An occasional visit to the auto repair shop is inevitable but if your visits are too frequent, something could be wrong. You are probably not taking your maintenance seriously.

A regular auto service schedule will help to identify problems and fix them early enough before they get worse and more expensive. It will also improve your car's performance and fuel efficiency.  

You will find a full maintenance guide on your owner's manual. In the absence of this, follow the recommendations below and reduce to a minimum those visits to the auto repair shop:

Timing and Serpentine Belts

Make it a habit to check your belts according to the interval recommended in your owner's manual or every 60, 000-100000 miles. If worn, replace them. Don't wait until they fail or they'll damage other parts, costing you more.

Fluid Top Up

Find out the location of your car's vital fluids: The engine oil, transmission oil, power steering oil, coolant and windshield washer fluid. Check them often and top up when necessary.

Oil and Oil Filter

Unless your owner's manual states otherwise, these should be changed every 3,000 miles for mineral oils and every 5,000-7500 miles if using synthetic oil. If you are unsure how to do this, consult your mechanic.

Tires

Ensure your tire tread is good. Worn tires can blow up or skid in wet weather, causing accidents. Poorly inflated tires also cause your tires to wear unevenly.

Check your tire pressure every month and inflate to your manufacturer's recommended pressure. Always do this in cool weather.

Remember to get your tires rotated and balanced to prevent uneven wear and to make them last longer. If you are having a hard time keeping your car straight, you need a tire alignment.

Battery

Modern car batteries do not require much in terms of maintenance. Check the contacts and clean with a battery brush if dirty. A battery tester and a jump starter will also come in handy in case your battery dies.

Engine Air Filter

Check the engine air filter. If dirty, replace it. You may find it difficult to reach. If completely unable to do it yourself, visit your auto repair shop and have it done.

Spark Plugs

You should have these changed every 30,000 miles for standard copper spark plugs.

Windshield Blade Wipers

Check these twice a year, especially after winter and replace if necessary. With regular maintenance, you will save money and time and your car will be a loyal servant instead of a costly headache.

Contact a company like Powers Transmission Centers for more information and assistance.