Owning a car can be pretty expensive to maintain, especially when living in Toronto. Highways like the QEW and Don Valley Parkway are extremely busy almost 24/7, in the rain, snow or shine. In fact, it’s estimated that around 100,000 vehicles use the DVP every day. It’s a gruelling commute for vehicles, so staying on top of your vehicle’s needs is extremely important. Otherwise, your oil change cost becomes a blown-up engine cost. Here are some things you should be doing to maintain your vehicle for many years.

Rotate Your Tires

Tires get worn down as you drive, and tires wear down at different rates depending on where they are on the vehicle. This can vary with weight distribution, power distribution, and driving habits. Rotating tires will allow for more even wear distribution.

Check Tire Pressure

Ideally, it’s suggested to check your tire pressure weekly. Bad tire pressure can affect handling, fuel economy and wear on your tires which may add more costs to your vehicle.

Check Your Oil Level

This is one of the easiest things for people to do themselves. You just park on level ground, wait until the engine has cooled off, then locate the dipstick. Pull it out, wipe it clean, then re-insert it. Wait a moment then pull it out again. Check the level. You want the oil level between the H and L. If it’s low, add some more oil.

Change Your Oil

Over time, oil will break down and wear out. Oil is used to lubricate the moving parts of the engine, so when the oil gets worn down, it’s not as effective at lubricating. This will wear down your engine and cause many issues as time goes on. Changing your oil will ensure that your engine gets the lubrication needed to keep running for a long time.

Change Your Windshield Wipers

Living in the GTA, we deal with snow 5-6 months of the year. One of the most important factors of safe driving is being able to see. Making sure your wipers are in good form is extremely important to clear snow and water off your windshield so you can see.

Pay Attention To Your Warning Lights

You know that light on your dashboard that says “Check Engine”? The light that you ignore every day on your way to work? Yeah…stop ignoring that. All the warning lights that are on your dashboard are there for a reason. If one of them comes on, odds are there is something you need to check on your vehicle.

There are many things you can do to stay safe on the road and to keep your vehicle running for a long time. Here are some useful articles that will help maintain your vehicle’s health