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Every day our vehicles are exposed to harsh climates, battered roads, obstacles and general wear and tear. While we may not spare much thought for maintenance as we get from A to B with haste, it’s vital that you start thinking about how to keep your car in tip-top shape – especially as we head into the festive season.

During November through until January, there are more vehicles on the road than any other time of year. It’s during these months that the weather also flexes its muscles and shows us what it’s made of. With snow, ice and rain prevalent, there’s no time like the present to show your vehicle a bit of love. Below are five auto repair and maintenance tips to keep you and your family safe on the road.

1. OEM Vehicle Maintenance Schedule
Every vehicle has an OEM Vehicle Maintenance Schedule, and it usually includes a detailed outline of maintenance your car requires within a specific timeframe and mileage. While you might be inclined to put some of this upkeep off, it’s essential that you follow the schedule to a tee. Failure to do so can cause significant drivetrain failures which may end up costing thousands of dollars in repairs.

2. Tires and Suspension
As you head to your car to go to the grocery store or to pick up kids from school, how often do you bend down and check your tires? And, how does that suspension feel? Every day can be a mad rush, but tires and suspension maintenance are essential for a well-maintained vehicle. You should replace balding tires with new tires, and an auto repair center should check suspension.

3. Brakes and Coolant
Cold weather can amplify drivability issues, and something that may not have been a problem before winter set in is more than likely a problem now. Make checking your coolant, radiator, and brakes a priority. Your brake pads should have plenty of meat on them to allow for emergency braking, and your coolant should always be a 50 percent mix of coolant to distilled water.

4. Injectors
As you begin to winterize your car with filter replacements, oil changes, a new battery and new tires, don’t forget about your injectors! An experienced mechanic will be able to use a fuel injection cleaner product to address injector lubrication and gumming. This allows your vehicle to start easier, use less battery power and put less wear on the starter motor.

5. Air Conditioning
Getting your air conditioning checked by a local mechanic is always a good idea both before and after winter. As it’s filled with components that are meant to move, failure to use it for a few months can allow the compressor to seize. It also helps to use your AC unit over winter to not only keep it going but to dehumidify your vehicle, as well.

When it comes to the health of your vehicle, you don’t want to leave anything to chance. Therefore, you need a reliable, experienced team of technicians who care about your car as much as you do. That’s where AC Auto in Wakefield comes in. Locally owned and operated for more than 35 years, the team is dedicated to providing a comprehensive auto repair service to see you traveling safely.
From electronics, engines, and brakes through to AC, diagnostics, and suspension, there’s nothing they can’t do! Call 781-621-8151 to book your vehicle in today!