4 things you should know to let car servicing save your money

Lots of drivers think that car servicing is an expense. What many drivers don't realize that keeping their vehicle in great shape actually save them their hard-earned cash in the long run.

Regular maintenance and servicing help in preventing major car problems that you might encounter in the future. You will also notice a reduction in your motoring’s cost-per-kilometer.

Lots of drivers think that car servicing is an expense

Most car maintenance and servicing can be done all by yourself. However, it will be easier and more efficient if you ask a local mechanic or dealer to do the work for you.

Car experts will only take a few hours servicing your vehicle, and at the same time, you can still enjoy the reduced running cost. Lots of service centers offer amazing car servicing deals. You just need to find the perfect deal for you.

Philkotse.com will further elaborate on how car servicing can save you money and its importance for your car.

1. Correct tire pressure

According to the experts, 20% of the car’s energy consumption links to its tires. The best way to minimize this consumption is to make sure that your vehicle's tires are properly inflated. If you run the recommended tire pressure, it can significantly reduce your fuel bill and will extend the tire’s lifespan as well.

Under-inflated tires tend to flex more while the car is moving. This will build up heat, which will prematurely wear out the tire. Some tire manufacturers stated that 20% of the tire’s lifespan is reduced when they are used underinflated by 20%.

Additionally, tires that are under-inflated have more rubber in contact with the road. Meaning to say, the engine needs to operate harder to turn them – which means more fuel will be used during this process.

Under-inflated tires tend to flex more while the car is moving

Checking the tire pressure of your vehicle is pretty straightforward. You just need to invest in a foot pump or tire pressure gauge. You can also visit the nearest gas station then utilize their electric air pump.

Usually, each car has a tire-pressure chart shown somewhere inside the fuel-filler cap, in the door frame, or the owner's manual. There will be a set of numbers that vary based on the exact size of the wheel you have fitted and the number of passengers your car is carrying.

Checking the tire pressure of your vehicle is pretty straightforward

Most air-pressure gauges are easy to use and have a manual on how to use it. We also prepared handy steps to assist you.

• Untwist the dust cap off the tire’s air valve.
• Put the air pump nozzle above the valve
• Push the lever of the pump
• Check if the tires are appropriately inflated then flick back the lever.
• Lift the nozzle and put the dust cap back.

>>> Check out: Different types of tire pressure gauges and which is the best to choose?

2. Full service

When you say full car service, this refers to an oil change, together with air filters and oil replacement. Completely replacing all of these helps in keeping the heart if your car at its best condition, reduce friction, and ensure that fuel is burned efficiently in the car's engine.

Most car models need a fuel filter, new coolant, and sets of spark plugs every year, but it varies in each car’s model.

Full car service refers to an oil change, together with air filters and oil replacement

Take note that when you take your vehicle to the main dealer, you will benefit from the various visual check that will highlight general wear and tear and any possible car problems.

In some independent garage, you will need to request for these types of services specifically. In addition, the extent of the inspection and examination also vary from one place to another. 

Usually, the cost of full service is around Php 2,000.00 to Php 7,000.00, depending on the vehicle's mileage. The price of an independent garage or main dealer also varies.

If you're a bit short in your budget and can't avail of a full service, you can opt for the next option.

If you're a bit short in your budget and can't avail of a full service, you can opt for the next option

>>> Read more: 4 questions to ask before having your car serviced in the Philippines

3. Oil change

It’s undeniable that the vehicle’s engine oil is of great importance to the overall running performance and maintenance of the car. The engine oil is responsible for providing lubrication.

Without it, the heavy metal components of the engine will end up rubbing against each other – which will have disastrous consequences in your car. Besides, the oil protects the car's engine from damages caused by tiny particles, water, and heat that are created when the engine is being used.

New, fresh, and clean oil minimizes friction in the engine

New, fresh, and clean oil minimizes friction in the engine. This means a lesser amount of energy is required for it to run – meaning, less fuel will be used to run the car. Modern oil utilizes smart technology to make sure more of it clings to more engine parts to further reduce friction and wear.

You can find lots of different classes of engine oil. The best thing you can do is to use the best and appropriate engine oil for your vehicle. If you want to be sure, you can bring your vehicle to the main dealer or a local garage, and the experts will handle it for you.

>>> FYI: 5 signs to check if your car needs an oil change

4. Check the car’s fluid levels

Aside from engine oil, there are other car fluids you need to check and maintain at their correct levels. Check the car's brake fluid, transmission fluid, and wiper fluid and make sure they are on the proper levels.

Do not wait to see the red light on the dashboard or for the gas gauge to indicate it's already empty. Remember that significant car parts aren't the only ones that can drain your bank balance.

These car fluids also affect the car's overall performance, which, in turn, affects the total cost you will be spending on fixes in the long run.

There are other car fluids you need to check and maintain at their correct levels

If you neglect to check these essential car fluids, you will most likely end up spending more money on repair bills once you get to your mechanic.

Car servicing is crucial not only in maintaining the car's tip-top condition but also in preventing unexpected expenditures in car repairs. Keeping your car maintained also means keeping your money safe from expensive repairs, which can eventually cause a hole in your pocket.