Scorching hot summers, the occasional arctic winter cold front, and rough, high-traffic highways can present specific challenges for vehicles on Texas roads. These conditions are often the culprit in overheating engines, clogged air filters & blown out tires. The good news is, most of these major bummer scenarios are easily prevented with regularly scheduled vehicle maintenance by our certified, expert mechanics.
Failure to Change your Car’s Oil is the Leading Cause of Engine Damage
Motor oil has a limited lifespan. Over time oil breaks down and loses its viscosity. Significant time or mileage between oil changes allows contaminants to build up. Dirt, metal particles and combustion by-products can turn your oil to thick sludge, leaving it unable to properly lubricate and reduce friction in your engine. Motor oil also serves an important role in dissipating heat. Compromised oil is significantly less effective at cooling your engine. On average the cost of an oil change in Texas is $45-$95, but ignoring that oil change reminder sticker can cost you thousands in engine repair or replacement.
Replacing a Dirty Air Filter Can Improve Gas Mileage
Air filters play an important role in allowing clean air to enter the engine for combustion. When the filter is clogged dust, dirt, and debris can bypass the filter and cause a laundry list of problems for your engine. Reduced power, diminished fuel efficiency, and an increased strain on your engine are symptoms of an air filter that’s in need of replacing. While the cost of car repairs in Texas can vary, you can expect to spend $59-$78 on a new air filter. Don’t worry- with your vehicle’s newly improved power & fuel efficiency you can cover that cost in annual savings at the gas pump.
90% of Automatic Transmission Failures are Due to Overheating and Fluid Contamination
Transmission fluid should be serviced every 30k-60k miles. Like motor oil, Transmission fluid also serves as a coolant, absorbing the heat generated by internal engine components. When fluid is low, old, or contaminated, it loses its ability to cool effectively. This can cause the transmission to overheat, which is a major cause of transmission failure.
Carparts.com states In severely hot regions, like Texas, there is an elevated risk of your transmission overheating without proper maintenance. Upkeep typically costs $125-$250, while the cost of a transmission replacement can hit your wallet hard at as much as $4000 or more.
Tire Rotation & Proper Inflation Extends the Life of Your Tires by 40%
Texas roads are notorious for potholes & heavy traffic. These factors, combined with scorching temps, can really do a number on your tires. High temperatures cause increased air pressure and overinflated tires. Likewise, those low winter temps can cause tire pressure to drop. Improperly inflated tires cause uneven wear on the tread- this means lower fuel mileage, decreased handling, and an elevated risk for blowouts. And while it’s never fun to get a flat tire, they also pose a serious safety hazard to drivers on Texas roadways. A tire rotation service ensures that the wear on tire tread is evenly distributed; extending their lifespan, reducing the likeliness of unprovoked blowouts, and saving you up to $1000 for a new set of tires.
Preventative Car Maintenance saves Texas Drivers Thousands in Repairs
The consequences of a poorly maintained vehicle can be catastrophic: Engine failure, costly part repair or replacement, labor fees, rental vehicles, and a major inconvenience. To keep your car in excellent condition, consider these 5 services:
- Oil Change. Pay close attention to the little sticker on your window. Regularly changing your car’s oil is one of the easiest ways to ensure peak performance.
- Air Filter Replacement. Reduce the risk of unnecessary wear and tear to your engine’s components by keeping out dirt and debris. Plus, increase your gas mileage and reduce spending at the pump.
- Fluid Level Check. Improper levels of coolant, steering, or brake fluid can lead to costly repairs or even unsafe situations on the road. Save yourself the headache.
- Transmission Service. If you’ve reached the 30k-60k mile mark, it’s time for KwikKar to service your transmission with their patented equipment.
- Tire Rotation. Rotating your tires every 5,000-7,500 miles optimizes performance and extends their life up to 40%. If they’re feeling low or a little overinflated, adjust the air pressure. Correct PSI is important to overall performance and tire safety!
Over time, these 5 simple services can add up to huge savings on car upkeep.
The cost of car repairs in Texas can add up quickly. AAA recommends following a routine maintenance schedule and budgeting to prepare for scheduled and unexpected expenses. The owner manual for your vehicle should plainly outline your car’s ideal maintenance schedule. If you purchased a used vehicle that didn’t come with a manual, you can find your owner manual online here. Setting aside $50-$100 per month to put toward maintenance or unexpected repairs can help ease the financial stress of keeping up with your vehicle. For additional savings on car upkeep, consider a trip to Kwik Kar Denton or Kwik Kar Paloma Creek rather than the dealership.
KwikKar: The Denton Vehicle Maintenance Experts
It’s our mission to make preventative maintenance simple with an impressive list of services to keep your wheels turning and your engine running clean. View Kwik Kar’s complete list of services & learn more about how you can extend the life of your vehicle. Stop in at any of our 4 locations in the Denton area for your car’s next routine check-up.
