THE BASICS OF CAR MAINTENANCE

Keeping your car in great shape doesn’t have to be a hassle! A little maintenance goes a long way in making sure your vehicle stays reliable, safe and efficient. Plus, it can save you time and money down the road. Here are some essential car maintenance tips to keep you rolling smoothly.

Thinking about buying a car in Bentonville, Arkansas? Check out our inventory at McLarty Daniel Buick GMC!

Wiper Blades

Let’s start with something simple — wiper blades! They’re small but mighty when it comes to keeping your visibility clear on rainy or dusty days. Most wiper blades need replacing every six months to a year, depending on their wear and tear. Exposure to the sun, dirt, and even car wax can cause them to break down. If you notice streaks, skips, squeaks, or any other weird noises, it’s time for a change!

To help your wipers last longer, wipe them down with a damp cloth regularly and clean your windshield when you fuel up.

Need new wiper blades? We’ve got you covered — schedule a replacement today!

Engine Oil

Regular oil changes are one of the best things you can do to keep your engine happy. While the general rule is to change your oil every six months or around 5,000 miles, this can vary depending on the type of oil you use. Synthetic oils last longer, and factors like climate and towing loads can affect your oil change schedule. Not sure if you need an oil change? Here’s how to check:

1. Make sure your engine has been off long enough to cool down — we recommend at least 10 minutes.
2. Pop the hood and grab a clean rag.
3. Locate the dipstick (usually marked with a yellow or orange handle).
4. Pull it out, wipe it clean, and put it back in.
5. Pull it out again to check the oil level.

If the oil line falls between the two markings, you’re good! But if it’s low, top it off and schedule an oil change. If your oil looks dirty, frothy, or milky, get your car checked ASAP — it could be a sign of a bigger issue.

Need an oil change? Book an appointment today!

Tire Maintenance

Your tires take a beating, so keeping an eye on them is key. Properly inflated tires improve gas mileage and make your ride smoother. Underinflated tires wear out faster, reduce steering precision, and make driving less efficient. Luckily, checking your tire pressure is easy:

• Look for a sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb — it will show the correct PSI.
• You can also check your owner’s manual for the recommended levels.
• When filling up, don’t overinflate! Too much air can reduce traction and make the ride feel stiff.

If your tires are looking worn or bald, it’s time for a replacement. Need new tires? Check out our selection today!

Jump-Starting Your Car

Dead battery? It happens to the best of us! Car batteries typically last about five years but can drain faster in extreme temperatures or due to corrosion. If your car won’t start, a quick jump may do the trick. Here’s how:

1. Open the hood and locate the battery.
2. Clean off any corrosion with a wire brush (don’t use bare hands!).
3. Attach a red clamp to the dead battery’s positive terminal.
4. Connect the other red clamp to the booster car’s positive terminal.
5. Attach a black clamp to the booster car’s negative terminal.
6. Finally, attach the last black clamp to an unpainted metal part of the engine on the dead car.

Start the working vehicle first, then try starting the dead one. If nothing happens, wait a few minutes and try again. When disconnecting, remove the clamps in reverse order.

Need battery service in Bentonville, Arkansas? Schedule an appointment with us today!

Stay On Top of It

Car maintenance doesn’t have to be a headache! A little attention to the basics — wipers, oil, tires and battery health — can keep your car running smoothly and help you avoid costly repairs down the road. Stay on top of your vehicle’s needs, and it will keep you safe and ready for every adventure.

Want more maintenance tips? Click here for expert advice!

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