Your vehicle is a crucial part of your life – after all, few things are more disruptive than being sidelined on the way to work with a car that won't start!
The good news is that now is the perfect time to ensure your vehicle is in top shape – before the fall rain dampen your morning commute and weekends filled with soccer practice and hockey tournaments
So, what are the essentials that can make a difference for your daily drive? We checked in with the certified trusted auto technicians at BCAA Auto Service Centre for their go-to tips – tips that can save you both headaches and money!
1. Top up your fluids regularly – Every four to six months, check and top up essential fluids like engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and windshield washer fluid. Maintaining proper fluid levels ensures your vehicle runs smoothly and helps prevent costly repairs. If you’re unsure on how to top your fluids up, book an appointment for a maintenance check-up and the BCAA Auto Service technicians can do that for you.
2. Replace your windshield wipers every six months – Wiper blades wear out over time and replacing them regularly ensures clear visibility during wet or snowy weather. It’s also an easy DIY task that anyone can do to stay safe on the road.
3. Drive responsibly – Avoid aggressive driving habits like sudden braking, harsh acceleration and speeding. These behaviours strain your engine, brakes and suspension, reducing gas efficiency and increasing maintenance costs.
4. Rotate your tires every 8,000 to 13,000 kilometres – Rotating your tires helps them wear evenly, extending their lifespan and improving your vehicle’s handling and ride quality. This simple task can prevent uneven tread wear and save you money on new tires. BCAA Auto Service Centres also offer free tire rotations as part of your oil change service.
5. Stick to the maintenance schedule – Adhere to your manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule. Simple tasks like checking tire pressure, oil levels and brakes can prevent major issues and keep your car running smoothly.
6. Change your air and cabin filters regularly – A clean engine filter helps your engine run efficiently, and a clean cabin filter keeps your vehicle’s interior free of dust and dirt. Change your engine air filter every 48,000 to 72,000 kilometres and your cabin filter as needed to keep the cabin in top condition.
7. Heed warning signs: Don’t ignore unusual noises, warning lights or vibrations. Address these early by bringing your car to a trusted auto technician to avoid costly repairs down the road.
“We always advise our customers to bring their cars in as soon as they notice something off,” says BCAA Auto Service Centre Regional Manager, Kregg Brandner. “Addressing these issues early not only prevents bigger problems but also keeps you and your family safer on the road.”
Auto technicians at the Victoria BCAA Auto Service Centre know that while car maintenance can be challenging, they strive to make your experience as smooth and enjoyable as possible. That’s why they strive to offer honest and professional advice while only performing the work you need – nothing more. They’re conveniently located at 712 Bay St., on the corner of Bay and Douglas streets.
And while you don’t need to be a BCAA Member to enjoy these reliable services, Members do receive additional benefits like a free car wash with every service!
BCAA knows your time is valuable, so when it comes to your car, trust their experts to get it right. Whether you have questions or need to book an appointment, use their quick and convenient online booking at bcaa.com/autoservice, or call at 250-360-3670. “We’re here to make sure your vehicle stays in top shape, so you can focus on what matters most,” Brandner says.