $300-$600

Replacing PCV valve regularly:
The PCV system helps protect the seals and gaskets on an engine.
    * Cost of skipping: leaking head gaskets - new valve cover and/or head gasket $100-$1,000+ estimated

Changing spark plugs and filters:
The best way to improve on emissions and engine longevity is to maintain your vehicle.
    * Cost of skipping: damaged catalytic converter, failed emissions test. $335-$700 estimated

  

 

 

 

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