An oil change is arguably your most common maintenance operation, and it is for that reason that you should take this opportunity to get some other aspects of your car checked out as well. It doesn't have to be a separate appointment to check other parts of your car in order to make sure it's running perfectly, and this step can save you hundreds down the line in other repair charges. Here are 5 things you should get looked at when you get your oil changed:
1.) Engine Air Filtration System
This service is sometimes performed by more thorough shops and chains, as it is relatively easy to perform and can save you a bundle down the road. The main purpose of this inspection is to ensure that your engine is getting fresh, clean air to power your car without "inhaling" particles and contaminants from the air. As a bonus, some auto shops will replace your filter or sell you a new one if they find that yours is deficient.
2.) Serpentine Belt
The serpentine belt is crucial to the proper function of your engine, and it can be a huge problem if it fails, causing your car to stop in its tracks. It can take a trained eye to spot a problem with your serpentine belt, so make sure to have your mechanic check this vital part of your engine when the hood is up during your oil change.
3.) Exterior Lights
A part of your car that is often overlooked during an oil change is your exterior lights, which take only seconds to easily check while your oil is being changed. However, the point of getting this function inspected at the shop is that the mechanics there can perform maintenance or a repair in one fell swoop while your oil is being changed, or for a short time thereafter.
4.) Transfer Case Fluid Level
Your oil is vital to lubricating your engine, and your transfer case fluid is vital to lubricating your four-wheel drive or all-wheel drive transmission. It is for this reason that you should get this fluid checked out whenever you get an oil change, as letting this level dip too low can have huge consequences for your transmission, which can result in a very costly repair.
An oil change may seem like a very routine and boring procedure, but you can get a much better idea of the health of your car by asking for a few more inspections while you're in the garage. The next time you're at an auto shop like Fleet Services, remember these extra things. By stretching your oil change to accommodate and diagnose other parts of your car for issues, you're not only saving time, but also money, and you're sparing yourself the potential problems associated with a roadside breakdown.
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