by J.L. Eck

Created on: December 29, 2009

If you like your car enough that you wish to keep it around for a while, it is important to have it serviced regularly.  Taking your vehicle to have it serviced is not only important for the longevity and performance of your vehicle, but also for the environment.  You may want to take your vehicle to the licensed dealership from which it was purchased, or a trusted local mechanic.  These are usually the best options available and the least likely to scam you. 

-Taking your shiny machine in for servicing can ultimately save you thousands. 

  Changing your oil and oil filter, air filter, and spark plugs and wires alone can save you money by keeping your fuel efficiency at the highest levels.  There are other components which can cause loss of fuel mileage and your service technician is trained to spot the trouble makers.  Poorly operating sensors and worn parts such as the distributor cap and rotor button assembly can rob you of power and performance as well.  Have them replaced when necessary.

-You may have heard a funny noise that came and went.

  Seems to be nothing, right?  A trip to the garage for regular servicing reveals that your vehicle has a broken something or other.  This broken part could have caused you to end up in a crash sooner or later.  An hour later, and some cash out of your pocket, and you're safely driving down the road.  Was it worth it?  Sure it was!  Your family's safety is more important than any amount of money. 

-Certain servicing will be required less often, but is still very important to have done.

  The timing belt/cam belt is often replaced between 60,000 and 100,000 miles.  Replacing this part before it breaks is wise.  If you drive your vehicle until the timing belt breaks, you can find that a 30 or 40 dollar belt can end up costing thousands after the internals of your engine end up needing replaced.  It is also a good idea to change your automatic transmissions fluid and filter as often as needed per manufacturer's recommendations.  A transmission fluid change that was never done can end up costing several thousand when the transmission gives up and needs replaced.

Taking your vehicle in for regular servicing can save you far more than it costs in the long run.  Your vehicle will perform better, drive safer, and last longer.  Drive Safe!

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